Medications used to treat anxiety and panic disorders include Xanax XR, and this is a popularly used drug. By virtue of the nature of the condition, it may often require drugs to deliver results faster and for a longer period. Following subsections offer answers to the following question commonly asked by patients – how long does Xanax XR take to start working, and how long does it stay in your system? This includes detailed information about eh mechanism of action.
What is Xanax?
Xanax, also known by its generic name alprazolam, is a medication used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines, which work by enhancing the activity of a neurotransmitter called GABA in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in regulating anxiety and other emotions. When GABA attaches to a specific receptor in the brain, it leads to a reduction in the activity of certain nerve cells, which in turn leads to a calming effect. Benzodiazepines like Xanax enhance the activity of GABA by binding to the same receptor, which results in an increase in the calming effect of GABA and a reduction in anxiety.
Xanax is typically used to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), as well as panic disorder and anxiety associated with depression. It can also be used for the short-term relief of symptoms of anxiety or anxiety associated with depressive symptoms. Xanax is available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations. The immediate-release form is designed to work quickly, usually within an hour of taking the medication, while the extended-release form is designed to release the medication gradually over time. This allows for a longer-lasting effect.
Mechanism of action of Xanax XR
Xanax XR (extended-release alprazolam) is a medication used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. The mechanism of action of Xanax XR is similar to that of the immediate-release form of alprazolam, and it belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Xanax XR is designed to release the medication gradually over time, and this results in a longer-lasting effect. Xanax XR comes with a special coating that dissolves slowly in the body, releasing the medication over a period of time, usually around 12 hours. The extended-release coating ensures that a steady level of the medication is maintained in the bloodstream, providing a more consistent level of anxiety relief throughout the day. The onset of action of Xanax XR is usually within an hour of taking the medication, but it may take up to 2-3 hours to reach its maximum effect. The duration of action of Xanax XR can last up to 12 hours, depending on the individual.
What is half-life of drugs
The elimination half-life of Xanax XR is about 12 hours. Half-life is the time it takes for half of the drug to be eliminated from the body. So, it takes about 12 hours to eliminate half of the drug, and after 24 hours, most of the drug should be eliminated from the body. However, the duration of the action of the drug may last longer than that, as the drug has active metabolites which might take longer to be eliminated. It is important to note that the duration of action and elimination can vary depending on factors such as individual metabolism, dosage, and other medications being taken.
Symptoms of anxiety and panic disorders
Some of the most common symptoms of anxiety and panic disorders include:
- Physical symptoms: Rapid heartbeat, sweating, shaking, shortness of breath, chest pain, and headaches.
- Psychological symptoms: Persistent feelings of worry, fear, and uncertainty. Negative thoughts, feelings of impending doom, and a sense of detachment from reality.
- Behavioral symptoms: Avoidance of situations that trigger anxiety, compulsive behaviors, and excessive worrying.
- Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or having restless sleep.
- Gastrointestinal symptoms: Nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.
- Fatigue: Feelings of exhaustion, low energy, and difficulty concentrating.
- Panic attacks: Sudden and intense feelings of fear, accompanied by physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, and shaking.
- Depression: Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.
How long does Xanax XR take to start working, and how long does it stay in your system?
The extended release version is designed to maintain a consistent level of the medication in the bloodstream for a period of 5 to 11 hours after taking it. The medication can take up to 6 days to be completely eliminated from the body. The drug is typically taken once a day, in the morning. It is absorbed at a slower rate than the regular form of Xanax, and the absorption rate can be affected by food, with a high-fat meal consumed up to 2 hours before taking it, increasing the drug levels by 25%. The medication is absorbed more quickly in the mornings compared to nights and the mean plasma elimination half-life is 11.2 hours, with a range of 6.3 to 26.9 hours in healthy adults.
What is the main difference between Xanax and Xanax XR?
Xanax and Xanax XR are both brand names for the medication alprazolam, however, there are some key differences between the two formulations. The main difference between Xanax and Xanax XR is the way the medication is released into the body. Xanax is an immediate-release formulation, which means that the medication is released into the bloodstream quickly after it is taken. In contrast, Xanax XR is an extended-release formulation, which means that the medication is released gradually over time. The extended-release coating ensures that a steady level of the medication is maintained in the bloodstream, providing a more consistent level of anxiety relief throughout the day.
Another difference is the duration of action, Xanax XR is designed to work for longer hours compared to regular Xanax. The onset of action of Xanax XR is usually within an hour of taking the medication, but it may take up to 2-3 hours to reach its maximum effect, while regular Xanax works more quickly. Xanax and Xanax XR are both available in various strengths and should only be used under the guidance and prescription of a qualified healthcare provider.
Commonly reported side effects of Xanax XR
Commonly reported side effects of Xanax XR include:
- Drowsiness: This is a common side effect of Xanax XR and can cause a decreased level of alertness and increased fatigue.
- Dizziness: Some people may experience feelings of unsteadiness or lightheadedness.
- Memory problems: This can cause difficulties with recall, concentration, and retaining new information.
- Dry mouth: This can cause discomfort and an increased risk of tooth decay.
- Blurred vision: This can cause visual disturbances, such as changes in focus, double vision, and sensitivity to light.
- Headache: Some people may experience discomfort or a pressure-like sensation in their head.
- Nausea: This can cause feelings of sickness and a loss of appetite.
- Changes in appetite: Some people may experience increased hunger or a decreased interest in food.
- Decreased libido: This can cause a reduction in sexual desire and difficulties with sexual function.
- Confusion: This can cause disorientation, forgetfulness, and an inability to concentrate.
- Agitation: This can cause feelings of restlessness, irritability, and an inability to relax.
- Muscle weakness: This can cause difficulties with movement, coordination and balance.