Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 10/12/2009

Question
I have been taking a benzodiazeprine, xanax every 6 hours, for many years for panic disorder, as prescribed by a psychiatrist. Abrupt discontinuation of xanax is problematic, as withdraw symptoms start very quickly due to the short half life of xanax. I have scheduled a "minimally invasive" green light laser prostate surgery, with general anesthesia, in 2-3 weeks. This is to be followed by one night in the hospital. There is supposed to be minimal bleeding and pain afterwards so perhaps strong pain killers are not required. I am concerned that I will not be allowed to resume the xanax soon enough to prevent withdrawal from occurring, in particular because of the anesthesia. The surgeon has assured me that they will resume the xanax as soon as they can after the surgery but he has given no time frame. I would like to know if there is some kind of standard time after general anesthesia during which a prescription sedative like xanax is commonly not to be used.

Answer
There is no standard time and they will resume your Xanax after surgery. If (for some reason) they can't give you the Xanax immediately, they will give you another anxiolytic until you can resume your meds.

Ronald Levy, MD
Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston