Anxiety Drug for Flights

[flightanxiety]

I am taking a flight within a week and need to know which anti-anxiety drug will work best for me. It is a two-hour flight.  

[erin626]

I had a huge fear of flying and I had to fly back and forth from los angeles to dc for an entire year. My doc gave me xanax for the first few flights to help ease my fears. It helped me relax and I usually fell asleep on the plane. That's what my doc said they usually use for flying anxiety. But absolutely talk to your doc and agree with greenlydia..try it beforehand. The first dose they gave me was WAY too strong for me so they cut it back. It helped immensely for the flight though. Good luck!

[RubyWitch]

To Gofio,
While I basically have no problem with the advice you've given the OP, I have to wonder, sir, if you have ever suffered with dibilitating panic about flying? There are many people who experience some anxious moments during a flight. Some people don't like the take off, some get anxious if there is turbulence, some don't like landings. But for someone whose panic about flying is all pervasive, simply walking into the terminal starts the spiral of panic.
Your advice about taking deep breaths to relax, listening to music, reading.........these are excellent distractions for those with very mild anxiety. For those of us with panic, they are, unfortunately, useless. We are completely unable to focus on anything except our panic. The flight our OP is going on IS pretty short, but for the panic stricken, duration of the flight makes no difference at all. Your advice, while given with the very best of intentions, is rather akin to telling an agoraphobic to go to the mall.

To flightanxiety,
It is really not our place to "recommend" specific medications. You should discuss your options with your doctor as soon as possible. I say that because it would be best for you to try the medication BEFORE your flight to see how it makes you feel. The one thing you don't want is to get on the plane, take your antianxiety med and get even more anxious about how it's making you feel. A trial run or two at home is something I strongly recommend. PLEASE do not wash any tablets down with alcohol. Promise me that!
There are millions of people afraid of flying and a great many of them take something to help them cope with their anxiety. While it would be great if you didn't need anything, there are situations in life where we need a little help. Don't ever be hesitant to ask for it.
I wish you a peaceful flight
Greenlydia
(Recovered EXTREME flying phobic)  

[gofio]

Suggest you avoid drugs if you are able to. Face the flight like most do, you won't come to any harm because you're anxious. If you take a few, long, slow, deep breaths & distract yourself by reading, listening to music or whatever you'll be OK. When you have had the flight without needing drugs you'll feel great! With them, you'll continue to be anxious. 2 hr flight's nothing to get anxious about. Relax, take pictures, enjoy the experience. Good luck.