“Does long-term use of Xanax cause dementia?”
I have been taking Xanax for over 20 years, prescribed to address my psychiatric diagnosed PTSD and generalized anxiety disorder. The maximum dosage I was prescribed was 2 mg per day. I am 66 years old and my new doctor has told me that she wants me to stop taking it completely because "it causes dementia." I have run the gamut of anti-depressants, all of which have made my life miserable with horrible side effects and no help whatsoever with my anxiety issues. I have managed, on my own, to cut down to 1/2 or 3/4 mg of Xanax per day. Is there any medical reason why, if this works for me and helps with my quality of life with no side effects I should have to fight with my doctor to continue my prescription?
Female | 66 years old
3 Answers
No, your doctor needs to support your well-being.
See this link...
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/benzodiazepine-use-may-raise-risk-alzheimers-disease-201409107397
or
https://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/news/20160203/anxiety-meds-like-valium-xanax-wont-raise-seniors-dementia-risk-study
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/benzodiazepine-use-may-raise-risk-alzheimers-disease-201409107397
or
https://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/news/20160203/anxiety-meds-like-valium-xanax-wont-raise-seniors-dementia-risk-study
Xanax and medications similar to Xanax (Benzodiazepines) do increase the risk of cognitive deficit, habit formation, tolerance, depression, confusion and falls especially with aging. PTSD itself increases the risk of cognitive deficit and hence a person who has been diagnosed with PTSD and also taking Benzodiazepine like Xanax will be more vulnerable to develop dementia. Having said that, every individual is different and should be assessed case by case. If your doctor has a concern, there must would be a reason behind it. In general, Xanax is recommended for anxiety as a short-term basis, not for several months unless there are other indications to continue.
