HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Is Xanax Advisable To Treat Panic Attacks?

Hello. I am a 20 year old female. I have intense panic attacks ranging between once a month to a few times in one week, depending on whatever happens. I ve been prescribed 0.25mg Xanax prn, so I was just wondering whether this is a safe way of taking it, if I take it only when I feel a panic attack coming up? Or would it be safer for me to take it on more regular basis?
Wed, 9 Nov 2016
Report Abuse
General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi there,

I understand your concern, and I would like to reassure you that it was appropriately prescribed. Xanax can be taken on an as needed basis because the frequency of your attacks is quite irregular, and 0.25 mg is the way to go if you are new to it. If you are needing it a few times a week regularly, then maybe you need to see a psychiatrist and discuss other options.

In the meantime, you should get some help in managing your anxiety. Medication is useful, yes, but we also need to figure out a way to reduce or stop your panic attacks before you need to reach for a pill. Visit a counsellor, or a psychologist, who will be able to do cognitive behavioural therapy with you or teach you mindfulness to manage your problem long term.

Hope this helps, and all the best to you.

Regards,
Dr. Teh
I find this answer helpful
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 
Loading Online Doctors....
Is Xanax Advisable To Treat Panic Attacks?

Hi there, I understand your concern, and I would like to reassure you that it was appropriately prescribed. Xanax can be taken on an as needed basis because the frequency of your attacks is quite irregular, and 0.25 mg is the way to go if you are new to it. If you are needing it a few times a week regularly, then maybe you need to see a psychiatrist and discuss other options. In the meantime, you should get some help in managing your anxiety. Medication is useful, yes, but we also need to figure out a way to reduce or stop your panic attacks before you need to reach for a pill. Visit a counsellor, or a psychologist, who will be able to do cognitive behavioural therapy with you or teach you mindfulness to manage your problem long term. Hope this helps, and all the best to you. Regards, Dr. Teh