My mother (87), undiagnosed dementia, diabetes, etc) just returned from weeks hospital stay for a heart attack, resulting in two stents & angioplasty. One of the new meds is Xanax to be taken every six hrs "as needed". When questioned about that I was told the Dr. felt some of the chest pressure she had been experiencing may be from anxiety. I understand treating the cause, but the side effects sound counterproductive to her memory issues, balance, incontinence & on & on. I have given her only one at bedtime to help her relax and once when she seemed anxious during the day, but not sure I want to risk the ill effects that may occur. Anyone have experience with this? Any natural aids that will work just as well?
If you've given it to her and you didn't notice any side effects that affect her balance or toileting habits it's not a bad idea to have it on hand to administer it to your mom on an "as needed" basis. Don't give it to her if she doesn't need it. If she's anxious and/or her dementia symptoms are particularly acute, give her the medication.
There's nothing wrong with trying it during the day to see how she reacts to it. If you don't think she tolerates it well don't give it to her anymore.
My dad had an incredibly low tolerance for anything like Xanax. He couldn't take an antihistamine or he'd be knocked out for 2 days. I've never seen anything like it. Nyquil would knock him out for 12 hours. People react differently to different things. I have an amazing high tolerance to anything. I once had surgery and told the anesthesiologist that I had a very high tolerance to medication. He didn't adjust his meds accordingly and I woke up in the middle of surgery. I remember it to this day. I tried to lift my head but there was a tube in my throat and the Dr. said, "She's WAY too awake!"
But I digress. Some Dr.'s attribute wandering in people with dementia to anxiety. No one knows though because people who are at that stage of dementia can't communicate their feelings. There are many other facets of dementia that can be attributed to anxiety. I think everyone who has dementia should be on an anti-anxiety medication but that's just my opinion.
Unless it makes your mom dopey and sedated she may benefit from the med. Try it and see.
I agree with the above answers. Try it. If it hurts or helps.....continue or discontinue. It really is a case by case thing. Good luck.
Early dementia is forgetful and anxious
Moderate dementia can be agitated and angry or withdrawn.
Late dementia can be delirious and hallucinating and wander off.
"De" means off. "Mentia" means brain. The brain is off, but how far off or what parts are off, takes a medical professional to diagnose and treat.
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