Ativan accidental addict

[[fi...]]

Was given Ativan 1mg on a PNR basis by doc and started decreasing my Paxil. That caused a bit of insomnia and I started using Ativan twice a week to sleep. Soon needed 2mg to sleep and did that for a few weeks. Then got major sciatica and stated using the Ativan 3-4 a week for 3 weeks. Stopped taking it and Bam hit by panic attack 3 days later. Used about 10 pills over 2 weeks to try and withdraw and then ended up needing 1mg am and .5mg pm to keep anxiety at bay.Fessed to the Doc and she suggested staying put for 2 weeks and then dropping .25mg a day for 2 weeks. I also had to go back up on my Paxil which I think contributed to anxiety.(VERY SENSITIVE TO START UP EFFECTS). Tried dropping the .25mg gave up on the 3rd day. Tried splitting dose into 3x.5mg, gave up on 3rd day. A week later I am on third day of dropping .25mg from pm dose and doing ok on anxiety(none) but insomnia boo hoo!

[[pi...]]

Hello fizzkind,

 

Welcome to Benzo Buddies! Even relatively short terms use of drugs like Ativan can cause a dependency.  I was put on Ativan for a supposed inner ear issue and I decided to skip doses occasionally to see how my "ears" were doing so I know first hand how awful stopping cold turkey can be.

 

I think the plan proposed by your doctor is too fast, too aggressive.  While it's best to spend as little time as possible on these drugs, they are designed for short term use only, it's important to make this as gentle as possible on the central nervous system.

 

I'm glad you are feeling OK after the first cut. Insomnia during withdrawal is very common and may take a while to ease up.

 

Generally, a reduction of no more than 5-10% every 10-14 days is suggested. I'll give you a link to the General Taper Plans for additional information.

 

I'll also give you a link to the Ashton Manual. It is an excellent resource about these types of drugs and how to withdraw. It was written by Dr. Heather Ashton, an expert in the field.

 

You've come to the right place for support and information as you taper off Ativan. Please do ask questions, we're here to help.

 

General Taper Plans 

 

The Ashton Manual

 

pianogirl