Concerns About Medication: Navigating Psychiatric Prescriptions Safely

Q: Concerns About Medication: Navigating Psychiatric Prescriptions Safely

Hello Ms. <br>Li： Regarding the situation you mentioned, it seems there may be some concerns about the diagnosis? Since I am not familiar with your actual condition, I recommend discussing it further with your physician to obtain more information. <br>As for the medications presc

Medication issues

Hello, doctor.
I visited a psychiatric clinic last Saturday.
Although I found the consultation somewhat strange, I chose to trust the physician's diagnosis.
The doctor mentioned that I seem to have depression and prescribed Xanax 0.25 mg (alprazolam) and Escitalopram 5 mg to be taken once daily at bedtime.
However, prior to this, I did not have any significant sleep issues, aside from occasionally having lighter sleep, but I could still fall asleep normally.
After reviewing the medication guide, I noticed that memory impairment is a very common side effect of Xanax, occurring in at least 1 in 10 patients.
I have been taking it for three days now and hope to discontinue it before the potential for addiction and withdrawal symptoms arises.
May I temporarily stop the medication until my next appointment to consult with the doctor? I may not have time to return for a follow-up in the meantime, so I wanted to ask the doctor first.
Thank you.

Ms. Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/04/23

Dr. Huang Xiaoxian reply Psychiatry

Hello Ms.
Li: Regarding the situation you mentioned, it seems there may be some concerns about the diagnosis? Since I am not familiar with your actual condition, I recommend discussing it further with your physician to obtain more information.
As for the medications prescribed, they include escitalopram, which is a serotonin-related medication, and Xanax, which is an anxiolytic (with some sedative effects).
Generally speaking, the former is considered a foundational treatment with a mild pharmacological profile and is unlikely to lead to addiction, so regular use is advised.
The latter is a symptomatic treatment; if you are not experiencing anxiety or insomnia, you may be able to discontinue it.
However, short-term use (within three months) is also unlikely to lead to addiction, so there is no need to worry excessively.
Wishing you a speedy recovery!

Reply Date: 2019/04/23

More Info

When it comes to psychiatric medications, particularly those like Xanax (alprazolam) and escitalopram, it is crucial to approach their use with caution and awareness of potential side effects, including the risk of dependency and withdrawal symptoms. Xanax is a benzodiazepine, which is often prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders. While it can be effective for short-term relief, it is also associated with a range of side effects, including memory impairment, sedation, and the potential for addiction.

In your case, you mentioned that you do not have significant sleep issues, aside from occasional light sleep. This raises an important point about the appropriateness of the prescribed medications. If you feel that the diagnosis of depression and the subsequent prescription of Xanax and escitalopram were made without a thorough understanding of your symptoms, it is reasonable to question the necessity of these medications. Escitalopram, an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor), is commonly used to treat depression and anxiety, but it typically takes several weeks to show its full effects.

Given that you have only been on these medications for three days, it is understandable to be concerned about the potential for addiction to Xanax, especially since you have not experienced significant anxiety or sleep disturbances prior to this prescription. Stopping Xanax abruptly after only a few days may not lead to severe withdrawal symptoms, but it is always best to consult with your prescribing physician before making any changes to your medication regimen.
If you are unable to return for a follow-up appointment before your next dose, consider reaching out to the clinic or your healthcare provider to discuss your concerns. They may be able to provide guidance on how to safely taper off the medication or suggest alternative approaches to managing your symptoms. It is also important to communicate any side effects you are experiencing, such as memory issues, as this information can help your doctor make informed decisions about your treatment plan.

In summary, while it is possible to stop Xanax after a short duration of use, it is essential to do so under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Open communication with your doctor about your concerns and experiences is key to ensuring that you receive the most appropriate care for your mental health needs. If you feel uncertain about the diagnosis or treatment plan, seeking a second opinion from another qualified mental health professional may also be beneficial. Remember, your mental health is paramount, and you have the right to advocate for your well-being in your treatment journey.

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