Hi Anerol: When I first started panic attacks I was prescribed Xanax. I took some twice a day as prescribed. I don't remember the dosage - it was light though. It did not stop the panic/stress thoughts because I still didn't really understand what was wrong with me and was very fearful of symptoms. I think I was on this for about 2 months until I decided I was going to go to a psychologist to figure this out. Once I started seeing someone for help, I dropped the Xanax right away - it was scary to do so for me but mostly I think because i was afraid of symptoms which as we know accelerates and adds to the panic, not yet understanding them. It wasn't until I did the CBT that I started the real healing process.
Xanax made me a bit sleepy and thirsty (I think - it's been over 20 yrs.). But it is fast acting and that is often why it is prescribed. I think it would work very well for emergencies, but not every day, just when needed. This is my experience only.
I have been on 2 different types of "benzo's", lorazapam .5 mg, and klonopin .5 mg. I've found that taking a half a tablet only when absolutely necessary can help a lot in stressful situations. Though drugs like these should probably only be used as absolutely necessary.
The lorazapam is very strong. I cut those in half, and would only take .25 mg at a time. They would put me to sleep, pretty much. Since thats not really convenient, I switched to klonopin. For me, this works very well. I take half a tablet to 1 tablet about a half an hour before I have to drive, on the days where I have to drive long distances (since my anxiety comes from driving). Other than that, I don't take them. For me, they don't stop the anxious thoughts, but they make them less scary, and you feel calmer. I feel more in control. I also feel alot better just knowing I have the pills on me in my purse, just in case I encountered a scary situation.
My experience is with Ativan and Valium. Personally Ativan is a good drug up to a month only. No ifs ands or buts. Valium I have used for periods up to a year with no problems or side effects even on withdrawal. Xanax is a designer drug for a specific type of anxiety. All the Benzo's are.
Personally I would look it up or talk to your doctor to be sure it is the right one for you. Others here using it may have a different form of anxiety than you. Still their experience with it is good information for when you have to talk to your doctor.
I would definitely discuss the benefits and side effects of these medications with your physician or healthcare professional. They will be able to better answer these questions based on your individual case.
How has Xanax/Zanax(?) helped for everyone? What are some of the pros and cons? Are there side effects? Withdrawals symptoms when getting off? How much mg did you take?
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