Getting off of Xanax

[heyya16]

I have been taking xanax 2mg for about 10 days now so that I can sleep.  About 3 days ago my doctor added wellbutrin 150 mg XL for four days then 300 mg XL after that to help with my depression following the loss of my dad.  My question is I only have about 6 days more of the xanax will i be addicted after taking them for that short of a time?  I never take them during the day.  I am afraid to stop until I see how the 300 mg of wellbutrin in gonna effect my sleep. I thought of tryng a less "up" feeling antidepressant but I think I really need one that will give me more energy and mmake me feel like doing something besides going to work and then home.  I appreciate any advice on this.

[my_mayberry]

benzo's, barbiturates, and other types of sedatives (chloral hydrate, z-drugs, etc) can often be used for 2 weeks safely without need for a taper. as your doctor to be sure, but in general they are safe. however, taking them longer than 2 weeks tends to increase the risk of all sorts of nasty stuff.

if you are going to need a long term sleep aid, i would seriously consider discussing other alternatives for a sleep med. xanax is usually considered a poor choice.

[sudie58]

why do they come to you? you call them "patients"are you a counselor ? i was just wondering , because each person is an individual and no one can say " how to get these patients , off their sedatives and antidepressants, as a whole.   they each need to seek help, also , why are you disappointed with them? sorry, but just enquiring,

[heyya16]

Thanks so much for your positive and informative responses !! I feel alot better :)  I got kinda scared reading through some of the horror stories posted. Addiction is a terrible thing and I wish the best to all of those out there who whether by their own or their doctor's hand got hooked.  

[el_em_en_oh]

If you are taking the medications "as prescribed", the withdrawls symptoms you feel will be minimal. Besides which, you haven't been taking for all that long and it doesn't sound like you've been blatantly abusing them (you're not an addict).

When you get down the 3 days worth, you MAY want to ask your doctor about decreasing your dose as you near the end of your prescription (sort of a quick "taper" program).

You should be fine... don't worry about it.

LMNO

[vicki595]

Hi-  Did the doctor suggest you take the Wellbutrin in the morning? That's what I would do.
It can give you an energy boost.

I'm sure you don't have to take the Xanax everyday if you don't want to. Try cutting it back a little to taper off. I don't think you'll be addicted after 16 days though. Most of all,don't worry!  Get in touch with your doctor if you aren't feeling well but the Wellbutrin is well tolerated by most people and should help you right now.

I'm sorry you lost your Dad. That's very tough...it's important to feel everything and work it through. Talk as much as you can and share your feelings. It's a sad time but,I promise,it does get easier...