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Does Alprazolam Help To Treat Stress And Anxiety?

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Posted on Mon, 6 Apr 2015
Question: Hi Doctor , I am already on Cymbalta to treat my depression , for the past 6 years. Lately due to lots of stressors in my life , anxiety is debilitating my functioning. Do you think a drug like Alprazolam would be appropriate for treating my escalating anxiety?
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Answered by Dr. Ravi Soni (9 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Benzodiazepines can be used for short duration

Detailed Answer:
Hi, thanks for writing through HCM.

I have read your query and understood your concerns.

You have not mentioned the dose of cymbalta you have been taking. If stressor is there than drugs won't help much but low dose benzodiazepines like klonopin 0.25 mg twice a day would benefit you for anxiety.

I would also consider changing cymbalta to better antidepressant like paxil 25 mg at night. It will give better results.

Discuss these issues with your prescribing doctor and follow his advice. Do not change the drug on your own. Alprazolam is not a good drug, it will cause dependence and withdrawal if you shall take it for long time.

Hope I have answered your query. If you have further query then I shall be happy to help.
Wish you good health.
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Neel Kudchadkar
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Answered by
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Dr. Ravi Soni

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2010

Answered : 538 Questions

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Does Alprazolam Help To Treat Stress And Anxiety?

Brief Answer: Benzodiazepines can be used for short duration Detailed Answer: Hi, thanks for writing through HCM. I have read your query and understood your concerns. You have not mentioned the dose of cymbalta you have been taking. If stressor is there than drugs won't help much but low dose benzodiazepines like klonopin 0.25 mg twice a day would benefit you for anxiety. I would also consider changing cymbalta to better antidepressant like paxil 25 mg at night. It will give better results. Discuss these issues with your prescribing doctor and follow his advice. Do not change the drug on your own. Alprazolam is not a good drug, it will cause dependence and withdrawal if you shall take it for long time. Hope I have answered your query. If you have further query then I shall be happy to help. Wish you good health.