Expert: Dr. Ravindra Bhaskar Ghooi - 5/16/2007

Question
Because of anxiety and panic disorder, my psychiatrist advised me to take Escitalopram-10 mg and Clonazepam-0.5 mg. I have already started the new medicine and I feel better. I get a good sleep and the symptoms have slightly improved. Is long term use of this drug habit forming? Will this drug have side effects on my working since my work requires agile presence of mind and alertness? Once feeling good, I stopped it but again symotoms relased and again I have started. Doctor says my problem is known as chemical imbalance which need to be corrected. My nature is extremely worrying and I tend to worry unnecessarily,ferful always that something will happen to me. Please guide me

Answer
Hi,
Your question is something that occurs to many patients. Initially escitalopram will slow your reactions, but after a week or so that will disappear. Hence the drugs will not interfere with your work.
You ma have to take the drugs for 6 to 12 months. These drugs are slightly habit forming but you can stop them with not much trouble. So please dont worry about that.
Ravi Ghooi