Posted by paulb on February 25, 2002, at 19:00:52
In reply to Lorazepam (Ativan) for Anxiety?, posted by mdertinger on February 25, 2002, at 11:54:21
Gabapentin does not undergo hepatic metabolism. it undergoes metabolism in the kidneys. Its worth a trial for anxiety. It is an analogue of the natural neurotransmitter GABA and stimulates the release of GABA. its not as potent as a benzodiazepine but it does possess anti-anxiety effects.
Lorazepam doesnt undergo hepatic metabolism either. It is glucuronidated but there is no data on which UGT isoform is available.
Youve come up with two good choices for medications that wont pose any threat to the liver. I heard one psychiatrist say that he had used Topamax successfully for PTSD and I do not believe that undergoes liver metabolism either.
Alternatively you could take a medication that does undergo liver metabolism but supplement with one of the natural supplements that support the liver. I know SAM-E is one.
poster:paulb
thread:95449
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020222/msgs/95498.html