Posted by Daveman on August 9, 2001, at 23:11:23
In reply to Re: sleep stuff » paxvox, posted by Elizabeth on August 9, 2001, at 16:47:27
I think it depends what is meant by "cross-tolerant". If you are talking about the principal mechanism, probably so. But each benzo has a different chemical profile and thus different side effects. Thus, some experts utilize a valium-substitution method to wean off Xanax- not only does it cover withdrawal symptoms and have a longer half life, but is a much stronger hypnotic and can thus help with the insomnia that comes with benzo withdrawal.
Of course, panic disorder patients report staying on the same doses of Xanax or klonopin for years without developing tolerance to the anti-panic effects (as opposed to the sedation). YMMV.
Dave
poster:Daveman
thread:72451
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010809/msgs/74408.html