Alprazolam and depression: a review of risks and benefits

Therapeutic efficacy for depression and panic disorder has been demonstrated with the triazolobenzodiazepine alprazolam. However, potentially serious adverse events, including depression and suicide attempts, have been reported in patients taking this medication. In this paper, reports addressing the association between each of these two events and benzodiazepine use in general and, more specifically, alprazolam use, are reviewed. We conclude that while these adverse events do occur in patients taking alprazolam, the causal relationship remains unclear and requires further study. Fortunately, these events are observed only rarely, so the prudent clinician may continue to safely prescribe this useful medication.