HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Can I Take Lexapro When Needed Like Valium Or Xanax?

default
Posted on Wed, 23 Oct 2013
Question: Can I take lexapro on a as needed basis like I would a valium or zanex?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Ashish Mittal (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Not helpful on use depending on need basis.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for your query.
I appreciate your efforts for medical consultation in so much distress.

All these medicines used for anxiety and depressive symptoms.

In drug treatment of anxiety two types of medicine used. For immediate relief of anxiety benzodiazepines group of medicines (like valium or zanax) are used for short duration or according to need basis (due to risk of dependence).

For long term relief most commonly SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) like Lexapro are used. SSRI takes around 3-4 weeks to show its effect. It is not useful on use for short term (like according to need basis). Even this increase anxiety for 2-3 days on initiation of use.

All these medicines are prescription medicine and given after in person examination by physician.

I hope this information has been both informative and helpful for you. In case of any doubt, I will be available for follow ups.

Wish you good health.
Regards,
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Ashish Mittal

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 1859 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Can I Take Lexapro When Needed Like Valium Or Xanax?

Brief Answer:
Not helpful on use depending on need basis.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for your query.
I appreciate your efforts for medical consultation in so much distress.

All these medicines used for anxiety and depressive symptoms.

In drug treatment of anxiety two types of medicine used. For immediate relief of anxiety benzodiazepines group of medicines (like valium or zanax) are used for short duration or according to need basis (due to risk of dependence).

For long term relief most commonly SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) like Lexapro are used. SSRI takes around 3-4 weeks to show its effect. It is not useful on use for short term (like according to need basis). Even this increase anxiety for 2-3 days on initiation of use.

All these medicines are prescription medicine and given after in person examination by physician.

I hope this information has been both informative and helpful for you. In case of any doubt, I will be available for follow ups.

Wish you good health.
Regards,