Advantages of Alprazolam for Fear of Flying

The fear of flying is a common phobia. Phobias are classified as an anxiety disorder and a specific fear that individuals experience, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR). Individuals who have the fear of flying often avoid taking flights, even if it means using more inconvenient means of travel, such as driving for several hours. There are several methods of decreasing anxiety, such as deep breathing, muscle relaxation or taking certain medications. One of the most common medication to reduce anxiety is alprazolam, according to Rxlist.com.

People are sitting in the first class section of a passenger jet. (Image: Digital Vision/DigitalVision/Getty Images)

Anxiety

Anxiety is described as excessive worry and negative anticipation of the future, according to the DSM-IV-TR. Common symptoms of anxiety include hyper-vigilance and motor tension. Anxiety is most commonly described as “being on edge.” Individuals who have anxiety towards flying typically realize that their fear is unreasonable and excessive, reports the DSM-IV-TR.

Fear of Flying

Signs and individual may be afraid of flying include becoming anxious in elevators, having panic attacks before getting on a plane or going out of your way to avoid air travel, according to Airsafe.com. Individuals who are afraid of flying often think that the plane that they are on is going to crash, are afraid of heights, are claustrophobic or do not like a loss of control, reports Airsafe.com. This fear is not only manifested when in the individual is in the plane, but before they arrive to the airport, are packing or booking their flight, according to Airsafe.com.

Alprazolam

Alprazolam, more commonly known as Xanax, is a medication prescribed for the management of anxiety. Xanax is most often prescribed by psychiatrists. Treatment for patients with anxiety should be initiated with a dose of 0.25 to 0.5 mg given three times daily, according to Rxlist.com.

Symptom Reduction

Xanax can help individuals with their fear of flying. Xanax can help calm the individual's motor tension and hyper-vigilance associated with anxiety. A common side effect of Xanax is drowsiness and fatigue, thus decreasing hyper-vigilance, according to Rxlist.com.