Zoloft versus Xanax - please help?

Question: 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?

Answers:
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!

---

zoloft-depression
zanax-anxiety
and yes xanax is habit forming.

---

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.

---

---

More Questions and Answers

• does anyone here know the side effects of gabapentin?
• What happens to a person if bipolar disorder is left untreated?
• How can one become a stronger person on the inside?
• Do heterosexual males think it is normal to watch gay porn on a regular basis?
• how many people suffer from schizophrenia?
• Do the meds that thay perscribe for add really help and is so how long will my friend see any benefits?
• What's your coping mechanism?
• Okay TODAY'S my first DAY BEING 30 now what to expect from life??