Panic Attacks and Intense Anxiety after weaning off Ropinirole

[Todge]

Did any one out there find that they had severe anxiety or panic attacks immediately after weaning off Ropinirole? I was so proud to finally be off of that medication and 3 days later I am having horrible panic attacks. I had a few episodes of anxiety a few years ago but have managed without medications for a while now. But holy cats, this is horrible. Did I get off one medication only to need a whole new one to handle my anxiety? My doc is really very helpful. I have Tramadol, cannabis, and now tonight he wrote for Oxycodone. I am hoping someone has some insight and can reassure me (heck I would take outright lies at this point) that this is part of the process.

Thanks in advance!

Leslie

[Jimbo77]

Hi Leslie, I’m so sorry to hear about the panic attacks. I had a similar experience when I was changing around medications. They are so scary! Gabapentin has been the medication that helps me sleep and does not induce panic attacks. I also found a lot of benefit from a book called Dare by Barry McDonagh. Hopefully this helps.

[Todge in reply to Jimbo77]

Hi Jimbo. I downloaded the book and am listening to one of the recordings on the app. Did you really get relief from this? I am so worried this is my new norm. Thanks for suggesting this to me!

[Jimbo77 in reply to Todge]

Hi Leslie,

Yes, I did find relief from the book. I spent most of my time worrying when the next panic attack would take hold. The book helped me to not fear them and embrace them. Sounds weird, but it helped me through. Julie makes a great point as well. I think Gabapentin or Pregabalin would also really help.

[Joolsg]

I had severe panic attacks and anxiety after a traumatic withdrawal from Ropinirole but they eased off. However, 3 weeks after starting Oxycontin they happened again ( apparently it is a side effect with opioids). My GP prescribed pregabalin after Dr. Buchfuhrer suggested adding a small dose. Pregabalin is sedating so counters the panic attacks and also helps with opioid induced alerting - 2 meds at low dose are often more effective than one at a higher dose for RLS.