Panic attacks and Agoraphobia

[joedev51]

I have suffered from panic attack and agoraphobia for the past 33 years, I have been in and out of therapy, have tried Bio-feedback and every Antidepressant under the sun. I went to see one of the best doctors that treat my condition. After trying Paxil ( it almost killed me) it was determined that I was allergic to antidepressants. So my doctor put me on Xanax 1mg twice a day. Within a few days I could see and feel the difference. So for the last 7 years I have been on 1mg Xanax with no problems. I have since moved out of state and I am seeing another doctor who to my dismay reemed me out for taking Xanax. (the garbage drug ) he called it. I told him that it has worked very well for me and has almost completely stopped the panic attacks. He didn't want to hear it and told me that he would not perscribe Xanax or any other medication to me for my (PROBLEM) as he put it. So I only have a few Xanax left so I have been breaking them in half. Since I have Agoraphobia it is very hard to get around. I live out in the middle of nowhere and don't drive, I count on my brother to help me when he isn't working. What will happen if I can't find another doctor to perscribe Xanax or another Benzo that works. I am scared to death that I will go through withdrawal and people on MedHelp have told me withdrawal is really bad.

[Paxiled]

You need a psychiatrist.  Regular docs know nothing about these meds.  At any rate, this doc isn't the one for you or anyone else.  Doesn't see you as an individual but as part of his prejudice.  Benzos are difficult meds and are getting harder to get around the world, but if it's the only thing that works for you, that should be listened to.  Psychiatrists tend to be more aware of this problem, though they have their limitations on thinking as well.  If you're under the gun timewise, there are two possibilities -- contact your old doc and see if he'll give you a refill or contact this doc, and if that's not possible, tell this doc that if you go into withdrawal and suffer a seizure (not common, but benzos are also anti-seizure meds and must be discontinued carefully) or any long-term effects, he'll be supporting you for the rest of both of your lives from your malpractice award.

[DJ873]

i would absolutely find another doctor. this dr is beng irresponsible to expect you to stop cold turkey.