Doctor problem

Hello to everyone at Healingwell!  I found your forum on the internet when I was looking for an anxiety support group.  I'm glad that I discovered your site, and I look forward to getting and receiving advice in the future.

For now though, I want to ask for some feedback on a problem I'm having with my doctor and my Valium prescription.  He doesn't like to prescribe benzos, but he gave me a script last time because my previous doctor of 12 years had maintainted me on it at night.  (I have severe PTSD, and when I sleep, I have horrible flashbacks if I don't take the Valium.  As long as the Valium in on board, the flashbacks stay away, and I don't enp up in a panic attack.)

The last time he wrote the script, my doctor repeated over and over that he doesn't like to write benzo scripts.  That was one of the most stressful doctor visits I have ever been to.

Now I am out of Valium, and the refills have been used up.  I got the drugstroe to fax a refill request, but the doctor hasn't replied back.  I have a feeling that he is going to say that he no longer writes scripts for benzos.  If that happens, what should I do?

I thought about going to a psychiatrist and asking him to prescribe the medicine, but I don't have health insurance and can't pay $500 in cash to see him.  It's frustrating.

I'm scared to completely stop Valium.  I've been taking about 20 mg at night for approximately 6 years.  If anyone has any suggestions, I'd greatly appreciate them!!

Take care, and be well.

Jodi 

Hello Jodi,


I understand your problem. A couple of things come to mind. You do need to see your Doctor and discuss the Valium and perhaps you can explain indepth how much it helps you and with it you do well. I he will no longer write you RX for Valium then he should wean you off of this med slowly not just leave you without any.



I understand you have severe PSTD and sure wish there was a way for you to get into therapy. Several types of medications can help symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder get better. Antidepressants can help symptoms of both depression and anxiety. They can also help improve sleep problems and improve your concentration. Anti-anxiety medications also can improve feelings of anxiety and stress.



I wish you peace,



Kitt

You might try calling your local mental health office to see if there's any low-cost clinics in your vicinity. We have one in my town that goes by income.
I think it really stinks that docs have become sooooooooo afraid of prescribing some anti-anxiety meds because of a few bad eggs!
Not everyone abuses their meds afterall!
jl

Snowy,
It isn't always all that easy to just go get another doctor. Believe me, I know! More and more of them act like the DEA is going to be camped on their doorsteps the moment they write you a script for a benzo! It's ridiculous! Each patient should be evaluated through need and their personal record of not misusing any drug. A decent doc should be able to tell if there's apttern of using too much and then proceed from there, not assume someone will misuse!
jl