Benzos in my life....

[[SF...]]

    Just looking for more info; actually wisdom of users in their experience vs little to NO guidance from my doctor.

I have taken benzos for 24yrs, first to deal w anxiety caused by depression. This saved my life, and taught me much in regard to relative "healthy mental state", which I did not originally have.

Fast forward: I was finally up to 6-8mg of xanax a day -no er- because not covered by insurance. It was up to me to dose throughout every single day. I had to taper off 7 yrs ago, was successful w the help of valium, and i think klonopin.

Eventually I found I would rather not cope w/o benzos, so I am now on an er version which insurance NOW covers -2mg x 2/day.

    I wish to taper once again as I have questions re memory loss, and accidental interaction w alcohol and the extended release.

I feel proud that I once got off of 8mg of xanax a day to nothing, and can assist in what it took for me to do it. Second, is the effect of the resumed ER after two years off of any Benzo.

Thank you for the inclusion.

[[pi...]]

Hello SFkruzebad,

 

Welcome to Benzo Buddies!  You did an amazing thing, coming off such a high dose of Xanax!  You can do it again. Personally, I would not worry about what effect the resuming of Xanax will have on this taper.  Find a good plan and start the process and you can be benzo free once again. 

 

As far as long term use of benzos, yes, there can be memory and cognitive issues. Additionally alcohol and benzos target the same receptors in the brain so combining them is not a good idea.

 

A slow taper can help to minimize withdrawal effects. Usually 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 don't know if you are familiar with the Ashton Manual from your previous taper. 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.

 

Have you looked into other ways to deal with anxiety instead of drugs? Modalities such as CBT, meditation, yoga and breathing techniques can be very helpful.

 

We'll be here to support you during your taper and recovery. Please do ask questions, we're here to help.

 

General Taper Plans 

 

The Ashton Manual

 

pianogirl