What it means
A short-acting benzodiazepine that calms the brain by strengthening GABA. It works quickly, which also makes dependence and withdrawal more likely. Drowsiness, dizziness, poor coordination and memory problems are common side effects, and breathing can slow dangerously when it is combined with opioids or alcohol.
For the nurse
Teach the client to avoid alcohol and driving until they know how it affects them, and never to stop it suddenly after regular use; the dose is tapered. Use fall precautions for older adults.
At a glance
| Drug class | benzodiazepine (anxiolytic) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Xanax, Xanax XR |
| Spanish | alprazolam |
| Also written | Xanax, Xanax XR |
Easy to confuse with
lorazepam
A benzodiazepine drug that calms anxiety, causes sleepiness and stops seizures.
clonazepam
A long-acting benzodiazepine drug used for seizure disorders and panic disorder.
Related terms
sedative-hypnotic
A drug that calms a person (sedative) or helps them fall asleep (hypnotic); the same drug can do either, depending on the dose.
lorazepam
A benzodiazepine drug that calms anxiety, causes sleepiness and stops seizures.
clonazepam
A long-acting benzodiazepine drug used for seizure disorders and panic disorder.