Xanax is a brand name of the benzodiazepine alprazolam, a drug used in the treatment of panic disorders and anxiety. It is known as a CNS or central nervous system depressant, a type of medication that reduces the speed of how your nervous system reacts. It is considered highly addictive, according to Myrecoveryconnection.org. Xanax is available as a prescription medication from a psychiatrist or physician.
Mental Side Effects
Among the most common serious side effects of Xanax are effects on your normal thought processes. For example, you may develop problems with your memory and appear forgetful. You may find you are discouraged in your life with no discernible reason while taking Xanax. The drug may give you some of the symptoms of depression as side effects such as feelings of emptiness or sadness, or you may lose your interest in things you generally like and cannot seem to feel the same levels of pleasure you once did. Alprazolam also may interfere with your concentration and you ability to handle regular tasks. You may also be irritable. Tell your physician immediately if you get any of these common side effects.
Sexual Side Effects
Some of the most common temporary and non-serious side effects of taking alprazolam may affect your sex life, directly or indirectly. For example, a common side effect is a change in your menstrual cycle such as your periods becoming irregular or missing periods altogether. It also may make your menstruation stop. Direct sexual side effects include a reduction of interest in sex, or Xanax may decrease your performance or ability sexually. In men, it can cause ejaculations that are abnormal and erection problems. You may not be able to get an erection of the penis or, having gotten an erection, you may not be able to maintain it. Conversely, alprazolam also can increase both interest in sex and your ability to perform it. The Mayo Clinic reports these as temporary side effects meaning that as you continue to take alprazolam, they should correct themselves without medical aid. If they do not, tell your physician.
Other Side Effects
Xanax can cause a variety of other common side effects, both serious and non-serious when you take it. It has the potential to affect your coordination, making you unsteady or clumsy. Alprazolam can make you drowsy, take away your appetite and cause fatigue. You may slur your speech while taking it or find it difficult to speak. Tell your doctor about any of these. When you start taking it, alprazolam may decrease or increase your appetite temporarily, and it may make you lose or gain weight. These side effects should go away on their own.
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