
Suggest Medication For Anxiety Which Does Not Cause Physical Dependance

Question: I am prescribed .5 mg Klonopin as needed for panic attacks. If i stayed firm at .5 Monday- Friday and take weekends off from it, would there be any risk of physical dependence? I work in a high stress job and suffer from panic attacks during the work week and am fine on weekends. Looking to see if that 2 day weekend break is enough
to be safe and avoid physical dependence.
to be safe and avoid physical dependence.
Brief Answer:
Consultation
Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thanks for your question.
2 days off per week is not enough to avoid physical dependence. Taking Klonopin even 4 days in a row means it is at a therapeutic level in the body and this will lead to addiction, tolerance, and withdrawal. If you are seeking a safe treatment for panic, I recommend either an SSRI medication (escitalopram, sertraline) or cognitive behavioral therapy.
Dr Sheppe
Consultation
Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thanks for your question.
2 days off per week is not enough to avoid physical dependence. Taking Klonopin even 4 days in a row means it is at a therapeutic level in the body and this will lead to addiction, tolerance, and withdrawal. If you are seeking a safe treatment for panic, I recommend either an SSRI medication (escitalopram, sertraline) or cognitive behavioral therapy.
Dr Sheppe
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Yogesh D

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