Answer/Reply:

I had been on Alprazolam, Xanax for over 15 years. I too needed it to sleep. I decided that I wanted off, so I researched and found that Mellatonen, which is non addictive, was supposed to be good for that. I tried it, and after adjusting the mg. I found it worked wonderfully, no side affects, and I feel refreshed in the morning. I had no withdrawel from the Xanax. This is available through most Vitamin Companies.

63 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-19 19:29:21

Answer/Reply:

I was on the Trazadone and Prozac. The Prozac was useless to me; I was put on Cymbalta instead and it is wonderful. The Trazadone was causing me horrible nightmares. It would put me to sleep but 3 hours later I was awake feeling terrible and like I said, terrible nightmares. I am now on Atarax and sleep through the night. I am prescribed 3 x 1 mg. Alprazolam (Xanax) daily, but only take 2 X .5 mg daily unless it is a highly stressful day; then I usually end up taking 1 x 1 mg and 1 x .5 mg. That only happens about once a month. The addiction can be controlled if you put your mind on not becoming addicted. However, do not confuse the need for the medication for legitimate reasons with addiction. I have been on Xanax for 6 years and have had it bumped up one time. Now, as I said, I take less than prescribed and I do fine with it.

49 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-20 13:42:36

Answer/Reply:

Sometimes, the body does become "dependent" and that's normal but addiction is ot and has certain behavior that goes along with the word addiciton. I have taken Anxiety meds for over 15 years and I know my body is depndeny and I;m sure we both fill very sililar if we stop taking them. If you google "difference between Xanax addiction and xanax addiction", you'll understand what i mean. Our bodoes become dependent onTylenol, if taken eveey day. If you really want to stop the medicine, try to ween yourself down a little,very little, and do it over along period. You will get used to taking less meds, without that terrible feeling,but it takes time and patience.Wish you well.

43 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-21 15:25:20

Answer/Reply:

You have to gradually take yourself off of it, your Dr. can tell you how it's done without the nasty side effects. My Dr. helped me and it worked.

51 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-24 13:20:14

Answer/Reply:

I have been taking .5 xanax for over 10 years. 1/2 in the am and 1/2 in the pm. Ive tried to stop taking it. Some times its okay if Im very active and other times I feel nauseaus. What are your side effects when trying to stop.

66 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-27 15:42:36

Answer/Reply:

I have been taking this same dose for a little over a year now and have decided to try to get off of it totally. I stopped taking the morning dose and so far, so good. I have only had a headache but don't know if that is a side effect or just an ordinary headache. I still take the 1/2 at bedtime but after a couple weeks or so I am going to try to stop that too. The Dr. put me on it for anxiety after being diagnosed with Vertigo. I am also on Meklizine and taking that along with the Alprazolam makes me very sleepy. That is what made me decide to try to get off it. I don't feel I can stop the Meklizine.

60 year old Female

Posted: 2009-09-11 16:25:20

Answer/Reply:

To the 37 year old female. You said when you stop taking the xanax that you have bad reactions. If you don't mind would you please tell me what type of reactions do you have when you stop taking the xanax? I take 1 mg tablets 2 of them 3 times a day for my nerves. They are just so bad, if I don't take them I just get so nervous I feel like I'm coming out of my skin, plus I take Dilandud 8 mgs. for pain, and MS Contytin in between the Dilandud for breakthrough pain. I have severe osteoarthritis in my hands and in my back mostly. But when you go off of the xanax what kind of reactions do you get from being off of it? If you don't mind to tell me.Because I have been off of it before, and I have bad reactions also, I just wanted to know if we had any similarities? Thank you,cindygail43 9-2-2009 Also, I know one woman said that her doctor just stopped giving them to her, the doctor is not supposed to do that, they are supposed to slowly take you off of them, not just al at once, I'm sure she suffered tremedously. Poor woman. I really feel for her because I've been off of them for the most period of time has been about 2 weeks, and I thought my heart was going to beat out of me, so I can imagine how she felt, but I would really like to know how you felt when you were off of them, and you said I believe that you onlytook the 0.5 mgs, and I take 2 of the 1 mgs 3 times a day or as I need them. Hope to hear a reply from you soon.

49 year old Female

Posted: 2009-09-02 12:42:00

Answer/Reply:

I have been on one 0.25 of Alprazolam a day for 24 yrs. for panic attacks. Only on a very seldom occasion have I had to take one more to get it to go away. I won't increase it because it is so addictive and I would hate to think I would get to the point of it not helping me without more and more. I do just fine on the one dose at night before I go to bed.
I would sure talk this over with my doctor before I upped the dosage. Taking that much and being on Wellbutin, as well...I don't know how you function. I couldn't do that. But, everyone's body is different.

70 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-04 21:26:36

Answer/Reply:

What I have done in the past about my chices for taking/not taking a certain med that is causing side effects, is weigh the pros vs. the cons. It sounds like the the xanax is helping you extremely. I take the maximum dosage, (I've been on it for at least 5 years, and the dose is 2 mg. 4 times a day.) Anyway, I would be doomed without it. I have forgotten to take it, and ended up having to be hospitalized for 3-5 days because of it. I don't worry about the addiction issue, as I feel it would be far better to take it than be hospitalized vs. being addicted. There are a few meds out there that can be used instead, but they are addictive too. Good luck, and I hope you can find an answer that you are comfortable with.

52 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-16 12:58:48

Answer/Reply:

Xanax is very addictive. I was taking the full prescribed amount when I changed doctors and he said I needed to get off of it. Told me it would be hard, but to try cutting back. I was taking 2 pills (0.5 mg) a day. I cut one pill in half and took it at night and the whole pill in the morning. There were days I had to take the other half, but that was ok. It took me 4 months to be able to cut the other pill in half at night. I stayed on the half pill twice a day for a year. Then I went down to half a pill a day, and it took me 3 years to do this. Not easy, but you can do it. VERY ADDICTIVE. I now am able to take a half pill on occasion. Some days require a whole pill, but we all have those days.

Good luck....YOu can do it!!!! ♥

56 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-16 23:17:54

Answer/Reply:

I am on both of those drugs also and I take the wellbutrin in the morning and the xanax at night because xanax yes make me sleepy it also helps relax me to go to sleep. But don't increase tell your doctor because you can become dependent were you think you need more. I found adding malitonin plus which is not a drug taken also at bed really changed me alot because I would get a very sound sleep.

50 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-18 23:28:22

Answer/Reply:

HI, I TAKE XANAX AS WELL AT NIGHT ALONG WITH AMBIEN 10. MG. IF NOT FOR THE .5 MGS OF XANAX I CAN;T SLEEP COMFORTABLY. I AM INSTRUCTED TO TAKE 2/ DAY AS WELL, BUT I RARELY TAKE IT DURING THE DAY AND WHEN I DO I TAKE HALF OF ONE.
YOU CANNOT BECOME ADDICTED TO XANAX BUT YOU CAN BECOME DEPENDENT ON IT. AN ADDICTION WOULD HAVE YOU EXPERIENCING PAINFUL WITHDRAW SYMPTOMS. YOU MIGHT GET ANXIOUS BUT THAT IS THE SYMPTOM THAT IT TREATS/
RONNIE 54 YR. YOUNG MALE

55 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-19 16:29:34

Answer/Reply:

If it's working, why question it? If you're addicted, so what? I take half a Xanax every night and sleep like a log. It's the only time I'm out of pain ... I'm addicted to 'em, so what?? I hate sleepless nights wen I see the sun come up.

78 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-20 12:59:09

Answer/Reply:

HELLO - I HAVE HYPERTHYROID, R/A, PRENICIOUS ANEMIA HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE AND SEVERE PANIC AND ANXIETY. FOR THE PAST 15 YEARS. I DON'T THINK YOU ARE ADDICTED. I THINK YOU HAVE HEARD SO MUCH SCARE TACTICS ABOUT XANAX THAT YOUR OWN FEARS ARE MAKING YOU THINK YOU ARE. WHY STOP IF YOU FEEL BETTER? I'VE BEEN TAKING 2 A DAY FOR 15 YEARS. HAD TO GO OFF WELBUTRIN BECAUSE IT DOES AND CAN CAUSE RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS OR IF YOU ALREADY HAVE R/A THE PAIN GETS WORSE FROM ANTIDEPRESSANTS. I SAY DON'T FIX WHAT ISN'T BROKEN - YOUR BLOOD WORK WILL TELL IF YOU ARE GETTING TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING (4 YOU) GOOD LUCK. ANXIOUS AND ACHY IN SANTA ROSA, CA

64 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-21 02:33:42

Answer/Reply:

74 year old female
I have been taking Xanax 0.5 mg for about 15 years for anxiety and depression. I only take as needed which is approximately once a week when I am very nervous and have extreme anxiety. I do not have any side effects and will keep continue to take it as long as my physician will prescribe it. At first I was taking it more often, but I do not want to get addicted to it.

75 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-22 14:10:04

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Seizures while taking alprazolam are not a common side effect - less than 1% of patients experience seizures while taking alprazolam. However, there is an increased risk of experiencing a seizure if the alprazolam is taken regularly and then stopped suddenly. If you are experiencing seizures or have concerns regarding your medication therapy, please make an appointment to discuss your questions with your physician.

Posted: 2009-06-15 12:12:24

Answer/Reply:

Sorry to hear you are having a hard time coming off. I had to take for two months straight last year 1mg twice a day. Well I didn't feel it was helping for my pvc so I just stopped taking it. I had the shakes and realized the next day it was stopping without weaning. So I took 1/2 a 1mg at lunch and 1mg at bed for 3 days and took 1/2 tabelet less ever three days till I was down to .25 at night. Then I took it every other day for a week till I was weaned off. I wish you luck and try spliting your pill in half for a while then go from there. You are probable experiencing anxiety from your other issues also and that isn't going to help when you are trying to get off something that was helping you. Maybe you could talk to the doctor about going on something that you take every day for anxiety. It might help. xanax is not supposed to be used for extended time as you know. Good luck

40 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-18 12:15:23

Answer/Reply:

Have you ever tried taking Valerian Root? It's an herbal supplement. It smells really bad but it works very well. Also, maybe you will have better luck with a different benzodiazepine such as klonopin or ativan. My best friend recently had the same complaint about the xanax, so you're not alone. I really think that ativan or klonopin would be better for you in the long run. It wouldn't hurt to bring it up to your doctor. Ativan supposedly has a better side effect profile than xanax anyway, and it works well. I have a prescription for xanax, I'm supposed to take two of the .5 mg every day but I usually take less than five a month and stash the rest of it away for emergencies. If you're able to, try to only take it when it is absolutely necessary and it will work like a charm every time. You should look into the Valerian Root, though. The only complaint (aside from the smell) anyone ever has is the potential for a mild "hangover" the next morning if they take two to get to sleep. But there is a good reason why they call it "herbal valium". Good luck!

32 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-19 16:47:44

Answer/Reply:

Oh my. I am a 63,yr old female, and take xanax on occasion, but my dr. said it is very addictive. He didn't prescribe it, another did, but tho I asked about Dilantin (for panic attacks), he said they don't know the long-term effects. At my age, I'm not going to worry about that, lol, but he wouldn't prescribe it.
For me, melatonin causes vivid dreams and nightmares, and the next day I feel like I haven't slept all night, so I am tired and more anxious.

I'm a small person, and now am worried that I may already be addicted to the xanax, as I do take it a few times a week. I would also like to stop taking it, and find something safer.
Has anyone tried Holy Basil for anxiety??

64 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-19 22:31:43

Answer/Reply:

i have to disagree w/you on part of what u said-i have lots of happiness in my life but i still have the anxiety that requires my taking xanax.i am also on methadone for chronic pain and i get so tired of hearing people ask how long i will be on it or i should be strong enough not to need it.well,if it takes my medication for me to be able to live a normal,pain-free life i will be on it forever.just my opinion.thanks,43 yr old female

44 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-20 22:08:12

Answer/Reply:

Hey I couldn't help but reply, I am also on xanax and have been for years. Like you I will be on this for the rest of my life, I have PTSD with anxiety and panic disorder. I know that they it is very addictive, but the only way I can live a somewhat normal life is by being on this among other medications. I am glad I'm not the only one that hears that, I've been told a number of times I shouldn't be on and I should try to stop or get on something. They just don't realize how debilitating this can be, good luck and if you need or want to chat I'm here. Take care

35 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-25 13:58:49

Answer/Reply:

I forgot to give my email, its sherextc@hotmail.com

35 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-25 14:06:22

Answer/Reply:

You said "i get so tired of hearing people ask how long i will be on it or i should be strong enough not to need it", because your on methadone for pain.......Well, I am on xanax & MMT & it's NOT for pain - its for opium abuse (xanax for anxiety). That being so, Methadone DOES NOT EASE MY PAIN!
In fact during a surgery I had, a stronger synthetic medicine had to be given because methadone isn't really meant to be a pain reliever, thus making it where they had to find synthetic morphine, as methadone blocks out a lot of pain killers.
I get tired of going to uninformed Dr.s & dentists who think that methadones' primary use is to kill pain. Its not.In my case, it doesn't help pain. I have other health issues, had surgery with these Dr's & their beliefs. They were wrong , I suffered, then found a new Dr.!
While MMT can be used to treat chronic pain like "neuropathic pain" & others The reasons its taking you so long to get off (if you even need to get off - thats YOUR decision, no matter what your on MMT for!) are that it is physically addicting, its best use is to treat opioid addiction, so taking this may take longer to feel better than if you where on, say, a Oxycontin regimen.
You & I are on opposite sides of the same coin. They really should be giving you something better or IN ADDITION to methadone for your pain! But if its working for YOU - thats ALL THAT MATTERS!
All that being said......It has nothing to do with strength. Its a medicine. Are Diabetics ever asked when they will finally lose a few pounds, stop eating bad sweets and foods, and gee, when are they ever gonna get off that Glucophage?! No, of course people don't say that! And whether people are asking you or me....when it comes to MMT....We shouldn't be asked - let alone apologize for needing medication!
Good for you! Keep it up!

33 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-25 14:56:30

Answer/Reply:

Oh, how uninformed you are!! Methadone was originally developed for PAIN management way back prior to WWII, by the Germans. Knowing they would run short of morphine during the war. It has remained an extremely effective synthetic opiate pain narcotic for over 65 years!! It wasn't even approved for MMT in the U.S. until 1972! Other than oxycontin, another excellent but flawed pain med., methadone is the only medication to ease my chronic back and leg pain. It continues to work just as effectively for me as it did when I first started taking it 7 yrs. ago. I've never needed to increase the dose even one time. Unfortunately, tolerence to oxycontin is developed quite rapidly. In fact, my pain management physician has done quite a bit of research, and has come to the conclusion that the manufacturer of oxy designed that drug knowing tolerence would develop very rapidly, hence larger profits! However, that's neither here nor there. Methadone is an excellent pain reliever as well as a legal substitute for herion, or any opiate narcotic one may become addicted to. My brother is on MMT, and probably will be for life. It works wonderfully for his pain, as well as keeping him from having withdrawl, or craving any other narcotics. The drug is a God send for both of us! I do agree w/ you in that none of us with any disease, whether it be diabetes, addiction, chronic pain, or the flu, need defend whatever it is we are taking, or doing, to help our condition. It's no ones business but our own!

46 year old Male

Posted: 2009-07-08 21:09:28

Answer/Reply:

Oh, one more tidbit. Junkies hang out in the parking lot @ the clinic where my brother gets his MMT. Because they know what a wonderful euphoric, pain reliever it is! They try to trade him their demerol, morphine, oxy , etc. But he keeps it in a lock box, and goes straight to his car. Occasionally, he calls 911 so the police will do a sweep thru, but as we know it's hard to keep an addict down. Quite sad really. It's not a "free' clinic, and they can't afford the fee. Now that is criminal. It's like keeping insulin from a diabetic!! I sure hope Obama is able to get some kind of real, meaningful healthcare through congress!!

46 year old Male

Posted: 2009-07-08 21:30:50

Answer/Reply:

YOU GO GIRL. WHAT EVER HELPS YOU COPE WITH THE HELL LIFE GIVES US SOMTIMES. THINGS ARE TUFF OUT THERE AND SOMETIMES (NO) ONE REALLY KNOWS WHAT ANOTHER IS GOING THROUGH OR THEY (JUST) DON'T CARE.
I TAKE XANAX one 5mg in the am and I break one in 1/2 about 3:00 pm. I was taking three 5mg three times a day. But I gradually broke it down on my own. Good luck friend.

64 year old Female

Posted: 2009-07-13 22:21:45

Answer/Reply:

I completley agree with you about the addiction. I was on .25 and it only last about 15 min. to an hour and I have 4 kid's, my dad died, and I was going through a nasty divorce. After a month of this "wonderful quick fix med." I realised I was eating them like tic tac's just to function with everyday thing's like going to the mailbox. And when I didn't have one that's all I could think about...get one get 2 hell just get the script. The Dr. dropped the script cold turkey on me and the first week was the hardest, but 2 year's later I am okay! Still wish I had one every now and again, but I honestly don't need them like that anymore. Hang in there it get's better. Nikki

29 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-21 14:28:33

Answer/Reply:

Though I completely agree with you that lifestyle changes are key to eliminating unhealty stress/anxiety, I cannot agree that those changes alone would eliminate anxiety disorder. Because of my own experience and many documented research studies, I would encourage you to NOT dismiss you anxiety/panic disorder as something that you can eliminate or control only by changing your attitude or lifestyle. While a positive outlook on defeating the disorder certainly makes progress more likely, anxiety disorder is a chemical imbalance that, when corrected for a sufficient period of time, can be restored to "normal". I participated in a research study for anxiety at a large teaching hospital in my area. After the research study was completed, I had seen more than a significant decrease, almost elimination, of my anxiety disorder. I was assigned to a psychologist for ongoing monitoring of my medication and my anxiety. I felt so much better after three months that I told the psychologist that I wanted to stop taking the medication. He told me that research has shown that the chemical pattern of anxiety needed to be interrupted for at least nine months before long-term results were achieved. I insisted and he released me from treatment. I hate feeling dependent upon medication! Within a few months, I was back in his office and took his advice to stay on the medication for at least nine months. I was anxiety free from late 1990 until late 1999, using no anti-anxiety medication. Then multiple crisis hit my family within a three-month time..four very serious situations...and my anxiety began to return. I put off and put off going back to my regular doctor, who had been my doctor since 1982 and knew my history well, and my anxiety gradually became unmanageable and I was placed on short-term disability for 7 months. It was at the beginning of my short term disability that I returned to treatment and was put on Wellbutrin (using generic bupropion) along with specific anxiety medication. Over time, my anxiety decreased significantly and I did not need my anxiety medication from about 2002 until 2005, when two more severe crisis hit my family. I continue my Wellbutrin/Bupropion without interruption and with good success. So, though I believe extreme stress is the major factor in triggering anxiety, I also believe that once the chemical pattern of anxiety is again triggered, you must have medication to eliminate or minimize the anxiety attacks. Anxiety is inherited and I have it in my family history; another factor that points toward chemical imbalance.

Thanks for reading my comments! I just want to encourage you to NOT hesitate to use medication for treatment. I recall telling my doctor that taking medication made me feel weak. He responded: "Have you ever thought that you are not being too weak now, but that you've had to be too strong for too long?" That really did hit the nail on the head! He was right and the extreme stress over those years altered my chemistry which improved only when restored by medication...I am a true believer!

56 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-21 22:06:32

Answer/Reply:

I only take 1mg per day and the only bad side effect is lapse of memory.I tell my doctor but she doesn't say anything. I know i'm hooked on it but oh well it works good on my anxiety and i've been taking it for months .And what i was going through this is god sent,i have ptsd from my time in army .I can sleep real good am more calm and patient ,so to me it's worth being hooked on ,if my quality of life is better ,i'll take it for life .I hope this comments will help somebody out there and i am a 58 year old male .Thanks for reading my comments.

59 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-24 23:57:15

Answer/Reply:

Thank you so much for your comment towards the end. I take .5 mg 3 x's a day, even though the dr. prescribed 1mg 3x's a day...that's just too much for me. Well anyway, as you described stomach issues and feeling like a panic/anxiety attack, it releives my feelings a little. I did not know that the stomach could actually cause that feeling, but it does make since. I have been having test done on my stomach and have gastritis, which if I eat certain things I feel panicy and anxious, now I know that it is possible it is my stomach causing some of those feelings, really a relief...that's something the dr. did not tell me.

35 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-27 15:25:50

Answer/Reply:

Hi, I am a 41 year old Woman. I was originally precribed Xanax by my Gastroenerologist because my stomach produces 10 times the normal amount of nervous acids. I was 22 years old and throwing up a yellow foamy acid substance first thing most mornings. The Xanax stopped it cold, as well as helping me cope with being diagnosed with Chrons disease at 25 years old. Both of my Grandmothers had Colitis. My GI doctor called Xanax "The GI Miracle Drug" when he 1st prescribed it, back when it was brand name only and about $400.00/month, and for me it was a miracle. I am prescribed 1mg 3x day, but try to take 1 or 2 1/2 pills (.5mg) a day. My only complaint is the memory loss issue which I feel is real, but it totally beats throwing up every morning. Bottom Line, don't listen to what friends and family say so much as LISTEN TO YOUR BODY my advice..take only as much as you need but DO take what you need. Taking care of yourself IS STRONG not WEAK. Wish you well.

42 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-14 15:42:57

Answer/Reply:

I know where you are coming from. Last year I was on .50's 3/day and I couldn't handle the aftermath. It made me so dizzy and just plain weird in the head, that I had to get off of it somehow. I told my doctor and he said if you think you need to do this, you do it, but do it for all the right reasons. You have to decide to dedicate yourself totally to getting off Xanax. Well, last year I fought long and hard and dropped 1/2 pill for 3 months at a time until I was down to 3 - .25's a day, which is where I'm at now. When you go off these, it takes 7 days to come off a .25. Then it takes about 3 months for your body to adjust. I suggest that you cut your pill in half and go off the same way as I did last year. But, go slowly, cause it can really grab hold of you and screw with your head, and you know the rest of the story. Believe me when I tell you these things. I've been on them for 7 years. Off and on, the past 3 years every day. I suffer from Chronic anxiety that is stress (job) related. Sure, get rid of the job and you feel better until something else in your life decides to smack you in the face, and off goes your anxiety again. It's a victious circle. Self talk, relaxation tapes, cognitive therapy will help, but regardless of how you turn the page, or want to hear this, the only thing that ever gave me the peace we need is God. I'm 53 and come in about 120 lbs and you are right - all bodies are different in comp., and these pills work differently in all of us, but if you have the man upstairs directing your journey, then coming off these pills will help you in ways you can't possibly imagine. If you are asking why haven't I dropped the .25's yet? I'm not ready to back off yet. You have to be ready in your head as well as your heart. Once you've come to that point in your life, or crossroads, quitting will be easier. I will stop at some point, but only when I'm ready, not when someone thinks I should stop. And do it slowly, 1/2 at a time - 3 months and then drop the other half, it will take you 6 months to drop 1 - .25 but you will be better for it. And don't forget to ask your God for help. 'If He brings you to it, He will bring you through it'. Good luck in your endevour and Stay the path of Faith and you will be just fine.

Rev. Fred
www.plantingtheseed.info

Stay Blessed

53 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-30 20:56:22

Answer/Reply:

Amen to that!!!! Through GOD, all things are possible.

32 year old Female

Posted: 2009-07-08 14:45:11

Answer/Reply:

I began taking 0.5 mg of Xanax three times daily for extreme anxiety and panic disorder. It didn't stop them immediately, but soon. Generalized anxiety and panic disorder is a very real problem. In addition to the Xanax, I also sought counseling with an experienced anxiety counselor. After a few months, I got better and now, 5 years later, I haven't had another serious panic attack. I still have my Xanax and have continued to take it since I have had several severely stressful situations occur in my life during the 5 years. (4 deaths in my family, loss of job/income, medical problems). My doctor told me that when we wean me off the Xanax, it will be a very gradual process - reducing 1/2 tablet at a time (at night) for a month, then reduce by another 1/2 tablet for another month, etc. until I am weaned off. Even though our body develops a dependency, I feel much safer with the Xanax and have much less side effects than with the seratonin medications or some of the other drug families. Just know that your anxiety is a very real thing that you may need the Xanax for as well as other assistance to overcome, but it is definitely possible to overcome or manage it. There is always a 'root' to the anxiety. Finding the root is key to overcoming it. Also, I used an anxiety program (CD's) that helped me understand it and gave me encouragement. (Lucinda Basset - Attacking Anxiety)
Good luck - I wish you the best.

59 year old female

61 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-01 22:25:26

Answer/Reply:

I was on Xanax for over three years after the death of my husband. I used .5 mg nightly as a sleep aid. I found I would have a bommerang effect during the next day, as if the pendulum would swing to the opposite end after calming me for the night. I then took 1/2 a pill nightly then went to 1/2 pill every other night. I no longer take it at all and have not had any anxiety attacks during the day. I feel great! Hope you can master it-good luck.

64 year old female

65 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-02 11:27:52

Answer/Reply:

Hi xanax is very hard to get off, you cant go cold turkey , im on them but at a stronger dose .
1mg , i ended up to 8 to 10 a day now im around 5 x 1mg a day . there bad news ,
i have been on then for at least 12years. i ran out once and had all the systoms of what i thought was the flue, except panic attacks started to kick in ,

my doctor suggested lexapro it is used to reduce xanax, it takes about 5 weeks to kick in .
yes twice i have tryed with lexapro ,after first time it was 3 weeks nothing so i went off them
when seen by my doctor he asked why i went off then which i told him there not doing anything so why take more medication, he explained try again it can take 4 to 5 weeks , also some people cannot get off xanax they may reduce .i suggest dont get a stronger xanax and break your tablet in half.see how you go ,im trying to drag mine out as long as possible, it hard
take it easy relax regards geoff

51 year old Male

Posted: 2009-06-06 02:07:52

Answer/Reply:

I also have had the indigestion/gas that can seem to either cause anxiety or stem from it, not sure which. I use gas-x. The thin strips work really well and fast. It helps to ease part of the anxiety. Talking with a friend or distracting yourself with something you love to do will help with regular anxiety attacks. As for the xanax, try taking the pills in smaller doses. Like break it into 4 pieces with a knife and take 3 of the 4 a day Until you are okay with that, Then cut down to 2 and so on until you are off completely. That's what I did with Zoloft. I take xanax every now and again. But seeing as how I had already battled zoloft I didn't take any chances on the xanax and only take a quarter of a pill when need be, and if it doesn't help shortly, I take another quarter pill. But I only use it as an absolute last resort. Hope this helps some. Good luck.

25 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-24 13:53:19

Answer/Reply:

I take Xanax(Alprazolam) for anxiety too but find that I get palpitations when I drink more than a little of any caffeinated product. Hope this may help with your heart rate/blood pressure problem. I too believe that much of our anxiety can be helped by ourselves but know that sometimes we need a little help. Prayer works wonders but sometimes medicine is necessary.

49 year old Female

Posted: 2009-07-24 09:22:41

Answer/Reply:

Melatonin will work for sleep, but you'll wake still feeling tierd.. I take xanax 2 or 3 times a week , to get a good, restfull nights sleep..It allows me to totally relax, and it works in 20-30 minutes after taking it..Also wake up MUCH more refreshed.....Could not take without going to sleep though, Dont recommend taking this and expecting to 'function'.. Wont work ....

51 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-11 11:31:23

Answer/Reply:

You can buy Melatonin at any Walmart on the Vitamin aisle, or any Drug Store. You may
be able to find it at some Grocery Stores and any Health Food Store carries it. But, I've
found that it is alot cheaper at Wal-Mart. What I started using it for was to help me sleep,
because I was always waking up at all hours and sometimes could not get back to sleep.
The melatonin has helped with that, I take 2 tablets every night and they are not addictive.
AW in Alabama

48 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-02 01:43:02

Answer/Reply:

To be effective you should be taking Xanax on a regular schedule as prescribed by the Dr. who gave it to you. It can help you but you must take it regularly to work for you. Also it sounds to me like you should be taking something for depression (also helpful for people with such anxiety as you have. Give it a try. Your Dr. should help you out on this problem. It can change your outlook on life and make you feel good. Good Luck. Be Happy.

77 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-23 19:54:35

Answer/Reply:

You need to take Xnax every day . It will help you. Follow your Dr.s orders. It is not going to make you a drug addict. Dr. can tell you that.
I have been taking it and it helps,believe me. I'm a 76 year old female with lots of health problems, and it helps me thru it all.

77 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-31 18:06:45

Answer/Reply:

I take Xnax every day. about .5 total. I don't think it is addictive. I am hyperactive and it helps me somewhat. I think its fine and do not feel I have to take it. At my age of 67, I think its fine.
I have not tried Melatonin, as I have had heart problems, so don't try too many other things than regular blood pressure med of Fosinopril and Coumadin.

68 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-10 00:05:10

Answer/Reply:

it is good but you must take it daily to be helpful. your dr. should have told you this.

77 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-31 18:14:45

Answer/Reply:

Hello,
I'm sorry that I read your comments on taking Xanax. I also take Xanax, because I have
anxiety attacks, and have horrible nerves. I seriously have to take a Xanax before I go to
Wal-Mart because it seems that someone has a SCREAMING kid in there every time that
I go, and I can hardly stand it. I want to go find the parent of this child and tell them to take
their child home because I and I'm sure a few other people in the store did not come here to
listen to that!! I have very little patience and it seems like the Xanax helps with that, also.
I have been taking this medication off and on since 1994, when my nerves had gotten so
bad, that I actually broke out in tiny blisters and thought that I was going to itch to death.
I actually went to the emergency room for this situation, which was the first time that I
was ever given Xanax. I think it is a wonderful drug. Even if I take it every day, once a day
for awhle, I have never had any kind of withdrawals or any other side effects of not taking it
everyday. I know that everyone is different, but I just wanted to let you know that there is
nothing wrong with taking a medication that seems to help you. I also take a Xanax before
going to the doctor and usually write anything down that I need to ask, just so that I dont
forget. I hope this helps you in some way, knowing that your not alone.
Best Wishes,
AW in Alabama

48 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-02 00:53:48

Answer/Reply:

forgot to mention that i am prescribed .25mg twice a day and then .50mg at bedtime. I do not always take it but believe me i can tell. I slur my words, have poor balance, and mini siezures are more likely. If i feel shaky or start slurring I take it immediately and get away from people for a bit. (people are one of my phobias.) I take it if i am leaving my house to go to the mall, store, or anywhere with my kids for sure.

i do not allow myself to take it regularly to get addicted which does effect the ability to control the siezures, but i do not want to get addicted to it.

36 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-16 23:59:08

Answer/Reply:

Yes I agree with everything you say it does for you. For me it's my life line. Now if I could just find something for my night time leg cramps.

70 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-15 16:34:30

Answer/Reply:

My choice of taking Xanax recreationally has cost me pretty much everything in life; my marriage, my husband who was my best friend and is now raising our 2 little girls. I am now 49 years old, single, living alone and still taking Xanax every chance I get. I used to go to doctors who are more than willing to prescribe whatever you need, or that has always been my case. I now do not have the money and/or insurance to go to doctors and have found ways to buy them off the streets. I start out taking four 2 mg. (4 bars as they are called on the street) and that puts me in a complete blackout so however many I have, I take. I know I will die from my addiction to Xanax someday as I'll most likely take one too many. I'm not saying this for anyone to feel sorry for me but for anyone who thinks they may be taking too many, or may feel they they are abusing this drug. This drug can be very dangerous. I would ask anyone to find an alternative medication. Thanks............greenconnie@sbcglobal.net

49 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-28 23:34:15

Answer/Reply:

Xanax took my 29 year old daughter's life. Please find yourself some help

60 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-18 21:01:09

Answer/Reply:

Yes, you do need to get some help. I have been taking Xanax since 1994 but do not abuse
them. I found out early that if I had taken a Xanax and drank on top of it that I usually did
wind up in a black out. But 4 bars at a time would put me in a coma. Please, if you cant
afford rehab, there are places in most cities that are run by donations. You could check
with Narcotics Anonaymous and they can probably guide you to one of these places. It
sounds like there's no way that you could hold a job in your situation, but these places
do not cost anything and you would have to stay for awhile. Your free to leave anytime
you choose, but I would suggest that you stay, I have had friends that went through
one of these programs and they are still clean today. I also know of a woman that was
about 43 yrs. old that was so messed up on Xanax that she walked right out in front
of an oncoming car and was killed instantly. I dont know you, but I would'nt want anything
like that to happen to you. You have kids and they need their mother, not in the state
your in now, but after you get some help, I know that they must miss you.
Concerned in Alabama
AW

48 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-02 01:05:44

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

In general, anxiety disorders are treated with medications and the treatment choice is dependent on the problem and individual preferences. Xanax is typically not used for long term treatment of anxiety disorders. Some treatment for panic or anxiety disorders includes antidepressants which includes medication such as Prozac, Paxil, Lexapro, or Zoloft. In addition to treating depression, these medications are approved to treat anxiety. However, there are also side effects associated with this class of medication and it may not be right for everyone. It may be a good idea to discuss your concern with your doctor and see what he or she suggests.

Posted: 2009-03-27 19:16:11

Answer/Reply:

I've been on Xanax for 10 years now for anxiety and panic disorder. It was a god send for me. I started at .25 10 years ago once a day and 10 years later I've only gone up to .5. I don't see the need to take 1mg or 5 mg. I think thats crazy and anybody that would allow themselves to be put on that high of a dosage needs to take something else. Yes it is very addictive. But for me I'm not so worried about the addiction because I'm on a lower dosage than any other person on here. Let me tell you when I left my husband in 1998 they put me on .25. In 2002 my husband passed away from pancreatic cancer leaving me with a 10 year old to raise on my own. In 2004 I lost my home in the hurricanes in Florida. 3 days after my home was destroyed my father died. I had no where to go. I went up north. I just now recently in 2007 increased to .5mg. I will not have a problem going off of them if I choose to due to the fact that I am not on a very high dosage. It's all about dealing with life alittle you know. We all have our problems. Just a little dab a do ya. Are you on 5 mg or .5mg? If it's 5 mg then yes you have a problem.

56 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-02 21:31:56

Answer/Reply:

I HAVE AN ANXIETY PROBLEM AND PTSD SINCE WEANING MYSELF OFF 10 OTHER MEDICATIONS DUE TO PTSD AND OVIAN CYSTS FROM WORKING WITH CHEMICALS, I HAVE BEEN ON THIS MEDICATION FOR OVER A YEAR. I WAS ON LOSPAN WHICH DID ALMOST SAME REACTION BUT I FIND LESS SYSTOMS ON XANAX. I KNOW SLEEP EXTREMELY COMFORTABLE WHICH IS A RELIEF AFTER A BAD DIVORCE A DETACHED RETINA AND SEVERAL DISCS WHICH WERE RUINED FROM A FALL, SHOULDER SURGERY, AND TWO FOOT SURGERIES ALL WITHIN 2 YRS..I FINALLY AM ABLE TO HAVE A LIFE...STILL NOT COMPLETELY PAINLESS BUT AT LEAST I HAVE A LIFE...

54 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-04 19:57:18

Answer/Reply:

hi i am 33 april 3 and i have been taking ativan for almost 3 years i started taking them after my mom passed dec 5 05 and i also have asthma to whitch dont help when its hot out.i have tryed to stop a few times the with draws man where hard.2 nd time was ok i alwsy had my brother around and my 3 year old and hubby as long as my mind is on something i am ok.but there are days that i cant deal with the aniety i feel so bad what i mean i am so on edge and scared. a few weeks ok i went to the hosptail with my 3 year old cause she was sick they did a chest x ray and wam here it comes the same room my mom passed away that it throw me in a anxiety attack they had to sit me down i had to pop my ativan i just take it day by day i alway keep them in my purse.

33 year old Male

Posted: 2009-03-30 18:11:16

Answer/Reply:

I have this same problem. I end up having to take more then what I am prescribed if i want to go to sleep. I try nt to take it at all if I can help it.

30 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-30 23:52:42

Answer/Reply:

Hi Sharon, no you are not losing your mind. I am only a 22yr old female who has lived a very hard life. Both of my parents were murdered. Now I am in a very abusive relatonship, in which I can not get out of. I have been on xanax for about a year. When people like you or me are severley depressed xanax actually wakes you up. It does m the same way, so now I only take it during the daytime. I will pray for you. God Bless, Angie

22 year old Male

Posted: 2009-03-31 02:54:57

Answer/Reply:

Wow, I take xanax to sleep and it knocks me out within 30 min of taking it.Very good , restful sleep and I only take them 2 or 3 times a week..Only other problem I have is high blood pressure..Some menopause 'hot flashes' and a hubby who needs to learn when to shut up.( tee-hee)..

51 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-20 14:34:35

Answer/Reply:

Dear Sharon, sweetie your not losing your mind I promise. I had a cousin who was about 25 at the time that he started having devastating anxiety attacks, later he was diagnosed with GAD and panic attacks and was prescribed 1mg xanax tid. He explained to me that maybe something was wrong with him, after asking him why he told me that after taking the medicine for about 2 weeks he noticed that when he took it he felt as if he had taken a hit of speed or something. Later it ws obvious he wasn't making it up I would know of him not sleeping for 2 days in a row from taking those pills. Please keep check with yourself though some people can't take it for that reason. Sadly 3 years ago My cousin just went out in the woods and shot himself in the head,later we found a note saying he just couldn't take the fact that the drugs the dr. had prescribed to him had ruined his life by becoming severly addicted to them. Now you would think that I would be totally against that medicine however you would be completely wrong, that medicine has been a life saver for me several occasions in my life, the thing is to remember they are not intended for long term treatment of anything. Just take them for a few months if you need to then when things get better is when you talk to your dr. and have him wean you down off of them so you don't have withdrawl symptoms, and then stop taking them. I am truly sorry for your loss, I can only imagine how hard it would be to be together that long like that and then all of a sudden the person you shared your life with basiclly is just gone.But keep the faith and hopefully you will see him again someday when it is God's time for you too. Untill then don't give up on life for yourself cause I'm positive he would not want you to just give up......Just Keep on Keeping On as they say and May God Richly Bless You is my wish for you! Good Luck!!

Sincerely,
Brian S. Foley pennybirddog@yahoo.com

33 year old Male

Posted: 2009-04-03 00:59:26

Answer/Reply:

Sharon
I have been on Xanax for 20+ years now for GAD/Panic Attacks and they are the only thing that helps me sleep. I have never heard of Xanax keeping one awake, although we know everyone is different and not everyone reacts the same way. I would definitely present this to my doctor as it just doesn't seem right to me.

Janet

53 year old femal

54 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-18 08:09:34

Answer/Reply:

First Sharon, I'm very sorry for your loss and my prayers are with you. Regarding the problem with Xanax, I've learned through the years that it does affect many people differently, but one thing for sure is that it is highly addictive. It seems to be the "drug of choice" these days for anyone suffering from any form of anxiety or stress and in my opinion, it shouldn't be. In your case when you only need something occasionally to help calm down, and also since the Xanax is keeping you more than awake,myself, I'd ask the doctor for Valium short term. Since Xanax came out it has been prescribed more and more when it shouldn't be in my opinion. I'm not a doctor or anything, just someone who was prescribed Xanax for Panic Attacks back in 1985 not long after it came out, and I'm STILL on it. Doctors back then had no idea how addictive it is, and now that they do know, they stilll over prescribe it, again, in my opinion. Valium will help you rest and sleep as well as calm you down. Talk to your doctor about that. I really do think it'll help you tons more and taken occasionally, no worry about addicton. Good luck to you and God bless!

54 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-20 18:25:23

Answer/Reply:

I would check with your Dr. I have taken it for 25 years, but not everyday only when I am having a hard time with my Anxiety. It has always calmed me down to the point of being drowsey when the anxiety has passed. I don't think you are reacting as you should on the medicine. They will try something different.

44 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-20 19:53:27

Answer/Reply:

No you are not crazy or losing your mind...you are one of the only other people that I heard of to experience this sleep issue. I also lost my husband very suddenly in 93...I had been on a maintenance dose since my early 30's for my PMS. I took them prior to my mense. They were extremely helpful. Then after my husband died...I couldn't face anything...I slept all the time...until my dr increased the xanax to a daily dosage. Now, 16 years later...my last dosage is taken at bedtime, my heart starts pounding...and I proceed to worry about going to sleep. But I find that even though sometimes I don't sleep (like last night - 2 hrs) I function better with the meds than w/o.
Female, 61 years old

62 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-20 22:46:25

Answer/Reply:

I am 45 now and have to take this stuff to shut my mind off at night ...so at 9:45 pm I take my .5 mg of Xanax and about 35 min later night night!!!!!
If I don't take it ...12 to 18 hours later I get tired....AT WORK
so since I drive a BUS for a living..it's a nightly Xanax and thats that
Also be aware of your bedtime routine...and modify it to start quieting your mind down...it might help...

46 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-22 17:42:45

Answer/Reply:

Your Doc may have to increase xanax dosage. Ask him about it.

45 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-30 13:45:00

Answer/Reply:

I read your comment and I felt like I was reading my own story. I have been on Xanax for so long. When I was hospitalized my Dr. put me on this medication. And after being on it for so long, I realized that I have had an anxiety problem since I was a child. But, this medication saved my life. The only problem being on this medication is telling other physicians you take this medication because it is known to be addictive, but you know what. I have a severe problem and if I was off of it, I would not have a life. I should have been on that medication a long time ago. It took being in a horrible marriage for the panic attacks to take over my life.

I just don't understand how people get addicted to it. It does not get me high and it never has. It just made me feel like a normal human being that can function in life. You are right about memory loss. That is one side affect that I have noticed and yes it does suck especially if you are trying to learn a new job.

45 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-27 07:07:39

Answer/Reply:

Yes, I completely agree with you, I have been on Xanax for 10 years now and if I forget to take one I feel like I'm going crazy, It is addictive but is worth it and hope I can stay on it the rest of my life because if I did not have it, I probably would have ended it a long time ago. Yes, I do have forgetfulness but it's worth it to feel alive again and function normally.
57 year old female

58 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-16 16:11:10

Answer/Reply:

I take the Buspar generic for anxiety control and then, if I'm unusually anxious, etc. then I add a minimum dose of the Xanax generic. I'm a 73 yr old male and have had anxiety issues all my life. This has worked for me over the past 16 months and keeps my risk for addiction to Xanax at a minimum.

74 year old Male

Posted: 2009-04-16 09:41:09

Answer/Reply:

I have a very bad case of anxiety and have been on xanax for 24 years. I have managed to live somewhat of a normal life. I can not get my new family doctor to realize that xanax is the only thing that works for me. We have a battle every month about refills. He keeps telling me that his ethics won't let him continue to perscribe it. I simply asked him how his ethics would let him feel when he attended my funeral because he wants me to quit cold turkey. I know doctors have to be careful what they give patiants but my theory is if it isn't broke don't try to fix it. Please don't anyone try to quit taking xanax all at once. The withdrawls are scary and painful. Doc driving me crazy in Virginia

37 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-16 16:04:04

Answer/Reply:

I am sorry your Doctor doesn't understand. I had the same problem and now I go to a Psychiatrist every other month for a 5 minute appointment called "Medical management" and he writes my Xanax for 2 months. Maybe you can try to find a Psychiatrist in your area who does medical management.

55 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-19 19:04:12

Answer/Reply:

Hi,
I have been taking xanex for many years also. I did not know that it was so addicticve. I used to take valium, but it really didn't work on my anxiety disorder, so my Dr. switched me to xanex..I only take 2, 1 mg's a nite & 1/2 if i feel an anxiety attack coming on.
I have noticed that my memory is NOT that great anymore, but i took it as old age...That was good to hear. lol
I am glad to hear that you are getting the help you needed. Stick to the xanex, if that works for you.
Thanks for sharing your story:-)

61 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-20 14:28:40

Answer/Reply:

Dear Friend, you are right to be concerned about the addiction of Xanax. I too have suffered many years with anxiety and panic disorder. A year ago, my doctor prescribed 6mg Xanax, 3 tid. It saddens me to say that I have become addicted to the drug. As I have to work, and cannot afford private treatment for detoxification, I set out on a measured reduction of the medication. I have reduced the dosage from 6mg to 2mg daily, and will begin my next level of reduction April, 2009. I have taken many medications throughout the years, and Xanax, by far, has been an absolute nightmare. I curse the day I started it. Regards in your journey.

58 year old Male

Posted: 2009-03-17 15:56:21

Answer/Reply:

panic disorder and depression are mutally exclusive. panic "disorder" is characterized by the frequency (generally, at least one a month for at least 3 months), and fearing panic attacks. if you have infrequent panic attacks, i'd say you aren't in the lovely realm of panic disorder. (yer lucky)... and most likely shouldn't be treated by a regimen, as you aren't, but on an as needed basis, and that's my person opinion. lexapro and xanax never mixed well for me, those designer drugs seem to be more useful to the psychiatrist describing them to get his pharmaceutical company provided alaskan cruise than helpful for a patient suffering from panic attacks. they'll throw those velcro drugs at you everytime to see if one sticks, trust me. i throw'em right back and tell the ivory tower to kiss my proverbial.... donkey. being bipolar, they overload my brain with seratonin and i don't really care to experience seratonin syndrome (which can be fatal) so they can go "WOW" as they rev up the ole digital camera for alaska's scenic overkill. the combination of the two seem ridiculous, considering the pharmacology and i've NEVER heard of anyone experiencing the desired effects for which the SSRIs are prescribed. that's merely my own experience and i do despise the ivory tower, most MDs have missed a few days at class or seemed to have forgotten to read a few pages in the book. i say be pro-active with your own mental health, and don't trust their subjective opinion (they generally don't diagnose) with your health or anything else that requires a thought process. most shrinks are about 2 bradys short of a bunch. why YES ! YES, i'm cynical ! <smile> and good luck !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

52 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-22 07:36:55

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Soma & Xanax are not even related

Posted: 2009-03-06 09:45:32

Answer/Reply:

I would like to know what your side effects are. I have been on Xanax for almost 5 years along with Topamax for my seizures. I have not experienced any side effects. I am very thankfull for these two drugs as no other drug cominations could control my seizures. By the way I am also taking somas to with no side effects.

Female
Age 47

47 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-31 14:26:50

Answer/Reply:

I Was With The Same Pain Management Doctor For About 7 Years, For The last 3 Years With Him He Had Me On 4mg. Of Zanaz Per Day, Taken 1 to 2 During The Day Then 2 At Bedtime For Sleep, (I Had A Drug Infusion Pump Inplanted To Take Care of Pain Meds), My Workers Compensation Worker Decided That I Should Change Doctors, (I Didn't Have A Choice In This Matter). My First Appt. With This New Man, (I Have NO Respect For Him To Call Him "Doctor") My Case Worker Was There Also. When He Called Me In To His Office, The Case Worker Came In With Me And As Soon As They Saw One Another They Gave Each Other A Big Hug Then Spent 10 Minutes Talking Amoung Theirselfs, Then He Turns To Me And Says"I'm Going To Take Your Head Out Of The Clouds And Bring It Back To Earth, I'm Only Going To Give You 1, (Yes, One), Mg. Per Day".That Was His Exact Quote.
For The First 2 Months It Wasn't Too Bad, I Couldn't Sleep Or Eat, I Had To Force Feed Myself And Slept About 3 Maybe 4 Hours Every 3rd Night.But After The 3rd Month, I Couldn't Go Outside Of My Apt.Nor Talk In Complete Sentences, In A 2 Month Period I Called for An Amulance 3 Different Times, It Felt As Though My Legs Were Disconnected From My Hips. At The Time I Didn't Realize That I Was Going Through A Xanax Withdrawal..Until The 3rd Time At The Hospital, Each Time I Had Told Them That I Wasn't There To Get Drugs, That it Really Felt As Though My Legs Were Going To Fall Off, They Gave Me A Shot of Somethng That Did Nothing For Me At All, Then A Week Later They Sent me A letter Saying I Was Not Welcome There Anymore And That If I Did Come They Would Just Send Me Home.
Every Time I Went Back To Charles Friedman's Office For My Pump Refill I Pleaded With That Short Little Man To Increase My Dosage, Each Time He Would Give Me A Big Smile, Almost Laughing Saying NO, After 5 Months They Increased Me To 1 & 1 Half. . .It Tock Me 18 Months To Callm Down Enough To Live Almost Normally. I Still Can't Sleep, On A Normal Night I get About 3 Hours Sleep, I Still Have To Force Myself To Eat, The Only Time I'm Out In A Car is When I Go for A Pump Fill Up, (Every 24th Day) . So After Over 2 Years Of Reducing My Xanax From 4 mg. Per Day To 1mg For 18 Months, I Went Through Withdrawals Worst Then Any Herion Withdrawal, (Back In The Late 60's I Had Friends That Were Drafted And Sent To Viet Nam That use To Mail Us Packages Now 1 and 1 Half Mg. I'm Still Miserable 99% Of The Time And I Don't Go Anywhere But To The Food Store A Few Times A Week And That's Only A 5 Minute Walk From My Apt.. . In General, I Have No Desire To Do Anything But Plan My days / Nights Around What's On TV. . . Signed; "The Lone Ranger"

58 year old Male

Posted: 2009-03-10 19:08:24

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I understand how you feel. It can be so difficult. I have been on Xanax for over 10 years and in that time have lived in 5 states...It is a hassle everytime I have to switch doctors.....I found that going in and telling your doctor point blank that you are not sleeping will either get him to write that or an ambien tablet. I take 4 mg of xanax a day along with 6- 5/500 Vicodans and 4 somas and a bi polar med, along with a fibromyalgia pill...and an ambien at night. Usually when I switch doctors I bring in a printout from Walgreens of my meds for the last 3 years. it tends to help.

Posted: 2009-03-13 20:38:14

Answer/Reply:

NEVER stop xanax or any other benzo cold turkey, it can and most likely will lead to seizures. death is a "side effect" of withdrawal from benzos, barbituates and alcohol, only... when done rapidly by an otherwise healthy person. as a self-medictor (alcohol, infrequently), i keep it to a minimum and a rarity, i don't need two strikes possibly in my corner. titrate with medical supervision !!!!!!!!! and it's very slowly and frustrating. i've been at stroke level twice bustin' off xanax because i was sick and tired of taking it. i finally titrated down to the lowest possible dosage to treat the underlying disorder. i can live with that. (don't like it, but can live with it.)

52 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-22 07:43:10

Answer/Reply:

I think taking the Alprazolam is better than hurting your mother's feelings. I am getting older and it really hurts deep down for one of my children snap at me. I don't get over it for a long time.
If the medication helps with your problem, absolutely take it. Your mother will not live much longer, so be NICE to her as long as she is on this earth.

66 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-11 01:59:15

Answer/Reply:

You should check with you doctor about taking the medication more frequently or in a larger dose. Taking more of a medicine, especially one that is addictive and controlled, could cause you more health problems.

62 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-22 15:47:05

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Alprazolam is addictive, the other drug you are taking I am not famailiar with. Alprazolam Just makes you calmer but you have to increase the dose steadily over time to achieve the same effect, so I would not use any more than 1 mg per day

Posted: 2009-03-06 09:47:39

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

As a 7 year user of Xanax, I'm not sure how much it would help you with patience, unless it is caused by anxiety.
My precious Mother lived with me for 24 years, she had dementia for the last about 6 yrs of her life. She died at 94 and there were times that I was impatient also. Of course I so regret every one of those times now. But it is nice to hear that I'm human and not the only one to lose patience with the ones you love so dearly. Better than more Xanax is deep breaths and remembering how special she is. My anxiety was brought on by a daughter with cancer and a husband with heart surgery at the same time.
Caring for an elderly parent can be stressful even when you love them and want them in your home. How fortunate you are at your age to still have your Mother. Just hug her a lot and tell her you love her. You will probably still get impatient some, but she will know you are just stressed, and not mad at her.

Posted: 2009-03-16 12:49:17

Answer/Reply:

My prayers are with you, as you are too young to have all this pain. You should be enjoying life.
I do understand why you take the meds that you do. I was told that arthritis was extremely painful and what little bit I have does hurt bad without drugs to help me.
Take what you have to because your body is asking for it by sending all the pain signals. That is why drugs were discovered. Not to just set on the shelf and die, but for people to take.

66 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-11 02:08:48

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Have you tried Remicaid or Humira for your arthritis? I have Crohn's disease and Remicaid is used for that, but also for Rheumatoid Arthritis. They have been having great results with it for some. A friend of mine was wheelchair bound and doped up on so many narcotics, it was a wonder she knew her own name. She took Remicaid and got off all the narcotics and now leads a normal life, with the exception of having to get an infusion every 6 or 8 weeks Not sure if that will help you or not, but she ditched her wheelchair and feels like a new woman.

Good luck

40 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-21 22:08:18

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I have only heard of one treatment that can completly detoxify & remove the drugs from your system. It's some sort of blood washing. I've heard it can be dangerous but know little else. There was some special about it on tv about a year ago. Maybe you can google it up with some key words to learn more? It really sounds like the doctors have made you an addict. That is so sad & I'm so sorry! I know when I call my kidney doctors for a refill of my kidney stone pain med, the nurse made me feel like I was a common street druggie by he insensitive questions & i've had the condition for 22 years! She should have just taken the request to my doctor instead of making any comments! Hang on there & don't stop looking for any alternatives that work for you! Try seeking alternatve medical advice & second opinions so you aren't over medicated & killed! Bless you!

53 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-22 08:44:35

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take the xanax, I have tried probaly every anti depressent's on the market probaly, my doctor was getting tired of seeing me every month to try another anti depressent, one that did help me was prozac but I was allergic to it. I have been fighting this problem since the mid eighty's, when ever I get felling funny or having attacks I take a zannax and in about tweenty minutes I'm relaxed and feeling better for a while, I had the same sexual side effects with almost all of these drugs but if they help you get rid of your bad thoughts it is worth taking them for you and your family, one that didn't give me any sexual side effects was wellbutrin xl but did not help me but it might help you.I was always the strong mentally and one of the toughest of the bunch, but not no more, but I will not stop trying for my family, the best combination that I have taken is zanax and vicodin without them I will stay in the house and hide but with them I will go out and do anything, I would rather be hooked on a couple of drugs than live the rest of my life with those thoughts, good luck randi

52 year old Male

Posted: 2009-01-15 15:46:06

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I have used Prozac with very positive results especially with regards to how long it stays in the system i.e. 14 days, so if you miss a dose or two it doesn’t cause any irritating effects. The only issue I experienced is the (male) sexual side effects that are typical with SSRI’s.
Personal opinion, Avoid Welbutrin/Bupropion, especially combined with any form of Xanax. The combination resulted in some really nasty side effects especially if you consume any alcohol whatsoever (not even 1 sip to taste). I cannot tell you how terrifying it is to experience a side effect known as -induced acute dystonia a Neurology Speech impairment offset where you have difficulty getting a word out. You attempt to talk and you cant get your words out or you can only trip over words with a whoof whoof and the harder you try to speak the worse it becomes resulting in some serouse anxiety. I have recently changed to Lexapro and have been consistent for about 4 weeks now and so far all is good. Another opinion, Please don’t ever go on Paxil. Its known as Paxhell, Youtube it and you will understand.

39 year old Male

Posted: 2009-03-04 16:36:02

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

xanax

Posted: 2009-01-18 15:13:46

Answer/Reply:

I HAVE TRIED 11 DIFFERENT ANTIDEPRESSANTS ALL WORKED THE FIRST 2 MONTHS THEN I STARTED FEELING SUICIDAL SO THE DR WOULD SWITCH WITHIN 2 OR 3 MONTHS I FELT BAD AGAIN - SO I STOPPED TAKING ANTIDEPRESSANTS. I'VE BEEN ON XANAX FOR 10 YEARS - NEVER TOOK MORE THAN DESCRIBED AND WHILE I STILL GET PANIC ATTACKS ONCE IN A WHILE I TAKE A HALF OF ONE IF I FEEL IT COMING ON. IF IT'S FULL BLOWN PANIC I TAKE A WHOLE ONE AND SOMETIMES JUST KNOWING I HAVE SOME ON HAND IS ENOUGH AND I CAN TALK MYSELF OUT OF IT BECOMING SEVERE. I ALSO HAVE A GREAT SUPPORT GROUP WHO I CAN CALL ANYTIME WHEN I AM PANICKY AND IT HELPS. THEY COME ON WITHOUT WARNING AT TIMES FOR NO GOOD REASON. I STILL GET DEPRESSED BUT THAT'S WHAT MY FRIENDS ARE FOR. FIND A PHONE BUDDY AND I HAVE NEVER FELT SLEEPY ON XANAX. AM TOLD EVERYONE'S BODY IS DIFFERENT BOY MINE SURE IS. ON ANTIDEPRESSANTS THEY ALL MADE MY RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS WORSE! NO ONE HAS DONE A REAL STUDY ON THAT AND YOU'D BE SURPRISED HOW MANY PEOPLE WITH R/A TAKE ANTIDEPRESSSANTS AND THEN DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY THEY HURT SO MUCH MORE. EVEN DOCTORS DON'T HAVE AN ANSWER AND FOGET WRITING THE DRUG COMPANIES THEY DON'T ANSWER BECAUSE THEY DON'T KNOW AND IF THEY DO THEY ARE NOT TELLING US! THANKS TO IGUARD AT LEAST I CAN CALL MY PHARMACY AND ASK QUESTIONS OR MY DOCTOR. THAT'S WHY THEY CALL IT "PRACTING" MEDICINE!!! HOPE THIS HELPS. I SINCE HAVE FORWARDED IGURARD TO MY FRIENDS WHO ARE ON PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS. THANK YOU IGUARD
SINCERELY KK

64 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-31 02:26:03

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Thank you so much for the good information. I have always thought that Xanax would help arthritis.
I am so glad that you have good phone buddies. Keep calling them when you have bad thoughts.

66 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-11 02:17:00

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When you start taking Xanax, don't completely stop taking your antidepressant. You can wean yourself off it, but stopping cold turkey is not good for your system.
I would take my first Xanax at PM, just in case it makes you sleepy.
Erectile Dysfunction or anything sexually is a side effect of a lot of different medications, so don't feel bad, just blame it on the drug.

66 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-11 02:24:18

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I am currently taking zoloft 100 mg and xanax as needed. If not for the xanax I am sure I would have gone mad with the panic attacks. I have been on the combo for 9 months .25 mg xanax 3 times a day for the most part. I am not between 1 sometimes 2 xanax a day. You are so young and can get this is check. Please read The mindfullness & Acceptanc Workbook for Anxiety. It has helped me soooo much and has allowed me to cut down on the meds. I am hoping to eventually not have to take the xanax. Good luck and get the book!!!

Posted: 2009-02-15 11:52:04

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Like one of the prior respondents I also take Xanax & vicoden. I've taken them for over 10 years! The trick there is I never take it daily & only if I have to. Xanax I only take maybe on nights I know I can sleep in some the next day. Never during the day unless I'm having a real bad episode. It's very addictive & I don't want to be that dependent! I take vicodin ES & usually only take a half at a time. Few people realize that a side effect of this drug is euphoria. It does give you a feeling of well being so because of this it also can be addictve! This is one reason I only take half a pill at a time & NEVER more than 3 times a day! Just monitor yourself! I did take the effexor XR on the past with great success along with other therapies including the Xanax & vicoden. I took 75 of the effexor & it worked fine. Difference here is age & sex. Perhaps the 75mg with an occasional low dose Xanax is the answer? Ask your doctor! Only consider introduction of the vicoden if you also have pain & please me careful to monitor what you take! On pain meds just because it says 3 times a day, doesn't mean that you must take it 3 times a day! It means that's the most you should ever take! So always try for less! Depression medication should be taken as described, but Xanax isn't a depression medication. It's more an anxiety medication & also ahold not always be taken as often as prescribed! Again the dosage is a reminder to just never take more!! Good luck!

53 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-22 09:06:00

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please try to find someone who does neurofeedback (biofeedback).
It can absolutely make a difference. Nothing works 100% of the time for 100% of ppl, but I can say from experience that neurofeedback can make the difference.

49 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-17 14:41:13

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Have you been to the health food store or GNC store to find out what they have for the immune system? It would not hurt to try some of their products.
In the mean time, take what your body needs to stay out of pain because pain will kill you itself.

66 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-11 02:12:48

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Have you tried a very powerfull antioxidant called OPC-3? If you would like to learn more about this please e-mail me at: mlunato@comcast.net or call me at: 203-484-0814.
OPC-3 in isotonic state contains grape seed extract, pine bark, bilberry and a other powerfull ingredients. It has been used in Europe for over 50 years and there are hundreds of studies on the benefits of this product. Please call or e-mail me......Marcy

Posted: 2009-03-02 13:22:56

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Valium is not the same as Xanax. It is true that a person can becoming addicted to valium, but xanax is different. It works on the neurotransmitters of the brain and helps with panic, anxiety and is very successful in helping people with these disorders. I had a script for .50mg, 3x daily and did not use it that way. I took .25 3x daily but could feel when the medication would start to decrease in my system since I felt I would become addicted and felt less would be better. I switched physicians and he suggested XR, I waited a year until I took his advice and now am sorry I waited. The Xanax XR is much better, I take 1mg in the morning and never have to think about it, never feel anxious or that the medication is starting to wear off. One's body becomes "addicted" if that is a good way of putting it, one must be slowly weaned off this medication and not stop using it suddenly. If you have panic/anxiety, it seems to be the best medication for these disorders and I too had the concern you have, but without using this medication, I would not be able to function as a whole person and do all the things I do now, I was becoming agoraphobic and that is why I originally was prescribed this drug. I have been taking it for years and looking back, I never would have been able to accomplish all the good things I have pursued, been a large part of my young son's activities and being able to drive again.

60 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-14 09:23:04