• Risk factors: Taking alprazolam (Xanax) with opioids or alcohol | History of lung conditions

 Taking alprazolam (Xanax) with opioids or alcohol can cause severe drowsiness, tiredness, and difficulty breathing, which can be life-threatening.

Some people with long-term pain might already be taking opioid medications. If this applies to you, let your care team know. The combination of alprazolam (Xanax) with opioid medication should be avoided because this raises the chance of overdose. Ask your care team if safer medication options are available. If you or a loved one notices that you’re having trouble breathing or waking up easily, get medical help right away.

• Risk factors: Past substance misuse | Taking higher doses of   a longer period of time | Stopping alprazolam (Xanax) suddenly

Taking alprazolam ( can raise the risk of misuse (using it for reasons other than prescribed) or addiction. This can happen even at the recommended dose of this medication. Misuse and addiction are serious concerns because they can lead to overdose, which can be life-threatening.

Additionally, taking alprazolam (Xanax) over longer periods of time can raise the risk for physical dependence. If so, suddenly stopping alprazolam (Xan can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including hallucinations, a change in behavior, and trouble sleeping. Sometimes, withdrawal symptoms can last weeks to years. Don’t stop taking alprazolam  first talking to your HCP. Take alprazolam  only as instructed to lower the risk of dependence and overdose.

• Risk factors: Drinking alcohol | Taking other medications that cause drowsiness

Alprazolam  can make you feel sleepy and affect your concentration and focus. Drinking alcohol while taking alprazolam  and taking additional medications that make you feel drowsy can make this effect worse. Avoid activities that require you to be alert, like driving or operating machinery, until you know how the medication affects you.

• Risk factors: Taking alprazolam  while pregnant

Alprazolam  can cause harm to your baby if you take the medication while you’re pregnant. Newborn babies whose parent took alprazolam  during pregnancy have experienced serious issues like breathing problems, excessive drowsiness, irritability, and feeding difficulties. If you’re planning to have a baby or are currently pregnant, speak with your HCP about the best options for your anxiety or panic disorder.