Alprazolam: Recreational use

Alprazolam, like all benzodiazepines, has the potential for abuse. Although it is not manufactured illegally, and its misuse and abuse is dwarfed by benzodiazepines like flunitrazepam, nimetazepam, and temazepam, it is still often diverted to the black market, particularly in the United States where alprazolam is the most widely prescribed benzodiazepine. The state of relaxation, anxiolysis, and disinhibition induced by benzodiazepines is the main reason for their illicit use.

Alprazolam: Physical dependence and withdrawal

There is a consensus among psychiatrists today that alprazolam and other benzodiazepines cause withdrawal symptoms after long-term treatment and discontinuation should be done gradually over a period of months (or even up to a year) to avoid serious withdrawal symptoms such as agitation, panic attacks, rebound anxiety, muscle cramps and seizures.[citation needed] Some patients on alprazolam (Xanax) may benefit from a substitution with diazepam (Valium) or chlordiazepoxide (Librium) as these drugs remain in the bloodstream longer and therefore have less potential for abuse and dependence.

Alprazolam: Indications

Alprazolam is FDA-approved for the short term treatment (up to 8 weeks) of panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia. Alprazolam is very effective in preventing moderate to severe anxiety, essential tremor, panic attacks and other types of convulsive behaviors.

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