Tapering Klonipin

[[Na...]]

Hello everyone.  I just joined yesterday.  Looking for guidance on how to taper.  Here is my story:  I started taking Klonipin, 0.5 mg, the first week of October.  I took 11 pills over the course of approximately two-two and a half weeks.  My "last" pill was last Wednesday.  Over the weekend, I started developing a burning sensation in my arms (and to some extent my upper back).  By Monday, it was non-stop and I didn't sleep a wink.  I had read posts on this forum that burning could be a withdrawal symptom of Klonipin.  So, Tuesday, I took another pill to see if the burning in my arms would go away away  - sure enough, it  did.  I want to get off of the Klonipin, but want to do it the right way and limit my withdrawal symptoms as much as possible.  I took .375 mg yesterday and do have some burning - wondering what to do next??  I know I wasn't on it long, but the burning sensation I had in my arms over the weekend was no joke.  Also, not sure if it is relevant, but I had taken seven 0.5 mg Lorazapam sporadically in the month and a half prior to starting the Klonipin.  Pretty sure I hadn't taken any in weeks prior to starting the Klonipin though.  Margarita had responded to my introductory email and said perhaps a fast taper?  I certainly want to get off of this stuff as quickly as possible, but would like to limit the side effects.  Thoughts?  Thank you all so much!

[[be...]]

I personally would not continue taking anymore if I had only taken eleven pills over two and a half weeks. You took them just as they were meant to take. Taking them longer could cause the need for a taper. It looks like you are really sensitive to these meds. I would hate to see you get deeper into them. Your very brief use several months ago probably does play a role. Given your sensitivity from just 11 tablets, I suspect that you may be experiecing a bit of "kindling" "Kindling is when each subsequent withdrawal get more difficult. My hopes would be that any withdrawal symptoms would be short lived just like your use.

[[Ju...]]

I also think you could stop at this point and wait out the withdrawal. Think of it as a personal vacation for a week or two. Even if you cant totally quit all responsibilities, be kind and patient with yourself and the withdrawal symptoms will pass. There are no guarantees in this process, but a gradual taper could triple your overall use. If you wanted to go that route it could be 0.375 for a week, then 0.25 for a week, then 0.125 for a week then stop. There may still be some withdrawal either way. If you think of it as your body healing, and as a big sign to stay away from these meds in the future, you will be fine!

JKS

[[Na...]]

Thank you for the replies - very much appreciated.  I have taken 0.375 for the past couple of days and have some burning in my arms, but nothing like when I went off.  I was thinking (of course having no experience with this whatsoever), of taking 0.375 for 3 days, then 0.25 for a few days, then 0.125 for a few days and then trying to get off.  You thinking jumping ship now is best?  Or, if I am going to taper, that I should do a week at each dose? I was just really surprised at the effect it had on me after only taking 11 pills.  This stuff is poison!  Crazy how differently it affects people. 

 

On another note, what type of food, supplements, medications, etc. am I supposed to avoid during this time?  I've read not to drink alcohol, so won't be doing that. 

 

I really appreciate this help.  Thank you, thank you, thank you.

[[Ju...]]

You could sort of feel your way forward, see how you feel after 3 days at 0.375. If you are feeling worse or the same, hold a few more days before going to the next level. Unfortunately with this poison (as you said) there isnt really a right answer. There's a wrong answer for people who have been on it a while (dont cold turkey) but other than that you have to follow your body's lead and take it from there. I think you COULD safely stop now, but if you are more comfortable with a rapid taper that would work too. Either way, withdrawal symptoms may still happen but you know what they are and you know they are temporary. I was never sensitive to particular foods, some people are. As for medications, its up to you and your doctor. The Z drugs (ambien, lenesta) act similarly to benzos and should be avoided.

JKS

[[Na...]]

Thanks JKS.  How do you know when you are ready to go down to the next dose?? I've had some burning, but nothing too crazy (not non-stop) on the 0.375.  Technically, are you supposed to wait for that to go away (e.g., you don't have it at all in the 24 hour period before you take your next dose), or if it's not that bad, go ahead and go down?  Contemplating going down to the .25 tonite (after 2 days on 0.375).

[[Tw...]]

Honestly if you can push through the burning in your arm for a short period of time and just stop taking anymore of this poison, do it. Amazing that after 11 pills you have symptoms. Just shows how dangerous these drugs are. Best of luck, just be thankful you didn't stay on longer!

[[Ju...]]

In your case, which isnt typical around here, you are probably best going down as fast as you can.

[[wh...]]

I agree with all. Go as fast as you can and endure the withdrawal symptoms as you taper and post jump. Forget the 10% rule every 4-6 weeks in your case. The longer you taper means the longer you have the med in your body.

 

for burning sensation, keep some aloe lotion in the fridge and apply when burning is intense. I've even heard someone who had burning feet put cold greek yogurt in a bag and tied it around their feet for relief.

 

[[Cl...]]

I also agree with all, stop taking it as soon as possible.