xanax

[pgcc313]

Since I stopped xanax and switched to kolonopin everything is so much better. I also awitched from zoloft to lexapro. I found that by the time I woke in the morning after taking xanax every 4 hours while awake I was already having acute withdrawal symptoms. Stomach ache, panic, ect. With the kolonopin none of this and I am taking 2 mgs of kolonopin a day next to 8mg a day of xanax. I wish I made the switch sooner. I am not a doc and everyone is different but if yo are on xanax for long term management of anxiety I would try kolonipin. If it dosen't work you can always go back to xanax. My doc also prescribed welbutin 300mg xr. Any comments on this? I am a bit wary of taking two anti depressants but he said thry are different types of anti-depress any thoughts? I have major, debilitating depression and anxiety, however it is controlled by meds. I just wish docs didn't look at you like a drug addict when you tell them you need xanax or kolonopin to function

[jakegorzen]

I would pass on the Welbutrin, if your already taking Lexapro.
Welbutrin has "Stimulant" like effects and can make your anxiety worse.
Your already taking a A.D for depression, and you say you feel so much better, so My oppinion is why ad another drug, if the ones now work.

Good choice on the switch with Xanax and Klonopin, less ups and downs, and allot safer

[greenlydia]

I agree with jake in taking a pass on the Wellbutrin. Since the lexapro is apparently helping you adequatey, I don't understand his reasoning in putting you on yet another medication. I'd certainly ask for his reasoning behind that decision and know that it is your right to refuse ANY medication. If YOU feel the lexapro is doing a good job for you, tell him you do not want to add anything else.
That was one hell of a dose of Xanax you were on and I'm glad to hear you've made the switch to Klonopin. It IS a much "smoother" ride but please be aware that while not as difficult to withdraw from as Xanax, it still needs to be carefully and slowly tapered when the time comes. You can not "cold turkey" from Klonopin either!
Best of luck..........let us know how you're doing? There are many folks here comtemplating this same move from Xanax to Klonopin.
Peace
Greenlydia

[lisa20020]

Your post was very relieving for me.  I am having a major problem after moving to another state 2 months ago.  I have been on Xanax for years and the doctors or emergency or pharmacy treat me as though I am wanting Xanax  to get high.  

Once I find a doctor I am going to switch to Klonopin because I cant take the dependency I have on Xanax.  I have been on it for years.  I am trying to find a therapist here to deal with some of the underlying reasons for my anxiety, which is very hard with no insurance.  

I can totally relate to your comment about being treated like a drug addict.  You would think the doctors would realize the extent a mental illness can have on a life.

[Paxiled]

If the xanax works, you might want to just stay on it.  Klonopin is just as addictive and maybe even harder to quit.  Whatever works.  Anyone who needs meds is an addict of sorts, but we're also addicted to eating every day.  Doctors are fools.  Only switch if you think another med will work better for you.  

As to wellbutrin, sometimes it's added if there are sexual side effects, but it can cause increased anxiety.  I agree with the other posters, if you don't need it, don't add it.  Enough is enough.  Remember, at bottom most psychiatrists are drug pushers; otherwise we'd all be seeing therapists who charge a whole lot less.

[Hensley258]

didn't you get very severe withdrawl when you made the switch from Xanax to Klonopin?
I am also addicted to a high dosage of Xanax for my anxiety and every time I try to taper off I get nasty withdrawls and my anxiety shoots thru the roof.

[jakegorzen]

Everyones different when it comes to benzos, some people can take them every day for months....and just quit and be fine.
Then theres people like myself who are reluctant on even taking it, take the smallest dose possible "Worked great because I dont take pills anyways, so My bodys really clean" then ween off....and go through h3ll