Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while using Xanax as follows:
- Do not take Xanax 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. Xanax 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. Xanax, 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 Xanax 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 Xanax.
