QuestionHi. I am 31 yrs old. I started having panic attacks and agoraphobia at age 12, and have been on medicine pretty much ever since. For the last 5 years, I have taken xanax 1mg 3 times a day, and paxil 20mg 2 times a day. I recently started having problems with both panic and depression to the point of missing work and not wanting to leave home. I have a constant feeling of guilt and "dread" that will not go away.
My work dropped my insurance about 11 months ago, so Ive been taking my medicine through a friend who has the same problems, and is on the same medications, because I couldnt afford them.
(I know that is VERY stupid, but I was desperate!)
I was wandering what to tell my doctor if I go back and if it is time for new medications, and will different brands (but of the same type) work any better?
Thank you much, James.
AnswerThe problem with xanax is developing tolerance (doesn't work as well as before) and dependence. That is a hefty dose of medicine.
Be straight with your doctor.... there may be other combinations of medicines but all the xanax like drugs work similarly, but adding some other class may be helpful.
