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Re: when is xanax prescribed? » aquestioner

Posted by Viridis on June 28, 2003, at 1:09:40

In reply to when is xanax prescribed?, posted by aquestioner on June 27, 2003, at 20:51:13

Xanax (alprazolam) is an excellent benzo for anxiety and seems to have antidepressant properties too. It was very widely prescribed until a few years ago, but it got a reputation for abuse (much like Valium in the 70s). Some people use it recreationally (although hardly ever those who really need it), so there's a street market for it, which really makes doctors nervous.

The big concern seems to be that it's short-acting, which (theoretically) means that people are more likely to pop increasing doses with increasing frequency as the effects wear off. So, many doctors who are willing to prescribe benzos prefer longer-acting ones, especially Klonopin (clonazepam), which is virtually imperceptible once you get used to it, and has almost no credible reputation for abuse.

It's a shame, because Xanax is great for fast relief from anxiety/panic. I have lots, and take it only when needed. A bit works well, any more makes me sleepy, so I have no incentive to abuse it. But it's the usual story -- since a few people have gotten into trouble with it (I know one such person), it's apparently monitored more closely than other drugs in the same class. My pdoc told me that asking for Xanax by name can sometimes be perceived as "drug-seeking behavior", and recommends use of the generic term alprazolam (of course, he knows that I have no interest in getting high on it).

People with genuine anxiety disorders rarely abuse benzos (benzodiazepines), but when these drugs appeared they were prescribed widely enough that some people found certain ones to be euphoriants, and that, coupled with the fact that they're now off-patent so not very profitable, has led to a backlash. This is supported by drug companies who would rather see expensive, still-under-patent drugs prescribed instead. And, there's an active anti-benzo lobby who have seized upon the small proportion of negative reactions to label these drugs "addictive" and "dangerous".

Sad, because used responsibly, these meds are very effective and safe, and have a proven record as the gold standards for anxiety disorders.


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