Alprazolam is used to treat anxiety and
panic disorder, and is in a family of drugs known as benzodiazepines.
Summary of
Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem
contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized
interactions.
Avoid:Adverse interaction—Avoid these supplements when taking this
medication because taking them together may cause undesirable or dangerous results.
Alcohol
Kava*
Depletion or interference
None known
Side effect reduction/prevention
None known
Supportive interaction
None known
Reduced drug
absorption/bioavailability
None known
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the
interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific
evidence.
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.
References (To view, roll mouse over the "References" heading; to hide, click on the heading)
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.
The information presented in Healthnotes 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. Information expires June 2009.
