My doctor just put me on 3mg alprazolam ER(generic). I have been taking daily Xanax (brand name) since last May. My dose was 4mg daily.

The Xanax XR just doesn't feel the same. I don't know if it would help to get it filled as brand name Xanax XR (since I had problems with generic immediate release Xanax), ask to increase to 4 mg Xanax XR since I was at the dose with the immediate release, just go back to plain immediate release, or to supplement with occasional immediate release.

I'm not terribly unhappy with this medication, just very confused and don't know what to think. I did find major differences with the brand vs. generic though, so this could be a factor.

I don't know why my doctor suddenly thought this would be a wonderful idea.

Thanks for the input.

Yeah, my doctor was only trying to help. We actually have a fairly close relationship that's built over the past year. I've gone through a challenging time and he's always rooting for me and only wants the best. He was really excited when he thought of the Xanax XR idea.

In theory it is. And this may work for me, there just needs to be some adjustments. It better for someone with GAD to have a continuous level medication, as opposed to someone who takes Xanax on occasion for panic and situational anxiety. Sort of like taking an SSRI (which I hate!).

I'll be OK. No panic at the moment. I go back in 2 weeks anyway. The alprazolam ER is lasting long enough at the moment and is fairly calming, plus I have a few tabs of regular Xanax saved.

It's just a big change. I think I would be more comfortable increasing it to 4mg Xanax XR, asking him to check the "DAW" box (for brand name), and ask if it's possible to have a prescription of immediate release Xanax for emergencies.

I'm a little uncomfortable asking for both. I do think it's a good solution, but I don't want him to think I'm terribly dependent, even though I may be.

He seems to be one of the few docs who is willing to prescribe medications if it increases the quality of the patient's life. Not someone who's afraid of overmedicating and being dependent on a drug.

I've taken Klonopin before. It's not controlled release, but has a long half-life, so it stays in your body much longer than immediate release Xanax.