Posted by Tony P on September 2, 2001, at 3:25:25
In reply to Re: Panic Attacks/Does Buspar work??? » JohnL, posted by Janelle on September 1, 2001, at 21:27:26
Without wanting to take anything away from the good suggestions posted re appropriate meds to try for panic disorder, I have to say that I am the one (maybe two??) exception(s) on this board who have obtained significant benefit from Buspar. It may depend a lot on what AD if any you are on. Serzone and Buspar seem to be a good mix - I've met a few people in cyberspace who also found that combo very effective - and Serzone MAY also help with the panic - it has an immediate mild tranquilizing effect for me and most people besides its longer-term antidepressant action.
Also, for me Buspar is a fast-acting drug. The product literature may be correct in stating that full benfits and steady-state levels are only obtained after 1-2 weeks, but my experience is that I get useful help within hours. Immediately after a dose, I feel slightly "stoned" (not entirely pleasantly) for an hour or so. Then the stoned feeling passes off and I experience an increase in energy and assertiveness, almost aggressiveness, combined oddly with a much higher tolerance for stress and scary or irritating situations without getting angry or panicky.
It also has for me a considerable beneficial effect on social phobia - not the same as panic disorder I think, but they may have enough in common that you could benefit from Buspar. I expect that Buspar is not considered by most Drs. the first drug of choice for panic disorder, but nonetheless it might work for you as it has for me. Don't write it off just because others have not found it useful - your mileage may vary, as we say.
If you do give it a try I have a hunch you will know within a day or three at most whether it is a useful med for YOU.
Please feel free to email me (my address should be attached) if you want.
Tony P
> Just thought I'd say that I second EVERYTHING JohnL has so articulately stated. If you do go the benzo route, Klonopin may be the "best" bet because it is the least addicting.
>
> I've taken it for years and when I've forgotten it a few days, nothing terrible happened.
poster:Tony P
thread:77279
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010828/msgs/77391.html