Great anxiety

[rosebud62]

Does anyone know what I could take for my anxiety, besides xanax, or other addictive meds?  I have severe anxiety, with panic attacks, have had this problem for 9 years.  I use to take xanax, which helped, but once you start taking this med, you have to stay on it, or wean very slowly.  I currently am not taking anything, but anxiety is getting to the point I am going to have to take something.  Panic attacks are starting to get really bad!  I would appreciate any help form someone.  
Thanks

[TerraC]

My opinion is that if you are aware of side-effects and symptoms going on or off any medication, you will be much better off in general.  Also, don't let the side-effects cause you anxiety to get worse! :)

I am currently on Paxil (10mg) and it has worked well thus far.  I have only been on it for 5 days but I can feel a difference.  I still have bits and pieces of anxiety here and there, but my general stress level in certain situations has vastly improved thus far.  I can't guarantee this for everyone that tries Paxil, of course, but that is my experience with it thus far.

My anxiety causes a lot of other physical issues (heartburn, soreness, etc. the list goes on) so don't be frightened by people who post that "my medicine is killing me" and such things.  Talk to your doctor, tell him EVERYTHING and he will recommend what he feels is best for you.  Make sure you give the medication AT LEAST 1-2 weeks to get into your system, up to even 4 weeks.  Stay positive and stay under your doctor's supervision and you will be fine trying anything he/she suggests.

[dolphin845]

You also have to wean off AD's.  I'm terrified of meds but I have come to terms with them and I think that it is better to take something - whatever works for you to keep you from suffering.   I know there are horror stories from withdrawals but if you do it VERY slowly and under your Dr's supervision,  I'd think you'd be ok.

[Jikan]

Namaste,

Unfortunately, the best treatment for panic attacks and severe anxiety are benzos, which are habit-forming and which cause physical and/or psychological withdrawal symptoms.

A couple of anti-depressants that have some anti-anxiety properties and may treat, to some extent, panic attacks are listed below:

Zoloft is an antidepressant in a group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Zoloft affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause depression, panic, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive symptoms.

Zoloft is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Paxil is an antidepressant in a group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. It works by restoring the balance of serotonin which helps to improve certain mood problems.

Paxil is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

I hope you discuss these with your psychiatrist to determine if one of thse may be beneficial to you.

Regardless, of what you decide, I sincerely wish you the best in controlling your symptoms.

Michael(Jikan)