Alprazolam is a generic prescription drug used to treat generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. The drug comes as an oral tablet that you swallow. It’s usually taken three times per day.
Alprazolam is used in adults to treat:
Alprazolam belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines. It comes as an immediate-release (IR) oral tablet that you swallow. (IR means the dose is released all at once in the body.) Alprazolam is also available in other oral forms that you swallow including:
- an extended-release (ER) oral tablet, which releases the dose slowly over time
- an orally disintegrating tablet, which dissolves in the mouth
- an oral liquid
This article only covers the IR oral tablet. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist to learn more about the other oral forms of alprazolam.
This article describes the dosages of alprazolam, as well as its strengths and how to take it. To learn more about alprazolam, see this in-depth alprazolam article.
The table below highlights the basics of alprazolam’s dosage. All doses are listed in milligrams (mg).
| Approved use | Starting dose | Maximum dose |
|---|---|---|
| GAD | 0.25 to 0.5 mg three times per day | 4 mg per day, divided into 3 doses |
| panic disorder | 0.5 mg three times per day | 10 mg per day, divided into 3 doses |
Keep reading for more details about alprazolam’s dosage.
What is alprazolam’s form?
Alprazolam is available as an oral tablet.
What strengths does alprazolam come in?
Alprazolam comes in four strengths:
- 0.25 mg
- 0.5 mg
- 1 mg
- 2 mg
What are the usual dosages of alprazolam?
Your doctor will likely start you on a low dosage and adjust it over time to reach the right amount for you. They’ll ultimately prescribe the smallest dosage that provides the desired effect.
The information below describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. But be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. They’ll determine the best dosage to fit your needs. In some cases, doctors may adjust your dosage from those shown below.
Dosage for generalized anxiety disorder
The typical starting alprazolam dosage for adults with GAD is 0.25 to 0.5 mg taken three times per day.
Your doctor may increase your dosage every 3 to 4 days until you reach the dose that works best for you. The maximum dose recommended is 4 mg per day, taken in three divided doses.
Dosage for panic disorder
For adults with panic disorder, the typical starting dosage of alprazolam is 0.5 mg, taken three times per day.
Your doctor may increase your dosage every 3 to 4 days until you reach the dose that works best for you. The typical dose for most people with panic disorder is 5 to 6 mg per day, taken in three divided doses. The alprazolam maximum dose for panic disorder is 10 mg per day, taken in three divided doses.
How to take alprazolam
Alprazolam comes as an oral tablet that you swallow. You can take your alprazolam dose with or without food.
If you’re having trouble swallowing alprazolam, talk with your pharmacist. They can tell you if it’s safe to cut, crush, or chew the alprazolam tablet that you get. They may also have tips to help you swallow it easier.
If you have questions about how to take alprazolam, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Is alprazolam used long term?
It depends. Doctors usually try to prescribe alprazolam for the shortest time possible. This helps reduce the risks of misuse, addiction, and dependence. (You can read more about these risks in the “Boxed warning” section at the beginning of this article). But some people need to use alprazolam as a long-term treatment.
If you and your doctor determine that it’s safe and effective for your condition, you may continue to take it long term.
Do not take more alprazolam than your doctor prescribes, as this can lead to harmful effects.
Symptoms of overdose
Symptoms caused by an overdose can include:
- drowsiness
- confusion
- trouble speaking
- excessive sleepiness
- problems with balance, coordination, or reflexes
- difficulty breathing
- coma
In rare cases, death may occur.
What to do in case you take too much alprazolam
Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve taken too much alprazolam. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach America’s Poison Centers or use its online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 (or your local emergency number) or go to the nearest emergency room.
Below are answers to some commonly asked questions about alprazolam’s dosage.
What is the dose of alprazolam for sleep?
Alprazolam is not approved for treating sleep problems. But in some cases, your doctor may prescribe it off-label for this use. (With off-label use, doctors prescribe a drug for a purpose other than what it’s approved for.)
Because alprazolam isn’t approved for sleep problems, the drug manufacturer doesn’t provide recommended dosages for this use. Your doctor will prescribe the dosage that’s right for you.
To learn more about your treatment options for sleep problems, including alprazolam, talk with your doctor.
What should I do if I miss a dose of alprazolam?
If you miss a dose of alprazolam, take it as soon as you remember. But if it’s almost time to take your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at its regular time. You should not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose. Doing so could raise your risk of side effects.
If you’re not sure whether you should take a missed dose or skip it, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
To help make sure you don’t miss a dose, try using a medication reminder. You could also download a reminder app on your phone.
Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.