Xanax

  My mother has been taking Xanax for 12 to 13 years.  Are there any long term effects that she should be concerned with or is this medication safe to take forever?

[HFHS.MD-AJ]

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Dear Jill,
Alpraxolam (Xanax) is a short-acting, benzodiazepine, sedative-hypnotic medication that is useful in the treatment of a number of psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety disorders, and panic disorders, to name a few.
Long-term adverse effects of Xanax depend on the length of time of use, and the dosage used; and include tolerance, withdrawal, and rarely mild cognitive deficits. Tolerance is the need for increased dosages of a medication or substance to achieve its desired effect, or diminished effects with continued use of the same amount of a medication or substance. Withdrawal is the development of specific symptoms due to the cessation of, or the reduction of medication or substance use that has been heavy or prolonged; or the use of a specific medication or substance to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Possible withdrawal symptoms from Xanax include hand tremors,insomnia, agitation, anxiety, and seizures, to name a few. It is important for your mother to discuss the possible benefits, risks and adverse effects of continued Xanax use with her doctor. Withdrawal from Xanax could be life threatening, so cessation or a change in dose must be done under medical supervision.
I hope you find this information helpful. It is provided for educational purposes only, and should not replace consultation with a doctor.
*Keywords: alpraxolam, Xanax, benzodiazepine, tolerance, withdrawal, dependence