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Considering XANAX XR
Is XANAX XR Right for You?

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Panic disorder symptoms are sometimes very similar to those associated with heart attacks, some respiratory illnesses, and even thyroid diseases. Because of this, panic disorder is sometimes called "the great imposter" within the medical community.

XANAX XR can effectively reduce the occurrence of panic attacks, which include periods of intense fear accompanied by 4 or more of the following symptoms:

  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Chills or hot flushes
  • Feeling of choking
  • Feeling dizzy, unsteady, light-headed, or faint
  • Nausea or abdominal distress
  • Trembling or shaking
  • Palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate
  • Parethesias (numbness or tingling sensation)
  • Sensations of shortness of breath or smothering
  • Sweating
  • Fear of losing control
  • Fear of dying
  • Derealization (feelings of unreality) or depersonalization (being detached from oneself)

If you're wondering if you should be taking XANAX XR, talk to your doctor. He or she may suggest that once-daily XANAX XR is right for you. This will allow you to take your medicine just once a day, and you won't have to "watch the clock" or worry about when it's time to take your next dose.

How Is XANAX XR Different From XANAX? >>

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 product information provided in this site is intended only for residents of the United States. The products discussed herein may have different product labeling in different countries.

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.