Posted by Alan on July 19, 2001, at 1:29:18
In reply to Re: Racing obsessive thoughts, posted by blayton on July 18, 2001, at 3:32:36
> Wendy,
> I do take Xanax on a as-needed basis , particularly during the high-anxiety periods in my life . It works very well on such occasions . But I am careful not to build up tolerance as this is the only thing that works with certainty when required . I have never had to go beyond 2 mg though and I have never taken it for more than a month at a stretch .
> I do not have any depression or bipolar symptoms , just continuous anxiety about almost everything and particularly when I am working or doing something important . Low self-esteem is another component of my cocktail.
> Thanks for the information on the threads . It was very useful.
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Do I understand it right that the only complete relief you get is from xanax? Or just when the panic is overwhelming you? If it's the former I'd be asking the same questions about why you aren't on benzodiazapines.Your concern (or doctor's I don't know which) is really unfounded about addiction. If it works for you you are not addicted but medically or pharmalogically dependent - big difference. Tolerance is not an issue for most people and this much maligned drug (mainly from people that don't understand it) is the first line of defense against anxiety disorders. I know because I've been on it for many years and sure I need a medium-high dose but so what? I have my life back. You're not an "addict" by any stretch.
When and if you decide to stop, you just have to taper them, that's all - just like every other med (as it's turning out) whether it fits the strict definition of "addictive" or not.
There are many types of benzos to try and they will all have a differing effect on you - allot of variety to fit what you may need.
If your doctor is worried about "addiction" and you tell them that you simply feel better on the benzos (5 MG's of it if that's what works), they're not listening to you. I'd consider getting a second opinion from someone that understands and specialises in treating chronic anxiety disorders.
I had this same problem until I found the right pdoc. It took 5 years and 3 of them but I finally found one that asked one simple question when on a new med - "well, do feel better?". That's all I needed to know.
Good Luck.
Alan
poster:Alan
thread:70320
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010714/msgs/70793.html