A female asked:
need smthg for severe panic when flying, involuntary shaking, body pain, irtnl fear. xanex numbs body not mind. dr. suggested lexotanil. 20 hr flight?
1 doctor answer

Dr. Patricia Foster answered
44 years experience Psychiatry
Calm flight: Lexotanil is similar to Xanax but may be worth a try. Ask your doctor about Buspar (buspirone) for anxiety, short-acting. An eye mask may also help to calm and sleep. Avoid caffeine the day before until you've landed as it will keep you awake and heighten anxiety. Listen to "sleep music" or whatever soothing sounds you prefer on youtube. Distract yourself with pleasant reading and images. Hope this helps.
Answered on Apr 30, 2016
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2 comments
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1 thank

Dr. Patricia Foster commented
44 years experience Psychiatry
Provided original answer
Agree. Thanks for the comments Dr. Olsen!
Aug 22, 2015

Dr. Robert Olsen commented
51 years experience Psychiatry
Good suggestions- I recommend a trial run with any medication before you board the plane. Having the security that the med will work will help you control your anxiety.
Other/additional considerations: low dose Beta blocker to reduce sympathetic arousal which will augment anxiety; possibly clonazepam which has a much longer duration of effect than Xanax. Test First!!!
Aug 21, 2015
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