Is it beneficial to take alprazolam sublingually (under the tongue)?
A rapid onset of drug action is desirable for patients experiencing panic attacks or episodes of acute anxiety and in decreasing latency time to conceal sleep for insomnia associated with anxiety. Although minimal research has been done, only a small amount of the substance can be entered in this way, limited by excessive salivation washing the chemical down the throat and often a large amount remains to be swallowed. If held there long enough, the drug will diffuse into the blood stream, bypassing the GI tract and avoiding hepatic first-pass metabolism, reaching suitable plasmatic concentrations in less time and giving rise to a rapid onset of drug action. Patients with severe nausea may not benefit from this form. In addition, alprazolam may have a bitter taste, creating further nausea. The sublingual route may be a useful alternative for patients who cannot swallow tablets or for those who do not have access to a liquid at the time of dosing. A safe, user friendly, and fast-disinteg
