Zolium 0.5 is a prescription medication containing Alprazolam, a high-potency benzodiazepine. It is primarily used for the short-term management of anxiety disorders and the treatment of panic attacks. By enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a natural chemical in the brain, it produces a calming and sedative effect on the central nervous system. Produced by Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd., this guide provides the latest clinical and pricing updates for 2026.
What is Zolium 0.5 Used For?
Zolium 0.5 mg is indicated for adults experiencing:
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Anxiety Disorders: Short-term relief of symptoms of generalized anxiety.
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Panic Disorder: Treatment of panic attacks with or without agoraphobia (fear of places that might cause panic).
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Anxiety with Depression: Management of anxiety symptoms associated with depressive moods.
Critical Safety Note: Zolium 0.5 is a controlled substance with a high potential for habit-forming. It is intended for short-term use only. For clinical details on the molecule, you can review Alprazolam on DrugBank.
Dosage
Dosage must be strictly individualized by a physician. Standard adult protocols include:
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Anxiety Management: Usually 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg, taken three times daily. The total dose typically ranges from 1 mg to 4 mg daily.
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Panic Disorder: Initial dose of 0.5 mg three times daily. Physicians may increase the dose gradually, but it rarely exceeds 10 mg per day.
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Elderly Patients: Often started on a lower dose of 0.25 mg, two or three times daily, to prevent excessive sedation or falls.
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Administration: Tablets should be swallowed whole with water; do not crush or chew.
Common Side Effects
Zolium 0.5 may cause side effects, particularly during the first few days of treatment:
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Drowsiness and lightheadedness
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Dry mouth or constipation
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Coordination problems or unsteadiness
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Changes in appetite or weight
Important Warnings & Precautions
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Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol significantly increases the sedative effects, leading to dangerous levels of drowsiness.
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No Sudden Stops: Abruptly stopping Zolium can cause severe withdrawal symptoms, including seizures and tremors. Tapering must be done under medical supervision.
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Mental Focus: Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medication affects your alertness.
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Pregnancy/Lactation: Generally avoided; it is linked to potential risks to the developing fetus and passes into breast milk.
Zolium 0.5 vs. Lexotanil 3: Key Differences
While both are benzodiazepines used for anxiety, they have different chemical properties and durations of action.
| Feature | Zolium 0.5 (Alprazolam) | Lexotanil 3 (Bromazepam) |
| Drug Class | High-Potency Benzodiazepine | Benzodiazepine |
| Primary Use | Panic Disorder & Acute Anxiety | Anxiety & Nervous Tension |
| Speed of Action | Very Fast (15–30 mins) | Moderate |
| Half-Life | Short to Intermediate | Long |
| Unit Price | ৳3.40 | ৳8.00 – ৳10.00 |
Zolium 0.5 Price (January 2026 Update)
The following prices are current for Zolium variants manufactured by Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
| Product Name | Strength | Unit Price (BDT) | Strip Price (10 Tablets) |
| Zolium 0.5 | 0.5 mg | ৳3.40 | ৳34.00 |
| Zolium 0.25 | 0.25 mg | ৳2.00 | ৳20.00 |
| Zolium XR 1 | 1 mg (Extended Release) | ৳10.00 | ৳100.00 |
| Zolium XR 2 | 2 mg (Extended Release) | ৳15.00 | ৳150.00 |
Zolium 0.5 Alternative Brands & Prices
Alprazolam is widely available under various brand names in Bangladesh. Below are the top alternatives for 2026.
| Brand Name | Company Name | Price per Unit (BDT) |
| Zolax 0.5 | Beximco Pharmaceuticals | ৳1.90 |
| Alzolam 0.5 | Sun Pharma | ৳2.85 |
| Alprax 0.5 | Opsonin Pharma | ৳2.70 |
| Xolam XR 0.5 | Aristopharma Ltd. | ৳2.50 |
| Xiotic 0.5 | Globe Pharmaceuticals | ৳1.82 |
| Nixalo 0.5 | Nuvista Pharma | ৳5.00 |
| Anxitol 0.5 | ACME Laboratories | ৳2.00 |
| G-Alprazolam | Gonoshasthaya Pharma | ৳1.50 |
| Prazolam 0.5 | Renata Limited | ৳3.00 |
| Zolax 0.25 | Beximco Pharmaceuticals | ৳1.50 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Zolium 0.5
Q: What is the Zolium 0.5 mg price in Bangladesh?
As of January 2026, the retail price for Zolium 0.5 is ৳3.40 per tablet. A full strip of 10 tablets costs ৳34.00.
Q: What is Zolium 0.5 used for?
It is primarily used for the short-term relief of anxiety disorders and the management of panic attacks (with or without a fear of open spaces).
Q: What are the common Zolium 0.5 side effects?
The most frequent side effects are drowsiness, lightheadedness, coordination issues, dry mouth, and blurred vision. These are usually most prominent when starting the drug.
Q: Is Zolium 0.5 safe during pregnancy?
Zolium is generally not safe during pregnancy (Category D). It can cause withdrawal symptoms or “floppy infant syndrome” in newborns. Consult your doctor for safer alternatives.
Q: Is Zolium 0.5 habit-forming?
Yes, it has a very high potential for addiction and physical dependence. It should only be taken for the exact duration and dose prescribed by your doctor.
Q: Can I drink alcohol while taking Zolium 0.5?
No, you must strictly avoid alcohol. Alcohol increases the drug’s effects to a dangerous level, which can cause severe breathing problems or coma.
Q: How long does Zolium 0.5 take to work?
It is fast-acting, with most users feeling a calming effect within 15 to 30 minutes of ingestion.
Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?
Take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose to catch up, as this increases the risk of over-sedation.
Q: Can I stop taking Zolium 0.5 once I feel better?
No, you should never stop suddenly. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor will provide a schedule to gradually reduce the dose.
Disclaimer: This is educational information only (updated January 2026). Not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified physician before starting/stopping any medication.
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