Generalised anxiety ~ Multiple meds.

Question posted by eddrose on 29 May 2021

Last updated on 30 May 2021

I’m from England, and had a few questions which I can discuss with my doctor soon but with them being very busy due to the aftermath of COVID I thought I’d delve online for some tips.

I’ve tried many different medications over the years and finally found Effexor XR (or venlafaxine) as it’s known in the UK and that helps the best so far.

I just wonder (other than propranolol) which drug I can use in coordination with Effexor to really help my anxiety as much as possible.

I keep fit, eat healthy and have done CBT therapy but I still feel I need that extra push?

~ Any options, because diazepam (Valium) is amazing but it can become extremely habit forming so please let me know any ideas?

~ One benzo I did hear good things about to usage long term was call clonazepam and would be great if it could be used carefully.

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masso 30 May 2021

There is a medication which is not addictive like benzodiazepines and has helped many people that suffer with anxiety disorders.
In the US it goes by the name of Buspar (Buspirone), click on the links below for detailed information on this medication:

https://www.drugs.com/buspar.html

https://www.drugs.com/uk/buspirone-hydrochloride-5mg-tablets-leaflet.html

All the best, masso

masso 30 May 2021

I ran an interaction check and there is a major interaction between both medications:

Interactions between your drugs
Major
busPIRone venlafaxine
Applies to: BuSpar (buspirone), Effexor XR (venlafaxine)

Using busPIRone together with venlafaxine can increase the risk of a rare but serious condition called the serotonin syndrome, which may include symptoms such as confusion, hallucination, seizure, extreme changes in blood pressure, increased heart rate, fever, excessive sweating, shivering or shaking, blurred vision, muscle spasm or stiffness, tremor, incoordination, stomach cramp, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Severe cases may result in coma and even death. You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms while taking the medications. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.

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Your doctor may already be aware of the risks, but has determined that this is the best course of treatment for you and has taken appropriate precautions and is monitoring you closely for any potential complications. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Major
Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit.

https://www.drugs.com/interactions-check.php?drug_list=2296-1523,441-206

You could still mention Buspar to your Psychiatrist and get his/her professional advice.

masso 30 May 2021

There is another medication which treats allergic reactions and it is also used with treating anxiety, it is known in the US as Hydroxyzine (brand names: Vistaril, Atarax,etc.), click on the links:

https://www.drugs.com/hydroxyzine.html

https://www.drugs.com/interactions-check.php?drug_list=2296-1523,1303-0

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Generalised anxiety ~ Multiple meds.

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