A nurse is teaching a female client who has an anxiety disorder and is prescribed alprazolam (Xanax). Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?
A.
“If a dose is missed, double the next dose of medication.”
B.
“This medication may increase your blood pressure.”
C.
“Do not eat aged cheeses while taking this medication.”
D.
“Use a dependable form of contraception while taking this medication.”
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
D. “Use a dependable form of contraception while taking this medication.”
Explanation:
Alprazolam, a medication commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, is a type of benzodiazepine. Benzodiazepines are not typically associated with direct effects on blood pressure or significant dietary restrictions like those involving aged cheeses, and doubling the dose of medication if a dose is missed can be dangerous. Here’s a breakdown of why option D is the most relevant advice:
- Reproductive Health Considerations: Alprazolam is classified as a pregnancy Category D medication by the FDA, meaning there is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience or studies in humans. Although there is no direct evidence that alprazolam is a teratogen, its use during pregnancy is associated with potential risks to the developing fetus, including withdrawal symptoms and potential developmental issues. Therefore, it is crucial for women of childbearing age to use reliable contraception to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication.
- Missed Dose Guidelines: Doubling a dose of alprazolam if a dose is missed is not recommended because it can lead to overdose or increased side effects. It is better to take the missed dose as soon as remembered, or if it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule.
- Blood Pressure Effects: Alprazolam does not generally increase blood pressure; rather, it can potentially cause a decrease in blood pressure or other central nervous system effects. Thus, blood pressure monitoring is not a primary concern with this medication.
- Dietary Restrictions: Alprazolam does not have significant dietary restrictions like those for some other medications, such as MAO inhibitors which require avoiding aged cheeses to prevent hypertensive crises.
Therefore, the most pertinent piece of advice for a female client prescribed alprazolam is to use reliable contraception to avoid any risks associated with potential pregnancy while on the medication.