rmc12

Hi,

I have taken Valium for a chronic back problem I have as it was given for a muscle relaxant. I only took it during that period of time when my back went "out" last June so I have a lot left. Xanax I have taken only when we fly as I am a nervous flyer so I take that maybe twice a year when we go on a trip.

My perimenopause anxiety has been really a problem this past month and so I have taken the Valium a couple times to relax and it has worked well. I have posted about what my symtpoms are so I won't go into great detail but I get anxiety about twinges in my abdomen area which are connected to my back problem and also Irritable Bowe, some night sweats due to the perimenopause and also my periods are much shorter, every 21-23 days so I feel like I am always going to be getting it, like a longer period of Midcylce feelings. I have been both to my gyn and doctor and the gyn prescribed Lexapro for anxiety which from another post I wrote you know did not work for me. (i did not tolerate it well stomach wise. I know they say after 4-5 days it gets better with the nausea and the indigestion but it really made me more anxious just putting up with those symtpoms)

My primary care doctor suggested going off the Lexapro which I did after the 5 days anyway and taking Xanax to relieve anxiety, taken 3 times a week. The gyn also said this was a good idea and then when my anxiety was less I can try the Lexapro down the road if I wanted to again (which I am not anxious to do obviously!!)

My question is does anyone take Valium or Xanax for anxiety? I understand they are in the same family but to me I think the Valium works better for some reason. Although the Xanax for sure makes one relaxed and sleepy. I cannot take either exept at night certainly. I also know that neither can be taken long term due to the addictive nature of them from what I hear, as far as if one was taking them every day for a long time.

But I was just curious what others thought who are perhaps taking either or have taken both at different times and the differences they have noticed.

Thanks,

rmc