OK to take Xanax if you have low blood pressure? - Anxiety Message Board

fancis · 10-18-2006, 11:11 AM

Hi,

I was wondering if anyone knew whether it was OK to take Xanax if you have low blood pressure My bp is usually 90-95/60 and I don't want to make it go lower. The dose is .25.

Also, is it OK to take with a benadryl if you have an allergic reaction to something?

Thanks!

nuttygirl · 10-18-2006, 11:18 AM

Better to ask a pharmacist but xanax doesn't lower my bp. I had that concern because I take a beta blocker and my bp is already lowish but nothing happened. Not sure with the benadryl better to ask a pharmacist. I do know that because both benadryl and xanax are sedating it might over sedate you.

Good luck!
Tori

fancis · 10-19-2006, 06:53 AM

Hi Tori,

Thanks for your quick response! I guess that I should ask a pharmacist, I get embarrased. I was just worried because I've read a few posts about people taking it to lower their blood pressure. I thought "uh-oh" better not get mine too low! I was hoping to hear from people who are taking it and have low bp like me.

With Benadryl I take 25-50 mg and both amounts knock me out. I worry that even a little .25 Xanax would cause harm. It's tricky because with the Benadryl I don't "expect" to take it, only for an allergic reaction. Obviuosly I would avoid the combo, but what if I had a Xanax and then needed Benadryl. Confusing!

nuttygirl · 10-19-2006, 07:20 AM

Don't hesitate to call a pharmacist! It's their job and they know all about med combos and interactions. I trust my pharmacist more than my doctor in this area. Just give one a cal and ask them if you can take benadryl if needed for allergic reactions if you're on 0.25 xanax. I wouldn't worry about the BP though. I think xanax lowers your BP obly when it's elevated due to an anxiety or panic attack because it calms the symptoms. I'm not saying it absolutely wouldn't lower someones pressure but so far I haven't had any problems. Do you monitor your pressure? If so you could just keep an eye on it and if you become concerned call your doctor. I've been told that blood pressure is only too low if it causes you to feel lightheaded, dizzy or to faint. I've had low blood pressure that made me dizzy but that was because my beta blocker was too strong. I never fainted even at 90/50. Don't worry, just keep an eye on it and call the pharmacist about the xanax/benadryl combo.

Take Care,
Tori

Vickie306 · 10-19-2006, 05:06 PM

I have low blood pressure just like you. I'm very athletic though, that's the reason for my low pressure and pulse.

I have taken it on as as needed basis (for esophageal spasms) for 16 years. I can tell you that there is no contraindication for the xanax and benedryl. I had an allergic reaction to eating sea salt a few years ago. I broke out in hives all over. I too was concerned about this combo, so I called the pharmacist and he said to definitely take the benedryl.

The only effect would be that I'd have the best nights sleep ever, he said chuckling.

I since have confirmed the above with my physician as well.