Xanax is a benzodiazepine drug that is used by doctors for treatment of those that suffer from disorders and anxiety. Sometimes it's also used for curing insomnia or those that suffer from acute agitation. The drug should only used by those for whom it's been prescribed.

The dosage of the drug is measures by the doctor and can be taken in tablets and pill form. The drug can be taken 2-3 times a day and is usually 0.25 mg a day - 0.5 mg a day. The drug may be adjusted depending on the side effects on the other requirements of an individual.

Of course the drug has its side effects. However, it isn't necessary that all those that take the drug will get the side effects. In most individuals, it has been seen that the side effects will disappear within a few days.

The side effects that are seen in most cases are drowsiness, fatigue, feeling tired, and problems with coordination, memory lapses, appetite increase and many more. Women may also see a change in their usual menstrual cycle. Both men and women may find a decrease in their appetite for sex as well.

If you have some existing medical conditions, then these should be intimated to the doctor before the start of the drug therapy. Conditions will include kidney diseases, lung problems including breathing problem and allergies to food or even benzodiazepine, but won't be restricted to these. If you are expecting a baby, or are planning to have a baby, then this drug shouldn't be taken.

If you are taking other prescription drugs for your medical conditions, then intimate the same to your health care provider. The medicine is a controlled drug for the specific reason that it has the propensity to be abused. This is a major reason; for the drug not been prescribed for those that have a past of addiction to drugs or alcohol.

The problem with the drug is that a person can get addicted to it. This is the case of those people that take the drug in higher dosages for a long period of time. Even those that need to stop taking the drug should do so under the doctor's guidance. Else the withdrawal symptoms can be extremely bad.

The drug can cause drowsiness. Never use the drug and participate in activities that need you to stay alert and awake. These activities can include driving and operating heavy machinery. Elderly patients should be careful as they risk falling off stairs or falling down after the consumption of the drug.