Xanax (alprazolam) is a prescription drug that treats anxiety disorder and certain types of panic disorder. Xanax may not be safe to take while pregnant, and it’s not recommended while breastfeeding.

Xanax comes as an oral tablet. The drug is prescribed to treat both anxiety disorder and panic disorder with or without a fear of helplessness in some situations.

The drug also comes as an extended-release oral tablet called Xanax XR. This form is approved to treat only panic disorder.

This article refers to both forms as “Xanax” unless otherwise noted.

If you can become pregnant, it’s important to consider whether Xanax is a safe option for you.

Whether Xanax is safe to take while pregnant may depend on the stage of pregnancy. When Xanax was taken during early pregnancy, studies did not find an increased risk of problems with fetal development (also known as birth defects). The studies also did not find an increased risk of pregnancy loss.

However, when Xanax is taken in the third trimester (weeks 28 to 40) or during labor, it may cause harm. The newborn could experience neonatal sedation and withdrawal syndrome (NOWS). This includes problems such as:

  • breathing difficulties
  • floppiness
  • excessive sleepiness
  • feeding problems
  • withdrawal symptoms, such as tremors, restlessness, irritability, and prolonged crying

Withdrawal symptoms are side effects that occur when you stop a drug your body has become dependent on. With dependence, your body needs the drug to function as usual.

A pregnancy registry is available for people taking Xanax during pregnancy. Reporting side effects of Xanax during pregnancy to this registry helps researchers understand the drug’s risks. Your doctor can enroll you for the National Pregnancy Registry for Psychiatric Medications by calling 866-961-2388.

Before starting Xanax, tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or considering pregnancy.

If you’re currently breastfeeding or planning to do so, it’s important to understand the effects Xanax could have on you or your child.

Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Xanax.

Xanax passes into breast milk, which may have harmful effects on a child who is breastfed. Side effects reported include excessive sleepiness and withdrawal symptoms, such as irritability, sleeping problems, and vomiting. Other symptoms include tremors, diarrhea, and muscle twitching.

Withdrawal symptoms are side effects that occur when you stop a drug your body is dependent on. With dependence, your body needs the drug to function as usual.

Tell your doctor if you’re breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed before starting Xanax. They can talk with you about the risks and benefits. They can also help you determine the best way to feed your child.

If you’re sexually active and you or your partner can become pregnant, it’s important to consider how Xanax could affect your birth control options.

Whether Xanax is safe to take while pregnant may depend on the stage of pregnancy. Learn more in the “Is Xanax safe to take during pregnancy?” section.

Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.