klonopin

[[Sh...]]

I have been taking klonopin for 14 years, averaging about 0.5 mg (range 0.25 - 1.0 mg) taken in the middle of the night when I awake with anxiety and can't get back to sleep. Other insomnia medications gave me bad side effects, whereas I have no side effects from klonopin - except withdrawal. The only times I have taken more than 1 mg is when having MRIs (I'm terribly claustrophobic). I have tried tapering off 3-4 times, but gave up because of the withdrawal symptoms. I have a demanding job (professor) and cannot do my work with these symptoms (insomnia, panic attacks, extreme tinnitus, etc.). I would like to find a way to withdraw without terrible symptoms that prevent me from working productively.

[[me...]]

Hello Shihan, and welcome to the forum! Congratulations on deciding to get off klonopin.  The best way to do this is to taper slowly, and we recommend a taper rate of about 5-10% every 10-14 days, though some taper even slower than this.  Here are a few links you'll find useful:

 

General Taper Plans

 

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!