Posted by Viridis on June 15, 2003, at 0:37:23
In reply to Re: valium vs klonopin? » avid abulia, posted by Chloe on June 14, 2003, at 17:20:24
Hi again Chloe,
I'm very prone to mixed states -- intense depression coupled with severe, obsessive anxiety. The anxiety usually comes first, then the depression spiral. During these times, I am almost completely unable to eat or sleep. I used to experience this several times a year (since I was a child, so we're talking 30+ years). Others in my family have similar problems.
Although things aren't perfect, I haven't had a major episode of this kind since starting Klonopin. My pdoc says it has some mood-stabilizing effects, and is impressed with how much it's helped me at what he considers a very low dose. He'd like me to stay with it indefinitely, and considers it very safe when used responsibly.
I find that K is a great antidepressant for anxiety-induced depression/agitation. Xanax is also a mood elevator for me, but more than about 0.5 mg makes me very sleepy, so its dosage is self-limiting in my case, and I use it only as an occasional adjunct.
BTW, fish oil also seems to help; I take about 6-8 g/day, for about 1.2 g EPA (which appears to be the most important component). It's a healthy thing to do anyway, for many reasons (e.g., cardiovascular benefits etc.), so you might consider adding this. I do not find it substitutes for the meds, but does seem to provide a bit of additional stability.
poster:Viridis
thread:233756
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030614/msgs/234080.html