Posted by ace on November 27, 2006, at 21:09:43
In reply to Re: Difference between Ativan and Valium? ?ace, posted by Quintal on November 27, 2006, at 20:38:48
>
> >None of them cause dependence when used properly and at therapeutic dosage.
>
> Many of the regular posters on this board are dependant on benzos because they have been taking then as prescribed (at recommended therapeutic doses) but for so many years they no longer have the original effect.This statement defies the metabolism of the drug.
Within 2 months liver enzymes settle down and therapeutic efficacy is achieved at the same dose.
If these people were to withdraw abruptly they would almost certainly suffer withdrawal symptoms as their brain struggled to readjust its GABA balance.I agree. Long term benzo use usually, but not always, requires slow cessation. If not, I have heard of such extreme sx as seizures taking place, and certain anxiety paroxysms of an unknown origin.
In other words their brain had been *depending* partly on the effect of benzos to maintain its equilibrium.are you stating the brain's old equilibrium was superseded by a benzo-induced equilibrium?
> >The term 'dependance' denotes compulsive or chronic need
>
> Isn't that addiction?Not by the medical dictionary I have. But, there always seems to be some semantic confusion with these two terms.
> >Also addiction (within the context of dependence) denotes that the user needs higher and higher doses to sustain efficacy
>
> Is that not tolerance?See above.
> >As I state, when properly used, most users, tend to voluntarily lower their doses.
>
> I've certainly heard of this and managed it myself at one point with Klonopin, but I'm not convinced it is the typical pattern of benzo use. I have always had the impression that secretly taking more tablets p.r.n to cope with anticipated stress or anxiety, or simply to regain efficiency as tolerance developed, was the more common.
>
> >Paxil causes more w/drawal problems!
>
> >BUT when abused, these drugs can cause major problems.
>
>
> I agree. Antidepressants caused some of the harshest withdrawals for me. I found opiates were the easier to quit than Klonopin and SSRIs.
>
> Q
>Well, i can only state what I have experienced, read and seen.
I certainly could be wrong!
But I do think benzo's are wonderful agents and should be issued more. Maybe one day I will see certain phenomena with regards to benzo's that steers my mind, but for the moment, I am definately a strong advocate of the drugs.Ace.
Ace.
poster:ace
thread:707968
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20061123/msgs/708046.html