Alprax Plus Tablet SR: Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Thoughts of harming yourself or others
- Severe agitation, hallucinations, or confusion
- Rapid heart rate, fever, muscle twitching, or diarrhea (serotonin syndrome)
- Severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain
- Seizures or loss of consciousness
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is alsert 0.5mg/25mg tablet used for?
This medicine is a combination of alprazolam (a benzodiazepine) and sertraline (an SSRI) used to treat depression with anxiety. It provides rapid anxiety relief from alprazolam and long-term mood improvement from sertraline. It is taken orally once daily and should not be stopped abruptly.
- Generic Name: Alprazolam + Sertraline
- Manufacturer: Lanark Laboratories Pvt Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 alsert 0.5mg/25mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा अल्प्राजोलम और सर्ट्रालाइन का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग अवसाद और चिंता के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। अल्प्राजोलम तेजी से चिंता को कम करता है, जबकि सर्ट्रालाइन धीरे-धीरे मूड को बेहतर बनाता है। यह दवा मुंह से ली जाती है और इसे डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लेना चाहिए। इसे अचानक बंद नहीं करना चाहिए।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, चक्कर आना, थकान, मुंह सूखना, मतली, दस्त, और यौन समस्याएं शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में सेरोटोनिन सिंड्रोम, एलर्जी, रक्तस्राव, और आत्महत्या के विचार शामिल हो सकते हैं। कोई भी गंभीर लक्षण होने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। इसे चबाएं या तोड़ें नहीं। शराब और अन्य नींद लाने वाली दवाओं से बचें। जब तक आपको इस दवा का असर पता न चल जाए, वाहन न चलाएं। इसे अचानक बंद न करें। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।
💊 alsert 0.5mg/25mg tablet Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Major depressive disorder with comorbid anxiety","description":"This combination provides rapid anxiolysis from alprazolam while sertraline treats the underlying depression and anxiety over time.","evidence":"Well-established for the combination in clinical practice, though fixed-dose combinations are not first-line."},{"condition":"Generalized anxiety disorder","description":"Sertraline is a first-line treatment for GAD, and alprazolam may be added short-term for severe symptoms.","evidence":"Well-established for individual components; combination use is common but not formally approved."},{"condition":"Panic disorder","description":"Sertraline reduces panic attacks long-term, while alprazolam provides immediate relief during acute episodes.","evidence":"Well-established for individual components."},{"condition":"Obsessive-compulsive disorder","description":"Sertraline is FDA-approved for OCD; alprazolam may be used adjunctively for anxiety associated with OCD.","evidence":"Well-established for sertraline; alprazolam use is adjunctive."},{"condition":"Post-traumatic stress disorder","description":"Sertraline is approved for PTSD; alprazolam may be used short-term for severe anxiety, though caution is advised due to dependence risk.","evidence":"Well-established for sertraline; alprazolam use is controversial."}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Premenstrual dysphoric disorder","description":"Sertraline is sometimes used off-label for PMDD, but the combination with alprazolam is not standard.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Social anxiety disorder","description":"Sertraline is effective, and alprazolam may be used short-term for performance anxiety, but this combination is not first-line.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Major depressive disorder with anxiety
Also treats: Generalized anxiety disorder, Panic disorder, Obsessive-compulsive disorder, Post-traumatic stress disorder
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Alprazolam + Sertraline |
| Brand Name | Alprax Forte 0.5 mg/50 mg Tablet |
| Manufacturer | Lanark Laboratories Pvt Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | NEURO CNS |
| Action Class | Benzodiazepine + SSRI |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep in the original container. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. Fixed-dose combinations of alprazolam and sertraline are not specifically recommended by WHO guidelines. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. ICMR guidelines do not specifically address this fixed-dose combination. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine combines two distinct mechanisms. Alprazolam enhances the inhibitory effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at GABA-A receptors, leading to increased chloride conductance and neuronal hyperpolarization, which produces anxiolytic, sedative, muscle relaxant, and anticonvulsant effects. Sertraline selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin (5-HT) at the presynaptic neuronal membrane, increasing serotonin concentration in the synaptic cleft, which downregulates serotonin receptors and leads to antidepressant and anxiolytic effects over time.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take alsert 0.5mg/25mg tablet
Strength: Alprazolam 0.5 mg + Sertraline 25 mg immediate-release tablet.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose is one tablet taken orally once daily, preferably at the same time each day. The dose may be adjusted by your doctor based on your response and tolerability. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients are more sensitive to the sedative effects of alprazolam and may require lower doses. Start with the lowest effective dose and monitor closely for falls, confusion, and excessive sedation. |
| Renal Impairment | Use with caution in patients with renal impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult your doctor. |
| Hepatic Impairment | Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Dose reduction may be required. Avoid in severe hepatic impairment. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended dose is one tablet daily, but this may vary based on clinical judgment. Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of alsert 0.5mg/25mg tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| MAO inhibitors | Major | |
| CNS depressants | Major | |
| Warfarin | Major | |
| NSAIDs | Moderate | |
| Diuretics | Moderate | |
| CYP3A4 inhibitors | Major | |
| Tricyclic antidepressants | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor | |
| Grapefruit juice | Minor | |
| Alcohol | Major |
🚨 Major Interactions
- MAO inhibitors (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine)
- CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, opioids, barbiturates)
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir)
- Warfarin
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
- Diuretics
- Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline)
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Avoid alcohol completely while taking this medicine. Alcohol enhances the sedative effects of alprazolam and can lead to severe drowsiness, respiratory depression, and increased risk of accidents. It may also worsen depression and anxiety.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Hypersensitivity to alprazolam, sertraline, or any component of the formulation","Concurrent use with MAO inhibitors","Severe hepatic impairment","Acute narrow-angle glaucoma","Myasthenia gravis","Severe respiratory insufficiency","Pregnancy (especially first trimester)","Breastfeeding"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Risk of dependence and withdrawal with alprazolam; use short-term only.","Increased risk of suicidal thoughts in young adults; monitor closely.","May impair ability to drive or operate machinery.","Avoid abrupt discontinuation; taper gradually.","Use with caution in elderly and debilitated patients.","May cause serotonin syndrome when combined with other serotonergic drugs.","Risk of hyponatremia, especially in elderly.","May increase bleeding risk, especially with NSAIDs or anticoagulants."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Alprazolam and sertraline are excreted in breast milk. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this medicine due to potential sedation and other effects on the infant. Consult your doctor for alternative options.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose can cause severe drowsiness, confusion, coma, respiratory depression, and cardiac arrest. Seek emergency medical help immediately. Treatment is supportive and may include gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and flumazenil for benzodiazepine toxicity. There is no specific antidote for sertraline overdose; manage serotonin syndrome symptomatically.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Additional Safety Advice
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet; swallow it whole. Avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants because they can increase sedation and respiratory depression. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Inform your doctor about all other medicines, especially MAO inhibitors, other antidepressants, and blood thinners. Do not stop this medicine suddenly; your doctor will taper the dose gradually. Keep out of reach of children. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients are more sensitive to the sedative effects of alprazolam and may experience increased drowsiness, confusion, and falls. Lower doses are recommended, and regular monitoring is essential.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Both alprazolam and sertraline may pose risks to the fetus. Your doctor may recommend alternative treatments.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist about this medicine before surgery. It may interact with anesthetic agents and increase sedation. Your doctor may advise temporary discontinuation.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist about this medicine before any dental procedure. It may interact with local anesthetics and sedatives used during dental work.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Avoid strenuous exercise until you know how this medicine affects you, as it may cause drowsiness and dizziness. Light to moderate exercise is generally safe and beneficial for mood.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how it affects you. It may also affect your concentration and work performance initially.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. Your doctor will gradually reduce the dose to prevent withdrawal symptoms and relapse. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of alprazolam can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms. Sertraline is generally safe for long-term use but may cause sexual dysfunction, weight changes, and emotional blunting. Regular monitoring and periodic reassessment are necessary.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Can be as effective as medication for mild to moderate depression and anxiety.
Evidence: Well-establishedCan help reduce anxiety and improve mood.
Evidence: ModerateHas antidepressant and anxiolytic effects.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
No specific vaccine interactions are established. However, consult your doctor before receiving any live vaccines while on this medicine.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your carry-on luggage. Store at room temperature and protect from extreme heat or cold. If traveling across time zones, consult your doctor about adjusting the dosing schedule. Check local customs regulations for controlled substances.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: Alprazolam starts working within 30-60 minutes for anxiety, while sertraline takes 2-4 weeks for full antidepressant effect.
A: No, stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor will taper the dose gradually.
A: Yes, alprazolam can cause dependence. It should be used short-term and under medical supervision.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for alsert 0.5mg/25mg tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
restyl plus 0.5 mg/25 mg tabletCipla Ltd ₹29.34 24.8% CHEAPER
-
alzolam plus 0.5mg/25mg tabletSun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd ₹29.77 23.7% CHEAPER
-
anxizam plus 0.5 mg/25 mg tabletAthens Labs Ltd ₹29.81 23.6% CHEAPER
-
mcalm 0.5mg/25mg tabletGlobus Remedies Ltd ₹33.50 14.1% CHEAPER
-
Relax S 0.5 mg/25 mg TabletVenus Remedies Ltd ₹43.73 12.1% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine is a sleeping pill.
Fact: This medicine is primarily used for depression and anxiety, not as a sleeping aid, though it may cause drowsiness. - Myth: You can stop this medicine once you feel better.
Fact: You must not stop this medicine abruptly; it can cause withdrawal symptoms and relapse. Always consult your doctor before stopping. - Myth: This medicine is safe to take with alcohol.
Fact: Alcohol increases the sedative effects and can be dangerous. Avoid alcohol completely. - Myth: This medicine works immediately for depression.
Fact: While alprazolam works quickly for anxiety, sertraline takes 2-4 weeks to improve depression.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Alprazolam + Sertraline (generic)
Brand Alternatives
- Alprax Plus Tablet SR