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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Long Can Xanax Be Taken For The Treatment Of Anxiety?

I am now 78 years old male. I have been taking xanax 0.5mg bid for twenty years to a anxiety, poor sleep causing confusion.. I have no ill effect of taking it but if I don t Take it I can t function daily life due to fatigue, headache ,vision etc. Is this ok to continue taking them next another ten years? If not what do I have to take to substitute? My email address is : YYYY@YYYY . Thx
Mon, 18 Dec 2017
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello,
I have read your question and i understand your concern .Xanax may cause withdrawal reactions, especially if it has been used regularly for a long time or in high doses. In such cases, withdrawal symptoms you listed before ,may occur if you suddenly stop using this medication. To prevent withdrawal reactions, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.If you use this medicine long-term, you may need frequent medical tests.
Hope my answer was helpful,
Best regards
Dr Xhufka
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How Long Can Xanax Be Taken For The Treatment Of Anxiety?

Hello, I have read your question and i understand your concern .Xanax may cause withdrawal reactions, especially if it has been used regularly for a long time or in high doses. In such cases, withdrawal symptoms you listed before ,may occur if you suddenly stop using this medication. To prevent withdrawal reactions, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.If you use this medicine long-term, you may need frequent medical tests. Hope my answer was helpful, Best regards Dr Xhufka