Brief Answer:
yes xanax xr can cause headache

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Thanks for writing to us.

Xanax xr being extended release tablet causes slower absorption rate results in a relatively constant peak concentration that is maintained between 5 and 11 hours after the dosing. While in regular xanax it is not maintained more than an hour.
This point is responsible for somewhat more effectiveness of XR than regular xanax preparation in anxiety/panic disorder.
However this point is also responsible for headache. Headache is side effect of both regular and xr preparation. But as mentioned above relatively longer peak level leads to more chances of headache.

Multiple dose studies indicate that the metabolism and elimination of alprazolam are similar for the immediate-release and the extended-release products.So no major difference in that regard.

Another advantage is xr preparation reduces need of frequent dosing.

Food has a significant influence on the bioavailability of Xanax XR Tablets. A high-fat meal given up to 2 hours before dosing with Xanax XR Tablets increased the peak concentration.

There were significant differences in absorption rate for the Xanax XR Tablet, depending on the time of day administered, with the peak concentration increased by 30% an hour following dosing at night, compared to morning dosing.

In conclusion XR preparation is better than plain if used alone for panic disorder and it should be taken at night.

Hope I have answered your query, I will be happy to help further.

Regards,
Dr.Chintan Solanki

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