Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Riva Alprazolam.
HEALTH CANADA ADVISORY
October 30, 2020
Health Canada has issued new restrictions concerning the use of benzodiazepines and benzodiazepine-like prescription drugs. To read the full Health Canada Advisory, visit Health Canada's web site at www.hc-sc.gc.ca.
Alcohol and other medications that cause drowsiness: People taking Riva Alprazolam should not combine it with alcohol and avoid combining it with other medications, such as narcotic pain relievers, that cause drowsiness. Doing so can cause additive drowsiness and reduced breathing as well as other side effects, which can be dangerous and possibly fatal.
Dependence and withdrawal: Physical dependence (a need to take regular doses to prevent physical symptoms) has been associated with benzodiazepines such as alprazolam. Severe withdrawal symptoms may be experienced if the dose is significantly reduced or suddenly discontinued. These symptoms include seizures, irritability, nervousness, sleep problems, agitation, tremors, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, vomiting, memory impairment, headache, muscle pain, extreme anxiety, tension, restlessness, and confusion. Reducing the dose gradually, under medical supervision, can help prevent or decrease these withdrawal symptoms.
Because the treatment of panic disorder often requires the use of average daily doses of alprazolam above 3 mg, the risk of dependence among people with panic disorder may be higher than that among those treated for less severe anxiety.
Drowsiness/reduced alertness: Alprazolam may affect the mental or physical abilities needed to drive or operate machinery. Do not engage in activities requiring mental alertness, judgment, and physical coordination until you have established how alprazolam affects you. Alcohol can increase the drowsiness effects of alprazolam and should be avoided.
Kidney function: Kidney Disease or reduced kidney function may cause Riva Alprazolam to build up in the body, causing side effects. If you have kidney problems, discuss with your doctor how Riva Alprazolam may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Riva Alprazolam, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Liver function: Liver disease or reduced liver function may cause Riva Alprazolam to build up in the body, causing side effects. If you have liver problems, discuss with your doctor how Riva Alprazolam may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Riva Alprazolam, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Mood changes: Anxiety Disorders are often associated with mood changes, such as depression, mania, or ideas of suicide or self-harm. If you have depression or a history of depression, discuss with your doctor how Riva Alprazolam may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Riva Alprazolam, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
If you experience symptoms of depression such as poor concentration, changes in weight, changes in sleep, decreased interest in activities, or notice them in a family member who is taking Riva Alprazolam contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Pregnancy: Other benzodiazepine medications similar to alprazolam are known to increase the risk of birth defects when taken by a woman who is pregnant. The safety of alprazolam during pregnancy has not been established. It is not recommended for use by pregnant women.
Breast-feeding: Alprazolam may pass into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking alprazolam, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children and adolescents: The safety and efficacy of alprazolam for children and adolescents under 18 years of age have not been established.
Seniors: Seniors may be at increased risk of experiencing side effects such as sedation, reduced coordination, and dizziness. Use extra caution when rising from a sitting or lying position to reduce the risk of severe dizziness and falls.
