Xanor/Xanor XR Dosage/Direction for Use

Alprazolam (Xanor) Tablets (all formulations): The optimum dose should be individualized based upon the severity of the symptoms and individual patient response. In patients who require higher doses, dosage should be increased cautiously to avoid adverse effects. In general, patients who have not previously received psychotropic medications will require somewhat lower doses than those previously treated with minor tranquilizers, antidepressants, or hypnotics. It is recommended that the general principle of using the lowest effective dose be followed, especially in elderly or debilitated patients to preclude the development of ataxia or oversedation.
Alprazolam (Xanor XR) Controlled-release Tablets: If alprazolam (Xanor XR): controlled-release tablets are to be given once daily, it is preferable to administer the dose in the morning. The tablets should be taken intact; they should not be chewed, crushed, or broken.
Dosing recommendations for alprazolam XR tablets are based on a comparable pharmacokinetic profile in normal subjects given alprazolam tablets three or four times daily and in those given alprazolam XR tablets twice daily.
Duration of Treatment: Data are available to support usage for up to 6 months for anxiety and depression and for up to 8 months in the treatment of panic disorder. The risk of dependence may increase with dose and duration of treatment, therefore, the lowest possible effective dose and duration should be used and the need for continued treatment reassessed frequently. (See Precautions.)
Discontinuation of Treatment: To discontinue alprazolam treatment, the dosage should be reduced slowly in keeping with good medical practice. It is suggested that the daily dosage of alprazolam be decreased by no more than 500 mcg every 3 days. Some patients may require an even slower dosage reduction. (See Precautions.)
Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy have not been established in children under 18 years of age. (See Table 1.)

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