Hello, I Have Been On Alzalopram For About 14 Days

Posted on Wed, 19 Jun 2019

Question: Hello,

I have been on Alzalopram for about 14 days now. 0.5mg. Although I skip some days . I would say 5 days out of the 14. I don’t want to use it anymore because of the stories I read online about it. Will there be any withdrawal effects if I stop using it after taking it for the period mentioned above.
PS I was given Lexapro to take along with it but I didn’t because of the stories I read of withdrawal effects. Please advise.

Answered by Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi (44 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
No this will not cause withdrawal

Detailed Answer:
Hello thanks for using ask a doctor service

You have taken Alprazolam for only 2 weeks that too in low dose and not regularly. This has not made you dependent and you will not have withdrawal symptoms. Remain relaxed. You can use the drug on sos basis to control anxiety.

Thanks

Please let me know if you have more doubts

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi (4 hours later)

Hi
Thanks for your response. As I am avoiding to use SSRIS due to withdrawal symptoms and Alzalopram due to addiction. Please what can use as a stop gap measure to stop my occasional anxiety when they arise. I plan to work on it without dependence on these medicines.

Answered by Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Beta blockers can be used.

Detailed Answer:
Hello thanks for asking again

Why are you afraid of SSRIs if you have persisting anxiety? SSRIs are safe drugs if used with proper prescription and regular follow up.

If your anxiety is occasional then no need to get worried. Drugs like Propranolol can be used on SOS basis. The drug will calm you and will reduce increased anxiety. You can talk with your doctor for this. This is a safe drug and has no serious side effects. There is no risk of dependence.

Thanks.

Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

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