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Xanax (Alprazolam)

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Encyclopedia of Autism Spectrum Disorders

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Synonyms

Alprazolam; Benzodiazepine

Definition

Xanax, the brand name of Alprazolam, is a member of the benzodiazepine (BZD) family, a category of drugs commonly prescribed for conditions such as insomnia, anxiety, agitation, muscle spasticity, and epilepsy. Xanax is classified as a high-potency benzodiazepine and is known to have a short-lasting anxiolytic effect, meaning the drug reduces anxiety and has a half-life of approximately 6–27 h half life; it is consequently often prescribed for panic disorder and anxiety-related disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). To treat anxiety, Xanax is most commonly taken by mouth in 0.25–0.5 mg tablets up to three times per day. For panic disorder, it is recommended the drug be taken at a maximum of 6–10 mg per day.

Concerning the mechanism of action, Xanax binds to GABA-A receptors, ion channels that have an affinity towards chloride. When the compound binds at two transected subunits of the...

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References and Reading

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Yale Child Study Center, New Haven, CT, USA

    Sarah Boland

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  1. Sarah Boland
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Correspondence to Sarah Boland .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Yale Child Study Center, New Haven, CT, USA

    Fred R. Volkmar

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Boland, S. (2019). Xanax (Alprazolam). In: Volkmar, F. (eds) Encyclopedia of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-6435-8_102098-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-6435-8_102098-1

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  • Print ISBN: 978-1-4614-6435-8

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