Xanax withdrawl using zanaflex

[wunker]

Is it OK to use Zanaflex for sleep  while tapering off Xanax?

[Brenndy]

Question: "Will taking the Zanaflex make the withdrawal symptoms of Xanax harder to get over?"  IMO, No, it would not.

[wunker]

I was taking .25mg Xanax  4x/day for 6 months. Tapering down .25/day every 7 days per Dr.  2 more days to go on 2x then will go down to 1 x  and then hopefully off.  Have had insomnia for  2 years.  After back fusion  started Zanaflex at bedtime to help with sleep  4 mg. Also taking neurontin 300mg 3x/day.  My question was  will taking the Zanaflex make the withdrawl symptoms of Xanax harder to get over.  ?   Have read some who said don't take other drugs while tapering.  My Dr. doesn't say much about it.  Need for sleep is strong.  Have ambien too but thought maybe Zanaflex better alternative.  

[Brenndy]

Hello Wunk,

Hope this finds you well.

I consulted the PDR (Physicians' Desk Reference), which is THE medication bible that physicians refer to with regard to medications.  The PDR lists Zanaflex Interactions as: "May potentiate CNS depression with alcohol, baclofen, benzodiazepines, other CNS depressants."  

Because you are taking Xanax, which is a benzodiazepine (a CNS depressant), I would strongly recommend that you consult your physician for the answer to your question. Moreover, I recommend that course of action because you did not mention in your post what strength Xanax you are taking, and for what period of time, as well as list your complete medication profile.  It's a complicated issue and one that best be handled by you and your doctor.  

Please contact your physician and present him or her with your question/s, as well as letting me know what he or she recommends.  

Best wishes with the taper, as well as continued good health and happiness.
Prevail!

[wunker]

I had back surgery, and Zanaflex   helps me go to sleep.  Was wondering if  continuing it while tapering off of Xanax would make it more difficult to get off of Xanax.

[Brenndy]

Zanaflex is indicated for muscle spasticity - period.  
I feel it would be a waste of your time, as well as your hard earned money pop.