Alprazolam and Medicare

Alprazolam, also known under the trade names Xanax (not to be confused with Zantac), Xanor, Alprax, and Niravam, is a short-acting drug of the benzodiazepine class. It is primarily used to treat moderate to severe anxiety disorders (e.g., social anxiety disorder) and panic attacks, and is used as an adjunctive treatment for anxiety associated with moderate depression. It is also available in an extended-release form, Xanax XR, both of which are now available in generic form. Alprazolam possesses anxiolytic, sedative, hypnotic, anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant properties.[3]

Alprazolam has a fast onset of symptom relief (within the first week); it is unlikely to produce dependency or abuse.[4] Tolerance to the therapeutic effects of alprazolam is controversial with one view being that alprazolam is ineffective with long term use[5] and the other view being that tolerance to the therapeutic effects does not occur.[6] At discontinuation of alprazolam treatment, withdrawal and rebound symptoms are common. Hence, alprazolam discontinuation must be tapered.[4] Withdrawal symptoms similar in character to those noted with sedative-hypnotics and alcohol have occurred following discontinuance of benzodiazepines, including alprazolam. The symptoms can range from mild dysphoria and insomnia to a major syndrome that may include abdominal and muscle cramps, vomiting, sweating, tremors and convulsions.[7] In the USA, alprazolam is a schedule IV controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act.[8]

Reference: Wikipedia

Keep in mind that if you take Alprazolam, that medicines are not covered by your Medicare Supplement, but by your Part D, Prescription Drug coverage.

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If you have limited income, you may qualify for “extra help” with the cost of your prescription medications. You can get more information and apply Here. * The information on this page is for reference only. Always seek the advice of your physician before taking any prescription medication.