Their inclusion does not guarantee they will be prescribed to any individual, as treatment decisions are ultimately at the discretion of healthcare providers. Healthcare providers may prescribe other medications or recommend non-pharmacological treatment based on the patient’s unique health circumstances and needs. Read more
Xanax has a boxed warning, the most serious type of warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Xanax’s active ingredient alprazolam can cause profound sedation and respiratory depression if used with opioids; it has a risk of abuse, misuse, addiction, physical dependence, and withdrawal reactions. Xanax is also a controlled substance, indicating its high potential for misuse or dependence. Specific federal and state laws limit the amount of this medication that can be prescribed or dispensed within a certain period of time.
Highlights
- Prednisone and Xanax are two medications with different targets: prednisone reduces inflammation and calms the immune system, while Xanax treats anxiety and panic attacks.
- There is a minor interaction between alprazolam and prednisone, with corticosteroid therapy potentially limiting the effectiveness of Xanax.
- For those with anxiety, there are prescription alternatives and lifestyle adjustments that can replace Xanax if necessary and appropriate.
Each medicine has its own indications, and there may be instances where someone may need to take different medications at the same time. However, you have to think ahead about possible interactions. For example, if someone with anxiety has psoriasis, can they combine alprazolam with prednisone? Or how about someone with a panic disorder who also has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?
In both of these situations, and many other combinations, it is important to understand whether Xanax interacts with prednisone negatively or if the two are safe to take together. Let’s review it in more detail below.
What Are Xanax and Prednisone?
Xanax and prednisone are two different prescription medications.
Prednisone
It is a common treatment for those with:
- Skin conditions
- Allergic disorders
- Crohn’s disease
- Lupus
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Psoriasis
- Asthma
- Ulcerative colitis
Xanax
Can You Take Prednisone and Xanax Together?
Prednisone and Xanax can be taken together if prescribed by your healthcare provider. There is, however, a minor interaction between them: certain corticosteroids, such as prednisone, may
Possible Side Effects of the Prednisone and Xanax Interaction
Each medication has its own set of possible side effects. For instance,
Taking Xanax with steroids can increase the risk of confusion, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. However, some people may find that Xanax helps with prednisone-induced insomnia.
Beyond the interaction between Xanax and prednisone, there are other combinations to be aware of, as well, such as the interaction between Xanax and alcohol.
How Long After Taking Prednisone Can I Take Xanax?
If you’re looking to avoid taking Xanax and prednisone at the same time, you may discuss alternative treatments for anxiety with your healthcare provider. They will also tell you when you can start taking Xanax again; it can be helpful for you to know how long prednisone remains in your body, and the standard dosages of each to have a more informed discussion.
Timing and Safety
The half-life of prednisone is around 3 to 4 hours, meaning it takes that long for half of the medication to be eliminated by your body. For prednisone to be completely out of your system, it can take between 16.5 to 22 hours. So, if not recommended otherwise by your physician, one day after you stop taking prednisone, you can resume Xanax.
Dosages
In most cases, if you take both Xanax and prednisone, their dosing schedules will overlap and have to be adjusted, which is typically why Xanax is discontinued when taking prednisone.
For
It’s important to note that there is a risk of
As for
Prednisone should not be stopped abruptly, especially if it’s taken at high doses for an extended period of time, which means you must account for a tapering schedule when you’re discontinuing it. It’s best to discuss with a doctor how to safely stop taking prednisone for long-term treatment and when it’s safe to resume your Xanax prescription.
The dosages are provided for informational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare provider and follow their instructions; never exceed the individually prescribed dosage.
Alternatives to Xanax for Anxiety While on Prednisone
Some people may take prednisone long-term, especially if it is being used to treat lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or adrenal insufficiency. In these cases, if you’re looking to avoid taking alprazolam and prednisone, you will need to find an alternative to Xanax. Below are some of the common options; however, you’ll get more individualized recommendations from your medical provider during an appointment for online anxiety treatment.
Non-Benzodiazepine Options
Since Xanax’s interaction with prednisone results from prednisone lowering the benzodiazepine plasma concentration, non-benzodiazepines are favorable alternatives.
Some non-benzodiazepine alternatives to alprazolam include:
- Buspirone (BuSpar)
- Hydroxyzine (Vistaril)
- Fluoxetine (Prozac)
- Sertraline (Zoloft)
- Citalopram (Celexa)
- Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
- Beta-blockers
Lifestyle Adjustments
Other alternatives to anxiety medications include lifestyle changes to help manage your symptoms, such as:
- Yoga
- Meditation
- Practicing grounding techniques
- Journaling
- Listening to relaxing music
- Going on a walk
- Talking to someone trustworthy
These practices can help you learn a new way to manage anxiety while also lowering your stress levels.
Xanax and Prednisone: Final Thoughts
Xanax and prednisone serve different purposes: Xanax alleviates anxious symptoms, while prednisone halts an overactive immune system. However, some people, specifically those with anxiety and immune dysfunction, may find themselves prescribed both alprazolam and prednisone.
A minor interaction exists between Xanax and prednisone; your healthcare provider will tell you whether it’s safe for you to take these medications together. Always discuss any concerns or arising side effects with your doctor — they may suggest alternatives for you to try. Book an appointment today to have a consultation in 24 hours.
