Xanax has many dangerous interactions with a variety of herbs as well as with prescription drugs and even regular foods. According to the website Drugs.com, it has 15 major drug interactions, 641 moderate interactions and 106 minor interactions. If you take Xanax, taking an herbal supplement can be dangerous because there is a high likelihood of an interaction. Ask your doctor before taking any herb, vitamin, supplement or drug with Xanax.
Uses
Xanax, or alprazolam, is a benzodiazapine used to help control anxiety. Your doctor can also prescribe it for panic disorders, depression or other conditions. Some side effects of this medication are drowsiness, lightheadness, tiredness, irritability and difficulty concentrating, according to Drugs.com. You also can have severe side effects such as shortness of breath, seizures, hallucinations, yellowing of the skin, suicidal thoughts or actions, and memory problems. You should stop taking Xanax and call your doctor if you experience these symptoms.
Herbs and Foods to Avoid
Some common herbs interact with Xanax and interfere with or enhance its effects. St. John's wort increases the rate at which the body processes Xanax and decreases its effectiveness, according to MedlinePlus. Gingko also decreases the effects of this medication. Valerian increases the drowsiness effects of Xanax, as does Kava. Grapefruit and its juice can interact with it and cause dangerous side effects, so do not mix these two together. Alcohol can increase the effects of Xanax and impair your ability to think and function, especially when operating a vehicle; do not use them together.
Drug Interactions
Xanax interacts with many prescription drugs, including birth control pills, the antacid drug cimetidine, the heart medication diltiazem, the pain medication propoxyphene, anti-seizure medications, anti-fungal medications and some antidepressants, according to Drugs.com. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to chlordiazepoxide, clorazepate, diazepam, lorazepam or oxazepam, because these drugs are closely related to Xanax. Many other drugs interact with this medication, so tell your doctor and pharmacist about all herbs and supplements that you take to ensure your safety.
Other Dangers
This medication is not safe for pregnant mothers, and it is known to cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Xanax is also habit forming and can cause a withdrawal syndrome when you stop taking the medication. Ask your doctor about taking this medication if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, any breathing problem, kidney or liver disease, or a history of drug and alcohol abuse. Also, do not purchase this medication over the Internet; some purchasers have received a drug that was actually another medication entirely.
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