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Pharmacology: Summary of Pharmacodynamics and Pharmacokinetics: Alprazolam is a triazolo analog of the 1,4 benzodiazepine class of central nervous system-active compounds. The chemical name is 8-chloro-1-methyl-6-phenyl-4H-s-triazolo (4,3-α)(1,4) benzodiazepine.
Alprazolam is readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract following oral administration with peak plasma concentrations being achieved within 1-2 hours. The mean half-life in plasma is 12 to 15 hours. Alprazolam is 70-80% bound to plasma protein. It is metabolized in the liver primarily to α-hydroxyalprazolam, which is reported to be approximately half as active as the parent compound, and to an inactive benzophenone. Plasma concentrations of metabolites are very low. Alprazolam and its metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine.
Alprazolam did not affect the prothrombin times or plasma warfarin levels in male volunteers administered sodium warfarin orally.
