Your Health

Alprazolam (Xanax): How Long It Stays in Your System

When Does Alprazolam Start to Work?

There are three types of benzodiazepines, which can vary in the total length of the effects on the brain. For instance, clonazepam is a long-acting benzodiazepine, while midazolam is a short-acting one. Alprazolam is an intermediate-acting benzodiazepine, which lies in the middle. It takes anywhere between 1 and 2 hours for the medication to achieve the maximum effects in the body. After this period, the body begins to break down the drug, which reduces the effects of alprazolam. [3]

How Long Do Effects of Alprazolam Last?

As said above, alprazolam starts to work in the body and makes you less anxious after 1 to 2 hours of taking the pills. However, this does not mean the effect will last as long as the medication stays in the system. If you take it frequently, it is possible to keep the concentrations of alprazolam in the blood so that the effect does not disappear. In addition, pharmaceutical manufacturers offer extended-release versions of alprazolam. They are specially produced to last longer in the body. This means you do not need to take them regularly during the day. [4]