Posted by Cece on June 20, 2002, at 14:25:50
In reply to Klonopin or Xanax for Social Anxiety??, posted by BobS. on June 19, 2002, at 19:41:30
Well, I don't actually think that either xanax or klonopin are especially good for social anxiety, although as Joy said, they can be useful for generalized anxiety (which is a very different kettle of fish from social anxiety). I wonder why you have narrowed your search down to these two meds? Perhaps you could seek a second psychiatric opinion before you make a decision?
I've taken xanax and klonopin for some time, in addition to other meds, for my Bipolar II disorder (I also have generalized anxiety). They have been fairly useful for me, but I am slowly weaning off of them as they have given me memory problems and slowed cognitive functioning. Not a good side effect for teenagers studying for school- or for anyone. Also, since they both are drugs that some people use recreationally, your kids could be put in an awkward position if their friends find out and want some.
I don't mean to offend you or to challenge your parenting- obviously you care about your kids' welfare. But please at least think about seeking further professional advice, and reconsidering your prejudice re SSRI's. I have a neighbor with extreme social phobia and anxiety disorder who has been 'saved' by Paxil. And, there are probably other meds to consider that are not SSRI's or benzodiazepines.
Best of luck,
Cece
poster:Cece
thread:110299
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020617/msgs/110338.html