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Just started Xanax...anyone have experiences to share?
I recently moved to a new house I am not liking, and have always struggled with anxiety. My anxiety has spiked and has been out of control over this move which I feel was a mistake. My doctor prescribed sertraline, but I understand I will not feel the affect of the sertraline for 6-8 weeks. For the past couple of weeks I have been taking two .5 mg of Xanax a day, which has really helped. My doctor said Xanax is not a long term solution but that this is a safe dose. I am afraid of addiction and of Xanax, but right now it seems to be the only thing calming me down. Just wondering what others have experienced with Xanax.
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I was prescribed Xanax for quite some time and it is easy to abuse! Just remember to use it sparingly and only when you absolutely need it. If you find that you "need" it along with another medication to help you sleep, for example, think again! Watch for contraindications with any OTC meds and supplements.
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2 ReactionsIf you have been on Xanax for a long time and or high doses please read if you plan on getting off it.
https://www.benzoinfo.com/2018/02/06/why-currently-available-benzodiazepine-dosages-prevent-safe-withdrawal/-
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2 ReactionsRead up on benzos not to be used long term. Most studies say 2-4 weeks.
Please please be careful.
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1 ReactionDitto, please be careful. If you find yourself using this product daily for a long time (a month or two) - you'll begin to need increasing amounts to get the same relief. Not good - you're then on the path to addiction.
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1 ReactionI have taken Zanax for over 20 yrs. I like it because it is fast acting yet it is not one I have to take everyday for it to work. I have never had trouble with it.
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1 ReactionThis is a highly unpopular solution for a lot of good reasons. I know way more than I care to since I was initially Rx Xanax 30 yrs ago for stress and anxiety. No one knew then. I do still suffer from anxiety and panic disorder. And I remained a Xanax patient for all that time. #1) contrary to popular belief, increased dosage being required is not always true. It wasn't for me. #2) It helped me through major life challenges which I had to deal with alone. But there came a time, when I had two back-to-back traumatic brain injuries from car accidents. The accidents were not my fault and occurred 6 mos apart. The concussions changed how my brain functioned. The Xanax became my enemy. I was never told about the damaging effects of Xanax. Bottom line is that it was evident that it was not okay. Honestly, you will always face challenges in life that cause anxiety. Naturally, we want that anxiety to go away and stay under control. Xanax does a great job of that. But it also holds your brain hostage. It's no longer your natural brain. Xanax is in control and it can turn on you in true monster fashion. I nearly died because of it. Please find other ways to cope with your anxiety. Xanax is not your friend. Hugs.
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2 ReactionsI had panic attacks for years and Xanax was the only thing that helped me.