Side Effects of Alprazolam

Some of the most common side effects of alprazolam include drowsiness, irritability, and fatigue. In most cases, side effects of the drug are minor and either don't require treatment or can easily be treated. There are, however, a number of potentially serious alprazolam side effects that should be reported to a healthcare provider right away, such as depression, jaundice, or signs of an allergic reaction.

 

An Introduction to Alprazolam Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with alprazolam (Xanax®); however, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with alprazolam. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of alprazolam side effects with you.)
 

Common Side Effects With Alprazolam

Alprazolam has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, the side effects that occur in a group of people taking the drug are documented and are then compared to side effects that occur in another group of people not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
In these studies, some of the most common side effects of alprazolam included:
 
  • Drowsiness -- in up to 76.8 percent of people
  • Fatigue and tiredness -- up to 48.6 percent
  • Coordination problems -- up to 40.1 percent
  • Irritability -- up to 33.1 percent
  • Memory problems -- up to 33.1 percent
  • Increased appetite -- up to 32.7 percent.
     
Some other common alprazolam side effects, occurring in 1 percent to 30 percent of people, included:
 
  • Speech problems
  • Changes in sex drive or other sexual problems (see Xanax Sexual Side Effects)
  • Confusion
  • Talkativeness
  • Unusual dreams
  • Feeling warm
  • Constipation
  • Increased salivation
  • Nasal congestion
  • Decreased appetite
  • Weight loss or weight gain (see Xanax and Weight Gain)
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Menstrual problems
  • Dry mouth.
     
(Side Effects of Alprazolam Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;