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.
Norman
T R
TR
Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Austin Hospital, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.
Burrows
G D
GD
McIntyre
I M
IM
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