Posted by Glydin on September 28, 2005, at 11:21:25
In reply to Re: I really love Lexapro GLYDIN, posted by maddy4 on September 28, 2005, at 10:41:31
Hi Maddy,
This is kinda long and probably much more info and opinion than you asked for. (Smile) I hope you can bear with me on my long post to you. (another Smile)
I have been following your posts and I know things have been rough for you. It is so confusing and a trial and error situation to hit upon a good treatment choice.
As I've stated before, it's SO difficult for the anxiety proned to stick with a med. It's the nature of anxiety disorders with hyperattentiveness and we may just be more sensitive to the SE's of meds.
I did trial several SSRI's before allowing myself to give Lex a fighting chance. While I do not recall anything with pupil changes, I did have a number of SE's that were distressing. They did pass and were startup things. Once they passed, I have enjoyed the good effects Lex has had for me.
It is entirely possible to just use a benzo. It's not a popular choice for docs, but it is possible. I did JUST Klonopin for 3 years and it was successful. I do advocate close watching by a doc if you choose this route - at least in the beginning - to assure avoiding pitfalls. Benzos are also really helpful during startups on a new med. Most persons who use benzo's for anxiety treatment are very viligent and careful and most use very approiately for the treatment of a very life impacting health problem. While one can develop a medical dependence - which I had, Addiction - TRUE addiction - does not have to be part of the picture for long term users.
I am of the opinion anxiety and panic are treated and not cured. There are select individuals that have a period of anxiety and panic and that's it. But, for most of us, it's something we must contend with probably a lot of our lives from time to time. I'm not saying that to be negative but I found the reality of that was part of acceptance for me and help me to be more proactive to achieve good treatment.
If you think your panic attacks are sporatic, maybe an "as needed" benzo would work for you. The problem with panic is, it comes with so much dread for anticipation of the next. This led to agoraphobia for me. My choice was to try and have 24 hour coverage for control. So, a long half life benzo was a good choice for that. Regular Xanax is short acting and while acting fast, it burns out fast also. CBT can also be an option and may be of help.
I'll be honest with you, I don't think WB is a good choice for most folks with anxiety problems. That being said, we are all different and one simply does not know if it is a good choice until a decent amount of trial time has passed.
I really do wish you this best in getting a good treatment. It's tough, it really is. But a good doc, possibly use good med(s), possibly use of therapy and educating yourself from GOOD resources, can make a huge difference in quality of life.
Good Luck to you,
Glydin
poster:Glydin
thread:559345
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20050927/msgs/560623.html