Xanax--Prescription of Over the Counter?
 

Hello, I need to find out if the medication Xanax (generic name alaprozam) requires a prescription in Italy--specifically Sardegna if there is a difference. Any relevant information would be greatly appreciated! I've lost my prescription & am trying to find the fastest &/or easiest way to replace it. Thank you so much!

I'm sorry, I screwed up the generic name--Alprazolam is the correct spelling. Thanks!

I am not sure (I predict that it will require a prescription), but it will help you to acquire what you need if you have the generic name correctly spelled: <b>alprazolam</b>.

Best wishes,

Rex

In Italy I believe it is marketed under the name Valeans.

Maybe, but a quick look on http://it.search.yahoo.com suggests that Valean (no &quot;s&quot;?) has minimal association with the generic name alprazolam. I'd go to a pharmacy and you will probably be able to communicate with a pharmacist. Do you have any labeled container?

Sorry, Rex..take a look at this link:

http://www.chemindustry.com/chemicals/74087.html

Alprazolam is also marketed under the name Xanax in Italy and a prescription is compulsory.

I didn't say &quot;no&quot; association; I just don't think that there is any added benefit of using this alternative name. A pharmacist will think alprazolam the preferred way to refer to this drug, and likely recognize Xanax equally, if the OP has a labeled contained that says that (it may or may not list the generic name).

Since this is a medication with a strong potential for addiction - and is scheduled in the US - I very much doubt that there is any first world country you can get it without an Rx.

Although I'm sure it's available under the table from other sources - perhaps the bellman in your hotel could direct you to the nearest dealer.

&lt;&lt;the fastest &amp;/or easiest way to replace it&gt;&gt;

Make an appointment with an Italian doctor and get the prescription from him. Fill it at the local pharmacy.

I'm not sure if you're already in Italy or not.
DD's school in Italy told us this:

The Italian government considers certain drugs illegal (including Ritalin, Cylert, Adderall, Wellbutrin, Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft). Anyone found with these medications without appropriate physician approval can be prosecuted. Contact the Italian Consulate in your jurisdiction for additional information. Any prescription medication that you carry with you to Italy must be accompanied by your physician's written description of the medical problem, the dose of the medication and the generic name(s).

Keep in mind that drugs approved in the U.S. may be banned in other countries. Since regulation of over-the-counter drugs varies in other countries, you should bring what you think you may need with you. U.S. doctor prescriptions cannot easily be filled in Italy.

Oh, I assumed this poster was already in Italy.

Obviously bringing enough from home with you for the duration of a stay is the best and easiest.

I think you're right, Suze, but I wasn't sure.