Kalma
Generic Name:
Alprazolam
Brand Names:
Kalma
Kalma Description:
Kalma is the Australian version of alprazolam, marketed in the U.S. as Xanax. Kalma is prescribed to treat anxiety, panic disorders, and depression caused by anxiety. Kalma belongs to a group of medications known as benzodiazepines, which includes psychoactive drugs used to treat anxiety, insomnia, agitation, and seizures.
Kalma works to enhance the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a chemical in the body that acts in the brain. Kalma targets GABA and helps allow patients to feel calm and less anxious.
Kalma Side Effects:
Common side effects associated with Kalma include:
- Decreased libido
- Forgetfulness
- Lightheadedness
- Sedation
- Slurred speech
- Weight loss
For more information, see our Kalma side effects page.
Kalma Uses:
Patients who experience panic attacks or extreme anxiety may take Kalma to treat symptoms of the condition. Kalma is a short-term treatment only.
Panic attacks can seriously impact a patient’s life, and symptoms typically include four or more of the following:
- Chest pain
- Chills
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Fear of dying
- Fear of losing control or going crazy
- Hot flashes
- Nausea
- Numbness
- Racing heart
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Tingling
- Trembling
Unrealistic feelings
Kalma Interactions:
Tell your doctor about all prescription and non-prescription medications you may be taking along with Kalma, including vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products. The following drugs should not be taken in combination with Kalma, as interactions may occur:
- Antidepressants
- Cimetidine (such as Tagamet)
- Contraceptive medications
- Diltiazem (such as Cartia, Cardizem, or Tiazac)
- Isoniazid (such as IsonaRif, Rifamate)
- Ketoconazole or Itraconazole anti-fungal medications
- Propoxyphene (such as Darvon, Darvocet)
- Seizure medications
Additionally, patients should inform a doctor of the use of sleeping aids or medications that cause sleepiness.
Kalma Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Patients should follow the dosing instructions provided by their doctor, as Kalma dosages may differ depending on the patient and the condition being treated.
For the treatment of anxiety disorders, patients typically begin by taking .25 to .5 mg of Kalma three times a day. The dose may be increased over time every three to four days to reach 4 mg (the maximum). Patients take the drug in two doses.
For the treatment of panic disorder, patients typically take more than 4 mg of the drug each day. Dosages may range from 1 mg to 10 mg daily. When treatment with Kalma is stopped, a gradual reduction of dosage is important to avoid withdrawal and other adverse reactions. Patients are generally advised to decrease doses by no more than .5 mg every three days.
Missing a Dose of Kalma
If you miss a dose of Kalma, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and wait to return to your regular dosing schedule.
Kalma Overdose
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medication.
Symptoms of an alprazolam overdose include confusion, fainting, coma, loss of coordination, lightheadedness, and muscle weakness.
Kalma FDA Approval:
Kalma is not regulated by the FDA. It was added to the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods on October 22, 1998.
Kalma Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
Patients who are allergic to benzodiazepines should not take Kalma.
Patients with acute narrow glaucoma or those taking ketoconazole or itraconazole anti-fungal medications should not take Kalma.
Pregnant women should not use Kalma. If you become pregnant while taking alprazolam, discontinue use of the medication and consult a doctor immediately.
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September 2, 2010, 12:51 pm
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September 1, 2010, 3:16 pm
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August 31, 2010, 2:01 pm
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August 30, 2010, 1:16 pm
