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Generalized anxiety disorder
Hello sir/mam
I am on escitalopram 20 mg from last 3 months before that I am on 15mg for 4 months and before that I am on 10mg for 4 months for anxiety.
I am feeling anxious again from past 16 days ,my doctor added tofisopam 50 yesterday, my query is that ,is this medicine habit forming like benzodiazapines?
Answers (9)
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Hello, and thank you for your thoughtful question—it’s completely valid to be concerned about medications, especially when dealing with anxiety and long-term treatment. Tofisopam is a unique medication. It belongs to the benzodiazepine class but it’s quite different from typical ones like alprazolam or clonazepam. Unlike those, tofisopam is considered non-sedating, non-habit forming, and does not cause dependence in the same way traditional benzodiazepines do. It works more subtly on the nervous system and is generally safe for use alongside SSRIs like escitalopram, especially during periods of increased anxiety.
That said, even though it’s less likely to cause dependence, it’s always wise to use it under regular supervision—especially if you find yourself needing to increase the dose or taking it for more than a few weeks continuously. Think of it as a short-term support to stabilize your symptoms while the escitalopram continues its long-term work. Also, therapy alongside medication can help reduce reliance on any drug in the future.
Take therapy, and you can connect with me on nine two six six seven two six zero six five.
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These aren't habit forming medicines. You need not to worry about it. I understand your concern but your Psychiatrist doesn't want you to get addicted to any substance. He wants his patients to be healthy. Please trust him & follow his instructions.
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No.
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Please be in contact with your doctor, regular compliance, don't self medicate, all these efforts will help you, and you will have improvement soon, have faith
No medication is habit forming.
Next Steps
consultation and maintain compliance
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No. These medicines are not habit forming and also they do not come under dependence category drugs. Follow your psychiatrist advise. If there is no improvement, get a second opinion
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Dr. Siddharth Rathore
Sexologist
13 yrs exp
Ujjain
No. Both of these medication are not habit forming.
You can continue if your symptoms are improving.
Next Steps
you can consult me on practo for further evaluation
Health Tips
ask your doctor for any issue regarding medication.
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Ms. Rupali Mohbe
Clinical Psychologist
25 yrs exp
Ahmedabad
Hi, I appreciate that you reached out with your concern.
As you have told that you are suffering from Generalized Anxiety Disorder, I suggest you to take medications and therapy simultaneously for faster recovery. Consider techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Tailored strategies to your specific needs with professional psychologist will help you.
Meanwhile, Practice deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, and Progressive muscle relaxation. Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and prioritize adequate sleep.
Next Steps
For therapy, you can book an appointment with Rupali Mohbe/BIRDY ME at Practo
Health Tips
Daily do Progressive muscle relaxation techniques to calm yourself.
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Dr. Shailaja Bandla
Addiction Psychiatrist
19 yrs exp
Vijayawada
Hi.. no these are not habit forming.
Next Steps
consult online for further questions
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Dr. Shikhar Mehta
Psychiatrist
3 yrs exp
Surat
Hello, it is a common question among patients about whether these medications are habit forming. Antidepressants like Escitalopram are not habit forming. For benzodiazepines, there's a huge difference in doses and patterns which are prescribed for treatment and which cause habit formation. At medically prescribed doses, they are highly effective in treating anxiety. We, as psychiatrists, are trained to prescribe them in an advantageous and correct manner. Although it makes sense to have this worry about habit formation, I'd request you to trust your psychiatrist, their process and be assured that we are here to help you :)
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Stay compliant with the treatment, discuss worries with treating doctor
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