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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Medicines Should I Take For Overcoming OCD And Agoraphobia To Avoid Attacks During Air Travel ?

Hello doctor. Am from Mauritius and am a female of 22 years old. I have OCD and Agoraphobia . I am scared to get on buses and flights since I get panic attacks. But this week I have to take a flight for Mumbai and it`s a 6hr flight. Please can u suggest any medecine that I can take so that I don`t experince those attacks on the flights? I am not following any treatment because my parents do not agree that I suffer from a problem. They say it`s all in my mind . But am really nervous to get on this flight. Please help me. On doctor said to use clonazepam 0.5mg thrice daily and propranolol twice daily. Will this be fine? Can i get these medecines in the pharmacy without the doctor`s prescription? And will it have any side effects? Please help me. I am really worried to get on this flight. Thanks a lot.
Mon, 8 Sep 2014
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Psychiatrist 's  Response
1. Clonazepam and propranolol will be helpful. You may experience drowsiness. If you are asthmatic, don't take propranolol. But otherwise, these are safe medicines.
However, usually these medicines are not available without prescription. Ask your family doctor for a prescription. Another medicine that will give quick relief is Alprazolam (Restyl, Xanax, Alprax) 0.5 mg just before the flight. Be careful. Do not take Alprazolam for longer period without doctor's guidance. It is very habit forming. You will probably need a prescription for it.
2. You should explain to your parents that your have a medical condition. It is not all just in mind. It will help a lot if you request your doctor to talk to them.
3. If you take proper treatment for OCD and Agoraphobia, you will be able to live a productive and happier life. Therefore, you should see a psychiatrist. He/she will evaluate you, counsel you about your condition (also counsel your parents) and initiate proper treatment regime. Usually a combination of medicines and psychotherapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy gives best long term results.
I hope this answers your question.
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What Medicines Should I Take For Overcoming OCD And Agoraphobia To Avoid Attacks During Air Travel ?

1. Clonazepam and propranolol will be helpful. You may experience drowsiness. If you are asthmatic, don t take propranolol. But otherwise, these are safe medicines. However, usually these medicines are not available without prescription. Ask your family doctor for a prescription. Another medicine that will give quick relief is Alprazolam (Restyl, Xanax, Alprax) 0.5 mg just before the flight. Be careful. Do not take Alprazolam for longer period without doctor s guidance. It is very habit forming. You will probably need a prescription for it. 2. You should explain to your parents that your have a medical condition. It is not all just in mind. It will help a lot if you request your doctor to talk to them. 3. If you take proper treatment for OCD and Agoraphobia, you will be able to live a productive and happier life. Therefore, you should see a psychiatrist. He/she will evaluate you, counsel you about your condition (also counsel your parents) and initiate proper treatment regime. Usually a combination of medicines and psychotherapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy gives best long term results. I hope this answers your question.