Want To Bid Benzos Bye-Bye.

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I've taken 1 mg Ativan daily in the morning for ten years for anxiety.  Want to stop.  I started tapering three weeks ago.  I think I'm up to about a 10-15% cut now.  I started three weeks ago and would like to accelerate the pace if possible, though don't intend to make radical cuts or go cold turkey.   

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Hi benzaroobenzai, and welcome to BenzoBuddies!  We're glad you've found us, and you'll find a lot of information and support here.  Our members are happy to share their withdrawal experiences with others---and although withdrawal symptoms can be severe, they are only temporary.

 

Congratulations on deciding to get off Ativan.  We generally recommend a taper rate of about 5-10% every 10-14 days, though individual rates vary.  Speeding up your taper could lead to increased symptoms, so it's not usually advisable.  Here are a few links you'll find useful:

 

Withdrawal Support (during your taper).

 

The Ashton Manual is an authoritative source on what to expect in withdrawal and recovery.  Dr. Ashton is an expert in the field.  She describes and explains withdrawal symptoms, and there is also a section with withdrawal/taper schedules.

 

Please take the time to Create a Signature.  This will allow others to see where you are in the process so they can better support you.

 

Again, welcome!

 

 

[[be...]]

I've taken 1 mg Ativan daily in the morning for ten years for anxiety.  Want to stop.  I started tapering three weeks ago.  I think I'm up to about a 10-15% cut now.  I started three weeks ago and would like to accelerate the pace if possible, though don't intend to make radical cuts or go cold turkey. 

 

welcome  congrats on your taper so far. You have been on ativan for a long time. Personally I would continue at you current rate. 10 to 15 percent every three weeks sounds like a sensible taper plan and one that seems to work.