Xanax and irritability?

[Lm92]

The last couple of days, I've had quite a bit of anxiety. My son has been sick and having some issues with his throat that caused him to vomit quite a significant amount of blood, so I've been in constant "on-guard" Mommy mode. Even though he's been checked out and treated, I'm still anxious and watchful. I've taken a half dosage of Xanax for the last 2 mornings (usually I only take it at night) and have noticed I've been much, much more irritable. I know some of it is from simply being exhausted, but it's much more than when I'm typically tired. I just get angry for no reason, which I've never had a problem with before. Can anyone relate or has anyone had similar experiences? Xanax isn't a daily med for me. I take it probably no more than 5 to 10 times per month as a short acting anxiety inhibitor.

[Gattinko]

Hello! How many milligrams do you take and for how long?

[Lm92 in reply to Gattinko]

I take 0.25 mg only once per day, if needed. It's kind of like my backup for Lexapro if I need help with breakthrough anxiety.

[Gattinko in reply to Lm92]

I see, but it may be even that the dosage is not enough for your mind anymore. Anyway Xanax is good little helper but only if i taken for short amount of time (3-5 months) then your body can ask for higher dosage. I dont know how it works with apothecary supplements on natural basis (if its not too expensive) i tried Command valerian with magnesium and helped little bit

[Lm92 in reply to Gattinko]

Thank you

[Gattinko in reply to Lm92]

Glad to help and looking forward to hear from you if things get better ☺️

[aguy]

Hi Lm92 - frankly speaking, Xanax will do that to you. It's just like taking alcohol. It's Dutch courage; false bravado. If you are feeling anger now it's only going to get worse if continue to take Xanax or if you start taking it regularly. Also, it's highly addictive and if you take it over a period of time YOU WILL increase the dosage. I've been taking Xanax for years and can't stop and I have to check my anger. Anxiety is bad, mine was life-threatening but starting Xanax was the wrong recipe (for me). I think most people would agree. I suggest you seek other other therapeutic methods for your anxiety, especially with a small child in the picture. You might want to ask your doctor about Analgesics. Good luck

[Lm92 in reply to aguy]

Thanks for your reply. I've been taking 0.25 mg for over 15 years before bed if I feel anxiety coming on. It's never been daily. Thank you for your perspective for sure. I'm lucky to have a really good therapist and I take an SSRI to keep things under control. Sometimes a bit slips in though and that's what the Xanax is for. Usually, it's a bit like a security blanket. Just knowing it's there should I feel too anxious. I honestly don't know how anyone can take it daily. I can definitely see how the body would build tolerance. Today seems to be going much better, much calmer.

[aguy]

Oh good, glad to hear it. I've been taking upwards to 6mg per day for over thirty-five years, currently set on 2. It's a miracle I can still write. Good luck with your irritability.

[Lm92]

I think I figured out the culprit. I was diagnosed with strep throat yesterday. Nice to have some answers. Thanks to you 2 who took the time to give your perspective and advice. Started on antibiotics last night and hope to be feeling much better tomorrow.