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Is Ativan Good For Anxiety?
Question: Hi, at times I have travel anxiety. I find melatonin and other herbs like Chamomile generally not effective, especially when I am traveling. I am usually fine with sleeping, but travel messes me up big time. I go to a psychologist, but need something for travel. I have used Xanax but find the side effects make me feel down the next day, I was wondering if Ativan might be a better choice. Which one stays in your body shorter. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thank you.
Brief Answer:
try hydroxyzine or valerian
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for the question.
Of the medications in the class of benzodiazepines (sedatives) xanax has the shortest half life, so it gets out of the body the quickest. Ativan stays around much longer and if you felt down after a xanax I am concerned that Ativan may be even worse.
If you want to try a natural substance, then try valerian.
If you want a prescription medication I suggest that you try hydroxyzine. It is an antihistamine, by class, but has an indication for anxiety as well. It is somewhat sedating but should not have the effect that the benzodiazepines do.
Another alternative may be learning biofeedback. An experienced teacher could help you learn to do this yourself or with a device, while you are traveling and in some cases it is very helpful without taking any medications.
Good luck,
Dr. Robinson
try hydroxyzine or valerian
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for the question.
Of the medications in the class of benzodiazepines (sedatives) xanax has the shortest half life, so it gets out of the body the quickest. Ativan stays around much longer and if you felt down after a xanax I am concerned that Ativan may be even worse.
If you want to try a natural substance, then try valerian.
If you want a prescription medication I suggest that you try hydroxyzine. It is an antihistamine, by class, but has an indication for anxiety as well. It is somewhat sedating but should not have the effect that the benzodiazepines do.
Another alternative may be learning biofeedback. An experienced teacher could help you learn to do this yourself or with a device, while you are traveling and in some cases it is very helpful without taking any medications.
Good luck,
Dr. Robinson
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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