Xanax Dosage/Direction for Use

The optimum dose should be individualized based upon the severity of the symptoms and individual patient response. In patients who require higher doses, dosage should be increased cautiously to avoid adverse effects. In general, patients who have not previously received psychotropic medications will require somewhat lower doses than those previously treated with minor tranquilizers, antidepressants, or hypnotics. It is recommended that the general principle of using the lowest effective dose be followed, especially in elderly or debilitated patients to preclude the development of ataxia or oversedation.
Duration of Treatment: The overall duration of treatment should not be more than 8-12 weeks, including a tapering off process.
Discontinuation of Treatment: To discontinue alprazolam treatment, the dosage should be reduced slowly in keeping with good medical practice. It is suggested that the daily dosage of alprazolam be decreased by no more than 0.5 mg every 3 days. Some patients may require an even slower dosage reduction (see Precautions).
Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy have not been established in children under 18 years of age. (See Table 1.)

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