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Xanax Side Effects

Xanax Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Xanax® (alprazolam); however, not everyone who takes the medication will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.



(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Xanax. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Xanax side effects with you.)
Common Side Effects With Xanax
Xanax has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials.

In these studies, the side effects that occur in a group of people taking the drug are documented and are then compared to side effects that occur in another group of people not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what problems occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
In these studies, some of the most common side effects of Xanax included:

  • Drowsiness — in up to 76.8 percent of people

  • Fatigue and tiredness — up to 48.6 percent

  • Coordination problems — up to 40.1 percent

  • Irritability — up to 33.1 percent

  • Memory problems — up to 33.1 percent

  • Increased appetite — up to 32.7 percent.

Some other common side effects, occurring in 1 percent to 30 percent of people, included:


  • Speech problems

  • Changes in sex drive or other sexual problems

  • Confusion

  • Talkativeness

  • Unusual dreams

  • Feeling warm

  • Constipation

  • Increased salivation

  • Nasal congestion

  • Decreased appetite

  • Weight loss or weight gain

  • Difficulty urinating

  • Menstrual problems

  • Dry mouth.

Serious Side Effects
Some side effects with Xanax, while occurring infrequently, are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Depression (or worsening of existing depression)

  • Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting

  • Problems with balance or falling down

  • Suicidal thoughts

  • Anxiety, excitation, or agitation

  • Hostility, aggression, or rage

  • Hallucinations

  • Yellow eyes or skin (jaundice)

  • Signs of an allergic reaction, including unexplained rash, hives, itching, and unexplained swelling.

Final Thoughts
It is possible that you may experience some or none of the Xanax side effects listed in this article. Unfortunately, there is no way for your healthcare provider to know beforehand if you will have side effects from a medicine that you have never tried. Therefore, make sure to let your healthcare provider know if you develop any side effects while taking Xanax or if something “just does not seem right.” While it may not be a Xanax side effect, your healthcare provider will be able to diagnose and treat the problem.

The information provided on this site is for informational  purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment  for any medical conditions. Consult with a healthcare professional before  starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking  any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem.

Reference:
This information was obtained from the following website:
MedTv Health Information brought to life
http://anxiety.emedtv.com/xanax/xanax-side-effects-p2.html
Accessed on October 12, 2009