Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Alprazolam as follows:
- Do not take Alprazolam along with alcohol, opioid pain medications, such as, hydrocodone and codeine, antipsychotic medications, antidepressant medications, anti-seizure medications, muscle relaxants, antihistamines, OTC cough syrups, and any other medications that carry a risk for depression of the central nervous system and the respiratory center, resulting in episodes of dizziness, confusion, difficulty breathing, and respiratory arrest. The individual influence of these medications on respirations and central nervous system can get added up, thus leading to severe respiratory depression, confusion, coma, and can even be fatal. Alprazolam must be used with extra caution in individuals with history of breathing issues, such as, asthma and COPD, to prevent development of any episodes of severe SOB and respiratory arrest. Alprazolam, especially when taken in high doses, can also lead to depression of respiratory center in the brain and difficulty breathing. Any exacerbation of shortness of breath, following Alprazolam intake, must be reported to the physician, for any change in plan of care to be made.
- Observe compliance with any periodical lab draws ordered, while taking Alprazolam.
- Alprazolam intake, secondary to depression of central nervous system, results in dizziness and confusion. Avoid sudden changes in position, until you are used to the side-effects of Alprazolam intake. Sudden change of positions can make the confusion and dizzy episodes even worse and precipitate accidents and falls. Report any episodes of increased dizziness, syncope, and loss of consciousness while taking Alprazolam. Discuss with your physician regarding all your medications and their risk of causing drowsiness and confusion, so that, they could be avoided taken concurrently with Alprazolam.
- Alprazolam use in expectant mothers could harm the unborn baby and result in pregnancy complications, such as, low birth weight baby, small head circumference, and preterm delivery. Alprazolam use should be avoided during pregnancy and in women planning to get pregnant. Women in the child-bearing age group, taking Alprazolam on a regular basis, must employ effective contraceptive measures in order to avoid getting pregnant.
