Posted by Cam W. on January 4, 2001, at 6:57:10
In reply to Can You Get Used to AA's?, posted by tina on January 3, 2001, at 23:07:52
> Just wondering if your body builds up a tolerance for benzos after awhile and they stop working?
> Dumb question but it was on my mind and it's very very late at night and i tend to get dumb when I don't sleep.
> I hope everyone here is getting their zzz's.
> TinaTina - Usually people will build up a tolerance to the motor side effects of benzos (eg incoordination), but not to the anti-anxiety effects. Many people equate the loss of the motor side effects with the benzo not working, and thus increase the dose. This is the start of the spiral into dependence and possibly addiction. This is why BuSpar is perceived not to work, because it does not have the same motor side effects as benzos.
An occasional increase in dose is usually okay (with your doctor's permission), but always remember to return to your maintenance dose within a day or two.
Yes, some people do get used to their anti-anxiety agents, but I would try some cognitive/behavioral therapies before adding more drugs.
Hope this helps - Cam
poster:Cam W.
thread:3686
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20001117/msgs/3691.html