When alprazolam is prescribed for a patient who experiences acute anxiety, health teaching should include instructions to
A) report drowsiness.
B) eat a tyramine-free diet.
C) avoid alcoholic beverages.
D) adjust dose and frequency based on anxiety level.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Drinking alcohol or taking other anxiolytics along with the prescribed benzodiazepine should be avoided because depressant effects of both drugs will be potentiated. Tyramine-free diets are necessary only with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Drowsiness is an expected effect and needs to be reported only if it is excessive. Patients should be taught not to deviate from the prescribed dose and schedule for administration.

When Alprazolam Is Prescribed for a Patient Who Experiences Acute