Posted by Trishatreasure on August 5, 2003, at 22:57:36
In reply to Re: MY Effexor experience and a Xanax XR question, posted by worrier on August 5, 2003, at 21:02:14
> Never tried effexor,but had horrible experiences with prozac,wellbutrin and paxil (the worst) I had been taking regular xanax for a little over a year and switched to xanax xr 2mg about a month ago. My experience has been pretty positive...it's much smoother than regular xanax...none of that "now it's working, now it's not" feeling. Just sort of a steady state...as effective as the regular stuff. Does it really last all day? No, at least not in my case, so I take .5-1mg of the old stuff at night. I also make sure I have some regular xanax around for those occasional sneak attack panic attacks. Sort of like a security blanket (or crutch as you called it). I wouldn't be afraid to try it. (and I'm terrified to try any new meds!). Luck to you, Worrier.-------------
-----------------------Well ... I started the Xanax XR todday and I find it very hard to believe it can work all day. I never realized I was so used to reaching for it as a crutch. Tonight I got a call saying my father (elderly and frail at 78 with depression) threatened suicide and I should get there ASAP. He is in his own apartment and they feared he would do something when the aides weren't around. My FIRST instinct was to take a Xanax and go. Then I remembered I didn't have to -- or shouldn't. I didn't take one and went and everything was fine but it sure is weird. Since I usually take 5 - 6 mg a day and I am now taking 4 mg once a day, I have old stuff too -- 1 mg tabs and took 1/2 mg this morning and will take 1/2 tonight.
All I know is my biggest fear is a seizure from coming off or lowering the dose too fast and I am not 100% sure that I truly have the 4 mg in my body yet. It's really different but could be a good thing when I get used to it because I won't be taking a Xanax because I *think* I need one to get through a situation.We'll soon see. I just wish I knew if I really was getting 4 mg and if I would have any warning that my body was not getting enough of the stuff before I had a serious problem. **Terrified of the thought of a seizure. My son had a sezure disporder for a few years and it is so scary.**
I wonder if it is better to take 2mg in the am and 2 at night? Mine come in 2mg tabs and I could spilt them up if it keeps things smmooth. I will see what the doctor says. I know I won't want to be without my regular Xanax though. It is like a 17 year long friend that has been there to help me in the worst of situations. I do want to taper to 2 mg eventually (and off if possible) but I always like to know it is there IN CASE, ya know?
Thanks Trish
poster:Trishatreasure
thread:9439
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030802/msgs/248448.html