Ativan Taper, Teeth Clenching, Insomnia, Depression

[[au...]]

Hi all, I am in my 50's and had been on Ativan for 9 years at 3mg/day.  I was also on tylenol/codeine and hydrocortisone, but I have been able to stop those over the last 12 months.  For the Ativan, I have tapered down to 1 mg/day, but I am having trouble getting below 1 mg.  I never switched over to Valium for the taper, but now I am wondering if I should switch over to 10mg Valium per Ashton, and continue the taper. 

 

I read reports that 5 mg Valium at bedtime helps people with teeth clenching, can anyone comment?

 

I am hoping to get some ideas on how to stop teeth clenching during sleep, and improve sleep duration/quality.

 

Has anyone had luck with Zanaflex for insomnia and clenching?

 

Thanks,

Austin

 

 

[[Ch...]]

Hi Austin.  Welcome to BenzoBuddies.

 

Teeth clenching can be a problem, no doubt.  I lost two teeth within two months from clenching, probably mostly at night.  The dentist told me I should have asked for a mouthguard, but by then it was too late.  I wasn't aware I was clenching my jaw until after it happened.

 

Let me give you some links to begin posting.  You can ask in Substitution Plans about others' experiences switching over to Valium and whether or not it might be the best choice for you.  The other two links are for taper support and symptoms.

 

General Taper Plans 

Withdrawal Support 

Substitution Taper Plans

 

Please take some time to Create a Signature. This will help other members understand your history so they will be better able to support you.

Go to the top of the page and select Profile, then choose Forum Profile, insert drug history/timelines into the text box and click Change Profile.

 

Challis