Answer

Thanks, Shan...that did clear up my concerns.

In my many years of counseling, I've seen people try the herbal solutions and natural medications and remedies, and honestly believe the main benefit is the psychological effect of really thinking it will work (placebo). I don't recommend them. Depression cycles with usually very minor ups and downs, and when its lighter people tend to believe the herbal cures are doing a great job. Then when it cycles lower they need to go back on medication, but have lost time to the illness at that point and usually have to go through that whole initial phase of treatment again - relationships suffer, work suffers and the person isn't feeling very happy. I can understand if you don't want what I say to be true - and it may not be for you, but my advice is to stick with the medical solution. I don't think seralax is better than Zoloft and clonazepam.

It sounds like it wasn't just your panic attack that got your blood pressure and pulse up that high, which is why they did a good work-up at the hospital. The interplay of it all did something, and you were able to recover well....very good outcome!

If you want to wean off the clonazepam and/or Zoloft, just call your doctor and ask for a withdrawal plan from it. They'll know how to best reduce your dosage over time in a way that takes your individual health into the picture so that you don't have a complicated withdrawal, or an uncomfortable one. They do this all the time. If you decide to try the natural meds, I most certainly would let your doctor know everything so that they can be well informed about your care. People have been known to not let their doctors know the natural meds they're on because they're afraid they won't approve. You're better to keep everything communicated.

So, long story cut shorter:
I do not recommend natural medicines over zoloft and clonazepam because I've seen little evidence that it works long term.

You won't have severe withdrawal if you go off it slowly, and your doctor is the best one to prescribe that schedule.

Keep them informed on any over the counter meds you're taking.

Good luck, and I hope that you feel much better soon. You clearly have a good grasp on your health, which will take you far!

Anna