The anxiolytic effects of alprazolam, a triazolobenzodiazepine, were evaluated in a double-blind 28-day comparison with diazepam and placebo in 46 out-patients suffering from anxiety states of moderate to severe intensity. Alprazolam 1.5–3 mg per day was found to be of at least equivalent anxiolytic effect to 15–30 mg diazepam per day, and there was evidence of antidepressant activity by alprazolam, but not diazepam, in neurotic depression.
Side-effects occurred least often with alprazolam and were minor in nature. Laboratory data showed no changes attributable to alprazolam even in a patient who swallowed 15 capsules (7.5 mg).
It was concluded that alprazolam is a safe and effective anxiolytic which is well-tolerated and also shows some antidepressant activity.
Key words Alprazolam - Diazepam - Anxiety