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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Can Xanax Cravings Be Substituted With An Alternative?

Okay. I have been on Xanax for 10 years, almost killing myself, severe depression anxiety and suicidal tendancies BUT I have cut down to two Xanax a day, 1 milligram each, and seem to have it under control, but there are times when I need more. My doctor prescribed Gabapentin 600 mg three times a day to help curb the craving. I am on my third bottle it has done NOTHING. I really need to find some medication besides xanax, although it WORKS! but some other medication to cut out the craving. Thank you!!!!!
Tue, 21 Apr 2015
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hello, Welcome to Health Care Magic

Xanax is Alprazolam and the drug is a benzodiazepine drug. The drug when used regularly for long time results in dependence and on reducing the use withdrawal symptoms are seen. The craving even while you are taking 2 mg of tablet daily is probably due to long term withdrawal most probably.

You are taking 1800 mg of Gabapentin and in most individuals the drug helps to beat addiction. If that is not resulting in improvement then in such case other drugs like Pregabalin can help. The drug is relatively more efficient in controlling craving of benzodiazepines as compared to Gabapentin. Other option is Baclofen. The drug helps to reduce craving and results in improvement of symptoms of protracted withdrawal.

Discuss with your doctor prescription of these drugs, and for proper dose tapering of Alprazolam.

Thanks, hope this helps you
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How Can Xanax Cravings Be Substituted With An Alternative?

Hello, Welcome to Health Care Magic Xanax is Alprazolam and the drug is a benzodiazepine drug. The drug when used regularly for long time results in dependence and on reducing the use withdrawal symptoms are seen. The craving even while you are taking 2 mg of tablet daily is probably due to long term withdrawal most probably. You are taking 1800 mg of Gabapentin and in most individuals the drug helps to beat addiction. If that is not resulting in improvement then in such case other drugs like Pregabalin can help. The drug is relatively more efficient in controlling craving of benzodiazepines as compared to Gabapentin. Other option is Baclofen. The drug helps to reduce craving and results in improvement of symptoms of protracted withdrawal. Discuss with your doctor prescription of these drugs, and for proper dose tapering of Alprazolam. Thanks, hope this helps you