Posted by Harvester of Eyes on October 6, 2003, at 8:57:00
In reply to Newbie - My first panick attack - Lex Ativan ?'s, posted by bluesilvy on October 5, 2003, at 21:57:27
Drugs like ativan and Klonipin are at those most brilliant when they are used to rebuild your confidence in the face of a panic disorder such that you no longer feel loss of control. In other words, just having the drugs in your pocket is reassuring. I think the fact that you forgot the Klonipin on your trip is telling.
The best part about drugs like ativan is they work almost immediately. Knowing you have an instant treatment in your pocket is very reassuring, and can give you the resilience to overcome panic attacks for the long term.
Many of us who find ourselves on benzo type drugs on a daily basis come to a point where we would like to scale back or eliminate the use, because of issues such as dependency or side effects. I recommend that your first step be trying to use them as needed, when you feel something coming on. Gradually learn to ride it out for a few minutes before medicating to build confidence. Eventually you may find you rarely need the pills.
I am not qualified to comment on the Lexapro except to say that it overstimulates some people. I think the absence of your Klonipin on the trip was probably the key issue.
Hey -- panic attacks feel like hell. But at least it's an easily treatable, non-fatal condition.
poster:Harvester of Eyes
thread:265806
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20031004/msgs/265906.html