I'm Tapering Ativan and May Go Off This Weekend

[[Ea...]]

Hi.

 

I have been taking ativan for a year and 3 months.  My doctor is very supportive, but hasn't made it clear on how far I should taper before stopping.  I am considering going off in a few days, but just plain not sure.  My dose now is 0.25mg morning and .125mg evening... but I'm very sensitive to medications and my regular dose was .25mg 4x/day.

 

I would have joined sooner, but I just found you today.

 

Thanks.

[[me...]]

Welcome to the forum!  We're glad to have you as a new member.  It's best to taper down as far as you can, if possible.

 

You'll find plenty of information and support here.  Our members have gone through all aspects of withdrawal, and you're likely to see  people who understand what you're going through and can tell you what has worked for them.  For those who are currently tapering, we suggest reducing no faster than 5-10% of the current dose every 10-14 days, and some taper even slower than that.  One exception: very short-term users of a few weeks or less may be able to taper faster than that.  Having some withdrawal symptoms is normal, especially near the end of a taper and for a month or so after discontinuing the medication.  The most common symptoms are anxiety and insomnia, but these are temporary and will go away in time.

 

Here are a few links you may find useful:

 

Withdrawal Support Board

 

The Ashton Manual is an authoritative source on what to expect in withdrawal and recovery.  Dr. Ashton is an expert in the field.  She describes and explains withdrawal symptoms in Chapter III, and there is also a section with withdrawal/taper schedules.

 

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!