i have panic disorder, been in emergency room probably 300 out of the 480 days. I have 3 tread test, 7 cat scans and probably 100 xrays. they shoot me fool of ativan and send me on my way with prescription for it. i've self checked into mental facility 5 times, worked out, breathing exercises, yoga, ssri's make me even more spinny. i've had enough.
james
Hi jcoopy73:
I am not a physician, however, many of my patients have been given Ativan, especially in the emergency room.
Ativan is in the group of benzodiazepines, which all have the same side effects. There are a number of side effects, which include depression, hyperactivity, dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, and forgetfulness, to name a few. The biggest problem with Ativan or any benzo, is that there is the risk of addiction. It can be very addictive, however, if there is no other medication that helps you in the way that this does, then you have to consider the cost versus the benefits, that is, is getting through your panic attacks worth it?
My question would be this, do you trust your doctor? If not, find one you do trust, then listen to him. I understand that you have checked into mental facilities, but are you in ongoing therapy with a counselor who understands panic and anxiety? Learn more about therapists in your area through Psychology Today.
Best of luck,
Dr. Diana Walcutt
*Dr. Walcutt is a Psychologist, not a Psychiatrist. Psychiatrists prescribe medications. Psychologists study them, but the majority of Psychologists are not authorized to prescribe meds or give you specific advice about them. Dr. Walcutt's answers are not intended to diagnose or treat any medical or mental disorder. Any information given in a post about medication is for educational purposes only, and primarily to aid you in having an informed discussion with your own Psychiatrist/Physician.
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