Xanax 3mg

Xanax XR® 3mg (Alprazolam Extended-Release) – Sustained Anxiolytic Therapy

1. High-Dose, Extended-Release Formulation

Active Ingredient: Alprazolam 3mg
Formulation:

• Triple-layer matrix tablet (ER technology)

• Color: Yellow (branded), Blue (generic variants)

• Non-scorable – Must swallow whole

FDA-Approved Indications:
✔ Panic Disorder Maintenance (daily management)
✔ Treatment-Resistant GAD (severe, chronic cases)
✔ Benzodiazepine-Tolerant Patients Only

2. Advanced Pharmacokinetics

🧠 Mechanism:

• GABA-A superagonist (α1-α3 subunit targeting)

• 12-hour controlled release via osmotic pump

⏳ Clinical Kinetics:

3. Strict Dosing Protocol

Critical Administration Rules:

• Never crush/chew – Risk of dose dumping

• Morning + Noon dosing – Avoids next-day sedation

• Hepatic Adjustment: Max 2mg/day

4. Black Box Warnings

⚠ Dependence Potential:

• 50% incidence with 12-week use

• Protracted withdrawal syndrome

⚠ Overdose Fatality:

• LD50 = 331mg/kg (but fatal with 2mg + opioids)

• Respiratory arrest risk

⚠ Cognitive Risks:

• Anterograde amnesia (40% incidence)

• Complex sleep behaviors

5. Safety Engineered Packaging

🔐 Controlled Dispensing:

• 7-day starter packs with alarm caps

• Biometric lock bottles

• UV-reactive lot coding

⚠ Storage: 15-30°C in a narcotics safe

6. Mandatory REMS Protocol

Before Prescribing:
✓ Urine drug screen
✓ C-SSRS suicide assessment
✓ Pulmonary function test

Monitoring Requirements:

• Weekly prescription pickups

• Biweekly cognitive testing

• Monthly respiratory checks

RxOnly | Schedule IV Controlled Substance
DEA Triplicate Form Required

Patient Contract Stipulations:

• No driving/machinery operation

• Mandatory monthly psychotherapy

• Pill dispenser with facial recognition

Available Clinical Tools:

• Benzodiazepine Equivalency Calculator

• Withdrawal Seizure Protocol

• ER-to-IR Transition Guide