Zolium 0.25 mg

Description

Indications
Zolium is indicated for the treatment of:

• Anxiety disorder
• Short-term relief of anxiety
• Anxiety associated with depression
• Panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia
  Use as per the guidance of a registered physician.

Pharmacology
Alprazolam is a triazole analog from the 1,4-benzodiazepine class of drugs. It is an anxiolytic with hypnotic and anticonvulsant properties, producing its effects by interacting with the Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)-benzodiazepine receptor complex. As with all benzodiazepines, alprazolam exerts CNS depressant activity, ranging from mild impairment of task performance to hypnosis, depending on the dose.

Dosage & Administration

• Adults: Treatment should begin with 0.25 to 0.5 mg three times daily. The dose may be gradually increased by 1 mg/day at intervals of 3 to 4 days, with a maximum dose of 4 mg/day. Some patients with panic disorder may require up to 10 mg/day, necessitating regular reassessment and possible dosage adjustments.
• Elderly or Patients with Liver Disease: Start with 0.25 mg two or three times daily and increase as tolerated.
• Switching Doses: Patients on 0.25/0.5 mg regimens may be switched to a 1 mg dose once daily, preferably in the morning.
• Discontinuing Therapy: Gradual dose reduction is recommended by 0.5 mg every three days to minimize withdrawal effects.
• The tablets should be taken intact; do not chew, crush, or break them.
  Use as per the guidance of a registered physician.

Interactions
The CNS-depressant effect of Zolium may be enhanced when used concurrently with:

• Other psychotropic drugs
• Anticonvulsants
• Antihistamines
• Alcohol
• Oral contraceptives

Side Effects
Common side effects, usually seen at the start of therapy and typically subsiding with continued use, include:

• Drowsiness
• Light-headedness
• Depression
• Headache
• Confusion
• Dry mouth
• Constipation

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Zolium is categorized as Pregnancy Category D, meaning it should be avoided during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus.
• Alprazolam may be excreted in breast milk, so nursing mothers should avoid using Zolium.

Precautions & Warnings

• Zolium may cause psychological and physical dependence. The dosage should be adjusted or discontinued only under a physician’s supervision.
• Zolium should be used cautiously in patients with hepatic or renal disease, chronic pulmonary insufficiency, or sleep apnea.
• The duration of therapy must be determined by the prescribing physician.

Use in Special Populations

• The safety and effectiveness of Zolium have not been established in individuals under 18 years of age.

Overdose Effects
Symptoms of overdose may include:

• Somnolence
• Confusion
• Impaired coordination
• Diminished reflexes
• Coma
  In case of overdose, general supportive measures should be applied, and immediate gastric lavage may be required.

Therapeutic Class
Benzodiazepine Sedatives

Storage Conditions
Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.