Posted by JohnX2 on March 17, 2002, at 4:25:40
In reply to Re: Afraid to start Benzo's. - Alan » Essence, posted by andyboy on March 13, 2002, at 15:30:03
Andy,Did you follow a dosing strategy on the SSRIs that I have seen Frankie mention. I.E go slow with augmention of a benzodiazepine for many months and then taper off the benzo. What snag did you hit with the SSRIs? This is the strategy I see working for panic. Have had a brief bout of attacks I needed to take benzos while getting onto paxil (which worked fine).
John
> Yes its true, I too was a little aprehensive about benzos at first, but I did a ton of research on my own. Do not be disheartened by individuals or groups who are extremely "anti-benzo". Alan is extremely knowledgeable based on his postings and offers alot of substantiated advice. For me, my sole expertise is based on the fact that Clonazepam(klonopin) has done wonders for me, and I cannot stress that enough. SSRIs (zoloft/paxil) didnt quite do it for me, so I now have single med therapy for my panic/anxiety. Have not had an attack since I started taking it and my head is so much clearer. I dont get dizzy in the mall, groups, etc. any longer. Its been about a year of 2mg/day. No need to increase. Status quo. And as far as tolerance and/or addiction is concerned-I dont even consider it an issue. I cannot however say this is the case for evryone, but from what I have learned benzos are perhaps the most effective med for panic/anxiety. Good luck and "Be not afraid..."
> Andy
poster:JohnX2
thread:97765
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020313/msgs/98402.html