Reluctance to prescribe xanax

Inner Peace · Post by **Inner Peace** » Thu Jan 24, 2008 1:03 am

Recently, I changed primary care doctors. My old doctor would prescribe xanax because he knew I took it only occasionally. It was never a problem getting it refilled, since about 60 would get me through the year. But my new doctor will not prescribe it saying it is addictive. He wants to give me an antidepressant instead. I've taken antidepressants and they have never helped (not the mention the side effects). I've told him that and he doesn't seem to care. Have other people noticed there is more reluctance for doctors to prescribe xanax now?

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Thu Jan 24, 2008 1:18 am

Every doctor is different.

You might want to try to find one that understands your mindset. Some doctors are pill pushers. Some are more holistic you have to find the one that fits your way of living.

Perhaps you could ask to have your records transferred to him so that he can see your usage history from the other doctor and that might help him to understand your side. Just a thought.

Good luck to you. Finding the right doctor isnt always easy but there are so many good ones to pick from keep searching if your not happy....in my opinion they work for us not the other way around.

Dodger

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Thu Jan 24, 2008 1:49 am

Yes my doctor said the same thing but I told her I already had some in my purse. She wanted me to take antidepressants also.

I'm still not sure if I'm going to take those. The first dose didn't go well.

I took a Xanax last night for the first time in about a year and it calmed me so I could sleep. I know that I'm not going to get addicted. I have had this bottle for over a year!

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Thu Jan 24, 2008 2:01 am

I think some doctors just arent good. why would anyone prescribe a med that alters your brain chemistry without referring you to get therapy also? I think xanax is way milder than antidepressants. dont get me wrong, some people definitly need them but taking just a pill for panic and anxiety disorder is not going to help. it just masks the symptoms. maybe try a new doctor.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Thu Jan 24, 2008 2:28 am

I can understand the reluctance some docs have to prescribe xanax but why do they turn around and prescribe another addictive drug? It's not like the antidepressants aren't addictive. Miss a dose and you'll know it. It's the same thing to me so docs should prescribe the drug based on your needs, not on whether or not you'll get addicted. They're all addictive.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Fri Feb 01, 2008 12:52 pm

When I first had anxiety problems, although the ER gave me xanax, my psych had me change to lexapro, since it has less addictive potential. I just take it on an as needed basis, although the anti-depressant has helped with the anxiety. It just took several weeks to come fully on board.
Dave