Xanax can have many side effects, one being low blood pressure. It’s generally not recommended to take Xanax in the long term because of this effect. Follow your doctor’s or pharmacist’s orders while taking this drug.
Xanax is a common prescription
Xanax is part of a class of sedative drugs called benzodiazepines that work by:
- slowing down central nervous system (CNS) activity
- causing a sense of calm
- slowing breathing
- relaxing muscles
- anxiety
- panic disorders
- anxiety associated with depression
Although Xanax isn’t approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the following conditions, it’s sometimes prescribed off-label for:
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Xanax slows down essential functions such as your heart rate and breathing. It can also temporarily lower your blood pressure.
If you take Xanax before getting your blood pressure tested, your reading might be lower than usual.
A 2023 systematic review of seven older studies found that benzodiazepines may have antihypertensive (blood pressure-lowering) properties in the short term.
Xanax may have similar effects over the long term. A 2023 Australian cohort study using data from 2016 to 2018 reported that among people over age 65, long-term use of benzodiazepines was associated with lower blood pressure.
Similarly, a
These events include heart attacks and strokes.
Taking Xanax over the long term is generally not recommended, as it can be habit-forming.
The side effects of Xanax can differ depending on the condition you’re taking it for:
| Panic disorder | Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) |
|---|---|
| drowsiness | drowsiness |
| fatigue | lightheadedness |
| trouble with balance and coordiation | dry mouth |
| changes in appetite | increased saliva production |
| irritability | trouble with balance and coordination |
Unlike other psychotropic drugs, Xanax isn’t associated with a euphoric “high,” though it may leave you with a general sense of well-being.
If you’re taking Xanax for off-label use, such as for insomnia, it may help you fall asleep.
Depending on the formulation of Xanax (immediate-release, extended-release, or disintegrating tablets), the effects can last between 2 and 27 hours.
The recommended dosage can vary from person to person and the condition you’re using it for.
Your doctor will let you know how much Xanax to take and how often you should take it. It’s very important to follow your doctor’s directions.
The starting range for GAD is 0.25 to 0.5 milligrams (mg) three times a day for the immediate-release formulation.
The starting range for panic disorder is 0.5 mg three times a day for the immediate-release formulation.
If using the extended-release formulation for panic disorder, the starting range is usually 0.5 to 1 mg once daily.
Xanax is available in various oral formulations and
- Oral disintegrating tablets: 0.25 to 2 mg
- Extended-release:
0.5 to 3 mg - Oral solution: 1 mg per milliliter (mg/mL)
How often you need to take a dose depends on the condition you’re taking it for and the formulation. Don’t take more than the recommended dose.
Your doctor may increase your dose as necessary. Never take a different dose without first speaking to your doctor.
If you forget to take your medication, take it as soon as you remember.
If you only remember to take it close to the time you’ll be taking a new dose, skip the dose you forgot and take the medication as you typically would. Do not double up on the dose.
You may start feeling the effects of Xanax, depending on the formulation, as quickly as 15 to 30 minutes. But the amount of time it takes to feel the full benefits can be longer:
- Immediate-release: 1 to 2 hours
- Disintegrating tablets: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Extended-release: 9 hours
Other factors such as your age, body mass, metabolism, and other medications you’re taking can also influence how long it takes Xanax to work.
Xanax poses a risk of addiction and withdrawal and can be habit-forming. It’s possible to overdose on Xanax.
If you take it regularly, you may need a higher dose over time to feel the same effects. If you suddenly stop taking it, you may experience withdrawal symptoms.
Xanax can interact with other medications, including:
You should avoid alcohol while taking Xanax. Taking both together could increase your risk for serious side effects, including overdose.
You should seek immediate medical attention if you or someone you know experiences the following symptoms after taking Xanax:
- confusion
- difficulty breathing
- diminished reflexes
- loss of consciousness
- difficulty with coordination
- seizure
- coma
If you’re concerned that you or someone you know may have taken too much Xanax, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.
Xanax is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It slows down central nervous system activity, which can lead to a temporary drop in blood pressure.
Xanax may also lower your blood pressure over the long term, although taking this medication regularly isn’t recommended.
It’s important to take Xanax as directed. Xanax can be habit-forming and addictive and can cause withdrawal. If you have questions, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.