Asking for Diazepam from Doctor.

[neowallace]

Has anyone experienced similar issues? I am anxious about asking my doctor for Diazepam. I started taking them around Christmas and have found myself taking them regular now and it seems to help me get through the day better. I was given 28 less than 2 weeks ago and they are now finished. I usually take 3 a day along with some co codomal at different intervals and it helps me feel relaxed. My worry is the doctor will not give me them and also if I do get them I will become addicted. I also worry about all the medicine I take and what they do to my internal organs. Can anyone offer any suggestions.

Many Thanks in advance.....

[Carys]

I think maybe it is time to discuss a different long-term medication solution with your doctor. You are right, diazepam is for short-term use and is very addictive but clearly you do need something to help at the moment.

[pinkdove]

comletely agree with carys, speak to your gp, they are there to help, good luck and hope you feel better soon xx

[dan1234]

I think you are heading towards a dangerous path. 6mgs daily over 3 weeks can generate a tolerance. Rather than asking for diazepam I would be asking for a SSRI + propranolol. Trust me, I know diazepam helps but if you can't use it on an as needed basis maybe its a good idea not to get it at all. I would be surprised if your GP would prescribe you more considering it is for 3-4 max normally unless under the care of a specialist.

[eight days a week]

I think you are heading towards a dangerous path. 6mgs daily over 3 weeks can generate a tolerance. Rather than asking for diazepam I would be asking for a SSRI + propranolol. Trust me, I know diazepam helps but if you can't use it on an as needed basis maybe its a good idea not to get it at all. I would be surprised if your GP would prescribe you more considering it is for 3-4 max normally unless under the care of a specialist.

Perhaps it varies depending on your surgery? At mine the max without special 'permission' from your GP is 6mg daily. And I'm not saying it's a particularly good thing but I've met people who take 15+mgs daily with no problems at all getting a prescription. I take 6mgs daily and my psychiatrist says that it's "nothing" compared to many people with the same problems as me...

Having said that, I agree, it's much better not to get into the habit of taking it if you can avoid it. I wish I hadn't, and had managed to take it only when required. The problem is that when I started I was in complete crisis and did REALLY need it.

Propanolol would help, I'm sure, but I and many others wouldn't suggest an SSRI unless it's a last resort, and for me that is WAY after a bit of diazepam.

So, try to cut down when you can I reckon, even though it's easier to just take it. You'll become dependent on it daily after around four or so weeks, so better to avoid that if you can.

Many people also find that when they take it regularly they need more to get any effect, which is a worry, as there is a limit that GPs will prescribe.

[neowallace]

Hi Everyone,

I would just like to thank everyone for their replies. I did speak to my Doctor today on the phone and he has said pretty much what all you guys have said. I am currently on Chlorpromazine after numerous SSRI medications. I think I maybe using them for effect and do have a history of addiction with alcohol. I had a really bad episode of anxiety and depression at Christmas and I am now just starting to feel a wee bit better so a bit anxious about stopping them. But I do understand the long term effects will be worse. I have been given another batch to taper off so that's the plan. Thanks again guys I do appreciate all your feedback and experiences. I wish you all the best on your journeys as well....

[dan1234]

Perhaps it varies depending on your surgery? At mine the max without special 'permission' from your GP is 6mg daily. And I'm not saying it's a particularly good thing but I've met people who take 15+mgs daily with no problems at all getting a prescription. I take 6mgs daily and my psychiatrist says that it's "nothing" compared to many people with the same problems as me...

Having said that, I agree, it's much better not to get into the habit of taking it if you can avoid it. I wish I hadn't, and had managed to take it only when required. The problem is that when I started I was in complete crisis and did REALLY need it.

Propanolol would help, I'm sure, but I and many others wouldn't suggest an SSRI unless it's a last resort, and for me that is WAY after a bit of diazepam.

So, try to cut down when you can I reckon, even though it's easier to just take it. You'll become dependent on it daily after around four or so weeks, so better to avoid that if you can.

Many people also find that when they take it regularly they need more to get any effect, which is a worry, as there is a limit that GPs will prescribe.

Sorry it was meant to say 3-4 weeks max.

The OP should be careful not to stop too quickly. Taper down slowly.

[Carys]

All the best Neowallace with your 'tapering'.