Xanax

[JPenny]

I've read posts about this drug--try it out before you fly, etc. But what I want to know is, does it WORK??!! And is there a way to tell ahead of time if it's going to work? I just need something to take away the surge of uncontrollable fear at take-off. If you have taken it, please describe to me what it made you feel like, and if it helped with the stupid, illogical anxiety attacks. Thanks!

Jean

[WillFlyToDisney]

Yep, Ken said it well. It "takes the edge off" but doesn't completely eliminate the anxiety - you would have to be comatose for that! Compare it to the way Demoral "takes the edge off" childbirth - you can tolerate the pain better but you are still aware of it.

Does that help?

It works differently for different people. Just half of one makes me sooo sleepy that I zonk out on the plane. I'm a lightweight though when it comes to most meds.

[StPeteMark]

Jean, the short answer is yes, as prescribed by your doctor. Ativan is in the same family, but last longer.

There have been many threads discussing Xanax and others...try a Search above (between New Posts and Quick Links).

Here's an interesting one with good advice from Monica:

http://www.takingflight.us/forums/showthread.php?t=4204&highlight=xanax

Mark
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[JPenny]

I will go to the DR. when it's time, armed with all your good information! All I'll have to do to try it out, is watch some of the "taking off" videos, and that will let me know right away if it's doing anything!! LOL!

Thanks for holding my hand, everybody. I'll be pestering all of you pretty often, until my BIG FLIGHTS in July!!! But I know from experience that exchanges such as these really help me, and fill up my "good information bank" for mental ammunition to use while I'm flying.

Cheers!

Jean :happyguy:

[cshollingsworth]

i agree with the others, it only seems to "take the edge off" the anxiety when flying (for me at least). i take one about a half hour before i get ready to hop on board. i think i am too "keyed up" to go to sleep on a plane, even with taking the xanax, i never get sleepy. i just sort of sit there with a blank look on my face, still with that dreadful feeling i have like something heavy sitting on me. but, the xanax seems to work for me. i think you should probably take one a day or so before, just to see how it will react with your body chemistry and such. just a thought...

[StPeteMark]

Jean, just wanted you to be aware that all Xanax is not the same; the tabs come in four sizes/strengths:

0.25, 0.50, 1.0, and 2.0 mgs.

Good info on: www.xanax.com (http://www.xanax.com)

Most MDs prescribe the lowest dosage, 0.25 mgs., for temporary situations. However, 0.50 is also a common strength. You will probably get the generic version (alprazolam); don't worry, the generic is as good as the much higher-priced brand name.
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[PositiveE]

I've tried both Xanax and Ativan. Ativan works MUCH better for me. I think it's just a body chemistry thing.