Posted by Bela on August 25, 2004, at 18:45:07
In reply to Re: Ambien or Ativan?, posted by Minnie-Haha on August 25, 2004, at 16:49:34
> > Serax is non-addictive. It gives you a nice smooth sleep. Maybe you could switch to that, and gradually reduce your dosage.
>
> I started this thread because I wanted to compare the pros and cons of Ambien (sleep medication) to Ativan (anti-anxiety med). I am ALWAYS looking for safe alternatives to these, as both are potentially habit forming, so this suggestion really caught my eye.
>
> However, when I check it (Serax) out at HealthSquare.com it says it is a benzodiazepine, like Ativan, which means it can be addicting.
>
> My main question still stands: Is one the lesser of two evils? (Is one more likely to be addicting or to cause a dependence? Is one more likely to cause cognitive or mood problems with long-term use? etc...)
>I also looked up Serax on the web and it basically sounded like a trade-name for Ambien. I have taken Ativan on two occasions over the past few years when I could not break a string (2-3 weeks) of sleepless nights. It knocked me out both times. Recommended doses (5-20 mg.) of Ambien never did that. In my experience, I would not recommend long-term use of Ativan. It broke the cycle, alright, but I was a zombie for about 2 days afterward.
I have taken Ambien off and on since 1997, usually 5-10 mg every night. The only time I have ever been off it for any prolonged period was when I was taking antidepressants like Remeron and Serzone, that help sleep. I think it affects short-term memory. I don't think it gives you a great sleep and it tends to lose it's effectiveness but I agree with an earlier post, it is one helluva lot sweeter than sleep deprivation!
Getting back to your question: in my mind, Ambien is by far the lesser evil; as I recall it is not a benzodiazepine but still habituating. I don't think it affects my mood one way or the other unless it acts to depress me because I am so damned dependent on it!
Now, I am waiting for Estorra to come out.
poster:Bela
thread:381490
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20040825/msgs/382316.html