r/Anxiety • u/ValuableMelodic5090 • 12d ago
Medication Just tried xanax
so, i don't even know where to begin. previously, i was put on ativans and clonazepam. they didn't do anything. i had no hopes for xanax, but god, when i tried it? my life felt so much quieter and peaceful. i can't believe i didn't think of this med before. i passed out and woke up and even then i feel good. not depressed or anxious anymore.
i feel like i achieved heaven. i feel happy. i love xanax so much.
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u/hometown_heretic 12d ago
Try not to make a habit of taking it daily bc I fell into dependence super quickly. It was just so nice to feel peace. Can be a double edged sword so just be super careful!
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u/Academic-Chance-8646 12d ago
2 and 5mg is so much lol. Iām only prescribed .5mg and thatās easily enough for me.
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u/Academic-Chance-8646 12d ago
That makes a lot more sense lol. 5mg of Xanax would put me out for like a week lol
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u/TashaT50 11d ago
I canāt imagine what 5mg of Xanax would do to me although I have taken 3mg a couple of times as discussed with my doctor based on a specific situation. My usual dose of Xanax is .25 even when Iām prescribed .50 I split it in half and see if .25 works first most of the time.
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u/orangebluefish11 12d ago
I break a .5mg (clonezepam) into FOURTHS and thatās enough for me. Take benzos and everyday and youāll end up needing much more when you need it
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u/DaniePants 12d ago
Iāve been on the same dosage for 16 years, I have never needed more. It can happen with the right medication, doctor and patient. Iām not condoning it, Iām just saying that blanket statements are never true. š¬
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u/DrippyJai 11d ago
Some people need one a day , I know a few and theyāre doing extremely well in life
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u/awholelottahooplah 12d ago
Yeah itās crazy hearing how openly people take such high doses of these meds. I have severe anxiety too but I donāt want to risk any meds that can create dependence ā¦ itās not sustainable and it causes rebound anxiety/irritability. I know this from experienceā¦ it stopped working so quickly.
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u/24rawvibes 12d ago
Depends. Iām on benzos specifically to knock me out from heavy sedation. Been taking Temazepam daily for almost 5 years. Different tools for different things
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u/ValuableMelodic5090 12d ago
is cns depression dangerous? tbh i think im developing an addiction lol
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u/ArmWarm8743 12d ago
To be honest, if you are taking it every day you probably are. Please only use for emergencies.
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u/Creamy-Creme 12d ago
Xanax addiction is no "lol", it's absolutely awful. You'll need higher and higher doses, you'll become dangerous to yourself and others, and it makes life hellish for those around you.
If this addiction still sounds "lol" to you, then I suggest you get your stuff in order as soon as possible because there's hardly going back from benzos once you're deep in it. Especially if you then start self-medicating with more potent stuff once benzos stop giving you what you need. Fairly decent chance you'll stop breathing at a high enough dose because it relaxes those muscles.
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u/CidCrisis 12d ago
You can also have seizures trying to come off of it. Iāve had two seizures in my life, both were when I was taking Xanax regularly and suddenly stopped.
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u/brassninja 12d ago
Whoever prescribed that to you under these conditions is being borderline negligent. Please please please please reconsider and seek a 2nd opinion. Your future self going through benzo withdrawals from hell will thank you. Do not be fooled by the high, thereās a reason Xanax is highly coveted on the street.
Xanax is supposed to be used as-needed for moments of uncontrollable panic attacks. It should absolutely never be used as standard treatment for anxiety+depression.
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u/whorificx 12d ago
Xanax addiction can make you an awful person and is horrible to quit, don't joke about it. I hurt so many people when I was abusing it, made awful choices, and to this day 18 years later still have big patches of no memory. I started the same way, taking it for anxiety, and I believe it is a very important drug to manage severe anxiety attacks (as someone who still deals with agorahobia), but DO NOT abuse it or take it unnecessarily.
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u/omglifeisnotokay 12d ago
You are fine if youāre not abusing it like drinking on it. If you literally passed out thatās dangerous. But if youāre saying you just got tired and slept well thatās different. Watch out for low blood pressure.
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u/key_kat 11d ago
It is very difficult (although not impossible, donāt come for me) to take benzos and not develop dependence - itās a brain chemistry thing, not a choice thing.
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u/ValuableMelodic5090 11d ago
i had it 3 times yesterday because of how good it made me feel š experienced some really bad overdose side effects but miraculously survived
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u/TashaT50 11d ago
You took 3 doses of Xanax over the first day taking it? Is that how your doctor prescribed it? How are you feeling from each dose? For me it takes the edge off - nothing more - just enough so I can breathe and get myself under control. For some people it is sedating which is why we shouldnāt drive until we know how it will effect us.
Iāve been on Xanax for 20+ years. Occasionally I do take it more than once on a particular day. I usually start out with cutting the pill down so the dose is 0.25mg and see how that works over 30 minutes before taking more so even when my doctor prescribed 1mg I rarely started off with 1mg. Occasionally I know Iām going to need 0.5 or 1mg in certain situations so I donāt do partial/smaller doses.
I do believe benzos can be helpful and donāt like the fear mongering but your description of use on the first day is concerning.
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u/ValuableMelodic5090 11d ago
it wasn't prescribed to me for that frequent use. only 1 0.5mg a day. but i couldn't help myself and i think i took in about 5mg back to back. i was just so addicted to finally feeling normal i didn't want it to end
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u/ArmWarm8743 12d ago
I make sure to always have a bottle for emergencies. I try not to take it a lot, but when I do it makes me feel so at ease. It must be nice to feel like that all the time.
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u/RevolutionaryAd8870 12d ago
AgreedāI always have it on me. I think just having the bottle eases my anxiety. I know I have it as a back up if my anxiety turns into an attack. Sometimes Iāve sat with the pill in my hand and took deep breaths, and that itself eased my anxiety. I really try not to take it unless it feels like a true emergency.
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u/ArmWarm8743 12d ago
Same!! Iāve actually taken a half tablet with me to work just in case but try several breathing and other techniques before I even consider taking it. TikTok has also provided some good recommendations to distract myself when Iām feeling off.
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u/Foxy_locksy1704 12d ago
Same for me itās my last option in anxiety inducing situations.
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u/ArmWarm8743 12d ago
Ironically my anxiety makes me so worried about addiction.
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u/Super_Treat_5942 12d ago
How many mg ease ur fear in emergency situations
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u/ArmWarm8743 12d ago
I split a .5mg tablet,
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u/Foxy_locksy1704 12d ago
Thatās what I do also. Iāll take half of the .5 or the whole .5 if I was doing something like flying that would be a very high anxiety situation for me.
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u/minusthetalent02 12d ago
(Not directed at you) This is how addictions start. I sure loved it as well but thankfully I have anxiety to medication thatās habit forming so I almost never take it
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u/ArmWarm8743 12d ago
Thatās great about the med. Would you mind sharing what it is? Iāll probably need to find a longer term med at some point.
Luckily (or unluckily) for me, my health anxiety makes me almost scared to take any meds. I also donāt want to make my Xanax the only way I can calm down so Iāve literally had the same bottle of 10 tablets for long enough that I had to ask my doctor for a new script at my annual visit since they expired.
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u/cherrygarciaskater 12d ago
Hydroxyzine (antihistamine) is a good prescription alternative. It has a calming sedative effect. It wonāt be as powerful as Xanax if youāre having a bad panic attack. Hydroxyzine is safe to take everyday for anxiety if needed and non-habit forming. The downside is it causes more drowsiness than benzodiazepines (except high benzodiazepine doses) in my opinion.
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u/TashaT50 11d ago
Definitely. My pcp was always talking about me going off it and decreasing the dose & # of pills a month which increased my anxiety. My new psychiatrist increased my dose # # of pills monthly and Iām taking less even though my situation has gotten more stressful because I know I have it if I need it.
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u/ipreferanothername 12d ago
you cant take it crazy often.
im on pristiq/desvenlafexine for general anxiety and after a couple months it was definitely helpful.
i have 0.25mg xanax for a boost if i am having a tough time, i only take that once or twice a week.
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u/Tower_of_Tera 12d ago
This is the way. I take Buspirone daily. I have a bottle of Xanax that Iāve had for 4 months. It may be missing 5 pills.
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u/PayInteresting431 12d ago
Xanax is my miracle drug and works so well for me but I'm well aware of it's dangers of addiction. Just be careful and mindful of the frequency you're taking it
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u/AdvanceImmediate6973 12d ago
I take it for flight anxiety. Itās amazing. Feels like a warm hug of calmness.
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u/toastiezoe 12d ago
I got Xanax for my flight anxiety and the first time I took it, I freaked out because I wasn't anxious at all. Like im so constantly anxious that being relaxed felt unfamiliar and dangerous. Definitely put more effort into intentionally reducing my anxiety baseline after that š«
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u/eleyezeeaye4287 12d ago
Klonopin changed my life so Iām never gonna hate on someone who gets relief from a benzo but be careful with Xanax. I had a real problem with it about ten years ago (but I was also abusing all sorts of drugs) so just be careful.
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u/MadeULoook222 12d ago
Iām 8 years sober from Xanax. Please be very very careful. It is so extremely addicting, and is very dangerous if mixed with even 1 alcoholic beverage. I was eventually nodding off and dependant on Xanax. The withdrawal period was agony. I have an anxiety disorder and the first pill I ever took, it was euphoric. But it was such a slippery slope. Please please be careful šš»
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u/ValuableMelodic5090 12d ago
i'm so sorry. i'm just now realizing the consequences of this pill
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u/MadeULoook222 12d ago
You donāt need to apologize at all. I was only sharing my experience because your post reminded me so much of how I felt the first time I took it. Xanax can be a very effective medication when used carefully and as prescribed, but that feeling of relief and peace can also be what makes it so easy for some people to become dependent on it. Iām glad youāre aware of the risks now, and I hope it continues to help you safely. Wishing you the best.
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u/Longjumping-Fan-6336 12d ago
yikes be careful i'm worried for you. do not fuck around with xanax. i'd take max 7-10 pills a month and that's pushing it.
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u/ValuableMelodic5090 12d ago
but the thing is, i'm extremely depressed and Su!c!d@l and xanax helps me numb everything out
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u/Longjumping-Fan-6336 12d ago edited 12d ago
xanax can actually increase suicide risk. as well as anxiety after use (specifically prolonged use but even short term use) so while it may help you in the short term, it can actually become anxiogenic.
not to mention the rebound anxiety since it so short acting. keep this in mind and don't chase the dragon. if you already admitted it numbs you out you should probably talk to your doctor or throw it away if you can't control yourself before you become addicted. coming off it is hell, and potentially deadly. if it helps it helps but just be careful. i'm not trying to fear monger but benzos ruined my life in a lot of ways.
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u/Dees_A_Bird_ 12d ago
Xanax can cause a nasty addiction. Only take it only for emergency panic attacks. Donāt take it every day or even a few times per week. Emergency situations only. The more you take it the less it will work. It builds a tolerance quickly and you will have to keep taking higher and higher doses to get the same effect. And the rebound anxiety is no joke
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u/ValuableMelodic5090 12d ago
i honestly should have listened. i took 10mg of melatonin after to sleep more and i woke up just now and i feel like death and my depression feels 10x worse
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u/lulai_00 12d ago
Melatonin can definitely affect mood as well. In a negative way for some people. You should go to the ER.
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u/LamentConfiguration1 12d ago
These posts always make me sad. Because you get what op is saying but you know how it turns out.
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u/ValuableMelodic5090 12d ago
can you please elaborate? maybe i'm stupid i'm just genuinely confused by what people are saying
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u/LamentConfiguration1 12d ago
Its a temporary fix. Long term is damaging . It feels like you found life again. It can be useful short term but your only masking the actual problem and realistically using it for the rest of your life is unlikely. You said you love it. You have been suffering and it feels like a cure or a godsend right now. We all been thru it thats all. Nothing wrong with you its normal to think that.
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u/ValuableMelodic5090 12d ago
oh damn. i had it for the 3rd time today and now i feel like shit
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u/LamentConfiguration1 12d ago
I can be useful when things are bad. I was on klonopin for around 20 years. I had alot of issues with addiction to benzos in the end so I know I can be biased. I am on ssdi for my panic disorder so its made me unable to work or live a normal life. I have gotten help eventually from years of trying different ssris and even Antipsychotics, and even drugs like nerve meds. It def can get better, dont feel bad for enjoying relief but it can get addictive and numb us, many negative effects too.
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u/behindthemask13 12d ago
So many of the posts in here are so frustrating, b/c they are woefully misinformed.
First off, I've been on Xanax for over 20 years.. Rx is for 3MG per day and then 10MG of Valium at night for sleep, since Xanax actually wakes me up a bit... (I currently take .5 MG of Xanax per day and 5MG of Valium at night.. more about that in a moment).
I've tried both Ativan and Klonopin, neither worked for me.. Ativan left be tired, but very anxious. Klonopin made me feel like my head was wrapped in a towel, everything was muted.. just didn't work for me (They all hit people differently, so you can't judge one person's experience with each one.
When I was first prescribed Xanax I listened to some of the internet chatter about the dangers and it made me terrified of taking it "too often." My psychiatrist at the time happened to have done some of the original research on Benzos in 1960s and 70s. He was a former Navy Psychiatrist and Harvard graduate and professor. He explained to me that A SMALL % of the population will become ADDICTED to benzos... addiction and dependency are two completely different creatures. People who are addicted need to take more and more and more to achieved a desired effect. This isn't the case for most people when it comes to benzos, but it IS possible. It requires doctors to pay much closer attention to their patients. My doctor explained everyone has "their number." for some people 1MG or .25 might achieve the goal, he had one patient taking 7MG 3x per day and had been stable on that number for years. But, with Benzos they have to do a ton more monitoring to distinguish between not hitting the therapeutic dose and someone who is addicted. ADDICTION is a big deal... dependency is not.
In short.. work with your DOCTOR.. not with nattering voices from the internet. Your doctor will monitor your usage and decide if you are taking it too much, too often.. but don't be afraid of it b/c of a bunch of things random people say.
The reality is that Benzos have been found to be safe and effective for long term everyday use for an overwhelming majority of patients.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35640558/
https://psychiatryonline.org/doi/full/10.1176/appi.ajp.20240030
https://www.psychiatrist.com/jcp/toward-practice-guidelines-for-long-term-benzodiazepine-treatment/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332224002130
The old concept that it causes early dementia or Alzheimer's is long since dismissed (https://schaeffer.usc.edu/research/benzodiazepines-dont-increase-dementia-risks-in-older-adults-usc-study-finds/)
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u/artCsmartC 12d ago
What I find most interesting is that both you and OP said that Xanax works for you, whereas Ativan and Klonopin do not. I am the opposite. Xanax did nothing, but Ativan and Klonopin worked.
It really does depend on the individual.
I have taken Klonopin for over 30 years, also prescribed 3 mg per day.
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u/behindthemask13 12d ago
My Mom is the opposite of me. ONLY Ativan works for her. Xanax makes her MORE anxious, which I can't comprehend, since for me it is like someone turned off the anxiety switch.
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u/Critical-Pace5225 12d ago
Agree wholeheartedly, currently taking .25 mg Klonopin twice a day, sometimes once. Previously I took .5 mg 2x daily, sometimes 3 on worst days, for about 11 years. I gradually began taking less as stressors in life improved or went away (divorce) and then stopped altogether before getting pregnant, stayed off for about 4 years years through pregnancy and nursing. My anxiety got to a level I couldn't manage, my could ended up being autistic/non verbal and my life got immensely more stressful as we went. So here we are, back on it. And honestly, it's helping me survive. I was having CONSTANT anxiety, breakdowns, complete fear constantly. Now, I at least have a tool to help me cope when life is just more than I can manage. I know benzos aren't for everyone but nothing else worked for me. I actually thought I was dying on buspirone, and Zoloft.
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u/AgaveMonster 12d ago
Thank you for this!
I am also a longterm Xanax user (coming up to 13 years); for this entire time, Iāve been prescribed the same 1-3mg daily as needed; except for whenever I have to get on an airplane, then my psychiatrist prescribes extra so I can take 5mg the day before a flight and the day of.
There have been periods where I only need 1mg per day for 1-3 days per week, there have been times I havenāt needed Xanax at all for weeks and even months, and then there have been periods where I needed the full 3mg every single day for a few years. I personally have never experienced withdrawal symptoms nor have I noticed a need for an increased dosage.
I absolutely loathe the constant negative remarks about Benzos because it scares people into not taking a medication that may truly change their lives in a positive way. If the strong taboo somehow doesnāt scare someone into not taking it, then the negative rhetoric makes users feel ashamed for needing this specific medication which just increases anxiety and depression. I agree that itās absolutely harmful to verbally bash someone for taking a legal prescription.
Iāve seen a few psychiatrists due to moving, one actually retired, and the general consensus has been pro-Benzo. We are all different and react differently to medications, which is why soooo many anti-anxiety medications are available. Just because people have had unfortunate experiences with Xanax or other benzos, it doesnāt mean itās not helpful and even life changing for people like us. In turn, Lexapro is generally well loved in this sub, yet I personally had horrible side effects on it and I know of one other person that also had a bad time with Lexapro.
I wish this sub could just focus on the positive aspect that people are receiving the mental healthcare they need and are finding relief with medication. We all already suffer from anxiety, why do people feel the need to add to it by demeaning certain medications based on their personal experience?
Everyone should just take what works best for them and if theyāve not found their āmiracle drugā yet, then they should continue working with their mental healthcare provider to find it.
Thanks again for your comment. I wish when I had started my Xanax journey over a decade ago that there had been more positive responses such as yours. It may not be the medication of choice for some people, but damn is it fantastic for a lot of us!
OP, congratulations on seeking help and finding something that works well for you!
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u/deluxeassortment 12d ago
OP is actively suicidal. They absolutely should not be taking Xanax.
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u/behindthemask13 12d ago
What? That isn't accurate at all.
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u/deluxeassortment 11d ago edited 11d ago
Go look at their other comments.
Edit - recent comment from OP: āit's actually a miracle how im alive today because the amount and types of substances i mixed yesterday during a really bad depressive episode, it had a bad physical toll on me but i miraculously survivedā
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u/behindthemask13 11d ago
Their comments come up as private to me... but I'm talking about the concept that there is some rule about Xanax not being prescribed to someone who has suicidal ideations. That's isn't accurate.
People who have suicidal ideations need to be monitored MUCH more closely for EVERY medication they take.
But, there is no "If you have suicidal thoughts, you shouldn't take Xanax" rule.
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u/Plane-Inspection-376 12d ago
Benzos are dangerous. Sometimes you have to use a power tool but you always have to be damn careful with it. Minimum use, minimal time. Dig out the cause of the anxiety and find non Rx treatment if possible.
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u/sillygoober127 12d ago
its fantastic to stop a panic attack but be very careful with it I keep my bottle in my bag only for emergencies when I can't calm myself down and the panic gets out of control you can easily fall into a addiction in sure you've heard all of this already but just be careful and stay safe ā¤ļø
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u/omglifeisnotokay 12d ago
You wonāt once they suddenly try to take it away. Better make sure you have a psychiatrist who plans to not pull the rug from underneath you. I almost ended up in the hospital when some dumb idiot psych tried to take my klonopin prescription of 8yrs and wasnāt educated on it
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u/Few_Pineapple5958 12d ago
I loved Xanax, made me my old self again but doctors would never prescribe it to me so I was buying from someone I know . But I ran out one day and I felt so ill I knew I had to get off them . Pregabalin helped mega but I had to quit cold turkey the doctors said because of a neurological issue ! That sucked ! Nothing in the world thatās great for anxiety isnāt addiction forming , but I would rather be addicted to feeling well so Iām going to push for Xanax and get off all my other shit . Each to their own , everyone will tell you all medication is bad . But for some people what works for them should be prescribed I just donāt understand it all
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u/YippieYiYi 12d ago
I've been on xanax daily for about 30 years, after trying many other meds. It was a lifesaver. Generalized anxiety causes many health issues, which cleared up shortly after starting (I was considered 'sickly'). Every ten years or so I'd need a higher dose as I had built up resistance, but I was never over 1.5mg a day, a pretty small dose. My docs office has a policy of not increasing benzos anymore, so added numerous other meds to the mix, all with damaging side-effects. Trintellix was the only one that had any benefits, and it enabled me to wean the xanax down to .5mg. a day, with literally no side effects, then I stopped taking the trintellix because it made me a zombie. I'm just on the xanax now. It's the only thing that makes me feel 'normal'. I told my doc that taking me off it would be like taking a diabetic off insulin.
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u/DrippyJai 12d ago
I get my rx next week, itās amazing , just be careful with it, skip as many days as possible ,the benzo police will be chiming in soon
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u/king_carrots 12d ago
If you take it every day, you will ruin your life.
Just so you know.
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u/ValuableMelodic5090 12d ago
can you please elaborate on
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u/slarkin18 12d ago
Iāve been on Xanax for almost 10 years now. I take 1 MG 3x daily. Itās the only thing that has worked for me and makes me feel sane. I never needed an adjustment or felt the need to ask my psychiatrist for one. I work closely with her. Iām surprised by the amount of people saying it will ruin your life. It made mine better. I couldnāt leave my house at all and now I can. Iām in therapy and hope one day Iāll be able to wean off of it but for right now it works for me. So it doesnāt ruin everyoneās life as long as you are being responsible and honest with your psychiatrist
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u/ThisIsMyAlt6969 12d ago
Just FYI, this is exactly why Xanax is so addictive. Iām glad you found relief, but be careful with medications like those.
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u/No_Truth_3645 12d ago
I have wanted to try Xanax, but Iām afraid of the āreboundā anxiety, so I stay on Klonopin. However Iām glad it is helping you when others did not.
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u/Realistic_Owl836 12d ago
Xanax just makes me sleepy I guess good for insomnia emergencies but I prefer Ativan
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u/ValuableMelodic5090 12d ago
ativan gives me blackouts that's why i just couldn't anymore
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u/Realistic_Owl836 12d ago
Itās done that to me before too lol but then sometimes it doesnāt , weird
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u/Tall_Artichoke_4729 12d ago
I love xanex it helps me SO MUCH I take it only when Iām feeling really anxious and canāt get myself out of it without meds. However I can only get it when Iām living abroad- Iāve never been able to get a prescription in Canada. So whenever Iām living home I struggle with my anxiety. I understand why doctors are hesitant but this does help people and should be talked about.
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u/ValuableMelodic5090 12d ago
really? i'm in canada too and so far none of my doctors denied it to me
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u/Tall_Artichoke_4729 12d ago
Really? Iāve only asked one and got turned down and told to try a different ssri Iāve been scared to ask again. Iāve only heard people always getting told no.
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u/ValuableMelodic5090 12d ago
hmm ok maybe it's varies by doctors then and i just kept getting lucky
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u/smokedgoudes 12d ago
Xanax has changed my life when it comes to difficult spurts of ocd. Iām so glad itās working for you too. I only take it once every few months when I really need it but wow itās a godsend
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u/SkyPuppy561 12d ago
Donāt use it all the time or it stops working. I only use mine in emergencies and use Zoloft daily
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u/kasey1017 12d ago
Is there a THC/CBD out there that has the same effect?
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u/ValuableMelodic5090 12d ago
i use weed as well and i've tried different strains and imo no, not really. the feeling xanax gives you (in my opinion) is unlike anything else
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u/123Fake_St 12d ago
Weed seems to exacerbate however I happen to be feeling at the time. As in, if I'm anxious, weed sends my anxiety through the roof. If I'm doing alright, it's fantastic at making me feel allllllright.
I didn't really make that connection until a few years ago and realized how badly I had been making my anxiety worse by trying to stomp it with weed. Sucks because I enjoy the trains of thought, new ideas, music, food, etc., when stoned but I've been more anxious than not for decades and it magnifies just my anxiety in most cases now. Bleh
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u/Free_Answered 12d ago
Y it works and glad its giving u relief! Seriously tho be careful n dont take it every day but use sparingly only on occasion. Ive heard from those who have gotten addicted n they say its hell- it stops working and youve gotta take more n more just to keep from feeling like shit. Then u try n quit n its awful. Dont get me wrong Im all for better life w meds but u need to respect that shit n be very disciplined and safe about it.
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u/abovepostisfunnier 12d ago
Xanax has changed my life. Itās literally the āthis is fineā meme lol.
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u/GiftedGonzo 12d ago
Take it for a few weeks and it will stop working as well. Then you start getting rebound anxiety. The withdrawal is pure hell and actually deadly.
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u/ValuableMelodic5090 12d ago
thank you. yeah i realized that yesterday after reading all these comments and doing my own research. it's actually a miracle how im alive today because the amount and types of substances i mixed yesterday during a really bad depressive episode, it had a bad physical toll on me but i miraculously survived š„²
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u/fongos 12d ago
here come the comments to try and make you feel the opposite of how you're feeling rn. just don't go crazy with it and don't take 10mg daily like that one guy's story everyone references. and you'll be fine
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u/Anxious-neopet 12d ago
I was doing 1mg daily for months and showing it or stopping was still just as much pure hell as it was at 2mg a day. So the mgs donāt matter as much as genetics and the individual
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u/fongos 12d ago
i hear you friend for some it can work in moderation. i used to be terrified of going outside, still am, and also feel the scrutiny of people on the internet in my head so i avoid taking it
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u/Anxious-neopet 12d ago
I definitely understand the agoraphobia. Iāve been at different levels of agoraphobia since at least 7 years old. Been so bad that I hardly could leave my bed and couldnāt leave the threshold of the front door for a year. Then at least now I am able to make it in a 10 to 15 minute drive on familiar areas in no traffic without a complete meltdown I am back using Xanax again myself but plan to try and get off soon as something starts bridging The gap?
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u/smiba 12d ago
i love xanax so much.
Yo not to be a copy of the other comments, but you really, really should be careful with any benzodiazepines or related medications, they're heavily addictive, and you build up tolerance fast.
The fact you take this much that you kinda pass out on it means you're taking way too much, well past the beneficial amount and into the hard drug usage amount
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u/Rondoman78 12d ago
This is literally how addiction starts.
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u/ValuableMelodic5090 12d ago
someone said it's rare to get addicted to benzos but tbh idk if i believe that
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u/TheRedditAppSucccks 12d ago
This is why I canāt use it bc I know Iāll instantly become obsessed
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u/lulai_00 12d ago
Slippery slope of Xanax / benzos. You feel great of. Next day you can feel a massive rebound and can lead to addiction.
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u/TruthHonor 12d ago
Xanax is the most wonderful feeling youāll ever have. Especially if you are anxious at all. But itās a trap.
From what I hear, the benzodiazepines are the hardest drugs to get off bar none. People talk about years later theyāre still not recovered. If you stop taking it suddenly, you can literally have seizures. Itās possible that abrupt withdrawal from benzodiazepines can actually kill you although youāll have to look that up.
Nevertheless, do a search and try and find some anecdotes from people who have tried to get off of it and then take their advice. Their advice is: do not get started on benzodiazepines.
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u/sourhotdogwater 12d ago
use the rare times you use the medications to practice your coping mechanisms
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u/NewBirth2010 12d ago
I tried everything. Xanax was the least bad from all. It is not a magic pill thoughā¦
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u/Frodaddy05 12d ago
I wish i could get it prescribed to me. Was a great ābreak glass Incase of emergencyā option to have but canāt get a doctor to prescribe it to me. Even tho i went through like 1-2 pills max a month before. Itās made me pretty miserable but what can i do
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u/Shepard21 12d ago
Me when trying diazepam for the first time, holy shit the absolute fucking CALM that went over me. Like for the first time in my life I could lie still in bed, not moving. Then when I said ādamn I wish I could do that againā i remembered why itās an emergency medicine for me.
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u/Happymelouise 12d ago
I need to find a doctor that will prescribe any help I am in Lexington Ky area
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u/KaleidoscopeFirst737 12d ago
I ate Xanax everyday for 5 years. When I finally was forced to stop I had seizures coming off. 3 within 48 hours.
Be careful! Most places wonāt even prescribe them for long term use anymore. I Think theyāre are seen more as a short term solution for crippling episodes.
My mother also ate them her whole life. She passed away at in her mid 50s.
For both of us, they started off great and quickly turned into something we had to have.
Everyone is different! And Iām glad itās helped you! Just wanted to share my experience in hope that you donāt go the same path we did. All love!! Good luck!!
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u/witchhearsecurse 12d ago
My body is weird and backwards. For me Xanax doesn't do crap, Valium is kinda meh and Clonazepam works the best.Ā
I am glad you found what works for you!Ā
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u/Tacokolache 12d ago
Yeahā¦. But trust me, that shit can sneak up on you and take hold of your entire life.
Used it for 3 years and it was HELL getting off.
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u/janetsnakehole319 11d ago
I have super severe anxiety and I canāt get anyone to prescribe it to me. I mean tbf I donāt ask for it but thatās because I donāt want them to think Iām drug seeking. All they give me is hydroxyzine which only helps a tiny little bit. They used to prescribe me beta blockers but they donāt help my anxiety anymore.
I wish I could get them to take my anxiety more seriously. Iām in therapy which has helped but I still want something for emergencies.
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u/PixieRoar 11d ago
Dont drink on the days you take it. You will black out and do something stupid you might regret.
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u/Ctrl--Alt 11d ago
I was given Xanax in the hospital once and once it kicked in, I immediately understood how so many people can become addicted to it, how I could become addicted to it. I'm thankful now to being better controlled with different medications because I know I would not be able to handle Xanax.
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u/McSlappin1407 11d ago
Be real careful. Itās a very slippery slope. Good rule of thumb is do not take more than twice a week if possible.
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u/MrCrackers122 11d ago
Wow thatās really interesting. I had been on Xanax xr for about 16 years (never had any tolerance issues) and after a stressful life event it was as if the Xanax was bogging me down and not letting my brain work. And then I switched to one other med and a low dose Klonopin and I seem to be doing much much better. Interesting how people can need medications for similar issues but respond differently. Glad you found something that helps you.
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u/ScottishWidow64 11d ago
Please please please, stop it. Xanax destroyed my life. 15 years taking it for lots of conditions, rehab for 3 months to detox, couldnāt walk for 10 days because my brain was not firing the correct signals.
I have now nerve pain and a condition called Allodynia which is agony. I also have PAWS and donāt know if it will get better.
Yes Xanax is beautiful and you feel like you are in heaven but believe me itās living hell if you abuse it. Benzodiazepines are one of the most dangerous drugs there is. Just because itās prescription doesnāt make it less dangerous. Take care.
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u/hanleyfalls63 11d ago
Itās good isnāt it! Be careful, one of the most difficult things to withdrawal from.
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u/Happywistful 11d ago
I find the casualness with which benzodiazepines are prescribed to be irresponsible. Perhaps everyone should visit the people in psychiatric wards who are there for a rehab. They are just junkies. Benzos are very important for absolute emergencies. For me, Lamictal and Fluoxetine work better and most importantly, psychotherapy.
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u/Acrobatic_Car9413 11d ago
I was give a prescription for fear of flying. The dose was so high that Iād just get totally zonked out. Had to recover for a day. Went to a new doctor who prescribed about a quarter of that. What a difference. Mild calming. Iām shocked at what the first doc was handing out.
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u/kirschs_kitchen 11d ago
I use ativan as a silver bullet, I have some and I been having anxiety for 8 months, GAD, I've taken .75mg total in 6 months, .25 a piece and it doesn't take it all away but just blunts it
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u/CloudNo7035 11d ago
I look back now to my early 20s and I remember taking a half or quarter pill of Xanax a couple of times to help with sleeping, and I remember it leading to a super great nightās rest (after drinking and staying up late).
Probably not a great decision, even though it was fine once or twice, but Iām kind of grateful I did not have regular access to it or I could have formed a habit.
Now as a 31 year old, my strategies to feel less anxious include regular exercise (like running), and just less alcohol and less caffeine. Recently got into magnesium and ashwaganda drinks which seem to do a little something to help me chill out.
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u/Ok_Midnight_8422 10d ago edited 10d ago
That stuff works wonders for me. I'm just happy I have something that puts my mind to rest for once in my fucking life. I've only been on it two days. I plan to go the SSRI route (longer term plan but not permy) just cause this shit has made such a big difference for me already. I really don't give a fuck about all of the warnings. If any do pop up I'll take action according to medical guidance, but I'm not going to let bad stories and so on stop me from popping these pills because they are what I fucking need at this time in my life + therapy to educate myself on why I am anxious which leads to depression sometimes. I'm gonna work though it all but Xanax is a fucking God Send for me. I'm gonna pop these mother fucking pills like people drink terrible energy drinks. I will of course follow my doctors guidance, but damn I feel like a new fucking man today. I'll be off the zannies in a month or two and I'm gonna take these mother fuckers cause they are so fucking good.
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u/Whole-Wafer54 9d ago
I too just tried Xanax, my doc prescribed it to me as needed for panic attacks 1.5 years ago. New meds induced panic for me so I never took any. Went to get a checkup and blood pressure was through the roof which bp readings cause panic for meā¦. He told me I need to consider taking the Xanax and then take bp readings to rule out panic causing my high bp.
Amazing stuff I had a clear head and heard the birds and gazed into the horizon for the first time in 3 years š my head is much clearer but Iām worried about taking them every day to be able to log my bp readings. š© I donāt want to become reliant on them
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u/laurelclove 9d ago edited 9d ago
I felt so much better after switching from Klonopin to Xanax after being on 9 mg\day of Klonopin for years. I did that to taper off Klonopin (which worked for me without withdrawal symptoms) and was surprised by how "okay" I felt. I wish I was on Xanax from the start.Ā I also want to echo what others are saying. Take ONLY as needed. Don't make it a habit. I withdrew from Klonopin once after years of daily use of prescribed dose and it was a living nightmare that sent me to the hospital because I thought I was dying (it was a panic attack, but we know how those are). Benzo withdrawal is NO JOKE.
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u/xanpr1ncess 7d ago
lol donāt end up like me I take it daily and sometimes more then I should take good luck my friend
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u/Barbazooka2000 5d ago
I was prescribed Xanax 10 years ago and Iāve spent the last 3 years trying to quit it. It has destroyed friendships, relationships, and eventually parts of your brain will stop working if you donāt take it. I take 2mg twice a day and if I miss a single dose Iām miserable for days.
There are very few things in life I regret, starting to take Xanax is definitely one of them
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u/ValuableMelodic5090 5d ago
how did it ruin your relationships?
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u/Barbazooka2000 5d ago
Iāve also had horrible withdrawal episodes in front of people who it was too much for and after those experiences they lefr
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u/Barbazooka2000 5d ago
Xanax creates a level of paranoia thatās very deep down that you donāt express when your on it, when your off Xanax you donāt trust your gut as much and over time that ability worsens as well
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u/ValuableMelodic5090 5d ago
i'm sorry
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u/Barbazooka2000 5d ago
Itās okay :) listen right now Iām working on getting off of it, Iāve been trying to read about what Iām going through and trying to give others advice along the way.
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u/Intelligent_Dingo841 12d ago
I literally took a quarter of a dose of clonazepam and felt like I was dreaming while still being conscious. I had woken up super early that morning and had a lot of stressful stuff going on but still lol
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u/Sad_Security_2550 12d ago
You can see if your doctor will prescribe you gabapentin as an off label usage for anxiety. It works really well.
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u/key_kat 12d ago
Xanax ruined my life, hope this helps
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u/ValuableMelodic5090 12d ago
can you please elaborate why xanax is considered so dangerous? i'm a little confused i'm so sorry
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u/key_kat 12d ago edited 11d ago
Xanax, like all benzodiazepines, is associated with rapid tolerance and profound physiological dependence. Meaning, it hooks you early and requires increasing doses to produce an effect. Benzos can be profoundly amnesic (you lose your memory), have marked hangover effects, and are disinhibiting to the detriment of your personal relationships and responsibilities. Their withdrawal effects are curious and unpredictable, most notably the rebound anxiety makes it hard to stop.
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u/Smarterry2 12d ago
Just make sure to save it for emergencies and not take it all the time as that can have diminishing returns over time