is this a side effect of xanax ?

[jimmy177]

On .25 mg of xanax for sleep 1x per day for so far 5 weeks.  Symptoms include vivid dreams, nervousness, notice urination slow, shoulder muscle fatigue, headaches.  So far these are what I've experienced and hopefully NO more, but  would like to get some input.  I got a psychiatrist apt in 2 weeks.  and xanax was prescribed by my primary and visit after visit he got tire of me.  and told me to see a psychiatrist.  So sad.  Need some answer and comfort...I don't want to be on xanax....

[MMahon]

I think the psychiatrist will help you out with the sleep problem.  He/she may recommend an anti-depressant but let them advise you what's best to do.  I always had sleep problems due to anxiety and it drove me downhill fast.  I now take trazadone at night as it's good for sleep and it is sedative.  I have no problems with it but I don't believe it's that popular these days.
Let me know how you make out.

[jimmy177]

If I recall I was prescribed for nervousness and couldn't stop it.  then insomnia happened and I believe he prescribe it for sleep as well.  I was on it a month then ween myself off of it because of how addictive it can be.  and after a month off I needed to go back on it for sleep.  The sleep is still on and off, but I want something that is not addictive...

[MMahon]

You are taking a small dose for a short amount of time.  But some of your symptoms may be side effects.  Most are more likely symptoms of anxiety.  See:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alprazolam#Side_effects

Your doctor did you a favor by referring you to a psychiatrist.  They are the best ones to see when dealing with anxiety/depression.  Why were you prescribed xanax?