Does Xanax temporarily lower blood pressure? 

Does Xanax temporarily lower blood pressure? 

Xanax may or may not lower your blood pressure temporarily. The medication works on the inhibitory system of your brain, which slows down some of your physiological functions, like muscle contraction, breathing, etc as it relaxes your body and calms down your nerves. (1)

So, it’s absolutely logical to believe that Xanax can temporarily lower your blood pressure as it is a short-acting benzodiazepine and works for 8-10 hours. 

However, it is not commonly associated with this side effect and the effects at standard therapeutic doses may be quite insignificant to even notice. According to some research studies, some people may experience elevated blood pressure during an anxiety attack. 

This elevated blood pressure can go down once you take Xanax as it normalises the state of anxiety and the symptoms associated with it start to fade away (2). Again, this is a therapeutic effect of the drug and not a side effect. 

However, studies have also indicated that long-term use of Xanax can lower your blood pressure. Not just this, there are plenty of other dangerous side effects of using Xanax for more than needed. 

Remember, Xanax and other benzodiazepines are meant to be used for the short term only and are usually prescribed by doctors who specialize in mental health, such as psychiatrists.

Make sure you do not take any more than what your healthcare provider has prescribed. Do not increase the dose or frequency on your own. If you have any queries, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. 

What is the incidence of low blood pressure caused by Xanax?

The incidence of low blood pressure caused specifically by Xanax can vary from person to person. While Xanax may have a mild and temporary effect of lowering blood pressure in some individuals, it is not common for it to cause a significant drop in blood pressure. 

The incidence of low blood pressure as a direct result of Xanax is relatively low. However, it’s important to remember that the effects of Xanax can vary among individuals, and some people may be more sensitive to its blood pressure-lowering effects than others. 

Be aware of Xanax-induced respiratory depression

Respiratory depression is a potential side effect of Xanax and other benzodiazepines. It refers to a decrease in the rate and depth of breathing, which can become dangerously low. (3,4)

Signs and symptoms of respiratory depression may include shallow or slow breathing, difficulty in taking deep breaths, confusion, drowsiness, low blood pressure, and even loss of consciousness. In severe cases, it can lead to respiratory failure, a life-threatening condition where breathing completely stops.

The risk of respiratory depression is influenced by several factors, including the dose of Xanax or other benzodiazepines taken. Higher doses of Xanax increase the likelihood of respiratory depression.

However, it’s important to note that the exact doses at which respiratory depression can occur may vary depending on individual factors such as tolerance, age, and overall health.

To ensure safety, it is crucial to take Xanax or any benzodiazepine as prescribed by a healthcare professional and not exceed the recommended dose. 

It’s also essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and seek immediate medical attention if they occur or if there are concerns about breathing difficulties while taking Xanax. Make sure you take Xanax properly. You can split Xanax if your doctor advises you to take half a dose.

What side effects are common with Xanax?

Xanax may cause the following side effects:

  • tiredness
  • headache
  • nausea
  • difficulty concentrating
  • changes in appetite
  • weight changes
  • light-headedness
  • dizziness
  • irritability
  • talkativeness
  • dry mouth
  • increased salivation
  • changes in sex drive or ability
  • constipation
  • difficulty urinating
  • joint pain
  • drowsiness
  • red eyes

Make sure you keep a close eye on your side effects and report them to your doctor.

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References

1.-

George TT, Tripp J. Alprazolam. 2023 Apr 24. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 30844192. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538165

2.-

Ait-Daoud N, Hamby AS, Sharma S, Blevins D. A Review of Alprazolam Use, Misuse, and Withdrawal. J Addict Med. 2018 Jan/Feb;12(1):4-10. doi: 10.1097/ADM.0000000000000350. PMID: 28777203; PMCID: PMC5846112. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5846112/

3.-

Vozoris NT. Do benzodiazepines contribute to respiratory problems? Expert Rev Respir Med. 2014 Dec;8(6):661-3. doi: 10.1586/17476348.2014.957186. Epub 2014 Sep 5. PMID: 25193249. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25193249/

4.-

Greene JG, Pucino F, Carlson JD, Storsved M, Strommen GL. Effects of alprazolam on respiratory drive, anxiety, and dyspnea in chronic airflow obstruction: a case study. Pharmacotherapy. 1989;9(1):34-8. doi: 10.1002/j.1875-9114.1989.tb04101.x. PMID: 2922358. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2922358/