Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin & Valium are NOT first line treatments for Anxiety.

Benzodiazepines like Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan and Valium can worsen anxiety or cause withdrawal anxiety or panic (called "rebound" Anxiety) if a dose is missed by a few hours, let alone a few days. They are NOT considered first line treatment for Anxiety Disorders like Generalized Anxiety Disorder or Panic Attack Disorder. The recommendation is typically to use these for very short term treatment only.

Treatment should always be tailored to the individual, and it's important to talk to your provider directly about medication risks, benefits and other treatment options. Do not change your medications without speaking to your provider.

Visit ‪@RittenhousePsych‬ for information on what we tend to consider first line agents for anxiety disorders. This information can be taken to your provider, or call us about our Philadelphia area offices.