Suggest Remedy For Anxiety Despite Taking Xanax

Posted on Wed, 22 Jul 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 22 Jul 2015 Answered on

Thu, 13 Aug 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I have severe anxiety and have been on 2mg of Xanax once a day for about 7 years. For the last couple of years they no longer relieve the anxiety. Do I need to change medication as maybe my body has got used to the Xanax? My doctor says he isn't allowed to prescribe more than 2mg once a day by the medical board.

Answered by Dr. Shubham Mehta (-4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
consider using SSRIs.

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Welcome to HCM.
I understand your concerns.

You have been taking xanax since last 7 years. You do not feel the antianxiety effects of xanax now.

I think you have developed tolerance to xanax.
Benzos are well known to cause dependence.

Change of drug is certainly needed.
In my opinion, you must consider using SSRIs like escitalopram or sertraline for anxiety (prescription drugs).

Kindly discuss thjs with your doctor.
Hope this helps.
Take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar