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Friday, June 20, 2014

MY DOCTOR MENTIONED THAT DRUGS LIKE NEURONTIN AND INDERAL ARE BEING USED TO TREAT ANXIETY? ARE THEY SAFE? WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS?

webmd.com
Neurontin (gabapentin), an anticonvulsant, is a relatively safe medication, and is popular with psychiatrists and patients because it doesn't require monitoring of blood levels, as do other anticonvulsants. The side effects of Neurontin include dizziness, blurred vision (diplopia), lack of balance (ataxia), sleepiness (somnolence), and fatigue. Patients are advised not to drive or operate complex machinery until they have enough experience with the drug to know that it will not affect their performance. Another warning with Neurontin is that very rarely, the sudden discontinuation of the medication could result in a seizure.

Inderal (propranolol), a beta-blocker, is usually safe to use, but requires medical supervision. As with any prescription drug, don't be tempted to use a pill offered by a friend or family member. Inderal is not safe for individuals with asthma or severe breathing problems, as it can worsen these conditions. Side effects of Inderal include slowing of heart rate (bradycardia), lowered blood pressure (hypotension), cardiac arrhythmia, congestive heart failure for those at risk, depression, fatigue, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and cramping.
Source: The Anxiety Answer Book by: Laurie A. Helgoe, PhD, Laura R. Wilhelm, PhD, Martin J. Kommor, MD

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