• Alprazolam is used to treat anxiety and panic disorder.

How should you take this medication?

• Xanax may be taken with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation.
   
• Do not swallow the tablet whole. Allow it to dissolve in your mouth without chewing.
   
• If you miss a dose of Xanax and you are using it regularly, take it right away if you remember within an hour or so of the missed dose. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

General Precautions with Xanax

• Do not take Xanax if you have been diagnosed with the eye condition called narrow-angle glaucoma.
   
• Do not take Xanax if  you are allergic to any ingredient in Xanax or other benzodiazepines.
   
• Xanax may cause drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, or blurred vision. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to Xanax.
   
• Avoid drinking alcohol or taking other medications that cause drowsiness while taking Xanax. Xanax will add to the effects of alcohol and other depressants.

What are the possible side effects of Alprazolam?

• Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
   
• Check with your doctor if any of these common side effects persist or become bothersome:
  Attention disturbance, blurred vision, changes in weight, constipation, diarrhea, decreased appetite, decreased sex drive, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, flu, headache, joint pain, nausea, nervousness, rapid heartbeat, sleeplessness, sweating.