GPs are sometimes more reluctant than specialists to prescribe drugs with addictive potential, like benzos for anxiety and stimulants for ADHD. They are being cautious and respectful of their own lack of expertise in this area. A specialist like your PNP or a pdoc should have more confidence and can assess whether you are a good candidate for a benzo. I am on stimulants, and I know that most prescribers are reluctant to prescribe them if there is history of addiction in the patient, either to prescription or illegal drugs, or even alcohol and nicotine. So don't be surprised if you ask your PNP about benzos and she then asks you about your history with these other addictive substances. I'm not trying to push the benzos. I know some people get addicted to them and have trouble stopping, but some people are really helped with their anxiety by them too.

There is another drug my PNP prescribed for me once for spot anxiety in stressful situations. I wanted something fast acting, like a benzo, but not something that would impair my alertness or cognitive ability (as benzos can do). I needed to be alert and sharp. So she gave me a prescription for propanolol (sp?) or something like that. I was directed to take it right before particularly stressful situations. I guess actors and public figures use this to help combat stage fright. I used this a few times and it seemed OK. I do not believe it is addictive. (It is also prescribed for high blood pressure.)

Good luck!