Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects of a single nocturnal dose of alprazolam.
Six healthy volunteers participated in a study of the pharmacokinetic and psychomotor effects of a single dose of 2 mg of alprazolam compared to placebo when given at night. Alprazolam reached a maximum concentration in the plasma between 0.5 and 2.5 h after the dose. It was extensively distributed to the tissues as shown by the large apparent volume of distribution (1.42 l/kg) and slowly eliminated (t1/2 = 13.7 h). Significant impairment of choice reaction time occurred 1 and 11 h after the dose of alprazolam compared to placebo. Critical flicker fusion was also impaired after alprazolam but the difference from the placebo administration did not reach significance.
Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Austin Hospital, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.
T R
TR
Norman
G D
GD
Burrows
I M
IM
McIntyre
D000284:Administration, Oral; D000328:Adult; D000525:Alprazolam / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000493:pharmacokinetics*; D001143:Arousal / Q000187:drug effects; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005260:Female; D005425:Flicker Fusion / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D012684:Sensory Thresholds / Q000187:drug effects
D000525:Alprazolam