Xanax is a brand of alprazolam, a powerful prescription medication used to treat the symptoms of anxiety, panic disorder, and anxiety associated with depression. Xanax may be used alone or with other medications. Xanax belongs to a class of drugs called Antiaxiety Agents, Anxiolytics, Benzodiazepines.
Benzodiazepines act on the brain and central nervous system (CNS) to produce a calming effect. Xanax slows down the movement of brain chemicals that may have become unbalanced, resulting in a reduction in nervous tension and anxiety. Xanax works by boosting the effects of a natural chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid, which is made in the brain. It is not known if Xanax is safe and effective in children younger than 18 years of age.
Does Xanax Expire?
Yes, like every other medication Xanax do expire. An expired Xanax can be less effective or risky due to a change in chemical composition or a decrease in strength. The FDA recommends that consumers dispose all expired Xanax properly to avoid being consumed by children or pets.
Can you take Xanax that has expired?
No, you should not consume an expired Xanax. Pfizer the manufacturer of Xanax can only guarantee a Xanax prescription will be effective and safe before its expiration date, so taking expired Xanax is not recommended.
Can expired Xanax hurt you?
Yes, beyond the fact that an expired Xanax may not be effective or safe, Xanax also carries a high risk of dependency, it is important to dispose of expired or unwanted pills correctly. Do not take expired Xanax before consulting a healthcare provider.
How long after expiration is Xanax good?
Xanax and generic alprazolam usually expire after two to three years from the date of production. Consuming an expired product could decrease Xanax’s half-life (an estimate of the period of time that it takes for the concentration or amount in the body of that drug to be reduced by exactly one-half or 50%).
How to dispose of expired Xanax
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy issued the following guidelines in 2007 for the proper disposal of prescription medications:
- Follow any specific disposal instructions on the drug label or patient information that accompanies the medication. Do not flush prescription drugs down the toilet unless the information specifically instructs you to do so.
- If no instructions are given, throw the drugs in the household trash, but first: Remove the drugs from their original containers and mix them with an undesirable substance, such as used coffee grounds or kitty litter. The medication will be less appealing to children and pets, and unrecognizable to people who intentionally may go through your trash.
- Put the drugs (or the mixture of drugs with an undesirable substance) in a sealable bag, empty can, or another container to prevent the medication from leaking or breaking out of a garbage bag.
- Take advantage of community drug take-back programs that allow the public to bring unused drugs to a central location for proper disposal. Call your city or county government’s household trash and recycling service (see the blue pages in a phone book) to determine if a take-back program is available in your community.
As part of the aforementioned policy, the government recommends that addictive drugs be flushed down the toilet instead of thrown in the trash. The goal is to reduce the danger of unintentional use or overdose and illegal abuse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happens when Xanax expires?
A: When Xanax expires, the effectiveness and safety of the medication may decrease. The medication may not work as well, or it may cause more side effects.
Q: Can I take expired Xanax?
A: No, it is not recommended to take expired Xanax. The medication may not work as well, or it may cause more side effects. It is best to dispose of expired medication and obtain a new prescription from a healthcare provider.
Q: How do I dispose of expired Xanax?
A: It is recommended to dispose of expired Xanax properly by taking it to a drug take-back program or by following the instructions on the medication label. Do not flush the medication down the toilet or throw it in the trash.
Q: How long does Xanax last before it expires?
A: The expiration date of Xanax can vary depending on the manufacturer and the formulation. In General, a Xanax tablet will expire 2-3 years after production depending on the manufacturers. It is important to check the medication label for the expiration date and to store the medication properly to ensure its effectiveness and safety.
Q: Can expired Xanax be harmful?
A: Expired Xanax may not be as effective and safe as unexpired medication. It is possible that the expired medication may cause more side effects or not work as well. It is recommended to dispose of expired medication properly and obtain a new prescription from a healthcare provider.
Q: What are the side effects of taking expired Xanax?
A: The side effects of taking expired Xanax may be similar to those of taking unexpired medication, but they may be more severe or prolonged. Common side effects of Xanax include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, blurred vision, dry mouth, and difficulty concentrating.
Q: How do I store Xanax properly?
A: Xanax should be stored in a cool, dry place away from heat and moisture. It should be kept out of reach of children and pets. It is important to follow the storage instructions on the medication label to ensure its effectiveness and safety.
Q: Can I share my Xanax prescription with someone else?
A: No, it is not legal or safe to share your Xanax prescription with someone else. Xanax is a controlled substance and can be addictive. It is important to only take medication prescribed to you by a healthcare provider.
Q: What should I do if I accidentally take expired Xanax?
A: If you accidentally take expired Xanax, monitor yourself for any side effects or adverse reactions. If you experience any severe symptoms or have concerns, contact a healthcare provider immediately.
Q: Can I take expired Xanax in an emergency situation?
A: It is not recommended to take expired Xanax in an emergency situation. The medication may not work as well, or it may cause more side effects. It is best to obtain a new prescription from a healthcare provider or seek emergency medical attention if needed.
Q: How do I know if my Xanax is expired?
A: The expiration date of Xanax can be found on the medication label. It is important to check the expiration date before taking the medication. If you are unsure if your medication has expired, contact a healthcare provider or pharmacist for assistance.
Q: Is it safe to buy Xanax online?
A: It is not recommended to buy Xanax or any prescription medication online without a valid prescription from a healthcare provider. There are many risks associated with buying medication online, including receiving counterfeit or expired medication.
Q: Can I drink alcohol while taking Xanax?
A: No, it is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Xanax. Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of Xanax and increase the risk of side effects or adverse reactions. It is important to follow the instructions of your healthcare provider regarding the use of Xanax.
Q: How long does Xanax stay in your system?
A: The length of time Xanax stays in your system can vary depending on various factors, including your age, weight, metabolism, and dose. In general, Xanax can be detected in urine for up to 5 days after last use, and in blood for up to 24 hours after last use.
