I saw a doctor, and explained the symptoms that i was having, and the doctor suggested i go on zoloft. He said that xanax was too habit forming. I disagree with him, and will NEVER take zoloft. If i want to obtain Xanaxx, is it illegal for me to go to another doctor to see if he/she will issue an opinion that xanax is right for me, or is that considered doctor shopping?
2006-10-09 20:58:49 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Health ➔ Mental Health
First of all, it is not illegal to seek out another doctor's advice and/or treatment. The term 'doctor shopping' mainly applies to people w/ drug dependencies, who seek out as many doctors as they can in order to have them prescribe their drug of choice. However, you could get in trouble if you are filling the same (or similar) prescription controlled substance (i.e. Xanax) from several different doctors at the same time.
Anyway, it seems like you know what medications work in regard to treating your anxiety disorder. I, too, take Xanax for an anxiety and panic disorder. I can not tolerate any of the SSRI anti-depressants, which are also commonly used to treat anxiety disorders. I have been on Xanax, and other benzodiazepines, since I was 14 yrs old. So, I can tell you for a fact that it is extremely physically addictive. If I were to stop taking it abruptly, I would go into seizures. However, in certain cases like mine, the benefits of such drugs out weigh the negative effects.
If you decide to check out another doctor, I would recommend going to a Psychiatrist as opposed to a General Practitioner. It seems that many G.P.s are wary about prescribing controlled substances, such as xanax, on a long term basis. The DEA has really cracked down on certain doctors prescribing controlled substance for an indefinite amount of time. This is why you should see a Psychiatrist, who specializes in this particular area. I also would advise that you explain to your psychiatrist how certain drugs like Zoloft do not work for you and why drugs such as Xanax do. I'm sure he will understand your situation. Good Luck!
2006-10-10 08:26:48 · answer #1 · answered by Layla 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yeah, the information from the other people is pretty dead on. Zoloft = depression. Xanax = anxiety. Xanax is also very short acting and many people who use it, use it several times a day. They made Xanax XR (extended release) as a result of this. Maybe this is where you hear the "habit forming" information coming from. You should also never stop with any drug without asking your doctor first. In terms of shopping around for different opinions...I've never heard of that being illegal...you're entitled to get as many opinions as you want when it comes to your health. I've had friends who have been diagnosed with two completely different things depending on the doctor they went to. You have to trust the doctor you're with and make a connection with them for a true, proper, and reliable diagnosis. This is what a good shrink will base giving you drugs on. It's your body. It's your life. Do whatcha gotta do. All the best.
2006-10-09 23:54:07 · answer #2 · answered by Allybally 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You need to listen to the MD. Xanax is a sedative calming down your anxiety. Zoloft is an SSRI drug that will control your anxiety by helping restore your natural brain chemicals to balance. Why would you want to dope yourself out instead of curing the chemical problem in your brain?
Your doctor is open to your opinion and you may be able to negotiate with him that you will start Zoloft but you need some Xanax to cover the three weeks it takes for the Zoloft to take hold.
No MD will support the ongoing abuse and use of Xanax because it doesn't solve anything it is just habit forming and drugs you out.
Good luck
2006-10-09 21:03:41 · answer #3 · answered by Tempest88 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
You are fully able to go and get other opinions from other doctors. I myself have done this. I am also on Zoloft and find it only mildly intrusive on my life (trying to remember taking a tablet every day, getting light headed after missing some tablets, etc.) I see nothing wrong with Zoloft for me but you are a different person. Try sitting down and speaking to another doctor about your options and let them know that you need the help of medication but really don't want to take Zoloft.
2006-10-09 21:04:07 · answer #4 · answered by kip 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Be honest with yourself. The xanax is more fun to take, it's a narcotic. Zoloft is for people who actually WANT the symptoms of anxiety to go away, not just cover them up with dope. But what are you gonna do once the xanax runs out? You'll be dealing with addiction withdrawls AND anxiety and next thing you know, you'll be buying pills off the street or turn to heavier opiates. Why even get on that train? Pull your head out and admit that you want the drug, not the answer.
2006-10-09 23:51:10 · answer #5 · answered by 4815162342 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Zoloft and xanax are two completely different drugs. zoloft is an antideperssant, whereas xanax is an antianxiety med. so which is it.. what do you have. and some states have laws about doctor shopping... others don't It's ok in california.. but not in florida for example... good luck
2006-10-09 21:02:06 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Have you taken Zoloft before? Alot of people say it is ggreat. I haven't heard for xanax. The good thing about zoloft is that is both an AD and anxiety drug.
goodluck
2006-10-09 21:01:03 · answer #7 · answered by zuj 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
zoloft-depression
zanax-anxiety
and yes xanax is habit forming.
2006-10-09 21:00:53 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
it is never a bad idea to get a second opinion. just make sure you are doing it for the right reason, to treat the disease not get the drug.
2006-10-09 21:00:56 · answer #9 · answered by blkcat1969 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋