Suggest Treatment For Anxiety In Old Age

Posted on Fri, 9 May 2014

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

Fri, 9 May 2014 Answered on

Wed, 4 Jun 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I am 67 years old . I take xanax since 15 years and my family doctor want i stop xanax because my age and take sertraline. I try it and with sertraline my anxyeté is there during all the day but not with xanax. Can i continous to take xanax like before for quality of live?

Answered by Dr. Abhishek Kapoor (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Better to use mirtazapine

Detailed Answer:
HI
Thanks for using healthcare magic. I, Dr Abhishek Kapoor, would help you in this query.

Xanax contains clonazepam and it is a benzodiazepine. Chances of getting dependence with it is very high. I would not suggest you to take it. In that case, you can try some sedative antidepressant like mirtazapine. That would help to control anxiety as well as to get sound sleep. Rest, you can discuss with your doctor. In case, you need further help, you can ask.

Regards
Dr. Abhishek Kapoor
Psychiatrist

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