Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

  • For oral dosage form (capsules):
    • For anxiety:
      • Adults—5 to 25 milligrams (mg) three or four times a day.
      • Older adults—5 milligrams (mg) two to four times a day.
      • Children 6 years of age and older—At first, 5 milligrams (mg) two to four times a day. Your doctor may increase your dose if needed.
      • Children younger than 6 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    • For apprehension and anxiety before a surgery:
      • Adults—5 to 10 milligrams (mg) three or four times a day, taken several days before the surgery.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    • For symptoms of alcohol withdrawal:
      • Adults—At first, 50 to 100 milligrams (mg). The dose may be repeated until agitation is controlled. However, the dose is usually not more than 300 mg per day.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.