Needing help please, benzo. reducing, etc.

[[Lo...]]

I have been on xanax 1mg, 4x a day for over 8 years. My doc. has me also taking buspirone, along with gabapentin. I recently learned of l theanine and wondered if that may help me as I lower the dose of the benzo. I have also tried kpin with no success. I would like to know if anyone has recently learned more about l theanine (an amino acid that naturally helps the body), as I would love to get rid of all medicines. I realize that it will take time, and just when I think I'm getting somewhere, something happens. I have experienced the horrible withdrawal symptoms from trying to lower on my own before the buspirone and gaba. was started. (Years ago also tried various antidepressants w/o success) Please help. Thank you.

[[me...]]

Hello Loo Loo.  Welcome to the forum, we're glad you found us!  The best way to get off benzos is to reduce slowly, and we generally recommend a taper rate of about 5-10% every 10-14 days. Also, supplements such as theanine are discussed on the Alternative Therapies and Supplements Board. Here are a few other 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!