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Suggest Alternative Medication For Xanax

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Posted on Wed, 29 Jun 2016
Question: I am taking Xanax and noticed on interactions potential concerns if you have COPD and Sleep Apnia. What are those potential concerns'?
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Answered by Dr. Chintan Solanki (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
ativan is better option

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Thanks for writing to us.

Xanax is a drug from benzodiazepine group. It causes respiratory depression in patients with already suffering form respiratory problems. You have COPD as well as Sleep apnea. It should be used with much caution. It is potent drug and causes dependence in long run. Preferably it should be stopped in your case. Never stop it cold turkey. Go for slow tapering to prevent withdrawals. If at all benzodiazepine is indicated, ativan (lorazepam) is an option which causes no or very less respiratory side effect and short acting.
Please discuss with your doctor and change treatment plan.

Hope I have answered your query, I will be happy to help further.

Regards,

Dr.Chintan Solanki.
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Naveen Kumar
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Answered by
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Dr. Chintan Solanki

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2007

Answered : 2406 Questions

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Suggest Alternative Medication For Xanax

Brief Answer: ativan is better option Detailed Answer: Hello, Thanks for writing to us. Xanax is a drug from benzodiazepine group. It causes respiratory depression in patients with already suffering form respiratory problems. You have COPD as well as Sleep apnea. It should be used with much caution. It is potent drug and causes dependence in long run. Preferably it should be stopped in your case. Never stop it cold turkey. Go for slow tapering to prevent withdrawals. If at all benzodiazepine is indicated, ativan (lorazepam) is an option which causes no or very less respiratory side effect and short acting. Please discuss with your doctor and change treatment plan. Hope I have answered your query, I will be happy to help further. Regards, Dr.Chintan Solanki.