Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
Suffering With Intermittent Anxiety, Heaviness In Chest, Eases With Lorazopam. Tips To Gradually Withdraw The Medicine?
i am 70 years old.had been suffering from intermittent anxiety/sress.had been taking for last 25-30 yrs one or other benevery night like diazapam,lorazopam,alprozam etc.Since early october have been suffering from moderate anxiety,gloom,melancholy with a heaviness in chest region.lorazopam 1 mg morning and in the evening gi8ves substantial relief i feel good & cheerful.i am also started homeopathic treament who wish me to continue allopathic medicines i.e lorazapam till i begin to feel better.i wish to how long one can continue taking lorazopam & how to leave it gradually at a a later stage thanks pbhalla
Mon, 31 Dec 2012
Hello and welcome to Healthcare Magic. Thanks for your query.
Medication such as Lorazepam, Diazepam, Alprazolam, etc. belong to a category of medication called benzodiazepines. Now, this group of medication is used to treat anxiety as well as sleep disorders. When used for the treatment of these problems, these medication should be used only for short periods, because prolonged use can lead to medication dependence or 'addiction'.
So, if you are continuing to take these medication on your own, then I would advise you to consult a doctor, preferably a psychiatrist for further advise regarding continuing these medication or gradually tapering and stopping them.
There are also other non-addictive anxiety medication, which can be taken safely for long duration. There are also many psychological therapies which can help you effectively deal with your anxiety / stress. I would also suggest that you try relaxation techniques like deeep breathing, yoga, etc. for managing your stress and anxiety.
Best wishes,
Dr. Sheeba Stephen
Medication such as Lorazepam, Diazepam, Alprazolam, etc. belong to a category of medication called benzodiazepines. Now, this group of medication is used to treat anxiety as well as sleep disorders. When used for the treatment of these problems, these medication should be used only for short periods, because prolonged use can lead to medication dependence or 'addiction'.
So, if you are continuing to take these medication on your own, then I would advise you to consult a doctor, preferably a psychiatrist for further advise regarding continuing these medication or gradually tapering and stopping them.
There are also other non-addictive anxiety medication, which can be taken safely for long duration. There are also many psychological therapies which can help you effectively deal with your anxiety / stress. I would also suggest that you try relaxation techniques like deeep breathing, yoga, etc. for managing your stress and anxiety.
Best wishes,
Dr. Sheeba Stephen
I find this answer helpful
Hello........
Thanks for your query. Benzodiazepines/ sedatives like lorazepam are not recommended to be continued beyond 6-8 weeks according to our psychiatry guidelines as they are addictive in nature. The methods we use to wean off those who are dependent on these drugs are to substitute with longer acting sedatives like clonazepam/diazepam and then to gradually taper them off by around 10-20% decrease in dosage every week. I would advise you consult a substance use specialist, get yourself evaluated and begin the process of weaning. Additionally, psychological counselling would also be beneficial to improve your confidence. Wish you early recovery.
Regards
Dr Sundar Gnanavel
Psychiatrist/ Deaddiction specialist
Thanks for your query. Benzodiazepines/ sedatives like lorazepam are not recommended to be continued beyond 6-8 weeks according to our psychiatry guidelines as they are addictive in nature. The methods we use to wean off those who are dependent on these drugs are to substitute with longer acting sedatives like clonazepam/diazepam and then to gradually taper them off by around 10-20% decrease in dosage every week. I would advise you consult a substance use specialist, get yourself evaluated and begin the process of weaning. Additionally, psychological counselling would also be beneficial to improve your confidence. Wish you early recovery.
Regards
Dr Sundar Gnanavel
Psychiatrist/ Deaddiction specialist
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Counseling psychology
Loading Online Doctors....