Posted by JohnL on September 1, 2001, at 13:00:04
In reply to Panic Attacks/Does Buspar work???, posted by FluteTheatrix on September 1, 2001, at 11:54:23
I want to say something encouraging to you. But when it comes to Buspar, there just isn't much to get encouraged about. For one thing, if it is to work at all it takes 4 to 6 weeks to do so. You don't have that kind of time. Second of all, when it does work (seldom), it doesn't seem to stay working(frequent). Third, it is wicked expensive. Doctors love Buspar, and the literature on it looks great. Why, I have no clue, because every doctor I've had never had any luck with Buspar. In the REAL world, you have to hunt real hard to find anyone who has done well with it. Nobody here, that's for sure.
I sound like a broken record when I say this, but I would suggest going straight to Zyprexa 2.5mg to 10mg range. Probably the best choice is actually in the benzo class, such as Xanax, Valium, or Klonopin, but doctors are reluctant to get a patient hooked on these.
Another trick worth mentioning is a beta-blocker. Ask your doctor for a sample of a beta-blocker. The cool thing with them is that you only take them as needed, you don't need to take them all the time. This is a much underused trick when it comes to treating panic attacks. When you feel a panic attack coming on, you take a beta blocker. Then you don't take another one until the next episode.
My vote would be for either Zyprexa or a beta blocker. I give two thumbs down to Buspar.
John> HeLLo... I posted in here awhile back "I think I am dying". Well things are still bad. I have tried PAXIL and ZOLOFT and PROZAC and the side effects are horrible. It made my panic attacks 5x's worse. I feel like there is no hope. My doc prescribed me Buspar but Im afraid to take it. I am scared of side effects. I have been speaking to SalArmy4me and he has been very helpful. Giving me alot of advice. I want to speak to somebody that has taken or currently on Buspar. Are the side effects bad? Does it help? I cannot take SSRI's. no no no.... very bad! I leave into the Navy in October.... I only have like 6 weeks to take the Buspar.... I need advice! What I am scared of is increased heart rate and insomnia. Thank you!
poster:JohnL
thread:77279
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010828/msgs/77292.html