Posted by judy1 on June 30, 2001, at 14:41:21
In reply to Re: Benzodiazepine Tolerance, posted by PaulB on June 30, 2001, at 9:59:46
Paul,
Just a couple of observations- alcohol is the #1 substance used in panic patients to self-medicate (according to my pdoc, with pot a close second). So I don't think your worries about dependency (psychological or physical) really apply in this case. Second benzos are considered second line because the pharm cos. have made paxil et al first line treatment because it is in their fiscal interest to do so. Every anxiety specialist I have seen consider benzos the first choice in treatment of panic disorder. I agree with you that when a person suffering from panic disorder goes the route of medication (benzos) it should be considered pretty much a long term decision, even though there are cases that have periods of remission. This is why my pdoc wants me to start my 10 year old (who is exhibiting anxiety symptoms) with a therapist so he can develop coping skills w/o the use of drugs. He feels if he is started early enough, he will never need to take medication, unlike me who will most certainly be on it for life. Take care, judy
poster:judy1
thread:68279
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010625/msgs/68502.html