Xanax, whose generic name is alprazolam, is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorders and anxiety caused by depression. Xanax works by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain, according to PubMed Health. Fish oil is rich in beneficial oils known as omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil supplements may help relieve anxiety symptoms caused by depression.
Fish Oil and Xanax Interactions
Fish oil enhances the actions of Xanax in relieving anxiety and depression, according to MedlinePlus. Patients who take Xanax and fish oil together may experience immediate improvement in anxiety symptoms. Patients taking fish oil may also require reduced Xanax dosage because fish oil also decreases anxiety symptoms. Patients should consult with the doctor before taking over-the-counter fish oil supplements together with Xanax.
Fish Oil Side Effects
Fish oil supplements may cause common side effects such as upset stomach, heartburn, nausea, diarrhea, back pain, belching, bad breath, unusual taste in the mouth and mild skin rash. Taking fish oil with meals or freezing them decreases side effects, according to MedlinePlus. Adverse effects of fish oil capsules include irregular heartbeat, fever, chills, body aches and chest pain.
Xanax Administration
Xanax is available as a tablet, an extended-release tablet, an orally disintegrating tablet and a liquid. The regular tablets and liquid are usually taken two to four times a day. The extended-release tablet is taken once a day, usually in the morning. The extended-release tablets should be swallowed whole without chewing or crushing. Patients should not suddenly stop taking Xanax because withdrawal symptoms can occur. Patients should avoid alcoholic beverages while taking Xanax, because Xanax can increase the effects of alcohol. Patients should also not take larger doses of Xanax than prescribed because the drug is addictive.
Xanax Side Effects
Patients taking Xanax may experience side effects such as drowsiness, headache, fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, dry mouth, increased sweating, constipation, joint pain, increased salivation, decreased sex drive and loss of appetite, according to Drugs.com. Adverse effects of Xanax includes shortness of breath, seizures, problems urinating, hallucinating, depression, memory loss, confusion, problems with speech, unusual changes in mood, problems with balance and coordination, and yellowing of the skin and eyes.
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