jobo591

[jobo591]

I am 78 years old. I have taken ativan for years for depression. Now the Doctor has prescribed Abilify 2mg to take along with the Ativan. Is this common?

[RubyWitch]

First I would like to know who perscribed Ativan to you for depression. And why they have kept you on if for "years."
Ativan is NOT an antidepressant and has no affinity for that disorder.
It's a short acting benzodiazipine. (Antianxiety)
The main uses for Ativan are anxiety, irritability in psychiatric or organic disorders, preoperatively, insomnia, and as an adjunct in endoscopic procedures. It's "unlabeled" uses are antiemetic prior to chemotherapy, status epilepticus, rectal use, alcohol withdrawal and seizure prophylaxis.
Nowhere in any medical reference does it state Ativan is used for the treatment of depression.
You don't say what dose you're on, but the use of Ativan in the elderly is listed under "Precautions." The dose for older adults is nearly half that for younger adults. It is also not recommended for use longer than 4 months.

Abilify is classified as an "Antipsychotic."
It's main uses are for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, agitation, major depressive disorder, short term mania or mixed episodes of bipolar disorder. It's "unlabeled" use is listed as psychosis in dementia.

Under major depressive disorder, it states that Abilify is used as an ADJUNCT to other antidepressant treatment.
You are not on ANY treatment for depression.

I don't know where the above poster got her information about Abilify, but it does NOT help with anxiety, and in fact, one of many side effects is anxiety.

It may be "common practice" to prescribe Abilify as an adjucnt to antidepressant therapy, but it is NOT common practice to use as an adjunct with a benzo like Ativan.

I would strongly urge you to get a second opinion. It appears your doctor doesn't know WHAT he's treating you for...........anxiety or depression.
I, too, often tell people to trust their doctors, but in some cases, and this one for sure, I believe a second opinion is absolutely necessary to safeguard your own health.

I hope you will let me know what you find out.
Peace
Greenlydia

[mammo]

Hi.  Actually Ativan is more for anxiety and Abilify is more for depression but it can also help with anxiety.  This is common practice, trust in your doctor.  Best wishes.