Understanding Prescription Drug Addiction
Benzodiazepines are effective in reducing panic attacks and phobic behavior, as well as the anticipatory phase of panic attacks. Drugs in this class include clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan) , and alprazolam (Xanax) . While benzodiazepines act quickly, are effective, and are medically safe, approximately one half of patients experience withdrawal symptoms when removed from the medication and many clinicians believe that patients receiving them may develop a tolerance to the drug. Benzodiazepines may also increase falls, and cause confusion and memory problems in the elderly.
Clonazepam, on the other hand, lasts longer in the body than alprazolam. This allows you to take it twice a day for full 24-hour coverage, while alprazolam requires four or five dosings for the same period. Clonazepam is also used as needed before a panic-provoking situation. Some investigators believe it is a better choice than alprazolam during those times because its primary effects are not as strong and also wear off more slowly. When you are practicing the skills of facing your fears, if you notice the effects of a medication, you may tend to attribute your successes more to the medication than to your own efforts.
Buspirone is a medication specifically for anxiety disorders other than the benzodiazepines. It differs from the benzodiazepines in that it must be taken consistently for at least 2 in order to work. You can’t take buspirone on an “as needed” basis.
Tofranil Oral medication is used to treat depression. It is also used with other therapies for the treatment of nighttime bed-wetting (enuresis) in children. Using this medication to treat depression may improve your mood, sleep, appetite, and energy level and may help restore your interest in daily living. zanaflex. Imipramine can help your child control nighttime bed-wetting.
Venlafaxine is an antidepressant (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor type-SNRI) used in the treatment of depression and anxiety. It works by restoring the balance of natural substances (neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine) in the brain. Venlafaxine may decrease nervousness and improve your mood, feelings of well-being, and energy level.
You and your doctor (and your spouse, family, or caregiver) should carefully monitor your reaction to your anxiety medication. As previously mentioned, every medication has side effects and every person reacts differently. Keep track of any physical and emotional changes youre experiencing and dont be afraid to talk to your physician about discontinuing the medication if you are unhappy with how it makes you feel.
When your doctor prescribes a new medication for you, make sure you get all of the information you need. How will the medication help you? What side effects can you expect? Should you avoid any foods or drinks while on the medication? Are there any drug interactions that may occur with other prescriptions you are taking?
Your pharmacist is another great source of information on medications and over-the-counter products if you still have questions. He or she should be made aware of all your prescriptions in order to advise you properly about possible drug interactions, side effects, and instructions for use.
There are many factors that need to enter into this judgment, such as severity of the condition, conferring with your anxiety specialist, your psychiatrist, other medications you take and your general medical condition, etc. and the way you know your body responds to medication in general.
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