What is alprazolam? Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen). It is thought that it works by enhancing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. Alprazolam is used to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and anxiety caused by depression. It is dangerous to purchase alprazolam on the Internet or outside the United States. The sale and distribution of medicines outside the U.S. does not comply with safe-use regulations of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These medications may contain dangerous ingredients, or may not be distributed by a licensed pharmacy. Warnings MISUSE OF ALPRAZOLAM CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH and should be used only by the person for whom it was prescribed. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it. Alprazolam can slow or stop your breathing and fatal side effects can occur if you take this medicine with alcohol, opioid medicine, or other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing. Do not stop using this medicine without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer. Get medical help right away if you stop using alprazolam and have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or thoughts about suicide. You should not use alprazolam if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, if you also take itraconazole or ketoconazole, or if you are allergic to alprazolam or similar medicines (Valium, Ativan, Tranxene, and others). Do not use alprazolam if you are pregnant. This medicine can cause birth defects or life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in a newborn. Before taking this medicine You should not take alprazolam if: you also take antifungal medicine such as itraconazole or ketoconazole; or you have a history of allergic reaction to any benzodiazepine (alprazolam, lorazepam, diazepam, Ativan, Valium, Versed, Klonopin, and others). To make sure alprazolam is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had: breathing problems; drug or alcohol addiction; depression, mood problems, or suicidal thoughts or behavior; or kidney or liver disease. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you use alprazolam during pregnancy, your baby could be born with life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, and may need medical treatment for several weeks. You should not breastfeed. If you do breastfeed, tell your doctor if you notice drowsiness or feeding problems in the baby. Not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old. How should I take alprazolam? Take alprazolam exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Never use alprazolam in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of alprazolam. Never share this medicine with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. MISUSE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law. Measure liquid medicine with the supplied measuring device (not a kitchen spoon). Swallow the extended-release tablet whole and do not crush, chew, or break it. Allow the orally disintegrating tablet to dissolve in your mouth without chewing. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse. If you use this medicine long-term, you may need frequent medical tests. Do not stop using alprazolam without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep your medicine in a place where no one can use it improperly. Throw away any alprazolam liquid not used within 90 days. Dosing information Usual Adult Dose for Anxiety: Immediate-release tablets/orally disintegrating tablets (ODT): 0.25 to 0.5 mg orally administered 3 times a day -Maximum dose: 4 mg/day Usual Adult Dose for Panic Disorder: Immediate-release tablets/ODTs: 0.5 mg orally administered 3 times a day -Maximum dose: 10 mg/day Extended-release tablets: -Initial dose: 0.5 to 1 mg orally once a day -Maintenance dose: 3 to 6 mg orally per day, preferably in the morning -Maximum dose: 10 mg/day Comments: -The lowest possible effective dose should be administered and the need for continued treatment reassessed frequently. -Dosage should be reduced gradually when discontinuing therapy or when decreasing the daily dosage. -The daily dosage may be decreased by no more than 0.5 mg every 3 days; however, some patients may require an even slower dosage reduction. -The dose of extended-release tablets may be increased at intervals of 3 to 4 days in increments of no more than 1 mg per day. -The times of administration should be distributed as evenly as possible throughout the waking hours. Usual Geriatric Dose for Anxiety: Elderly or debilitated patients: Immediate-release tablets/ODTs: 0.25 mg orally administered 2 or 3 times a day. Usual Geriatric Dose for Panic Disorder: Elderly or debilitated patients: Immediate-release tablets/ODTs: -Initial dose: 0.25 mg orally administered 2 or 3 times a day Extended-release tablets: -Initial dose: 0.5 mg orally once a day Comments: -If side effects develop, the dose may be lowered. -The lowest possible effective dose should be administered and the need for continued treatment reassessed frequently. -Dosage should be reduced gradually when discontinuing therapy or when decreasing the daily dosage.   What happens if I miss a dose? Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time. What happens if I overdose? Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of alprazolam can be fatal if you take it with alcohol, opioid medicine, or other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing. Overdose symptoms may include severe drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, muscle weakness, loss of balance or coordination, feeling light-headed, slow heartbeats, weak or shallow breathing, fainting, or coma. What should I avoid while taking alprazolam? Avoid drinking alcohol. Dangerous side effects or death could occur. Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how alprazolam will affect you. Dizziness or drowsiness can cause falls, accidents, or severe injuries. Alprazolam side effects Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to alprazolam: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Alprazolam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. A person caring for you should seek emergency medical attention if you have slow breathing with long pauses, blue colored lips, or if you are hard to wake up. Call your doctor at once if you have: weak or shallow breathing; a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out; a seizure; hallucinations, risk-taking behavior; increased energy, decreased need for sleep; racing thoughts, being agitated or talkative; double vision; or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). Drowsiness or dizziness may last longer in older adults. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury. Common alprazolam side effects may include: drowsiness; or feeling light-headed. After you stop using alprazolam, get medical help right away if you have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, suicidal thoughts or actions. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer after stopping this medicine suddenly. Tell your doctor if you have ongoing anxiety, depression, problems with memory or thinking, trouble sleeping, ringing in your ears, a burning or prickly feeling, or a crawling sensation under your skin. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.   What other drugs will affect alprazolam? Sometimes it is not safe to use certain medicines at the same time. Some drugs can affect your blood levels of other drugs you use, which may increase side effects or make the medicines less effective. Taking alprazolam with other drugs that make you sleepy or slow your breathing can cause dangerous side effects or death. Ask your doctor before using opioid medication, a sleeping pill, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures. Many drugs can interact with alprazolam, and some drugs should not be used at the same time. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed here.

What is alprazolam? Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen). It is thought that it works by enhancing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. Alprazolam is used to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and anxiety caused by depression. It is dangerous to purchase alprazolam on the Internet or outside the United States. The sale and distribution of medicines outside the U.S. does not comply with safe-use regulations of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These medications may contain dangerous ingredients, or may not be distributed by a licensed pharmacy. Warnings MISUSE OF ALPRAZOLAM CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH and should be used only by the person for whom it was prescribed. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it. Alprazolam can slow or stop your breathing and fatal side effects can occur if you take this medicine with alcohol, opioid medicine, or other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing. Do not stop using this medicine without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer. Get medical help right away if you stop using alprazolam and have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or thoughts about suicide. You should not use alprazolam if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, if you also take itraconazole or ketoconazole, or if you are allergic to alprazolam or similar medicines (Valium, Ativan, Tranxene, and others). Do not use alprazolam if you are pregnant. This medicine can cause birth defects or life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in a newborn. Before taking this medicine You should not take alprazolam if: you also take antifungal medicine such as itraconazole or ketoconazole; or you have a history of allergic reaction to any benzodiazepine (alprazolam, lorazepam, diazepam, Ativan, Valium, Versed, Klonopin, and others). To make sure alprazolam is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had: breathing problems; drug or alcohol addiction; depression, mood problems, or suicidal thoughts or behavior; or kidney or liver disease. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you use alprazolam during pregnancy, your baby could be born with life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, and may need medical treatment for several weeks. You should not breastfeed. If you do breastfeed, tell your doctor if you notice drowsiness or feeding problems in the baby. Not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old. How should I take alprazolam? Take alprazolam exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Never use alprazolam in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of alprazolam. Never share this medicine with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. MISUSE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law. Measure liquid medicine with the supplied measuring device (not a kitchen spoon). Swallow the extended-release tablet whole and do not crush, chew, or break it. Allow the orally disintegrating tablet to dissolve in your mouth without chewing. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse. If you use this medicine long-term, you may need frequent medical tests. Do not stop using alprazolam without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep your medicine in a place where no one can use it improperly. Throw away any alprazolam liquid not used within 90 days. Dosing information Usual Adult Dose for Anxiety: Immediate-release tablets/orally disintegrating tablets (ODT): 0.25 to 0.5 mg orally administered 3 times a day -Maximum dose: 4 mg/day Usual Adult Dose for Panic Disorder: Immediate-release tablets/ODTs: 0.5 mg orally administered 3 times a day -Maximum dose: 10 mg/day Extended-release tablets: -Initial dose: 0.5 to 1 mg orally once a day -Maintenance dose: 3 to 6 mg orally per day, preferably in the morning -Maximum dose: 10 mg/day Comments: -The lowest possible effective dose should be administered and the need for continued treatment reassessed frequently. -Dosage should be reduced gradually when discontinuing therapy or when decreasing the daily dosage. -The daily dosage may be decreased by no more than 0.5 mg every 3 days; however, some patients may require an even slower dosage reduction. -The dose of extended-release tablets may be increased at intervals of 3 to 4 days in increments of no more than 1 mg per day. -The times of administration should be distributed as evenly as possible throughout the waking hours. Usual Geriatric Dose for Anxiety: Elderly or debilitated patients: Immediate-release tablets/ODTs: 0.25 mg orally administered 2 or 3 times a day. Usual Geriatric Dose for Panic Disorder: Elderly or debilitated patients: Immediate-release tablets/ODTs: -Initial dose: 0.25 mg orally administered 2 or 3 times a day Extended-release tablets: -Initial dose: 0.5 mg orally once a day Comments: -If side effects develop, the dose may be lowered. -The lowest possible effective dose should be administered and the need for continued treatment reassessed frequently. -Dosage should be reduced gradually when discontinuing therapy or when decreasing the daily dosage.   What happens if I miss a dose? Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time. What happens if I overdose? Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of alprazolam can be fatal if you take it with alcohol, opioid medicine, or other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing. Overdose symptoms may include severe drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, muscle weakness, loss of balance or coordination, feeling light-headed, slow heartbeats, weak or shallow breathing, fainting, or coma. What should I avoid while taking alprazolam? Avoid drinking alcohol. Dangerous side effects or death could occur. Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how alprazolam will affect you. Dizziness or drowsiness can cause falls, accidents, or severe injuries. Alprazolam side effects Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to alprazolam: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Alprazolam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. A person caring for you should seek emergency medical attention if you have slow breathing with long pauses, blue colored lips, or if you are hard to wake up. Call your doctor at once if you have: weak or shallow breathing; a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out; a seizure; hallucinations, risk-taking behavior; increased energy, decreased need for sleep; racing thoughts, being agitated or talkative; double vision; or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). Drowsiness or dizziness may last longer in older adults. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury. Common alprazolam side effects may include: drowsiness; or feeling light-headed. After you stop using alprazolam, get medical help right away if you have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, suicidal thoughts or actions. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer after stopping this medicine suddenly. Tell your doctor if you have ongoing anxiety, depression, problems with memory or thinking, trouble sleeping, ringing in your ears, a burning or prickly feeling, or a crawling sensation under your skin. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.   What other drugs will affect alprazolam? Sometimes it is not safe to use certain medicines at the same time. Some drugs can affect your blood levels of other drugs you use, which may increase side effects or make the medicines less effective. Taking alprazolam with other drugs that make you sleepy or slow your breathing can cause dangerous side effects or death. Ask your doctor before using opioid medication, a sleeping pill, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures. Many drugs can interact with alprazolam, and some drugs should not be used at the same time. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed here.

What is buspirone? Buspirone is an anti-anxiety medicine that affects chemicals in the brain that may be unbalanced in people with anxiety. Buspirone is used to treat symptoms of anxiety, such as fear, tension, irritability, dizziness, pounding heartbeat, and other physical symptoms. Buspirone is not an anti-psychotic medication and should not be used in place of medication prescribed by your doctor for psychotic disorders. Warnings Do not use buspirone if you have taken an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur. MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, and tranylcypromine. Before taking this medicine You should not use buspirone if you are allergic to it. Do not use buspirone if you have taken an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur. MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, and tranylcypromine. To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have any of these conditions: kidney disease; or liver disease. Buspirone is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether buspirone passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Buspirone is not FDA-approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old, but this medicine has been used in children and adolescents under close medical supervision and at the appropriate dosage. How should I take buspirone? Take buspirone exactly as it was prescribed for you. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. You may take buspirone with or without food but take it the same way each time. Some buspirone tablets are scored so you can break the tablet into 2 or 3 pieces in order to take a smaller amount of the medicine at each dose. Do not use a tablet if it has not been broken correctly and the piece is too big or too small. Follow your doctor's instructions about how much of the tablet to take. If you have switched to buspirone from another anxiety medication, you may need to slowly decrease your dose of the other medication rather than stopping suddenly. Some anxiety medications can cause withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking them suddenly after long-term use. This medication can cause false positive results with certain medical tests. You may need to stop using the medicine for at least 48 hours before your test. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using buspirone. Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. What happens if I miss a dose? Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose. What happens if I overdose? Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. What should I avoid? This medication may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert. Drinking alcohol may increase certain side effects of buspirone. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with buspirone and lead to unwanted side effects. Discuss the use of grapefruit products with your doctor. Buspirone side effects Get emergency medical help if you have any signs of an allergic reaction to buspirone: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have: chest pain; shortness of breath; or a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out. Common buspirone side effects may include: headache; dizziness, drowsiness; sleep problems (insomnia); nausea, upset stomach; or feeling nervous or excited.  

What is chlordiazepoxide? Chlordiazepoxide is a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen) that is used to treat anxiety disorders. Chlordiazepoxide may also be used short-term to treat symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, or anxiety you may have before a surgery. Chlordiazepoxide may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide. Warnings Chlordiazepoxide can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. MISUSE OF chlordiazepoxide CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep this medicine where others cannot get to it. Do not stop using chlordiazepoxide without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer. Get medical help right away if you stop using chlordiazepoxide and have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or thoughts about suicide. Before taking this medicine You should not use chlordiazepoxide if you are allergic to it. Tell your doctor if you have ever had: depression, a mood disorder, suicidal thoughts or actions; alcoholism or drug addiction; or liver or kidney disease. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Chlordiazepoxide may harm an unborn baby. Avoid taking this medicine during the first trimester of pregnancy. Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using this medicine. Not approved for use by anyone younger than 6 years old. How should I take chlordiazepoxide? Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Never use chlordiazepoxide in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of chlordiazepoxide. Never share this medicine with another person, especially someone with a history of drug addiction. MISUSE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medicine where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law. Chlordiazepoxide is usually taken for no longer than 4 months. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully. Do not stop using chlordiazepoxide without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep your medicine in a place where no one can use it improperly.   What happens if I miss a dose? Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time. What happens if I overdose? Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of chlordiazepoxide can be fatal if you take it with alcohol, opioid medicine, or other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing. Overdose symptoms may include dry mouth, blurred vision, urinating less, constipation, extreme drowsiness, confusion, muscle weakness, or loss of consciousness. What should I avoid while taking chlordiazepoxide? Avoid drinking alcohol. Dangerous side effects or death could occur. Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how chlordiazepoxide will affect you. Dizziness or drowsiness can cause falls, accidents, or severe injuries. Chlordiazepoxide side effects Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Chlordiazepoxide can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. A person caring for you should seek emergency medical attention if you have slow breathing with long pauses, blue colored lips, or if you are hard to wake up. Call your doctor at once if you have: severe drowsiness, slurred speech; slow heart rate, slow breathing (breathing may stop); problems with memory or concentration; unusual changes in mood or behavior, thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself; problems with balance or muscle movement; confusion, excitement, paranoia, anger, aggression; or stomach pain, loss of appetite. Drowsiness or dizziness may last longer in older adults. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury. Common side effects may include: drowsiness; confusion; or balance problems. After you stop using chlordiazepoxide, get medical help right away if you have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, suicidal thoughts or actions. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer after stopping this medicine suddenly. Tell your doctor if you have ongoing anxiety, depression, problems with memory or thinking, trouble sleeping, ringing in your ears, a burning or prickly feeling, or a crawling sensation under your skin. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.   What other drugs will affect chlordiazepoxide? Using chlordiazepoxide with other drugs that make you sleepy or slow your breathing can cause dangerous side effects or death. Ask your doctor before using opioid medication, a sleeping pill, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures. Other drugs may affect chlordiazepoxide, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

What is lorazepam? Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen) It is thought that benzodiazepines work by enhancing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. Lorazepam is used to treat anxiety disorders. It is dangerous to purchase lorazepam on the Internet or outside the United States. The sale and distribution of medicines outside the U.S. does not comply with safe-use regulations of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These medications may contain dangerous ingredients, or may not be distributed by a licensed pharmacy. Warnings Lorazepam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication, alcohol, or other drugs that can slow your breathing. These effects can be fatal. MISUSE OF LORAZEPAM CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep this medicine where others cannot get to it. Lorazepam may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. This medicine should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Do not stop using lorazepam without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer. Get medical help right away if you stop using lorazepam and have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or thoughts about suicide. Do not use lorazepam if you are pregnant. This medicine can cause birth defects or life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in a newborn. You should not use this medicine if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, severe respiratory insufficiency, myasthenia gravis, or if you are allergic to Valium or a similar medicine. Before taking this medicine You should not use lorazepam if you have: narrow-angle glaucoma; or a history of allergic reaction to any benzodiazepine (lorazepam, alprazolam, diazepam, Valium, Xanax, Versed, Klonopin, and others). To make sure lorazepam is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had: asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sleep apnea, or other breathing disorder; drug or alcohol addiction; depression, mood problems, or suicidal thoughts or behavior; kidney or liver disease; seizures; or an allergy to aspirin or yellow food dye. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you use lorazepam during pregnancy, your baby could be born with life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, and may need medical treatment for several weeks. You should not breastfeed while you are taking lorazepam. If you do breastfeed, tell your doctor if you notice drowsiness, feeding problems, or slow weight gain in the nursing baby. Lorazepam is not approved for use by anyone younger than 12 years old. Extended-release lorazepam should not be used by anyone younger than 18 years old. How should I take lorazepam? Take lorazepam exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Never use lorazepam in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of lorazepam. Never share this medicine with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. MISUSE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law. Measure the oral concentrate (liquid) with the supplied measuring device (not a kitchen spoon). Mix the liquid with water, juice, soda, or soft food such as applesauce or pudding. Swallow this mixture right away. Swallow the extended-release capsule whole and do not crush, chew, break, or open it. If you cannot swallow a capsule whole, open it and mix the medicine with applesauce. Swallow the mixture right away without chewing. Then drink a glass of water. Do not stop using lorazepam without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Store tightly closed at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Store the liquid form of lorazepam in the refrigerator. Throw away any liquid not used within 90 days. Keep your medicine in a place where no one can use it improperly. Dosing information Usual Adult Dose for Anxiety: ORAL: Initial dose: 2 to 3 mg orally per day, given 2 to 3 times per day Maintenance dose: 1 to 2 mg orally 2 to 3 times a day. Usual Adult Dose for Light Anesthesia: INJECTION: IM: 0.05 mg/kg IM ONCE -Maximum dose: 4 mg IV: 2 mg total OR 0.044 mg/kg IV ONCE, whichever is smaller Comments: -Doses of other injectable central-nervous-system depressant drugs should be reduced. -Narcotic analgesics should be administered at their usual preoperative time. -IV: The recommended dose of 2 mg (OR 0.44 mg/kg, whichever is smaller) should not ordinarily be exceeded in patients over 50 years of age. -IV: Doses up to 0.05 mg/kg (4 mg maximum) may be administered. -IM: For optimum effect, this route should be administered at least 2 hours before the anticipated operative procedure. -IV: For optimum effect, this route should be administered 15 to 20 minutes before the anticipated operative procedure. Use: As a preanesthetic medication to produce sedation (sleepiness or drowsiness), relieve anxiety, and decrease the ability to recall events related to the day of surgery Usual Adult Dose for Status Epilepticus: INJECTION: 4 mg IV given at a rate of 2 mg/min; may repeat the dose in 10 to 15 minutes -Maximum total dose: 8 mg Comments : -Vital signs should be monitored, an unobstructed airway should be maintained, and artificial ventilation equipment should be available. -When an intravenous port is not available, the IM route may prove useful. Use: Treatment of status epilepticus Usual Adult Dose for Insomnia: ORAL: 2 to 4 mg orally once a day at bedtime Comments: -The dosage should be increased gradually when needed to help avoid adverse effects. -Clinical studies have not evaluated this drug for efficacy in long-term treatment (e.g., greater than 4 months). Use: Management of insomnia due to anxiety of transient situational stress Usual Geriatric Dose for Anxiety: ORAL: Older or debilitated patients: -Initial dose: 1 to 2 mg orally per day, given in divided doses Comments: -The dosage should be increased gradually when needed to help avoid adverse effects. Usual Pediatric Dose for Anxiety: ORAL: 12 years or older: -Initial dose: 2 to 3 mg orally per day, given 2 to 3 times per day -Maintenance dose: 1 to 2 mg orally 2 to 3 times a day -The daily dosage may vary from 1 to 10 mg/day. -The dosage should be increased gradually when needed to help avoid adverse effects. -When higher dosage is indicated, the evening dose should be increased before the daytime doses. -Use of anxiolytic agents is typically not needed to treat anxiety/tension associated with the stress of everyday life. -Clinical studies have not evaluated this drug for efficacy in long-term treatment (e.g., greater than 4 months). Uses: -Management of anxiety disorders -Short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety or anxiety associated with depressive symptoms Usual Pediatric Dose for Insomnia: ORAL: 12 years or older: 2 to 4 mg orally once a day at bedtime Comments: -For debilitated patients, an initial dosage of 1 to 2 mg/day in divided doses is recommended. -The dosage should be increased gradually when needed to help avoid adverse effects. -Clinical studies have not evaluated this drug for efficacy in long-term treatment (e.g., greater than 4 months). Use: Management of insomnia   What happens if I miss a dose? Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time. What happens if I overdose? Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of lorazepam can be fatal if you take it with alcohol, opioid medicine, or other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing. Overdose symptoms may include severe drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, feeling restless, muscle weakness, loss of balance or coordination, feeling light-headed, slow heartbeats, weak or shallow breathing, or coma. What should I avoid while taking lorazepam? Avoid drinking alcohol. Dangerous side effects or death could occur. Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how lorazepam will affect you. Dizziness or drowsiness can cause falls, accidents, or severe injuries. Lorazepam side effects Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to lorazepam: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Lorazepam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. A person caring for you should seek emergency medical attention if you have slow breathing with long pauses, blue colored lips, or if you are hard to wake up. Call your doctor at once if you have: severe drowsiness; unusual changes in mood or behavior, being agitated or talkative; sudden restless feeling or excitement; thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself; confusion, aggression, hallucinations; sleep problems; vision changes; or dark urine, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). Drowsiness or dizziness may last longer in older adults. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury. Common lorazepam side effects may include: dizziness, drowsiness; weakness; or feeling unsteady. After you stop using lorazepam, get medical help right away if you have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, suicidal thoughts or actions. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer after stopping this medicine suddenly. Tell your doctor if you have ongoing anxiety, depression, problems with memory or thinking, trouble sleeping, ringing in your ears, a burning or prickly feeling, or a crawling sensation under your skin. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.    

What is meprobamate? Meprobamate is used short-term to treat anxiety. Meprobamate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide. Warnings Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies. Before taking this medicine You should not use meprobamate if you are allergic to it, or if you have: porphyria (a genetic enzyme disorder that causes symptoms affecting the skin or nervous system); or an allergy to carisoprodol, mebutamate, tybamate, or carbromal. Tell your doctor if you have ever had: epilepsy or other seizure disorder; kidney disease; liver disease; or alcoholism or drug addiction. May harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or if you become pregnant. Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using meprobamate. Not approved for use by anyone younger than 6 years old. How should I take meprobamate? Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed. Meprobamate may be habit-forming. Misuse can cause addiction, overdose, or death. Never share this medicine with another person. Keep the medicine where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law. Your doctor will need to check your progress on a regular basis. You may have withdrawal symptoms if you stop using meprobamate suddenly after using it long term or at high doses. Ask your doctor before stopping the medicine. Store tightly closed at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep your medicine in a place where no one can use it improperly. What happens if I miss a dose? Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time. What happens if I overdose? Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose can be fatal. Overdose symptoms may include extreme drowsiness or dizziness, loss of coordination, slurred speech, weak or shallow breathing, fainting, or coma. What should I avoid while taking meprobamate? Drinking alcohol with meprobamate can cause side effects. Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired. Meprobamate side effects Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction (hives, fever, chills, wheezing, difficult breathing, swelling in your face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling). Call your doctor at once if you have: feelings of extreme happiness, feeling restless or excited; thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself; fast or pounding heartbeats; a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out; swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet; a red, itchy rash (may be only in your groin area); unusual bruising; or sudden fever, chills, sore throat, weakness. Common side effects may include: drowsiness, weakness; problems with balance or muscle movement; headache, dizziness; bruising; numbness or tingling; blurred vision; or nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.   Meprobamate dosing information Usual Adult Dose for Anxiety: 1200 to 1600 mg orally divided in 3 or 4 doses Maximum dose: 2400 mg per day Comments: -The lowest effective dose should be used in order to limit oversedation. -The effectiveness beyond 4 months has not been assessed. Uses: Management of anxiety disorders or for the short-term relief of anxiety symptoms. Usual Pediatric Dose for Anxiety: Age: 6 to 12 years: 200 to 600 mg orally divided in 2 or 3 doses Age: 13 years or older: 1200 to 1600 mg orally divided in 3 or 4 doses Maximum dose: 2400 mg per day Comments: -The lowest effective dose should be used in order to limit oversedation. -The effectiveness beyond 4 months has not been assessed. Uses: Management of anxiety disorders or for the short-term relief of anxiety symptoms   What other drugs will affect meprobamate? Using meprobamate with other drugs that make you drowsy can worsen this effect. Ask your doctor before using opioid medication, a sleeping pill, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures. Other drugs may affect meprobamate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.