Talk to Psychiatry on Seeking Second Opinion On Alprazolam Dependence And OCD Relapse Management
Asking for Self, Male, 31 years old, Lahore
dear psychiatrists,
I have a history of sexual OCD with compulsions (mainly adult content), which has significantly affected my life. I completed 4 months of rehab and recovered well; OCD was manageable and I was sober After about a year, due to workload and stress, my OCD relapsed severely.
During rehab, I was prescribed Nexum (Alprazolam). It gave relief, but I began misusing it during peak urges. To avoid compulsions and manage work, I started using it as a sleeping aid. Other medications were not effective, so I stopped them.
This escalated into dependence, reaching up to 20 tablets of 1 mg nightly. My condition worsened, and a new psychiatrist helped me taper down to 6 tablets, though with acute withdrawal symptoms.
During Ramadan, triggers increased my use again; now I am back to 8 but struggling with withdrawal, affecting my work.
Should I opt for short-term rehab (10–15 days) or continue slow tapering with counseling support? I am satisfied with my current doct
Your problem can be treated quickly with minimal homeo medication. No need to worry—please share details and book an appointment for proper consultation.
Slow tapering is recommended along with support. For ocd you can take medications that can help you in the longer run.
If medicines are effective than you can continue them but if they are not you should consult a psychologist for therapies and counseling
appointment la lain aj
Asst. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ayub Baloch | Consultant Psychiatrist | Fcps (Gold Medalist) - Psychiatrist
MBBS, FCPS Psychiatry ( Gold-Medalist ), Fellow, College of Physicians & Surgeons, Pakistan, Certificated Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Consultant Psychiatrist & Expert in the treatment of Psychiatric, Neuropsychiatric, Drug addiction & Sexual disorders | Karachi
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You are dealing with two linked problems: OCD relapse and dependence on alprazolam. In situations like this, suddenly stopping or reducing too fast can make withdrawal and anxiety much worse. Usually a slow supervised taper with proper therapy/support gives better long-term results.
Short rehab may help if cravings, withdrawal, or functioning become difficult to manage at home, but that decision needs proper assessment. Please continue follow-up with your psychiatrist and avoid changing doses yourself.
You can also book an online consultation for a detailed second opinion regarding tapering plan, OCD management, and relapse prevention.
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