Alprazolam 0.25mg Blotters

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

Introduction

Alprazolam is a prescription medication classified as a short-acting benzodiazepine. It is widely used in clinical settings for the treatment of anxiety disorders, panic attacks, and generalized anxiety. Alprazolam 0.25mg blotters are a precise, orally disintegrating dosage form that allows rapid absorption and ease of administration. These thin blotters contain a low dose of alprazolam, facilitating controlled titration in research and therapeutic contexts without the need for water.

Chemical Properties and Specifications

2.1 Structural and Molecular Characteristics

• Chemical Formula: C17H13ClN4

• Molecular Weight: 308.78 g/mol

• CAS Number: 28981-97-7

• IUPAC Name: 8-chloro-1-methyl-6-phenyl-4H-s-triazolo[4,3-a]benzodiazepine

• Synonyms:

  • Alprazolam

  • Xanax (brand)

  • Triazolam (similar class)

2.2 Physical Properties and Purity Standards

• Appearance: Off-white to white randomly shaped blotters uniformly impregnated with alprazolam solution, stamped or patterned

• Purity: Pharmaceutical-grade alprazolam typically ≥ 98% purity

• Solubility: Slightly soluble in water, more soluble in ethanol and organic solvents

• Storage Recommendations: Store at controlled room temperature below 30°C, protected from moisture and light

Pharmacological Profile and Mechanism of Action

3.1 Proposed Mechanism of Action

Alprazolam acts by potentiating the effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at the GABA-A receptor complex, enhancing inhibitory neurotransmission. This results in anxiolytic, sedative, muscle-relaxant, and anticonvulsant effects by increasing chloride ion conductance and neuronal hyperpolarization in the central nervous system.

3.2 Research Applications

Alprazolam 0.25mg blotters find use in pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies assessing benzodiazepine activity. Researchers utilize this form to explore dose responses, receptor binding profiles, and effects on anxiety-related behavior and neural transmission. Its rapid disintegration and consistent dosing precision provide advantages in controlled settings.

Comparative Analysis with Related Compounds

4.1 Compare the compound to Compound(s) often compared to

Alprazolam is chemically related to other benzodiazepines such as diazepam and lorazepam but features a faster onset and shorter half-life. The 0.25mg blotter formulation allows finer dose control compared to tablets. Compared to longer-acting benzodiazepines, alprazolam offers rapid anxiolytic effects suited to acute symptom management.

4.2 Advantages for Research

The blotter format supports accurate, reproducible dosing with rapid dissolution. This facilitates timely plasma concentration measurements and behavioral assessment in laboratory models. The low dose is ideal for minimizing risk of adverse reactions while studying pharmacological parameters.

Safety and Handling Guidelines

5.1 Laboratory Safety

Handle with gloves in well-ventilated conditions to avoid exposure. Avoid inhalation or ingestion outside of controlled dosages. Store securely and away from unauthorized access.

5.2 Disposal and Environmental Considerations

Dispose of unused or expired alprazolam blotters in accordance with institutional pharmaceutical waste protocols. Avoid environmental release.

5.3 Regulatory Status

Alprazolam is a Schedule IV controlled substance under DEA regulations in the US and similarly controlled internationally. Its use is restricted to licensed facilities and research institutions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the usual starting dose of alprazolam?
   Initial doses are commonly 0.25 to 0.5 mg three times daily.

2. What is the maximum daily dose?
   Up to 4 mg per day in divided doses, sometimes higher in panic disorder.

3. How should alprazolam blotters be taken?
   Place on the tongue to dissolve; no water needed.

4. What precautions exist for discontinuation?
   Gradual taper is necessary to avoid withdrawal symptoms and seizures.

5. Is alprazolam addictive?
   Yes, potential for dependence exists, especially at higher doses or prolonged use.

Conclusion

Alprazolam 0.25mg blotters provide a controlled, precise low-dose formulation of a widely used benzodiazepine for anxiety and panic research. Their fast-dissolving nature supports flexible dosing and rapid pharmacological effects with critical safety considerations for use and discontinuation.