Posted by Rathrbfishn on May 20, 2002, at 20:53:36
In reply to Thanks all, and a few more questions, posted by johnj on May 20, 2002, at 9:26:08
I have taken xanax in fairly high doses for years. Have little to no problems with it. I did use it with doxepin several years ago for a few months, along with xanax, but I have difficulties with the eventual enhancing effects of AD's. I take doxepin rarely now if I need a good nights sleep. I don't usually have a problem with doxepin's enhancing effect if I take it for a night or two due to insomnia. I am aware of many people who take long half life benzo's such as klonopin and tranxene as a daily maintenance dose and use xanax or ativan on a per need basis when faced with panic inducing situations, and need a fast acting anxiolitic.
As far as lithium, I tried it once when I was not using xanax or doxepin and found it turned me into a zombie, so I stopped it after 3 days.
I think the main thing about polytherapy is that you need to have a pdoc who is an expert, and has accurately diagnosed your condition.
My diagnosis is chronic panic/anxiety which explains the long term use of xanax. The occasional use of the sedating doxepin is for insomnia, not depression. I'm sorry, but I have no experience when adding lithium to this mix.
poster:Rathrbfishn
thread:106961
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020517/msgs/107113.html