.
Alprazolam is used to treat anxiety and panic disorder, and is in a family of drugs known as benzodiazepines.
Interactions with Dietary Supplements
Vinpocetine
In a preliminary trial, an extract of periwinkle called vinpocetine was shown to produce minor
improvements in short-term memory among people taking flunitrazepam, a
benzodiazepine.1 Further study is needed to determine if vinpocetine would be a
helpful adjunct to use of benzodiazepines, or alprazolam specifically.
Interaction with Herbs
Kava (Piper
methysticum)
Kava is an herb used to treat anxiety disorder. One individual who took alprazolam and kava
together, along with two other medications (cimetidine
and terazosin) was hospitalized in a lethargic and
disoriented condition.2 Further research is needed to determine whether the
combination of kava and alprazolam produces an adverse interaction. However, individuals
should not take alprazolam and kava together unless supervised by a doctor.
Interaction with Foods and other Compounds
Alcohol
Drinking alcoholic beverages while taking alprazolam may increase side effects such as
drowsiness, confusion, and dizziness.3 Consequently, people taking alprazolam
should avoid drinking alcohol, especially when they must stay alert.
Summary of Interactions for Alprazolam
| Depletion or interference | None known |
|---|---|
| Adverse interaction | Alcohol Kava* |
| Side effect reduction/prevention | None known |
| Supportive interaction | None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability | None known |
For the convenience of the reader, the information in the summary is categorized as follows: “Depletion or interference” indicates the drug may deplete or interfere with the absorption or function of the supplement or herb. “Adverse interaction” indicates that the supplement or herb used together with the drug may result in undesirable effects. “Side effect reduction/prevention” indicates the supplement or herb may reduce the likelihood and/or severity of a potential side effect caused by the drug. “Supportive interaction” indicates the supplement or herb may support or aid the function of the drug. “Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability” indicates that the supplement or herb may decrease the absorption and/or activity of the drug in the body. An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
References:
1. Bhatti JZ, Hindmarch I. Vinpocetine effects on cognitive impairments produced by flunitrazepam. Int Clin Psychopharmacol 1987;2:325–31.
2. Almeida JC. Coma from the health food store: Interaction between kava and alprazolam. Ann Intern Med 1996;125:940–1.
3. Sifton DW, ed. Physicians’ Desk Reference. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 2000, 2492–6.
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The information presented in VitaminLore is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.