Xanax or Valium to calm nerves before first Reclast infusion?

Posted by mackie42 @mackie42, Mar 1 1:32pm

I was wondering if anyone has used a Xanax or Valium to calm their nerves before going for their first Reclast infusion? I am switching from Prolia (which I never had any side effects from) to Reclast and I'm very anxious about doing this. My doctor said that most people tolerate it very well with very little side effects, mainly flu-like symptoms, headaches, chills & fever for the first day or two, but after reading some comments here, I'm feeling a little nervous and thought perhaps something to calm me down might be a good idea. Any thoughts?

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Osteoporosis & Bone Health Support Group.

babs10 | @babs10 | Mar 1 2:53pm

You could but be very mindful b/c they are SO quickly addictive (b/c benzodiazepines provide such quick and nice relief) and that creates a whole other set of problems and concerns.

windyshores | @windyshores | Mar 1 3:54pm

I don't see a problem with that as long as you aren't driving!

Hydrate, take tylenol, ask for a slow infusion. Let us know how you do. Many do absolutely fine!

njhornung | @normahorn | Mar 1 3:54pm

I personally would be hesitant to have two potent drugs in my body at the same time. But then I do not react in a typical manner to a number of drugs

windyshores | @windyshores | Mar 1 7:50pm

I have taken Klonopin, in the same class (benzos) for neck pain, and 1/4 of the lowest dose knocks me out. But others may have a different experience.

susanfalcon52 | @susanfalcon52 | Mar 2 7:27am

I promise you, I will take a xanax before my first Reclast infusion in May. Maybe two Xanax!

irishnanny3 | @irishnanny3 | Mar 2 7:47am

I am always prescribed a Xanax
when I’ve having a closed MRI
and it’s never caused a problem
You won’t become “addicted”
from a one time use
And I agree with previous responder.. maybe two! to relax you. The dose used is very low

susanfalcon52 | @susanfalcon52 | Mar 3 7:38am

I have had a Xanax prescription for 20 years. Sometimes I take it to sleep. Definitely when I fly and if I’m sleeping in a hotel it’s a must. I have not been taking it when I get the Evenity injections because that has become routine.
I think some doctor in my past first prescribed Xanax for panic attacks. That is not a good use of Xanax for me because the panic attack is over by the time the medication kicks in.
The dosage is low - .25mg. For that reason, I believe some of the effect is psychological.
Sometimes I don’t take a Xanax for weeks.
One .25mg Xanax takes the edge off for me, but I am totally capable to work, drive, babysit, etc. I have also taken it before public speaking and found it helpful.
I believe that the opioid crisis created a panic regarding Xanax, too. Recent research indicates that 1% of the population becomes dependent on Xanax. Addicted and dependent are not the same thing.
I see this with my clients often. A low dose of Xanax or the equivalent would help them immensely, but they are terrified to try it.
Sorry for the longish post on an unrelated topic.

babs10 | @babs10 | Mar 3 8:26am

In reply to @susanfalcon52 "I have had a Xanax prescription for 20 years. Sometimes I take it to sleep. Definitely..." + (show)

I'm curious about the difference btw addicted and dependent. Thanks.

andreamayo | @andreamayo | Mar 4 11:54am

I had no side effects at all. Reclast infusion on Jan 20th.
My friend has a much higher dose for cancer, same for him, no side effects. Except no more fractures. 🙂
May very well be the same for you.

Helen, Volunteer Mentor | @naturegirl5 | Mar 4 3:10pm

@mackie42 I suggest that you run your plan to take Xanax before your first Reclast infusion past your prescribing physician. Without any information on your history of Xanax use this one-time and limited use of this med for a medical procedure shouldn't be an issue. You are highly anxious before starting on a new medication/infusion and Xanax may be the right choice for you to make sure you get the osteoporosis medication you need. I'm assuming you will have someone with you who can drive and you shouldn't be driving while on this medication (according to the prescribing medication).

I am prescribed Ativan (same class of medications) before a PET or MRI as there is no way I'd get into the scanner with medication as I'm so very claustrophobic.

Does this help?