Before using Xanax : Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding

If you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement

If you have allergies to medicines or other substances

If you have glaucoma or a predisposition for glaucoma, liver problems, lung problems or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), muscle problems, depression, suicidal tendencies, a blood disorder known as porphyria, or a history of substance abuse or dependence


How to use Xanax :

Use Xanax as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

Xanax may be taken with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation.

Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while you are being treated with Xanax .

If you miss a dose of Xanax and you are using it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Important safety information:

When used for long periods of time or at high doses, Xanax may not work as well and may require higher doses to obtain the same effect as when originally taken. This is known as TOLERANCE. Talk with your doctor if Xanax stops working well. Do not take more than prescribed.

Xanax may be habit-forming and lead to DEPENDENCE if used in high doses or for a long period of time. If you are on long-term or high dosage therapy, you may have WITHDRAWAL symptoms (eg, convulsions, tremor, stomach and muscle cramps, vomiting, sweating) if you suddenly stop taking this medicine. Do not stop therapy abruptly or change dosage without asking your pharmacist or doctor.


Possible side effects of Xanax :

Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:

Attention disturbance; blurred vision; changes in weight; clumsiness; constipation; decreased sex drive; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; dry mouth; flu; headache; impaired coordination/balance; increased salivation; joint pain; lightheadedness; nervousness; pounding in the chest; rapid heartbeat; restlessness; skin inflammation; sleeplessness; sweating; unsteadiness; unusual weakness; vomiting; weakness.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); depression; fainting; involuntary movements; memory impairment.