Hello all,

I am a chronic pain patient being treated with opiates. I was started on 5mg zyprexa for insomnia and noticed that it helped a great deal with my anxiety. It definitely has great calming properties. The problem is i was taking 2 5mg tablets (one in the morning and one in the evening)....my insurance will not cover 60 pilled/month declaring that it be changed to 30 10mg tabs. These pills can not be cut which creates a real issue.

Does anyone know of a drug with the same calming properties that would be cheaper (ie no longer on patent)? Does Risperdal have similar effects? If anyone could give me advice on what to ask next i would greatly appreciate it!

My experience with Zyprexa was that it caused me to retain fluid so badly that my feet were so swollen my toes wouldn't touch the floor. I've taken Risperdal, and it helps insomnia, but to my knowledge didn't do anything for anxiety. You will probably end up having to take an anti-anxiety med in combo with a sleep aid. Ambien CR worked well for me, but I was getting up eating in the middle of the night in my sleep and also doing things like making a sandwich and even having sex and not remembering it the next day. Only your Dr. can tell for sure. Lunesta worked OK, but left a terrible taste in my mouth. Believe me, I think I've tried it all. Sometimes just a cup of Sleepy Time Tea or Chamomile will have the calming effect you're looking for, but in a more natural way. Good luck to you.:)

(Sorry about that) My husband was put on Cymbalta to help with the chronic pain and also depression.

nightangel