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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suggest Treatment For Severe Anxiety And Insomnia

My friend has been prescribed 3 X 5 mg , thrice daily, diazepam. He has also bought mirtazapine from the internet, don t know the dosage. He got half a bottle of liquid morphine last night, from a friend . He has been self medicating like this for weeks; long term issues with insomnia and anxiety. Should I be more worried than usual? He now seems too addicted to these.
Thu, 11 Apr 2019
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello,

Benzodiazepines (LIKE DIAZEPALM)should not be continued beyond 4 weeks, as chronic use may induce dependence and withdrawal symptoms. Length of therapy should be discussed with Dr, and a follow-up visit should be defined in advance.

Benzodiazepines should be tapered gradually. If anxiety symptoms are still present, a trial with antidepressant antianxiety medications like s-Cetalopam etc should be considered.

Antidepressants usually take weeks to relieve symptoms and, after remission is achieved, treatment should be prolonged for up to 6-8 months to prevent relapse.

Visit a de-addiction center. He needs medication and supervision by a psychiatrist with proper management of withdrawal and psychological counseling.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Take care

Regards,
Dr AJEET SINGH, General & Family Physician
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Suggest Treatment For Severe Anxiety And Insomnia

Hello, Benzodiazepines (LIKE DIAZEPALM)should not be continued beyond 4 weeks, as chronic use may induce dependence and withdrawal symptoms. Length of therapy should be discussed with Dr, and a follow-up visit should be defined in advance. Benzodiazepines should be tapered gradually. If anxiety symptoms are still present, a trial with antidepressant antianxiety medications like s-Cetalopam etc should be considered. Antidepressants usually take weeks to relieve symptoms and, after remission is achieved, treatment should be prolonged for up to 6-8 months to prevent relapse. Visit a de-addiction center. He needs medication and supervision by a psychiatrist with proper management of withdrawal and psychological counseling. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care Regards, Dr AJEET SINGH, General & Family Physician