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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Can Severe Depression And Anxiety Be Treated?

I am suffering severe depression and anxiety. I have been unable to go to work for a month. I am on alprazolam and for years I have been able to manage and battle through these episodes. I am struggling to fight off the depression and not winning this time.
Mon, 12 Mar 2018
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hello,

It is advisable to take approximately to treat anxiety symptoms but it is not to be taken for years together as it has more tolerance and dependence.

So, I would advise you to taper off approx. and stop and then it has to be compensated with equivalent dose of other Benzodiazepines to prevent its unwanted withdrawal symptoms.

Please let me know your current dose, so that I can give tapering schedule. You can combine it with antidepressant to combat your depressive symptoms.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Soujanya
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Psychiatrist,  Dr. Gayathri's  Response
Hello,

In my opinion, it is important to do a checkup that is of blood profile like thyroid function and hemoglobin levels.

It is important to start antidepressants and cognitive behavioral therapy for depression with adequate sleep, exercise and diet.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Gayathri
I find this answer helpful
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How Can Severe Depression And Anxiety Be Treated?

Hello, It is advisable to take approximately to treat anxiety symptoms but it is not to be taken for years together as it has more tolerance and dependence. So, I would advise you to taper off approx. and stop and then it has to be compensated with equivalent dose of other Benzodiazepines to prevent its unwanted withdrawal symptoms. Please let me know your current dose, so that I can give tapering schedule. You can combine it with antidepressant to combat your depressive symptoms. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Soujanya