Posted by chemist on June 13, 2004, at 19:54:09
In reply to Re: Ativan vs. Zyprexa. Need help, posted by harryp on June 13, 2004, at 0:31:16
> That's a pretty impressive record on the Ativan. If I were a doc, my main concern would be the alcohol, since as you know they don't mix well!
>
> You said they just took your ativan at the rehab center. Did they taper you off it with decreasing dosages? Stopping a benzo (or antipsychotic) cold-turkey is very unwise. From what I have heard, benzo withdrawal is very bad (and dangerous) if done cold-turkey, but is usually not much of a problem if one discontinues the med slowly.
>
> Personally, if you think you can stay off the alcohol (and I bet having your anxiety under control would make that a lot easier!) I think going back on the Ativan with a doc's supervision could be the best solution.
>
> Docs vary, but I think that if you explained your situation and history in detail, and expressed a willingness to see him or her frequently for dose monitoring, he or she would be receptive to the idea.
>
> I think benzos are much safer long term than antipsychotics, which can have nasty side effects.
>
> Hope this helps.mcp, in my opinion, harryp is right on track. the reason ativan works for you is that alcohol hits GABA receptors, as do the benzos. alcohol hits a lot more, but the effect you are feeling from ativan is not entirely unlike a couple of drinks. harryp's advice to look into a maintainance therapy with a benzo - perhaps even klonopin, which will provide the same relief with lower abuse potential - sounds spot-on. just me two-cents, and all the best.....chemist
poster:chemist
thread:356102
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20040608/msgs/356377.html