Millions of individuals worldwide are generally affected by anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder (ocd). This has a significant impact on their lives. There are various treatment options, among them Xanax for OCD and Anxiety (Alprazolam) has emerged as one of the most common ways to treat, prescribed by health care providers from all over the world. 

Understanding “xanax ” (Alprazolam)

Xanax is the brand that develops Alprazolam drug – a medication that has helped millions of individuals worldwide,suffering from anxiety and OCD. This works by enhancing the powerful effects of gamma – an aminobutyric acid known as GABA, a neurotransmitter. Promotes relaxation by reducing the anxiety in the brain. Developed in the 1960s, since then it’s ruling the healthcare industry in psychiatric medications. Alprazolam has become one of the most prescribed medications by psychiatric doctors in the United States of America. It is generally prescribed for treating disorders like anxiety,panic disorder ,OCD and depression. It is FDA approved but has strict usage guidelines.

Xanax: when to consider using it?

When to start using or take xanax , it depends on your specific issues and conditions and as per your doctor’s recommendation.

For treating anxiety disorder,it is generally prescribed when needed or on a regular schedule. The medicine starts working within half an hour after you take it, and the effects start showing without an hour.

If we talk about panic attacks, one should take  xanax at the onset of the symptoms. This provides rapid relief. Its usage depends on doctors’ recommendations like taking it two to three times a day or based on an individual’s need and condition.

Many individuals take Alprazolam for sleep. As it has sedative properties,it helps individuals with anxiety related sleeping problems.

Xanax side effects: what all you need to know 

One should understand and remember the side effects xanax can cause. The most common side effects include 

• Sedation 
• Drowsiness 
• Fatigue and weakness
• Lightheadedness
• Confusion 
• Memory issues
• Nausea 
• Dry mouth and appetite changes 
• Constipation 

Side effects: specific consideration for females

• Female patients may experience some specific gender specific concern such as- 
• Irregularity in  Menstruation 
• Libido changes 
• Hormonal fluctuations 
• High risk during pregnancy and breast feeding 
• Some common serious side effects of xanax
• Severe headache 
• Allergic reactions
• Chest pain
• Suicidal thoughts and severe depression 
• Confusion 
• Hallucination 
• Seizures

Does xanax affect the face and appearance?

It’s a very common question which is often asked by many individuals. Xanax doesn’t cause any facial changes in a direct way but long term usage may cause some appearance related effects such as-

• Facial puffiness,swelling and bloating.
• The skin may become dry and discoloration may occur 
• It is possible that one may gain weight which affects the face immediately.
• If you are unable to sleep, it may affect your skin. Skin starts looking tired and leads to dark circles formation.
• If you use it for a longer run,it would reduce your facial muscle tone.
• All these effects are manageable. Once you stop using the medication,they disappear in a gradual manner. 

 Alprazolam : side effects on kidney function

The side effects on kidney function are a bit concerning and valid. Though kidney problems are rare, you still need to be careful. Some of the concerns are-

• It may lead to fluid retention in the kidney. This causes swelling.
• It may affect kidney function.
• Individuals may also feel dehydrated and nauseous, stressing the kidney.
• The people already suffering from kidney issues should go for a regular checkup.

Is xanax legal? Understanding its prescription needs and legal status.

This question is quite commonly asked by a number of individuals. The answer to this question is – yes, it is legal. It is FDA approved. It is a controlled substance. It requires a proper and valid prescription by a licensed professional practitioner. It has a great potential for addiction. Its longer usage leads to abuse and dependence. Buying xanax without a prescription is illegal. Selling it without a proper Authorization and license is a federal crime.

Xanax and anxiety attacks: consideration and effectiveness 

Xanax and anxiety attacks have a former connection in the medical field treatment. It has shown a powerful effect on treating panic attacks due to its immediate action relieving property. It can 

• Help in reducing symptoms like rapid heartbeat,palpitations and shortness of breath
• Helps in calming overwhelming fear.
• It generally provides relief within half an hour.

Note- before taking xanax and relying on it, understand the root cause of panic attack through therapies.

Alternative medications: names of medicine for depression and anxiety like xanax.

We know that xanax is an effective medicine,but there are several other medicines for depression and anxiety like xanax that the practitioner might consider such as-

Benzodiazepines

• Lorazepam (ativan)- it has similar fast acting action 
• Clonazepam (klonopin) – it provides longer lasting effects 
• Diazepam (valium)- it’s effect are same , has less frequent dosing 

There are various non-benzodiazepine alternatives as well such as 

• SSRIs like lexapro, zoloft, prozac
• SNRIs like venlafaxine, duloxetine
• Non addictive and anti anxiety pills like buspirone
• Antihistamine pills with anti anxiety properties like hydroxyzine 

Safety measures and precautions 

• Before you take xanax for treating anxiety and ocd understand it’s precautionary measures  
• Pregnant and breathing women should avoid using it.
• Individuals with liver and kidney disease should avoid using it. 
• People with breathing problems and allergies to benzodiazepines should avoid using it.
• Do not consume alcohol, opioid medicines, antibiotics, antifungal medication along with it.
• Dependency and withdrawal problem 
• Long term xanax usage can be brutal for your health. Individuals experience common withdrawal symptoms such as 
• Insomnia 
• Seizure 
• Shaking and tremors 
• Nightmares 
• Vomiting and nausea 

Conclusion 

Managing anxiety and ocd with xanax can be a very effective way to treat them but under doctor’s guidance only. It offers rapid relief and starts its effects within 30 min. It is important to know the underlying risk associated with its usage.Choosing xanax for your treatment should be a mutual decision between you and your doctor. Factors to consider before using it are

• Severity of the symptoms 
• Risk of dependency 
• Patients history 
• Lifestyle consideration 
• Long term treatment goals 

Always remember that medicine for treating anxiety, depression and panic attacks are only effective when considered with therapies and lifestyle modification.Always use the medicine with a doctor’s prescription and recommendation.Use the recommended dosage and never underestimate its risk factors which come with higher dosage consumption.Do not share your medicines with your friends and family before doctor’s consideration.If an individual uses xanax for relieving anxiety and panic attacks with proper medical guidance it can be a valuable part of your treatment.

Disclaimer – all the information present in this blog is for informational purposes only. Don’t use it as a replacement for a doctor’s advice. Always consult a certified doctor. Before using starting, stopping or replacing any medicine talk to your health care provider.