I share some of your feelings about this drug. I was terrified when my doctor told me I needed it because of horrific panic attacks. I went on this drug 6 years ago, at 4 mg. a day. I haven't had a panic attack since. I know what it feels like to be startled awake at night, several times a night. I hope your doctor told you that your brain chemistry is messed up and your synapses are firing and not talking to each other. Therefore, the portion of your brain that is responsible for the "fight or flight" response is stuck in the "on' position. You are pumped up with adrenaline. I had some dizzyness and dry mouth for a few months, but they went away and I now take only 1 1/2 mg. a day, or if there is a very stressful event happening, 1 mg. an hour before the event. Do not go completely off this med without talking to your doctor. Why don't you fax your dr. and tell him/her about waking up at night. I think you are under-medicated. I also take an anti-depression med at night, and the two make me sleep very well. Quite often depression and anxiety go hand in hand. Again, ask your doctor. Hope this is helpful. MTfarmwife
sleep feelings depression anxiety several times 6 years adrenaline synapses panic attacks panic attack flight response stressful event brain chemistry bad dreams zanax dry mouth alprazolam little bit