Insomnia Forum Posting

Posted by susie on August 03, 1998 at 15:21:46:

In Reply to: Is Xanax addictive ? posted by Harold on July 24, 1998 at 08:00:07:

Hi Harold,
Xanax (or generic, alprozolam) is a benzodiazepine type drug. It is in the same class as valium, and Ativan and Klonopin, although each of the drugs is slightly different. These drugs do cause a physical dependence , especially if used over a long period of time (more than 8-12 weeks). However, they are usually given in doses of 0.75 mg to 4 mg, although in some cases the doctor may prescrive larger doses if the condition indicates it is needed. The larger the dose, and the longer the time used, the stronger the physical withdrawal symptoms will be if the drug is suddenly stopped.
You are taking a smaller dose than usual. If you take it regularly and continuously over a long period of time,if you suddenly stop taking it, the sedative, or other effects it is being taken for, reappear, often with a vengence. All such drugs shoud never be suddenly stopped, or the dosage changed without the supervising doctor's guidance. Doing this can sometimes be accompanied by seizures.
These are useful drugs. They are prescribed because something about the brain/body chemistry is out of balance and for the health of the person this needs to be medically controlled. There are good medical justifications for prescribing these medications. The medications are not evil. If your doctor has prescribed this, then you should not avoid taking it because of fear of becoming addicted to the drug. Just work with your doctor. If you move, or see another doctor for any reason, be certain to tell them you are taking this medication.
You will do fine.
Susie

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