Posted by Sobriquet Style on March 30, 2006, at 7:28:25
I want to, would very much like to see : ) medical evidence - medical studies conducted which can pose serious doubt as to what is stated here:
"Tolerance to the anxiolytic effects develops more slowly but there is little evidence that benzodiazepines retain their effectiveness after a few months. In fact long-term benzodiazepine use may even aggravate anxiety disorders. Many patients find that anxiety symptoms gradually increase over the years despite continuous benzodiazepine use, and panic attacks and agoraphobia may appear for the first time after years of chronic use. Such worsening of symptoms during long-term benzodiazepine use is probably due to the development of tolerance to the anxiolytic effects, so that "withdrawal" symptoms emerge even in the continued presence of the drugs. However, tolerance may not be complete and chronic users sometimes report continued efficacy, which may be partly due to suppression of withdrawal effects."
http://www.benzo.org.uk/manual/bzcha01.htm
Theres studies I've come across which only appear to validate this information. Some studies were slightly better, but conducted in the early 1980's, when less was known. I fully know that Prof. Ashton's view on this matter is very one-sided to say the least and doesn't put this group of drugs in its best light. The only positive thing I read on her site was that her qualifications and experience was impressive.
I know theres many on this board who have been taking Benzo's for long periods of time and can safely say that they have not lost the anxiety effects to these drugs. However, in order to get my doctor to prescribe one of these drugs (i'm going to ask for low dose Diazepam) I have a strong feeling he's answer will be "No" (I mentioned the drugs a long time ago and this was the response, but back then I knew little of what I do now) This said, I also know through experience with my doctor that if I can show him hard medical data - new studies - he will more than likely give a "Yes" answer.
I think the withdrawal and abuse potential is something that is a fact with the drugs, for some. However I am not one to abuse drugs, which will be clearly stated to him, and because I wish to use this drug longterm until something better comes along, withdrawal is not something i'll be going through anytime soon. Any evidence that puts these two factors in a better light too is good though, but the anxiety tolerance I feel is the main information I need.
If anyone can provide positive, new, evidence which shows that Diazepam can work for anxiety long term, hopefully I won't have to change doctor, which will not be easy.
Many thanks in advance to anyone who can provide as many high quality studies as possible!
~
Ps reminder Ace ;-)
poster:Sobriquet Style
thread:626479
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20060329/msgs/626479.html