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Considering XANAX XR
How Long Does It Take to Work?

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When you start taking XANAX XR, you may not feel its effects right away. This is because it is released slowly into your system so that it will last throughout the day. As shown in the chart below, XANAX XR took 1.6 hours to reach maximum benefit, compared to 1.5 hours with XANAX® (alprazolam), suggesting that it essentially works just as quickly.

In One Open-Label, Switch Study for Panic Disorder: Peak Benefit Achieved as Quickly as Xanax

In One Open-Label, Switch Study for Panic Disorder: Peak Benefit Achieved as Quickly as Xanax

Nine-wk, open label, switch study of 30 patients with panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia (DSM-IV™). Dosage— patients were stabilized for 3 wk on XANAX (0.75-10 mg/d), then switched to equivalent dose of XANAX XR. Results depicted are from Wk 3 and 4 for XANAX and XANAX XR, respectively, and based on patient diary data, in which patients kept an hourly record of degree (on a 0- to 10-point scale) of anxiolytic benefit they received from each dose of medication. Diaries were compiled and analyzed to determine the time it took, in hours, to reach a maximum score after the first morning dose.

While all patients are different, some patients may begin to see improvement in their symptoms as early as the first week. However, the full effect may take several weeks. To get the full benefit of your medicine, be sure to take it as prescribed by your doctor.

Talking to Your Doctor About XANAX XR >>

Important Safety Information: XANAX XR should not be used if you are allergic to benzodiazepines, have a condition called acute narrow angle glaucoma, or are taking the anti-fungal medications ketoconazole or itraconazole. XANAX XR is not recommended for use in pregnancy. Therefore, let your doctor know if you are pregnant, if you are planning to become pregnant, or if you become pregnant while you are taking this medication. Let your doctor know if you are nursing.

The most common side effect is sedation, but this often decreases or goes away in most people after their bodies get used to the drug. Until you experience how XANAX XR affects you, do not drive a car or operate potentially dangerous machinery, etc. Other common side effects, which occur in fewer patients, include sleepiness, memory impairment, impaired speech, abnormal coordination and/or muscle action, and reduced sexual drive. Some patients may experience side effects associated with psychological and/or physical dependence on XANAX XR. Medications like XANAX XR, even when used as recommended, may produce psychological and/or physical dependence. This may make it very difficult to discontinue treatment with XANAX XR. Discontinuation symptoms, including the possibility of seizures, may occur following abrupt discontinuation from any dose, but the risk may be increased with extended use at doses greater than 4 mg/day. It is important that you get your doctor's advice on how to discontinue treatment safely and carefully. Gradually tapering your XANAX XR dose will help to decrease the possibility of discontinuation symptoms.

For more information, see important safety information.


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The health information contained herein is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace discussions with a healthcare provider. All decisions regarding patient care must be made with a healthcare provider, considering the unique characteristics of the patient.