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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by Cindy B. on June 25, 1999, at 2:56:36
What is the most common medication prescribed for this condition? My boyfriend has many phobias, the most common being crossing bridges. He had one episode which seems to now give him compulsive thoughts about it. It takes so long to get places, that I feel like it's not worth even getting him to go and I am putting so many limitations on myself feeling at times that the four walls are caving in on me. His doctor recommended BusPar. I don't know.
Posted by Elizabeth on June 25, 1999, at 23:06:50
In reply to Panic Disorder, posted by Cindy B. on June 25, 1999, at 2:56:36
You mention what sounds a *lot* like agoraphobia, but you didn't say whether he has panic attacks! There is such a thing as agoraphobia without panic disorder, though it's not common.
If it is panic disorder, Buspar is an inappropriate treatment, as it doesn't work for this disorder (it's been studied scientifically and found to be no better than a placebo (sugar pill)). More precisely, it won't stop the panic attacks, and you really need to do that before you can address phobic avoidance and anticipatory anxiety (two other common aspects of panic disordeR). The first-line treatment is either an SSRI antidepressant (Paxil, Zoloft, etc.) or a benzodiazepine (Klonopin, Xanax). If he still has the phobias after eliminating the panic attacks through medication, he should try to find a good cognitive-behavioral therapist. That's what I would do, anyway. (I have panic disorder without agoraphobia; the panic attacks are well controlled with an antidepressant.) Buspar might be a good addition if he still has "free floating" anxiety after getting the panic and phobias under control.
I really sympathize with your frustration - agoraphobia in a loved one is not easy to deal with. I think you're doing the right thing (for you as well as for him!) by trying to find out about treatments!
Take care, and good luck to both of you.
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