Assessment

• Assess degree and manifestations of anxiety and mental status (orientation, mood, behavior) prior to and periodically during therapy

• Assess patient for drowsiness, light-headedness, and dizziness. These symptoms usually disappear as therapy progresses. Dose should be reduced if these symptoms persist

• Geri: Assess CNS effects and risk of falls. Institute falls prevention strategies

• Prolonged high-dose therapy may lead to psychological or physical dependence. Risk is greater in patients taking >4 mg/day. Restrict the amount of drug available to patient. Assess regularly for continued need for treatment

• Monitor CBC and liver and renal function periodically during long-term therapy. May cause hematocrit and neutropenia

• Flumazenil is the antidote for alprazolam toxicity or overdose. (Flumazenil may induce seizures in patients with a history of seizures disorder or who are on tricyclic antidepressants.)

alprazolam is a sample topic found in Davis's Drug Guide. All other sections of this record are viewable by clicking on the index in the left column, or by clicking on "Display all Sections" in the "Content Manager".

To find other Davis's Drug Guide topics, please login or purchase a subscription.