Hi,
I have been going through a very stressful time in my life recently and without going into detail everything at the moment is changing (from coming out of a 5 yr relationship, to leaving my job).

I have been finding that this has had a big impact on my appitite and my sleep meaning I am now always feeling exhausted suffering from a lack of both. I feel on edge throughout the day and very simple tasks can bring loads of stress.

I am very seriously thinking on going on a low (.25mg) treatment of Xanax but really wanted some advice. Will I see an improvement in my sleep? And will this remove my anxiety (which is causing my stomach to seize up)? How addictive is Xanax and do you think it will solve my issue?

The problem with Xanax is you pop one to calm your brain down, though after that pill wears off your anxiety will return and you have to pop another one over and over. Usually you take Xanax for a period of time till your anxiety receeds. However by then some people develop a tolorence to keep needing it which is why the stuff is highly addictive.

I would suggest talking to your doctor about getting put on a SSRI which isn't addictive like Lexapro or something similar. Something that will increase your seretonin levels gradually and balance things out so your anxiety can subside.

I still use Xanax, but I only keep it for when I really need the stuff.

anxiety sufferers are usually much too sensible to become addicted to xanax or anything else
xanax will help you get off to sleep and should be taken only as needed
it also helps to learn new ways of relaxing and calming yourself

Thank you HRY33 ~I have been on a LOW dose of zanex (alprazolam) for about 15 yrs and have never upped the dosage but it helps me tremendously to relax at bedtime, then I take 1/2 of one 0.5 mg if I have starting to panic. My dr./pharmacist keeps a very close eye on my refills, but no worry I DO NOT want to take more then prescribed. Yes, I am addicted to it but I DO NOT abuse it. It's been a life saver.

Thank you for this advice.
How easy do Drs give out prescriptions for this kind of stuff? {REMOVED}


{Getting a prescription medication "Under the counter" without a Doctors prescription is an illegal activity and can not be discussed here. Ms_Mod}

I'm sure it will depend on your Dr., how long you have been seeing him/her. I have been seeing the same Dr. for many years and she knows me "inside" and "out". Know some WILL NOT prescribe it. Good luck and maybe there is something better out there for you but get help ...

I would suggest talking to your doctor about getting put on a SSRI which isn't addictive like Lexapro or something similar. Something that will increase your seretonin levels gradually and balance things out so your anxiety can subside.

I still use Xanax, but I only keep it for when I really need the stuff.

ok, first of all, Lexapro IS an SSRI, second of all, SSRIs are just as addictive as benzos like Xanax. SSRIS have to be taken daily and you cannot abruptly stop. Xanax is helpful for people with temporary anxiety because you can just take it whjen you feel you need it and you do not have ot take it regularly. if you stick to the rule of only taking a very small dose when you really need, you should not have anyproblems with addiction.

I really don't believe SSRIs should be prescribed for people who are suffering from temporary boutrs of depression or anxiety. SSRIs should be reserved for people who have chronic worry and anxiety that affects their day to day life.

Sami, Xanax would most definitely help you sleep and will help keep you calm throughout this rough period. My best advice to you would be that if the anxiety persists, to see a counselor rather than to continue taking Xanax for an extended period of time.

When you go to your dr, jus tell him/her that you are going through a very rough time and are experiencing bad anxiety that is interfering with your life and sleep. Chances are he or she will prescribe you some sort of benzo (there are others besides Xanax), but some doctors get suspicious if you go in and ask for Xanax straight off the bat.

Best of luck to you and I hope things improve. :)