Reviews,questions.

[Craftykat]

Hello,

Does any one take valium for just as needed medication?

How does it effect the body?

Is it worse then xanax?

And does any body know what is the normal beat per mintues heart rate with anxiety?

Thank you

[Hidden]

Hey Craftykat,

I do not take Valium (just once in an ER) just as needed, but have used Xanax. Here is what I can tell you:

Valium is similar to Xanax in that it reduces anxiety. It is longer acting, it is a little easier to get off of taking because it has a much larger half-life, but it should help your body relax (usually helps about an hour after taking it) from anxiety or panic. One should not drink on it (or any benzo) as the risk of depressing your respiratory system is a potential outcome. It shouldn't impair your body if taken for anxiety. That said, some people feel happier (euphoric), relaxed, sometimes a bit tired, or dizzy. It's best to try it the first time when you aren't operating a car or heavy machinery, etc.

It's no worse and no better than Xanax. The risk for addiction (taking it daily for long periods of time) is possible just as with Xanax. Xanax is faster acting (20 minutes for relief) but has a much shorter half-life....meaning if you're a highly anxious person...you may need more of the medication. Technically speaking, specifically pointing to the Ashton method of removing benzos for your treatment, Valium is a better (I won't say safer, but it sort of is) medication. The longer acting ability means you feel better longer than if you used Xanax. The problem with both medications, with prolonged use, is you'll need more to feel the same as your body builds both dependence and tolerance of the medication. It is best used as needed or for a very short duration while you use a less addictive alternative (such as an antidepressant - SSRI/SNRI) if possible. Either medication is fine, it's what works best for you as each and everyone of us responds differently.

I cannot tell you with full certainty what is a normal heart rate with anxiety because everyone varies. One symptom of anxiety and panic is an increased heart rate. I have experienced anxiety and panic attacks having a heart rate anywhere from 80 bpm to 140 bpm. Please note that this is a normal bodily reaction. The key is that your body, when treated with something like Valium or Xanax....or even deep breathing techniques, begins to relax and naturally reduces your heart rate to normal. The heart rate increase is because your body and mind have perceived threat (even if there isn't one) and begins to prepare the body for fight or flight....thus the lungs, heart, and brain begin to work harder to prepare you. Your heart rate could vary. Typically, for anxiety sufferers, it is not uncommon to be above 100....again...your primary goal is to relax and see the number reduce as you begin to relax once anxiety or panic passes. If you suspect you're having a heart related issue or, if you already have cardiovascular illnesses, this would be best to ask a doctor so that you know when or if you need to seek immediate medical help....but usually you'll hear that your anxiety was the cause.

I hope any or all of this helps

[Craftykat in reply to Hidden]

I was prescribed lexapro the first time but felt that wasnt the path i wanted to go so then i was prescribed xanax 0.25mg but I haven't give them a try i'm kind of like scared you can say but when I had went to the e.r for the first time of not knowing that i had anxiety they prescribed me valium 5mg and I usually take it at night and just fall asleep and wake up okay, but now what you have said about it im like hmm.

What do you think about heart palpitations?

I get them often at night and in the a.m for some reason ?

Thank you for responding

[Stilltrying_]

Hi, yes I take is as needed but that is very very rarely as otherwise it doesn't work. It is slower acting than zanax and slower to get out of your system so is considered slightly safer in that you are less likely to get a harsh withdrawal and you are likely to stay feeling better for longer on one tablet than you would on one zanax. The main thing with these meds is only to use in a dire crisis. They work effectively if you use them very occasionally. If you take them regularly IMO you are wasting your time as if you take them regularly then hit a critical point they won't work to relieve that critical point. Whereas if you don't take them and you reach a critical point they will get you through that critical point.

They are a life saver but only when used in a crisis. That's my take anyway.