theory is that since anxiety is a symptom of nicotine withdrawal, meprobamate may be an aid in lessening the cravings. Additionally, addiction to smoking seems to be because the brain doesnÆt produce enough of certain chemicals such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Because anxiolytics and anti-depressants increase the amount of these chemicals in the brain, meprobamate would assist in alleviating the need for smoking (Hughes, Stead, & Lancaster, 2000).
Meprobamate should be used by those people who are experiencing anxiety due a chemical balance in the brain. It may also be temporarily used for those experiencing overwhelming anxiety and who just need some help dealing with it. It should not, however, be used for relieving normal tension and anxiety that is associated with the stress of everyday life. As noted before, the need for this drug should be reassessed every four months (Physicians Desk Reference, 2001).
Meprobamate is available only through a doctorÆs prescription in extended release capsules and tablets. Brand names in the United States include Equanil, Meprospan (in 200 and 400 mg), ôMiltownö (in 200, 400, and 600 mg), Probate, and Trancot. There is also a generic name product available in the United States. As with all medications, dosing will be different for different patients, however, generally children from 6 to 12 years of age take 100 to 200 milligrams two or three times a day. Adults and children over the age of twelve are usually prescribed 400 milligrams three or four times a day, or 600 milligr
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