Sleeping Aids instead of Xanax for Sleep!!!!

Has anyone switched from taking Xanax at night for sleep to one of the newer sleeping aids such as Ambien or Lunesta?  Would these be better than taking Xanax?   I have been on Xanax for such a long time that I want to start taking something else.   Thanks.

[valashu]

mate you need to stop taking any type of sleeping pill !! not good,your body will start to depend on them,also they cause anxiety!! sorry to tell you that but it will be better for u in the long run

[heartfluttersflyawayplz]

atilla if you have been taking xanax you need to ask dr if you need to wing off of it , dont go cold turkry untill you talk to him/her . i take ativan now and than just to get a good nigts sleep . i love it i sleep all night . good rest .

[heartfluttersflyawayplz]

oh i just read down saw your dr said it ok to just stop but i would taper lol, good luck.

[romina]

There is two BIG differences on Xanax and lunesta. Xanax is to prevent panic attacks and reduce anxiety lunesta helps you sleep better. I take xanax when i think that i am gonna have a panic attack.

[tandria03]

I take 100 mg of Trazadone at night to sleep.  It is an antidepressant and the dose is very low.  This is in combination with my 10mg Lexapro for GAD.  Xanax is usually a short term solution for times of severe panic much like ativan.  If the two are any alike, ativan is not recommended to be taken for longer than two weeks (straight, not as hearflttersflyawayplz does) because of its risk for heightening depression.  If your doctor is game, I would consider the trazadone.  I started on 50 mg, but was waking up consistently after only four hours.  The 100 mg gave me a full nights sleep.  Just a thought.

[Atilla]

I will ask my doctor about the Trazadone.  How long have you been on 10mg Lexapro for GAD?  I  have been on Lexapro for three weeks now.  At times I feel like quitting it because I just feel tired most of the time and don't feel like doing much.  I do notice that my anxiety has gotten a little better.  Do you take the Lexapro in the morning?  I had been taking it in the late afternoon, but thinking of changing to the morning to see if this might make a difference.  Thanks.