Xanax (alprazolam) is a prescription anti-anxiety medication indicated for the management of symptoms associated with panic attacks and anxiety disorders. This medication is administered orally (tablet or liquid) 2 to 4 times each day, as prescribed by your doctor. Side effects of Xanax can be dangerous and should be discussed with your doctor before you begin treatment with this medication.
Decreased Inhibitions
Xanax is a type of medication that works by decreasing abnormal signals within the brain that cause excitement. Use of Xanax can cause you to experience decreased inhibitions, which can lead you to engage in dangerous, unusual risk-taking behavior. You can also experience the absence of fear---even if you are in a dangerous situation---while taking this medication. Such side effects can result in abnormal behavior that may have negative consequences, such as injury or increased debt.
Depressed Mood
While taking Xanax, you can become depressed experiencing feelings of abnormally sad, guilt-ridden or worthless. You may also notice that you are no longer interested in participating in your usual activities or that you are more tired than usual. Xanax can also cause patients to experience dangerous thoughts of suicide or self-harm. Contact your doctor immediately if you become depressed or suicidal while receiving treatment with Xanax.
Hyperactivity
Treatment with Xanax can cause you to become abnormally hyper or restless while taking this medication. These behavioral changes can also cause you to feel agitated or hostile, which can be dangerous if accompanied by physical violence. Speak with your doctor immediately if hyperactivity symptoms caused by Xanax use become problematic.
Seizures
Xanax can cause you to experience abnormal muscle twitching or convulsions while receiving treatment with this medication, explains Drugs.com, a peer-reviewed drug information website. Such symptoms can result in a seizure, which can cause loss of consciousness, speech difficulties and confusion. Seizures can occur at any time and can be dangerous, as symptoms can result in additional injuries due to a fall or car accident.
Hallucinating
While receiving treatment with Xanax, you can experience abnormal hallucinations as a side effect of this medication. Hallucinations can cause you to hear voices or see things that do not actually exist. If this occurs, you may engage in odd or dangerous behavior such as walking out into oncoming traffic in response to these hallucinations. Recurrent or severe hallucinations that occur during Xanax treatment should be discussed with your doctor immediately.
Jaundice
Xanax treatment can cause liver damage in certain patients. The initial symptom of liver damage is the development of a condition called jaundice. Jaundice is a medical condition characterized by yellowing of the skin or eyes. If such symptoms develop, speak with your doctor for further evaluation and care.
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