[Strangler Lewis]

When I had a vasectomy, they prescribed me one valium. I would say it put me in a state of mild bemusement/indifference. I can't say I felt as loopy as when my back went out, and I combined painkillers with anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxants.

I suppose it did the trick. However, I don't think I would have been especially panicky without it. I don't know if it would have gotten me through something that horrified me.

Also, for what it's worth, I've had a closed MRI. They gave me headphones with music to listen to, and they told me how long each session would be (5-7 minutes) and they said they'd roll me out after each session. Having the music helped me estimate the time. I can't say it was a walk in the park, but I got through it.