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How to treat anxiety, restlessness, and schizophrenia?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have a history of schizophrenia accompanied by restlessness and anxiety. My current medications include Arpiprazole 5 mg, Cariprazine 4.5 mg, and Clonapax p 20 mg, which belongs to the benzodiazepine group and should not be taken for more than two weeks due to habit-forming potential. I previously took Amisulpride 100 mg for the same complaint. Could you please advise on an antidepressant suitable for treating anxiety and restlessness in my case? Kindly guide.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Vishal Anilkumar Gandhi

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vishal Anilkumar Gandhi is a Psychiatrist with expertise in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. He is skilled in psychotherapy, pharmacological management, crisis intervention, and counseling. Dr. Gandhi focuses on holistic patient care, mental wellness, and improving the quality of life through tailored treatment approaches.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

As you are taking antipsychotic (medicines prescribed to treat psychosis) medications, the restlessness you are experiencing could be a side effect of the drug or due to anxiety (excessive worry).

To address medication-induced restlessness associated with Aripiprazole and Cariprazine (Cariprazine hydrochloride), I suggest taking 2 mg of Benzhexol tablets containing Trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride daily in the morning. Additionally, to manage your anxiety, you can take a 10 mg tablet of Propranolol (Propranolol hydrochloride) daily in the morning, which is not a benzodiazepine medication. Consult your doctor and take the medicines accordingly.

In addition to medication, I suggest incorporating activities like exercise and meditation and engaging in hobbies such as reading, journaling, singing, dancing, painting, or drawing, which can be beneficial. Limiting your use of social media and spending quality time with friends and family is also advisable.

I hope this helps.

Please revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Investigations to be done

Investigations to be done are: 1. CBC (complete blood count). 2. Thyroid profile. 3. Vitamin B12. 4. Vitamin D3. 5. RBS (random blood sugar).
Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At July 4, 2024
Reviewed At July 4, 2024

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vishal Anilkumar Gandhi is a Psychiatrist with expertise in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. He is skilled in psychotherapy, pharmacological management, crisis intervention, and counseling. Dr. Gandhi focuses on holistic patient care, mental wellness, and improving the quality of life through tailored treatment approaches.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vishal Anilkumar Gandhi is a Psychiatrist with expertise in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. He is skilled in psychotherapy, pharmacological management, crisis intervention, and counseling. Dr. Gandhi focuses on holistic patient care, mental wellness, and improving the quality of life through tailored treatment approaches.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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