Chemical formula : C17H13CIN4

Drug class :  Benzodiazepine

Trade name :  Xanax

USES: Short term management of anxiety disorders and panic disorders. also used for treatment of chemotherapy induced nausea with other treatment. Also used for depression as it causes mood elevating effect.

Advantage : Good response in panic disorders. Causes less drowsiness. Elevates mood. High potency drug with good half life of about 12 hours.

Side effects :

• Amnesia
• Concentration problem
• Dry mouth
• Slurred speech
• Muscle weakness
• Fatigue
• Sleep apnea

The drug is metabolized in liver and half life is 12 hours. Excretion is through kidney and Bioavailability is 80-90%.

Dose-0.25 to1 mg TDS maximum dose is upto 6mg/day .