Description of the Psychopharmacological Medication Agent
For creating a study guide, Xanax (alprazolam) was chosen as a psychotropic medication. In this case, alprazolam is a generic name for the medication, and Xanax is the brand name for the medication alprazolam (Cunha, 2021). However, the active ingredient in both the brand-name Xanax and generic alprazolam is alprazolam.
This drug is a medication in the class of drugs called benzodiazepines (Cunha, 2021). It is primarily used to treat anxiety and panic disorders, but can also treat other conditions such as insomnia, muscle spasms, and seizures. Therefore, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Xanax for treating these disorders, including panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia (Pacifici & Bain, 2018). According to the FDA, it is essential to note that the treatment is intended for short-term use and should not exceed 12 weeks (Pacifici & Bain, 2018). Otherwise, it can be habit-forming if used for an extended period.
As a unique action of Xanax, it should be stressed that it works by increasing the activity of a neurotransmitter called GABA in the brain. It helps to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation (Nugent & Vitale, 2020). Due to the habit-forming possibility, it should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider (Drugs.com, 2021). As a result of not following the dosage and frequency prescribed by a healthcare provider, Xanax can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly.
Research for Non-FDA Uses
Besides research and prescriptions by the FDA, some research suggests it may have potential uses for other conditions. One such study concludes that alprazolam may be effective in treating premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) (Nugent & Vitale, 2020). On the other hand, other research suggested that it may have potential use in treating social phobia and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Cunha, 2021). These arguments underscore the potential of Xanax as a universal psychopharmacological medication agent. However, it is essential to emphasize that the lack of FDA approval makes this research need additional studies.
Drug Classification
As mentioned above, Xanax belongs to the class of drugs called benzodiazepines. They are a class of medications that act on the central nervous system and are primarily used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders (Drugs.com, 2021). In addition, considering the classification of psychotropic drugs, they are generally identified to belong only to one of five classes: antipsychotics, antidepressants, anxiolytics, hypnotics, and mood stabilizers.
Mechanism of Action
Xanax works by increasing the activity of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain (Peppin, 2020). GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, which means that it helps to reduce the activity of nerve cells in the brain and promotes feelings of relaxation and calm.
Pharmacokinetics
The pharmacokinetics of Xanax refer to how the medication is absorbed, distributed, and metabolized by the body. First, Xanax is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak blood concentrations reached within 1-2 hours (Cunha, 2021). Second, Xanax is highly lipid-soluble (Cunha, 2021). Third, the liver extensively metabolizes it (Cunha, 2021). These characteristics are primary in terms of the pharmacokinetics of this psychopharmacological medication.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamics of Xanax (alprazolam) refer to how the medication affects the body and the mechanisms of action involved. Therefore, Xanax’s primary mechanism of action is to enhance the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain.
Appropriate Dosing, Administration Route, and Considerations for Dosing Alterations
It should be used as a short-term treatment, not more than 12 weeks, and a healthcare provider should prescribe the dosage and frequency (Drugs.com, 2021). However, for anxiety disorders and panic disorder, the usual starting dose for adults is 0.25-0.5 mg taken three times daily (Nugent & Vitale, 2020). As needed, the dosage may be increased gradually up to a maximum of 4 mg per day.
Considerations of Use and Dosing in Specific Patient Populations
First, Xanax is not recommended for use in children and adolescents under the age of 18 years. Second, elderly individuals may be more sensitive to the effects of Xanax and may require a lower dose (Cunha, 2021). Third, Xanax should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus (Shyken et al., 2019). However, each case is individual and requires consideration by a qualified healthcare professional.
Definition of Half-Life and Its Importance
A medication’s half-life is the period required for the body to eliminate half of the drug. It is essential because it determines the duration of the medication’s effects (Stevens, 2020). Therefore, the elimination half-life of Xanax ranges from about 12 to 16 hours, which means that it takes about 12 to 16 hours for half of the medication to be eliminated from the body (Nugent & Vitale, 2020). It is vital to discuss these aspects with patients.
Side Effects/Adverse Reaction Potentials
Xanax can be habit-forming if used for an extended period of time. Side effects of Xanax include drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion (Zoroufchi et al., 2021). In addition, typical side effects of Xanax are insomnia, headache, nausea, constipation, dry mouth, and changes in sex drive or ability.
Contraindications for Use
Xanax (alprazolam) should not be used in different situations, such as hypersensitivity to alprazolam or any other benzodiazepines, acute narrow-angle glaucoma, severe respiratory insufficiency, and severe hepatic insufficiency (Peppin, 2020). In addition, Xanax should not be used in individuals with a history of drug or alcohol abuse, as it can be habit-forming.
Overdose Considerations
In addition to the abovementioned side effects and situations concerning incorrect use of Xanax, the overdose considerations should be highlighted. There are such symptoms as loss of coordination, slurred speech, coma, and respiratory depression (Drugs.com, 2021). It is essential to keep in mind that benzodiazepines like Xanax can accumulate in the body and cause prolonged sedation, especially with long-term use or high doses.
Diagnostics and Labs Monitoring
Among specific diagnostic tests and laboratory monitoring that a healthcare provider may perform regarding taking Xanax, one should highlight the following: Complete blood count (CBC), Liver function tests (LFTs), Kidney function tests (KFTs), Psychological evaluations, and others (Cunha, 2021). However, patients should also inform the healthcare provider about some symptoms and signs of their condition.
Comorbidities Considerations
Xanax can cause drowsiness and impaired coordination, which can be dangerous for individuals with specific comorbidities such as sleep apnea, COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and other breathing problems (Nugent & Vitale, 2020). In addition, it can interact with other medications, such as antidepressants and opioids, which can increase the risk of side effects and potentially lead to dangerous drug interactions.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Xanax medication is a controlled substance, which means the government regulates it and can only be obtained with a valid prescription from a healthcare provider. Therefore, it is vital to use Xanax only as directed by a healthcare provider, as it can be habit-forming and misusing it can lead to addiction and other adverse side effects (Nugent & Vitale, 2020). Additionally, it is illegal to obtain Xanax without a prescription or to give or sell it to others.
Pertinent Patient Education Considerations
Healthcare providers should educate patients on the proper use of the medication. It is necessary to tell patients all information regarding such issues as dosage, duration of treatment, addiction and withdrawal, side effects, and interactions (Peppin, 2020). In addition, other information has already been mentioned in the paper, for example, different types of patients, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, older adults, etc. Moreover, healthcare providers should educate patients about rules and recommendations concerning the storage of Xanax (Cunha, 2021). For example, it should be in a safe place and away from heat and moisture.
Reference Page
Cunha, J. P. (2021). Xanax. RxList. Web.
Drugs. (2021). Xanax dosage. Web.
Image 1. Heroesmile. Web.
Image 2. Heroesmile. Web.
Nugent, P. M., & Vitale, B. A. (2020). Test success: Test-taking techniques for beginning nursing students. F.A. Davis.
Pacifici, E., & Bain, S. (2018). An overview of FDA regulated products: From drugs and cosmetics to food and tobacco. Academic Press.
Peppin, J. (2020). The benzodiazepines crisis. Oxford University Press.
Shyken, J. M., Babbar, S., Babbar, S. F., & Alicia, P. (2019). Benzodiazepines in Pregnancy. Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology, 62(1), pp. 156-167. Web.
Stevens, C. (2020). The drug expert: A practical guide to the impact of drug use in legal proceedings. Academic Press.
Zoroufchi, B. H., Doustmohammadi, H., Mokhtari, T., & Abdollahpour, A. (2021). Benzodiazepines related sexual dysfunctions: A critical review on pharmacology and mechanism of action. Revista Internacional de Andrología, 19(1), pp. 62-68. Web.