Only took 3 0.5mg Ativan

[[ti...]]

Hello -

 

I took Ativan a few years ago to help with sleep with no problems.  I think I began with a 0.5mg pill that I cut in half after I didn't like how the full pill felt.  And had no problems not taking it then.

 

I just picked up a new Rx and took it this past week because I'd taken a few partial pills of my old Rx here and there.  And I learned quickly that the new Rx is definitely stronger.  I took about 3 0.5mg pills over 3 nights.  Had a break of one night in the 3.  I took maybe 600 mg of Valerian root on my night off from Ativan because I genuinely thought Ativan was out of my system.  I also took maybe 400mg of Valerian root on one night I took maybe 3/4 of a 0.5mg Ativan because I'd forgotten I'd taken the Valerian Root.  It's been 48-ish hours since I've had any Ativan and I think I'm experiencing withdrawl symptoms which I never expected!  Can't stop going to the bathroom, feelings in my chest, anxiety, not sleeping despite only sleeping 8 hours in the 2 nights previous.  I'm a small to average build female.  How long will this last?  Any advice?

 

[Guest [Mi...]]

Hi, tinkerbellpsu.

 

Welcome to benzobuddies! 

 

If you've only taken three .5 mg pills, I would simply stop taking it and dispose of the remainder of the prescription. That's the best advice I can give you. We do have members with histories of very short time use who developed dependency very quickly. I'm glad you researched this as soon as you did, as you may save yourself a lot more suffering by being informed.

 

A good resource about benzodiazepines is the Ashton Manual. Here is a link to the manual: Professor Ashtons Manual  It’s great for learning about these meds and for taper plans. If you do decide to taper from Ativan, Ashton recommends reducing between 5 - 10% every 10/14 days.

 

You'll find a great community of people here who will support and encourage you. Feel free to check out the forum and to post to any of the dedicated boards.

 

In addition to the Ashton Manual, here are some other resources:

 

For tapering advice, post here: General Taper Plans

 

For support with any symptoms you may have, post here: Withdrawal Support

 

I'm hoping you decide to treat your insomnia without meds. Here's a link to the insomnia board which has a lot of information on non-drug ways of getting some sleep: Insomnia 

 

Please add a signature (history of medication/doses etc). It will help members give you relevant advice. This link will show you how to Create a signature

 

Please let us know if you have any questions.

 

~ Mind