Long time benzo user

[[Ka...]]

I'm am currently on 2 mg of Ativan at bedtime.  My doc and I discussed the use of benzos and an increase in the possibility of dementia yesterday.  I have been taking some type of benzo since the 70's with a few interruptions over the years. I'm in my late 60's and am stable emotionally and I hate to mess with it now but I am going to try to get off of them a tiny bit at a time, say 1/4 pill a week before going down again. Doc suggested melatonin 5 mg. and I was wiped out but then couldn't get into deep sleep and had to take 2.5 Ativan at 6 this morning. He has suggested before just going off 2.5 with no help and that is like no sleep and jumping out of my skin. Suggestions and support requested.

[[be...]]

Hi Kathleen67 Welcome to BenzoBuddies!

 

We have many older members as well as long time users. I personally was on them for over a decade. The recommended reduction rate for long time users is 5 to 10 percent every two weeks. In my opinion the reduction you propose is way to fast. Stopping too suddenly can cause some pretty rough symptoms.

 

You might like to check out The Ashton Manual it is an authoritative source on what to expect in withdrawal and recovery.  Dr. Ashton is an expert in the field. 

 

Please feel free to post to any of the dedicated boards, we have a wonderful community of people here, who will give sound advice. Members have been through all aspects of benzodiazepine use and withdrawal and are more than willing to share their experiences.

 

General Taper Plans

 

 

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! 

 

benzos-R-cruel