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Suggest Remedy For Anxiety Despite Taking Xanax

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Posted on Thu, 13 Aug 2015
Question: I have severe anxiety and have been on 2mg of Xanax once a day for about 7 years. For the last couple of years they no longer relieve the anxiety. Do I need to change medication as maybe my body has got used to the Xanax? My doctor says he isn't allowed to prescribe more than 2mg once a day by the medical board.
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Answered by Dr. Shubham Mehta (59 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
consider using SSRIs.

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Welcome to HCM.
I understand your concerns.

You have been taking xanax since last 7 years. You do not feel the antianxiety effects of xanax now.

I think you have developed tolerance to xanax.
Benzos are well known to cause dependence.

Change of drug is certainly needed.
In my opinion, you must consider using SSRIs like escitalopram or sertraline for anxiety (prescription drugs).

Kindly discuss thjs with your doctor.
Hope this helps.
Take care.

Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Shubham Mehta

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2008

Answered : 2145 Questions

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Suggest Remedy For Anxiety Despite Taking Xanax

Brief Answer: consider using SSRIs. Detailed Answer: Hello Welcome to HCM. I understand your concerns. You have been taking xanax since last 7 years. You do not feel the antianxiety effects of xanax now. I think you have developed tolerance to xanax. Benzos are well known to cause dependence. Change of drug is certainly needed. In my opinion, you must consider using SSRIs like escitalopram or sertraline for anxiety (prescription drugs). Kindly discuss thjs with your doctor. Hope this helps. Take care.