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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Is The Alternative Medicine For Clomipramine, Triazolam For Insomnia?

I have been taking Clomipramine for OCD for years, as well as Xanax for anxiety and Triazolam for insomnia. In the last year, the obsessive rituals have gotten worse, as well as the internal dialogue, the near-agoraphobia. Recently, my -- highly respected -- psychiatrist added SAD, GAD and clinical depression to his OCD diagnosis. Rather than replace the Clomipramine, which he says is among the best, he prescribed Gabapentin as an add-on (I cannot afford new drugs like Abilify.) The vicious cycle of sleep deprivation worsening the anxiety which worsens the rituals and so on is truly becoming unbearable. My doctor approves of my research and understanding of my disorders and available treatments. If I were your patient, would you recommend different medications(s)? Please keep in mind that I am woefully underinsured, so old-school is more reasonable financially for me.
Wed, 26 Oct 2016
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Diabetologist 's  Response
Hi,
With my experience in treating OCD patients, I will give you advice from my side. Clomipramine is certainly effective in treating the OCD symptoms. I would not suggest replacing it. Gabapentin will definitely help your symptoms especially the insomnia. And I would not recommend any additional drugs or any change in drugs for my patients.
But let me tell you what is important other than medications. It's cognitive behavioural therapy. One of them called exposure therapy works brilliantly for people with OCD. It's like this, you hit the OCD that is the core and your peripheral symptoms of anxiety, insomnia and depression will definitely improve.
Go for intensive cognitive behavioural therapy along with present medications. You have a higher chances of better quality of life. I hope I match your old school thoughts.
Hope the above information helps you. Thanks.
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What Is The Alternative Medicine For Clomipramine, Triazolam For Insomnia?

Hi, With my experience in treating OCD patients, I will give you advice from my side. Clomipramine is certainly effective in treating the OCD symptoms. I would not suggest replacing it. Gabapentin will definitely help your symptoms especially the insomnia. And I would not recommend any additional drugs or any change in drugs for my patients. But let me tell you what is important other than medications. It s cognitive behavioural therapy. One of them called exposure therapy works brilliantly for people with OCD. It s like this, you hit the OCD that is the core and your peripheral symptoms of anxiety, insomnia and depression will definitely improve. Go for intensive cognitive behavioural therapy along with present medications. You have a higher chances of better quality of life. I hope I match your old school thoughts. Hope the above information helps you. Thanks.