Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen). It is thought that benzodiazepines work by enhancing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.

Clonazepam is used to treat certain seizure disorders (including absence seizures or Lennox-Gastaut syndrome) in adults and children.

Clonazepam is also used to treat panic disorder (including agoraphobia) in adults.

Warnings

Clonazepam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication, alcohol, or other drugs that can slow your breathing.

MISUSE OF CLONAZEPAM CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it. Never share clonazepam with another person. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law.

Some people have thoughts about suicide while taking clonazepam. Tell your doctor right away if you have any sudden changes in mood or behavior, or thoughts about suicide.

Get medical help right away if you stop using clonazepam and have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or thoughts about suicide.

Do not stop using clonazepam without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer.

Before taking this medicine

You should not take clonazepam if you allergic to it or if you have:

• narrow-angle glaucoma;
• severe liver disease; or
• a history of allergic reaction to any benzodiazepine (including alprazolam, diazepam, lorazepam, Valium, Xanax, Versed, and others).

To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• kidney or liver disease;
• breathing problems;
• depression, mood problems, or suicidal thoughts or behavior; or
• porphyria (a genetic enzyme disorder that causes symptoms affecting the skin or nervous system).

Some people have thoughts about suicide while taking clonazepam. Stay alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Your family or caregivers should also watch for sudden changes in your behavior.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you use clonazepam during pregnancy, your baby could be born with life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, and may need medical treatment for several weeks.

Do not start or stop seizure medication during pregnancy without your doctor’s advice. Clonazepam may harm an unborn baby, but having a seizure during pregnancy could harm both mother and baby. Preventing seizures may outweigh these risks. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.

Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using this medicine.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice. Clonazepam is not approved to treat panic disorder in anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I take clonazepam?

Take clonazepam exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Never use this medicine in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of this medicine.

Never share this medicine with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. MISUSE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

You will need frequent medical tests.

Do not stop using clonazepam suddenly, even if you feel fine. Stopping suddenly may cause increased seizures or unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Follow your doctor’s instructions about tapering your dose.

Swallow the regular tablet whole, with a full glass of water.

Clonazepam doses are based on weight in children. Your child’s dose needs may change if the child gains or loses weight.

Remove an orally disintegrating tablet from the package only when you are ready to take the medicine. Place the tablet in your mouth and allow it to dissolve, without chewing. Swallow several times as the tablet dissolves.

Your doctor will need to check your progress on a regular basis.

Call your doctor if this medicine seems to stop working as well in treating your seizures or panic attacks.

Seizures are often treated with a combination of drugs. Use all medications as directed by your doctor. Read the medication guide or patient instructions provided with each medication. Do not change your doses or medication schedule without your doctor’s advice.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep track of your medicine. You should be aware if anyone is using it improperly or without a prescription.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line . An overdose of clonazepam can be fatal if you take it with alcohol, opioid medicine, or other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing.

Overdose symptoms may include extreme drowsiness, confusion, muscle weakness, or coma.

What should I avoid while taking clonazepam?

Do not drink alcohol. Dangerous side effects or death could occur.

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how clonazepam will affect you. Dizziness or drowsiness can cause falls, accidents, or severe injuries.

Clonazepam side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to clonazepam: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Clonazepam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. A person caring for you should seek emergency medical attention if you have slow breathing with long pauses, blue colored lips, or if you are hard to wake up.

Tell your doctor right away if you have new or sudden changes in mood or behavior, including new or worse depression or anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, more active or talkative, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• new or worsening seizures;
• severe drowsiness;
• weak or shallow breathing;
• unusual changes in mood or behavior;
• confusion, paranoia, nightmares, hallucinations;
• thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself;
• unusual or involuntary eye movements.

Drowsiness or dizziness may last longer in older adults. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury.

Common clonazepam side effects may include:

• drowsiness, dizziness;
• feeling tired or depressed;
• memory problems; or
• problems with walking or coordination.

After you stop using clonazepam, get medical help right away if you have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, suicidal thoughts or actions.

Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer after stopping this medicine suddenly. Tell your doctor if you have ongoing anxiety, depression, problems with memory or thinking, trouble sleeping, ringing in your ears, a burning or prickly feeling, or a crawling sensation under your skin.

Ativan (lorazepam) belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines. It is thought that benzodiazepines work by enhancing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.

Ativan is used in adults and children at least 12 years old to treat anxiety disorders.

Ativan is also used to treat insomnia caused by anxiety or temporary situational stress.

Ativan is sometimes used to treat nausea and vomiting from cancer treatment and to control agitation caused by alcohol withdrawal.

Warnings

Ativan can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication, alcohol, or other drugs that can slow your breathing. These effects can be fatal.

MISUSE OF ATIVAN CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep this medicine where others cannot get to it.

Lorazepam may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Ativan should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction.

Do not stop using Ativan without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer.

Get medical help right away if you stop using Ativan and have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or thoughts about suicide.

Do not use Ativan if you are pregnant. Lorazepam can cause birth defects or life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in a newborn.

You should not use this medicine if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, severe respiratory insufficiency, myasthenia gravis, or if you are allergic to Valium or a similar medicine.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Ativan if you have:

• narrow-angle glaucoma; or
• a history of allergic reaction to any benzodiazepine (lorazepam, alprazolam, diazepam, Valium, Xanax, Versed, Klonopin, and others).

To make sure Ativan is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sleep apnea, or other breathing disorder;
• drug or alcohol addiction;
• depression, mental illness or psychosis, mood changes, or suicidal thoughts or actions;
• seizures;
• an allergy to aspirin or yellow food dye; or
• kidney or liver disease.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you use Ativan during pregnancy, your baby could be born with life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, and may need medical treatment for several weeks.

If you are pregnant, your name may be listed on a pregnancy registry to track the effects of lorazepam on the baby.

You should not breastfeed.

If you do breastfeed, tell your doctor if you notice drowsiness, feeding problems, or slow weight gain in the nursing baby.

How should I take Ativan?

Take Ativan exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Never use Ativan in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of this medicine.

Never share Ativan with another person, especially someone with a history of drug addiction. MISUSE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medicine where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law.

Do not stop using Ativan without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use.

Store Ativan tablets tightly closed at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Keep your medicine in a place where no one can use it improperly.

Dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Anxiety:

Initial dose: 2 to 3 mg orally per day, given 2 to 3 times per day
Maintenance dose: 1 to 2 mg orally 2 to 3 times a day

Uses:
-Management of anxiety disorders
-Short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety or anxiety associated with depressive symptoms

Usual Adult Dose for Insomnia:

2 to 4 mg orally once a day at bedtime

Comments:
-The dosage should be increased gradually when needed to help avoid adverse effects.
-Clinical studies have not evaluated this drug for efficacy in long-term treatment (e.g., greater than 4 months).

Use: Management of insomnia due to anxiety of transient situational stress

Usual Geriatric Dose for Anxiety:

Older or debilitated patients:
-Initial dose: 1 to 2 mg orally per day, given in divided doses

-Management of anxiety disorders
-Short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety or anxiety associated with depressive symptoms

Usual Pediatric Dose for Anxiety:

12 years or older:
-Initial dose: 2 to 3 mg orally per day, given 2 to 3 times per day
-Maintenance dose: 1 to 2 mg orally 2 to 3 times a day

-The daily dosage may vary from 1 to 10 mg/day.
-The dosage should be increased gradually when needed to help avoid adverse effects.
-When higher dosage is indicated, the evening dose should be increased before the daytime doses.
-Use of anxiolytic agents is typically not needed to treat anxiety/tension associated with the stress of everyday life.
-Clinical studies have not evaluated this drug for efficacy in long-term treatment (e.g., greater than 4 months).

Uses:
-Management of anxiety disorders
-Short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety or anxiety associated with depressive symptoms

Usual Pediatric Dose for Insomnia:

12 years or older: 2 to 4 mg orally once a day at bedtime

Comments:
-For debilitated patients, an initial dosage of 1 to 2 mg/day in divided doses is recommended.
-The dosage should be increased gradually when needed to help avoid adverse effects.
-Clinical studies have not evaluated this drug for efficacy in long-term treatment (e.g., greater than 4 months).

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line . An overdose of lorazepam can be fatal if you also drink alcohol or use other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow breathing.

Overdose symptoms may include severe drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, feeling restless, muscle weakness, loss of balance or coordination, feeling light-headed, slow heartbeats, weak or shallow breathing, or coma.

What should I avoid while taking Ativan?

Do not drink alcohol. Dangerous side effects or death could occur.

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how Ativan will affect you. Dizziness or drowsiness can cause falls, accidents, or severe injuries.

Ativan side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Ativan: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Lorazepam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. A person caring for you should seek emergency medical attention if you have slow breathing with long pauses, blue colored lips, or if you are hard to wake up.

Ativan may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe drowsiness;
• unusual changes in mood or behavior, being agitated or talkative;
• sudden restless feeling or excitement;
• seizures, depression, thinking problems, thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself;
• confusion, aggression, hallucinations;
• sleep problems (insomnia);
• vision changes; or
• dark urine, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Drowsiness or dizziness may last longer in older adults. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury.

Common Ativan side effects may include:

• dizziness, sedation, drowsiness;
• weakness; or
• feeling unsteady.

You will need frequent blood tests to check your blood counts and liver function.

After you stop using Ativan, seek medical help right away if you have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, suicidal thoughts or actions.

Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer after stopping Ativan suddenly. Tell your doctor if you have ongoing anxiety, depression, problems with memory or thinking, trouble sleeping, ringing in your ears, a burning or prickly feeling, or a crawling sensation under your skin.

What is Klonopin?

Klonopin is a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen). It is thought that benzodiazepines work by enhancing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.

Klonopin is used to treat certain seizure disorders (including absence seizures or Lennox-Gastaut syndrome) in adults and children.

Klonopin is also used to treat panic disorder (including agoraphobia) in adults.

Warnings

Klonopin can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication, alcohol, or other drugs that can slow your breathing.

MISUSE OF CLONAZEPAM CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it. Never share Klonopin with another person. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law.

Some people have thoughts about suicide while taking Klonopin. Tell your doctor right away if you have any sudden changes in mood or behavior, or thoughts about suicide.

Get medical help right away if you stop using Klonopin and have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or thoughts about suicide.

Do not stop using Klonopin without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer.

Before taking this medicine

You should not take Klonopin if you have:

• narrow-angle glaucoma;
• severe liver disease; or
• a history of allergic reaction to any benzodiazepine (clonazepam, alprazolam, diazepam, lorazepam, Valium, Xanax, Versed, and others).

To make sure Klonopin is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• kidney or liver disease;
• breathing problems;
• depression, mood problems, or suicidal thoughts or behavior; or
• porphyria (a genetic enzyme disorder that causes symptoms affecting the skin or nervous system).

Some people have thoughts about suicide while taking Klonopin. Stay alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Your family or caregivers should also watch for sudden changes in your behavior.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you use Klonopin during pregnancy, your baby could be born with life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, and may need medical treatment for several weeks.

Do not start or stop seizure medication during pregnancy without your doctor’s advice. Clonazepam may harm an unborn baby, but having a seizure during pregnancy could harm both mother and baby. Preventing seizures may outweigh these risks. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.

Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using this medicine.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice. Klonopin is not approved to treat panic disorder in anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I take Klonopin?

Take Klonopin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Never use Klonopin in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of this medicine.

Never share this medicine with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. MISUSE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law.

Swallow the tablet whole, with a full glass of water.

Clonazepam doses are based on weight in children and teenagers. Your child’s dose may change if the child gains or loses weight.

Your doctor will need to check your progress on a regular basis.

Call your doctor if this medicine seems to stop working as well in treating your seizures or panic attacks.

Do not stop using Klonopin without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use.

Seizures are often treated with a combination of drugs. Use all medications as directed by your doctor. Read the medication guide or patient instructions provided with each medication. Do not change your doses or medication schedule without your doctor’s advice.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep track of your medicine. You should be aware if anyone is using it improperly or without a prescription.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of clonazepam can be fatal if you take it with alcohol, opioid medicine, or other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing.

Overdose symptoms may include extreme drowsiness, confusion, muscle weakness, or coma.

What should I avoid while taking Klonopin?

Do not drink alcohol. Dangerous side effects or death could occur.

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Dizziness or drowsiness can cause falls, accidents, or severe injuries.

Klonopin side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Klonopin hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Clonazepam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. A person caring for you should seek emergency medical attention if you have slow breathing with long pauses, blue colored lips, or if you are hard to wake up.

Tell your doctor right away if you have new or sudden changes in mood or behavior, including new or worse depression or anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, more active or talkative, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• new or worsening seizures;
• severe drowsiness;
• weak or shallow breathing;
• unusual changes in mood or behavior;
• confusion, paranoia, nightmares, hallucinations;
• thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself;
• unusual or involuntary eye movements.

Drowsiness or dizziness may last longer in older adults. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury.

Common Klonopin side effects may include:

• drowsiness, dizziness;
• feeling tired or depressed;
• memory problems; or
• problems with walking or coordination.

What is lorazepam?

Lorazepam belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines. It is thought that benzodiazepines work by enhancing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.

Lorazepam is used in adults and children at least 12 years old to treat anxiety disorders.

Loreev XR extended-release  capsules are used to treat anxiety disorders in adults only.

Lorazepam is also used to treat insomnia caused by anxiety or temporary situational stress.

Lorazepam is sometimes used to treat nausea and vomiting from cancer treatment and to control agitation caused by alcohol withdrawal.

Warnings

Lorazepam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication, alcohol, or other drugs that can slow your breathing. These effects can be fatal.

MISUSE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep this medicine where others cannot get to it.

Lorazepam may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. This medicine should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction.

Do not stop using lorazepam without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer.

Get medical help right away if you stop using lorazepam and have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or thoughts about suicide.

Do not use lorazepam if you are pregnant. This medicine can cause birth defects or life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in a newborn.

You should not use this medicine if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, severe respiratory insufficiency, myasthenia gravis, or if you are allergic to Valium or a similar medicine.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use lorazepam if you have:

• narrow-angle glaucoma; or
• a history of allergic reaction to any benzodiazepine (alprazolam, diazepam, Valium, Xanax, Versed, Klonopin, and others).

To make sure lorazepam is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sleep apnea, or other breathing disorder;
• drug or alcohol addiction;
• depression, mental illness or psychosis, mood changes, or suicidal thoughts or actions;
• seizures;
• an allergy to aspirin or yellow food dye; or
• kidney or liver disease.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you use lorazepam during pregnancy, your baby could be born with life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, and may need medical treatment for several weeks.

If you are pregnant, your name may be listed on a pregnancy registry to track the effects of lorazepam on the baby.

You should not breastfeed.

If you do breastfeed, tell your doctor if you notice drowsiness, feeding problems, or slow weight gain in the nursing baby.

How should I take lorazepam?

Take lorazepam exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Never use lorazepam in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of lorazepam.

Never share this medicine with another person, especially someone with a history of drug addiction. MISUSE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medicine where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law.

Measure the oral concentrate (liquid) with the supplied measuring device (not a kitchen spoon). Mix the liquid with water, juices, soda or soda-like beverages, or with semi-solid foods such as applesauce or puddings. Swallow this mixture right away.

Swallow the extended-release capsule whole and do not crush, chew, break, or open it.

If you cannot swallow a  capsule whole, open it and mix the medicine with applesauce. Swallow the mixture right away without chewing.

Do not stop using lorazepam without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use.

Store tightly closed at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Store the liquid form of this medicine in the refrigerator. Throw away any liquid not used within 90 days.

Keep your medicine in a place where no one can use it improperly.

Dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Anxiety:

Initial dose: 2 to 3 mg orally per day, given 2 to 3 times per day
Maintenance dose: 1 to 2 mg orally 2 to 3 times a day.

Usual Adult Dose for Insomnia:

2 to 4 mg orally once a day at bedtime

Comments:
-The dosage should be increased gradually when needed to help avoid adverse effects.
-Clinical studies have not evaluated this drug for efficacy in long-term treatment (e.g., greater than 4 months).

Use: Management of insomnia due to anxiety of transient situational stress

Usual Geriatric Dose for Anxiety:

Older or debilitated patients:
-Initial dose: 1 to 2 mg orally per day, given in divided doses.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Anxiety:

12 years or older:
-Initial dose: 2 to 3 mg orally per day, given 2 to 3 times per day
-Maintenance dose: 1 to 2 mg orally 2 to 3 times a day

-The daily dosage may vary from 1 to 10 mg/day.
-The dosage should be increased gradually when needed to help avoid adverse effects.
-When higher dosage is indicated, the evening dose should be increased before the daytime doses.
-Use of anxiolytic agents is typically not needed to treat anxiety/tension associated with the stress of everyday life.
-Clinical studies have not evaluated this drug for efficacy in long-term treatment (e.g., greater than 4 months).

Usual Pediatric Dose for Insomnia:

12 years or older: 2 to 4 mg orally once a day at bedtime

Comments:
-For debilitated patients, an initial dosage of 1 to 2 mg/day in divided doses is recommended.
-The dosage should be increased gradually when needed to help avoid adverse effects.
-Clinical studies have not evaluated this drug for efficacy in long-term treatment (e.g., greater than 4 months).

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line . An overdose of lorazepam can be fatal if you also drink alcohol or use other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow breathing.

Overdose symptoms may include severe drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, feeling restless, muscle weakness, loss of balance or coordination, feeling light-headed, slow heartbeats, weak or shallow breathing, or coma.

What should I avoid while taking lorazepam?

Do not drink alcohol. Dangerous side effects or death could occur.

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how lorazepam will affect you. Dizziness or drowsiness can cause falls, accidents, or severe injuries.

Lorazepam side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to lorazepam: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Lorazepam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. A person caring for you should seek emergency medical attention if you have slow breathing with long pauses, blue colored lips, or if you are hard to wake up.

Lorazepam may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe drowsiness;
• unusual changes in mood or behavior, being agitated or talkative;
• sudden restless feeling or excitement;
• seizures, depression, thinking problems, thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself;
• confusion, aggression, hallucinations;
• sleep problems (insomnia);
• vision changes; or
• dark urine, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Drowsiness or dizziness may last longer in older adults. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury.

Common lorazepam side effects may include:

• dizziness, sedation, drowsiness;
• weakness; or
• feeling unsteady.

What is midazolam?

Midazolam is a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen) that is used to help you relax before having a minor surgery, dental work, or other medical procedure.

Midazolam may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Midazolam side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Midazolam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication, alcohol, or other drugs that can slow your breathing. Your caregivers will watch you for symptoms such as weak or shallow breathing.

Tell your medical caregivers right away if you have:

• cough, wheezing, trouble breathing;
• slow heart rate;
• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
• tremors; or
• confusion, agitation, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior.

Drowsiness or dizziness may last longer in older adults. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury.

Common side effects of midazolam may include:

• amnesia or forgetfulness after your procedure;
• drowsiness, dizziness;
• nausea, vomiting; or
• blurred vision.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA

Warnings

Midazolam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. Midazolam is given in a hospital, dentist office, or other clinic setting where your vital signs can be watched closely.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use midazolam if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• narrow-angle glaucoma;
• untreated or uncontrolled open-angle glaucoma; or
• an allergy to cherries.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• glaucoma;
• breathing problems; or
• congestive heart failure.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How should I take midazolam?

Midazolam is usually given as a single dose just before your surgery or procedure.

Midazolam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. Midazolam should be used only in a hospital, dentist office, or other clinic setting where any serious side effects can be quickly treated.

After you take midazolam, you will be watched closely to make sure the medicine is working and does not cause harmful side effects.

What is Nayzilam?

Nayzilam nasal spray contains midazolam, a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen).

Nayzilam nasal spray is a prescription medicine used short term to treat seizure clusters (also called “acute repetitive seizures”) in adults and children at least 12 years old.

Nayzilam is a federal controlled substance (C-IV) because it can be abused or lead to dependence. Keep in a safe place to prevent misuse and abuse. Selling or giving away this medicine may harm others and is against the law. Tell your healthcare provider if you have abused or been dependent on alcohol, prescription drugs, or street drugs.

It is not known if Nayzilam is safe and effective in children under 12 years of age.

Warnings

You should not use Nayzilam nasal spray if you have narrow-angle glaucoma.

MISUSE OF NAYZILAM CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it.

Nayzilam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication, alcohol, or other drugs that can slow your breathing. A person caring for you should seek emergency medical attention if you have slow breathing with long pauses, if you are hard to wake up, or if you stop breathing.

Do not stop using Nayzilam nasal spray without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer.

Get medical help right away if you stop using Nayzilam and have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or thoughts about suicide.

Some people have thoughts about suicide while using Nayzilam. Tell your doctor right away if you have any sudden changes in mood or behavior, or thoughts about suicide.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Nayzilam if you are allergic to midazolam, or if you have:

• narrow-angle glaucoma.

To make sure Nayzilam is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• glaucoma;
• depression, or a mood disorder;
• suicidal thoughts or actions;
• drug or alcohol addiction;
• asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), or other breathing problems;
• congestive heart failure; or
• liver or kidney disease.

Some people have thoughts about suicide while using Nayzilam. Stay alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Your family or caregivers should also watch for sudden changes in your behavior.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you use Nayzilam during pregnancy, your baby could be born with life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, and may need medical treatment for several weeks.

Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using this medicine.

How should I use Nayzilam?

Use Nayzilam nasal spray exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Never use Nayzilam in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of this medicine.

Never share this medicine with another person, especially someone with a history of drug addiction. MISUSE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medicine where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law.

Do not take by mouth. This medicine is for use only in the nose.

Be sure you know how to recognize what is and is not a seizure cluster and when it is best to use this medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions.

Nayzilam nasal spray is usually given as a single spray into one nostril. If you still have seizures 10 minutes after using 1 spray, use a second spray in the opposite nostril.

Get emergency medical help if you have still have seizures after using this medicine.

You should not use a second spray if you have very slow breathing after using the first spray.

Do not use more than 2 sprays of Nayzilam to treat a seizure cluster. Do not use this medicine to treat more than 1 seizure cluster every 3 days, or more than 5 seizure clusters in one month (30 days).

Do not stop using Nayzilam nasal spray without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat, in a place where no one can use it improperly. Keep the spray bottle in the blister pack until you are ready to use the medicine.

Dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Epilepsy:

Nasal:
-Initial dose: 5 mg (1 spray) intranasally in 1 nostril ONCE
-Subsequent dose: 5 mg (1 spray) intranasally in the opposite nostril after 10 minutes if the patient has not responded to the initial dose
-Maximum dose: 10 mg/day.

Usual Adult Dose for Seizures:

Nasal:
-Initial dose: 5 mg (1 spray) intranasally in 1 nostril ONCE
-Subsequent dose: 5 mg (1 spray) intranasally in the opposite nostril after 10 minutes if the patient has not responded to the initial dose.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Epilepsy:

Nasal:
12 years and older:
-Initial dose: 5 mg (1 spray) intranasally in 1 nostril ONCE
-Subsequent dose: 5 mg (1 spray) intranasally in the opposite nostril after 10 minutes if the patient has not responded to the initial dose
-Maximum dose: 10 mg/day.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Seizures:

Nasal:
12 years and older:
-Initial dose: 5 mg (1 spray) intranasally in 1 nostril ONCE
-Subsequent dose: 5 mg (1 spray) intranasally in the opposite nostril after 10 minutes if the patient has not responded to the initial dose
-Maximum dose: 10 mg/day

Comments:
-This drug should not be used to treat more than 1 episode every 3 days, and no more than 5 episodes/month.
-The subsequent dose should not be administered if the patient has difficulty breathing OR if the patient has sedation that is not typically observed during a seizure cluster episode.

Use: Acute treatment of intermittent, stereotypic episodes of frequent seizure activity (e.g., acute repetitive seizures, seizure clusters) that are distinct from a patient’s usual seizure pattern.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since Nayzilam nasal spray is used when needed, it does not have a daily dosing schedule. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after using this medicine.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line . An overdose of midazolam can be fatal if you take it with alcohol, opioid medicine, or other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing.

Overdose symptoms may include drowsiness, confusion, muscle weakness, loss of coordination, or coma.

What should I avoid while using Nayzilam?

Do not drink alcohol. Dangerous side effects or death could occur.

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Dizziness or drowsiness can cause falls, accidents, or severe injuries.

Nayzilam side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Nayzilam: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Nayzilam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. A person caring for you should seek emergency medical attention if you have slow breathing with long pauses, blue colored lips, or if you are hard to wake up.

Tell your doctor right away if you have new or sudden changes in mood or behavior, including new or worse depression or anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, more active or talkative, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• weak or shallow breathing;
• confusion, paranoia, thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself;
• a seizure; or
• blurred vision, eye pain or redness, seeing halos around lights.

Common Nayzilam side effects may include:

• drowsiness;
• headache;
• runny nose, discomfort in your nose; or
• throat irritation.

What is oxazepam?

Oxazepam is a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen) that is used to treat anxiety disorders.

Oxazepam may also be used short-term to treat symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.

Oxazepam may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Oxazepam side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Oxazepam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. A person caring for you should seek emergency medical attention if you have slow breathing with long pauses, blue colored lips, or if you are hard to wake up.

Oxazepam may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe drowsiness;
• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
• unusual changes in mood or behavior;
• confusion, anger, paranoia, problems with memory or concentration;
• tremors, slurred speech, problems with balance or muscle movement;
• a seizure;
• trouble breathing; or
• upper stomach pain, dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Drowsiness or dizziness may last longer in older adults. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury.

Common side effects of oxazepam may include:

• drowsiness;
• dizziness, spinning sensation; or
• headache.

After you stop using oxazepam, get medical help right away if you have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, suicidal thoughts or actions.

Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer after stopping oxazepam suddenly. Tell your doctor if you have ongoing anxiety, depression, problems with memory or thinking, trouble sleeping, ringing in your ears, a burning or prickly feeling, or a crawling sensation under your skin.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

Warnings

Oxazepam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol.

MISUSE OF THIS MEDICINE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep this medicine where others cannot get to it.

Do not stop using oxazepam without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer.

Get medical help right away if you stop using oxazepam and have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or thoughts about suicide.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use oxazepam if you are allergic to oxazepam, or if you have mental illness and psychosis.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• depression, mental illness, suicidal thoughts;
• alcoholism or drug addiction; or
• low blood pressure.

Oxazepam may harm an unborn baby. Avoid taking this medicine during the first trimester of pregnancy.

If you use oxazepam during pregnancy, your baby could be born with life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, and may need medical treatment for several weeks.

Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using this medicine.

Not approved for use by anyone younger than 6 years old.

How should I take oxazepam?

Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Never use oxazepam in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of this medicine.

Never share this medicine with another person, especially someone with a history of drug addiction. MISUSE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medicine where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law.

Do not stop using oxazepam without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep your medicine in a place where no one can use it improperly.

Oxazepam dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Anxiety:

10 to 15 mg orally, 3 or 4 times per day

Use: Management of mild-to-moderate anxiety, with associated tension, irritability, agitation, or related symptoms of functional origin or secondary to organic disease:

15 to 30 mg orally, 3 or 4 times per day

Use: Management of severe anxiety syndromes, agitation, or anxiety associated with depression

Usual Adult Dose for Alcohol Withdrawal:

15 to 30 mg orally, 3 or 4 times per day

Use: Relief of symptoms in alcoholics with acute inebriation, tremulousness, or anxiety on withdrawal

Usual Geriatric Dose for Anxiety:

10 mg orally, 3 times per day; if needed, increase cautiously to 15 mg orally, 3 or 4 times per day

Use: Management of anxiety, tension, irritability, and agitation in older patients

Usual Pediatric Dose for Anxiety:

13 years and older:
10 to 15 mg orally, 3 or 4 times per day

Comments:
-The absolute dosage for patients 6 to 12 years is not established.

Use: Management of mild-to-moderate anxiety, with associated tension, irritability, agitation, or related symptoms of functional origin or secondary to organic disease:

15 to 30 mg orally, 3 or 4 times per day

Comments:
-The absolute dosage for patients 6 to 12 years is not established.

Use: Management of severe anxiety syndromes, agitation, or anxiety associated with depression

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line . An overdose of oxazepam can be fatal if you take it with alcohol, opioid medicine, or other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing.

Overdose symptoms may include drowsiness, confusion, muscle weakness, or loss of consciousness.

What should I avoid while taking oxazepam?

Do not drink alcohol. Dangerous side effects or death could occur.

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how oxazepam will affect you. Dizziness or drowsiness can cause falls, accidents, or severe injuries.

What other drugs will affect oxazepam?

Taking oxazepam with other drugs that make you sleepy or slow your breathing can cause dangerous side effects or death. Ask your doctor before using opioid medication, a sleeping pill, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures.

What is quazepam?

Quazepam is a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen) that is used to treat insomnia (trouble falling or staying asleep).

Quazepam may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Quazepam side effects

Quazepam may cause a severe allergic reaction. Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; nausea, vomiting; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Quazepam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. A person caring for you should seek emergency medical attention if you have slow breathing with long pauses, blue colored lips, or if you are hard to wake up.

Quazepam may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• confusion, agitation, hallucinations;
• unusual thoughts or behavior;
• suicidal thoughts; or
• worsening depression.

Some people using quazepam have engaged in activity such as driving, eating, walking, making phone calls, or having sex and later having no memory of the activity. Tell your doctor if this happens to you.

Drowsiness or dizziness may last longer in older adults. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury.

Common side effects of quazepam may include:

• drowsiness, dizziness;
• headache;
• feeling tired;
• dry mouth; or
• upset stomach.

After you stop using quazepam, get medical help right away if you have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, suicidal thoughts or actions.

Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer after stopping quazepam suddenly. Tell your doctor if you have ongoing anxiety, depression, problems with memory or thinking, trouble sleeping, ringing in your ears, a burning or prickly feeling, or a crawling sensation under your skin.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

Warnings

Quazepam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol.

MISUSE OF THIS MEDICINE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it.

Do not stop using quazepam without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer.

Get medical help right away if you stop using quazepam and have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or thoughts about suicide.

Do not use if you are pregnant.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use quazepam if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• a chronic breathing disorder;
• sleep apnea (breathing stops during sleep); or
• an allergy to sleep medicine or to other benzodiazepines (such as alprazolam, diazepam, lorazepam, midazolam, Ativan, Valium, Tranxene, Versed, Xanax, and others).

May cause birth defects. Do not use if you are pregnant. If you use quazepam during pregnancy, your baby could be born with life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, and may need medical treatment for several weeks. Use effective birth control while using quazepam. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• breathing problems;
• drug or alcohol addiction;
• suicidal thoughts or actions;
• depression or mental illness; or
• liver or kidney disease.

Do not breastfeed.

Not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I take quazepam?

Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Never use quazepam in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of quazepam.

Never share this medicine with another person, especially someone with a history of drug addiction. MISUSE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medicine where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law.

When you first start taking quazepam, you may need to cut the tablet in half to get the correct dose. Follow your doctor’s dosing instructions carefully.

Take this medicine only when you are getting ready for several hours of sleep. You may fall asleep very quickly after taking the medicine.

Call your doctor if your insomnia does not improve after taking quazepam for 7 to 10 nights, or if you have any mood or behavior changes. Insomnia can be a symptom of depression, mental illness, or certain medical conditions. Do not take quazepam for longer than 10 nights in a row, unless your doctor has told you to.

Do not stop using quazepam without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep your medicine in a place where no one can use it improperly.

• Your insomnia symptoms may return when you stop using quazepam after using it over a long period of time.

Quazepam dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Insomnia:

Initial dose: 7.5 mg orally once a day at bedtime
Maintenance dose: 7.5 to 15 mg orally once a day at bedtime

Comments:
-Prolonged administration is not recommended.
-The dose may be increased to 15 mg orally at bedtime if necessary for efficacy.
-The lowest effective dose should be used as adverse effects are dose related.

Use: Treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulty falling asleep, frequent nocturnal awakenings, and/or early morning awakenings

What happens if I miss a dose?

Quazepam is used when needed. If you are on a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line . An overdose of quazepam can be fatal if you take it with alcohol, opioid medicine, or other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing.

• Overdose symptoms may include extreme drowsiness, confusion, or coma.

Overdose symptoms may include drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, weak or shallow breathing, or coma.

What should I avoid while taking quazepam?

Do not drink alcohol while taking quazepam or for several days after you stop taking quazepam.

You may still feel sleepy the morning after taking this medicine. Wait until you are fully awake before you drive, operate machinery, or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Your reactions may be impaired.

What other drugs will affect quazepam?

Using quazepam with other drugs that make you sleepy or slow your breathing can cause dangerous side effects or death. Ask your doctor before using opioid medication, a sleeping pill, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures.

Other drugs may affect quazepam, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

What is alprazolam?

Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen). It is thought that it works by enhancing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.

Alprazolam is used to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and anxiety caused by depression.

It is dangerous to purchase alprazolam on the Internet or outside the United States. The sale and distribution of medicines outside the U.S. does not comply with safe-use regulations of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These medications may contain dangerous ingredients, or may not be distributed by a licensed pharmacy.

Warnings

MISUSE OF ALPRAZOLAM CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH and should be used only by the person for whom it was prescribed. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it.

Alprazolam can slow or stop your breathing and fatal side effects can occur if you take this medicine with alcohol, opioid medicine, or other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing.

Do not stop using this medicine without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer.

Get medical help right away if you stop using alprazolam and have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or thoughts about suicide.

You should not use alprazolam if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, if you also take itraconazole or ketoconazole, or if you are allergic to alprazolam or similar medicines (Valium, Ativan, Tranxene, and others).

Do not use alprazolam if you are pregnant. This medicine can cause birth defects or life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in a newborn.

Before taking this medicine

You should not take alprazolam if:

• you also take antifungal medicine such as itraconazole or ketoconazole; or
• you have a history of allergic reaction to any benzodiazepine (alprazolam, lorazepam, diazepam, Ativan, Valium, Versed, Klonopin, and others).

To make sure alprazolam is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• breathing problems;
• drug or alcohol addiction;
• depression, mood problems, or suicidal thoughts or behavior; or
• kidney or liver disease.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you use alprazolam during pregnancy, your baby could be born with life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, and may need medical treatment for several weeks.

You should not breastfeed.

If you do breastfeed, tell your doctor if you notice drowsiness or feeding problems in the baby.

Not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I take alprazolam?

Take alprazolam exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Never use alprazolam in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of alprazolam.

Never share this medicine with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. MISUSE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law.

Measure liquid medicine with the supplied measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

Swallow the extended-release tablet whole and do not crush, chew, or break it.

Allow the orally disintegrating tablet to dissolve in your mouth without chewing.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.

If you use this medicine long-term, you may need frequent medical tests.

Do not stop using alprazolam without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep your medicine in a place where no one can use it improperly.

Throw away any alprazolam liquid not used within 90 days.

Dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Anxiety:

Immediate-release tablets/orally disintegrating tablets (ODT): 0.25 to 0.5 mg orally administered 3 times a day
-Maximum dose: 4 mg/day

Usual Adult Dose for Panic Disorder:

Immediate-release tablets/ODTs: 0.5 mg orally administered 3 times a day
-Maximum dose: 10 mg/day

Extended-release tablets:
-Initial dose: 0.5 to 1 mg orally once a day
-Maintenance dose: 3 to 6 mg orally per day, preferably in the morning
-Maximum dose: 10 mg/day

Comments:
-The lowest possible effective dose should be administered and the need for continued treatment reassessed frequently.
-Dosage should be reduced gradually when discontinuing therapy or when decreasing the daily dosage.
-The daily dosage may be decreased by no more than 0.5 mg every 3 days; however, some patients may require an even slower dosage reduction.
-The dose of extended-release tablets may be increased at intervals of 3 to 4 days in increments of no more than 1 mg per day.
-The times of administration should be distributed as evenly as possible throughout the waking hours.

Usual Geriatric Dose for Anxiety:

Elderly or debilitated patients:
Immediate-release tablets/ODTs: 0.25 mg orally administered 2 or 3 times a day.

Usual Geriatric Dose for Panic Disorder:

Elderly or debilitated patients:
Immediate-release tablets/ODTs:
-Initial dose: 0.25 mg orally administered 2 or 3 times a day

Extended-release tablets:
-Initial dose: 0.5 mg orally once a day

Comments:
-If side effects develop, the dose may be lowered.
-The lowest possible effective dose should be administered and the need for continued treatment reassessed frequently.
-Dosage should be reduced gradually when discontinuing therapy or when decreasing the daily dosage.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line . An overdose of alprazolam can be fatal if you take it with alcohol, opioid medicine, or other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing.

Overdose symptoms may include severe drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, muscle weakness, loss of balance or coordination, feeling light-headed, slow heartbeats, weak or shallow breathing, fainting, or coma.

What should I avoid while taking alprazolam?

Avoid drinking alcohol. Dangerous side effects or death could occur.

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how alprazolam will affect you. Dizziness or drowsiness can cause falls, accidents, or severe injuries.

Alprazolam side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to alprazolam: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Alprazolam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. A person caring for you should seek emergency medical attention if you have slow breathing with long pauses, blue colored lips, or if you are hard to wake up.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• weak or shallow breathing;
• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
• a seizure;
• hallucinations, risk-taking behavior;
• increased energy, decreased need for sleep;
• racing thoughts, being agitated or talkative;
• double vision; or
• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Drowsiness or dizziness may last longer in older adults. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury.

Common alprazolam side effects may include:

• drowsiness; or
• feeling light-headed.

After you stop using alprazolam, get medical help right away if you have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, suicidal thoughts or actions.

Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer after stopping this medicine suddenly. Tell your doctor if you have ongoing anxiety, depression, problems with memory or thinking, trouble sleeping, ringing in your ears, a burning or prickly feeling, or a crawling sensation under your skin.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

What other drugs will affect alprazolam?

Sometimes it is not safe to use certain medicines at the same time. Some drugs can affect your blood levels of other drugs you use, which may increase side effects or make the medicines less effective.

Taking alprazolam with other drugs that make you sleepy or slow your breathing can cause dangerous side effects or death. Ask your doctor before using opioid medication, a sleeping pill, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures.

Many drugs can interact with alprazolam, and some drugs should not be used at the same time. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. 

What is Halcion?

Halcion is a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen) that is used short term (7 to 10 days) to treat insomnia (trouble falling or staying asleep).

Halcion may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Halcion side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Halcion can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. A person caring for you should seek emergency medical attention if you have slow breathing with long pauses, blue colored lips, or if you are hard to wake up.

Halcion may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• daytime anxiety;
• unusual changes in mood or behavior;
• confusion, memory loss, agitation, hallucinations; or
• depression, suicidal thoughts.

Some people using Halcion have engaged in activity such as driving, eating, walking, making phone calls, or having sex and later having no memory of the activity. Tell your doctor if this happens to you.

Drowsiness or dizziness may last longer in older adults. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury.

Common side effects of Halcion may include:

• drowsiness;
• loss of coordination;
• dizziness; or
• feeling light-headed.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA .

Warnings

Halcion can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol.

MISUSE OF Halcion CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep this medicine where others cannot get to it.

Do not stop using Halcion without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer.

Get medical help right away if you stop using Halcion and have symptoms such as: unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or thoughts about suicide.

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines. Some drugs should not be used with Halcion.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to Halcion or similar medicines (such as alprazolam, diazepam, lorazepam, Valium, Xanax, Versed, Klonopin, and others).

Some drugs should not be used with Halcion. Your treatment plan may change if you also use:

• nefazodone;
• cancer medicine;
• an antibiotic or antifungal medicine; or
• antiviral medicine to treat HIV or hepatitis C.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• depression, mental illness, suicidal thoughts or actions;
• lung disease, breathing problems, sleep apnea (breathing stops during sleep); or
• alcoholism or drug addiction.

If you use Halcion during pregnancy, your baby could be born with life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, and may need medical treatment for several weeks.

You should not breastfeed within 28 hours after using Halcion. If you use a breast pump during this time, throw out the milk and do not feed it to your baby.

If you do breastfeed, tell your doctor if you notice drowsiness, breathing problems, or feeding problems in the nursing baby.

Not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I take Halcion?

Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides. Never use Halcion in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of Halcion.

Never share this medicine with another person, especially someone with a history of drug addiction. MISUSE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medicine where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law.

Take this medicine only when you are getting ready for several hours of sleep. You may fall asleep very quickly after taking the medicine.

Avoid using Halcion to prevent jet lag while traveling by airplane.

Call your doctor if your insomnia does not improve after taking Halcion for 7 to 10 nights, or if you have any mood or behavior changes. Insomnia can be a symptom of depression, mental illness, or certain medical conditions.

Do not take Halcion for longer than 10 nights in a row, unless your doctor has told you to.

Do not stop using Halcion without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer.

The first few nights after you stop taking Halcion, your insomnia symptoms may return and could be worse than before.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep your medicine in a place where no one can use it improperly.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Halcion is used when needed. If you are on a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line . An overdose of triazolam can be fatal if you take it with alcohol, opioid medicine, or other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing.

Overdose symptoms may include drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, loss of coordination, weak or shallow breathing, or coma.

What should I avoid while taking Halcion?

Do not drink alcohol. Dangerous side effects or death could occur.

You may still feel sleepy the morning after taking Halcion. Wait until you are fully awake before you drive, operate machinery, or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Your reactions may be impaired.

Grapefruit may interact with Halcion and lead to unwanted side effects. Avoid the use of grapefruit products.

What other drugs will affect Halcion?

Using Halcion with other drugs that make you sleepy or slow your breathing can cause dangerous side effects or death. Ask your doctor before using opioid medication, a sleeping pill, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures.