Just Need A Little Reassurance

[[Ro...]]

I came here for any added support and or reassurance. I have gotten all kinds of information from several doctors and nurses usually not as helpful and understanding of my psychological apprehension.

 

I am on Alpralozam and have been taking this drug since July 2015. I am taking 0.25mg once a day. I used to take 0.5 mg once a day but I weaned myself off. I took the 0.25 one day and just took the leap. I would say I did this about a year after taking 0.5 daily. I didnt really have bad withdrawals other than being wired before sleep on days 2 or 3. Also, on the third day, it felt like all energy had been sucked out of me. But, that lasted until until I took my next pill. Maybe it is also important to note I drank excessive amounts of a Lavender, Passionflower, & Chamomile based tea if that means anything. It seemed to help.

 

My doctor told me to just jump off 0.25 last month .. I don't know if I can do that. Psychologically there isjust so much fear of the drug ..of the withdrawals .. I'm terrified of seizing up. Even if its unlikely for me and my dosage. Its like I fear this drug even if its a low dosage.

 

I need some insight please... Does it make sense to do this: Alternate between 0.125 one day.. 0.25 the next for a week. The following week 0.125 two days in a row.. 0.25 the third day. That next week 0.125 for three days and jump off from there ?

 

Or just cut the 0.25 in half now ? I also was going to do maybe 56-60 days of 100 ml water titration with propylene glycol or alcohol after I get to a daily 0.125.

 

Or maybe should I start water titration now at 0.25? Overall, I guess the fastest..safest method would do for me.

 

 

Im glad to be here. I feel more comfortable here than with all the doctors I have been with. Because, the majority of my medical professionals have not been understanding at all. Thank you for any input!

 

 

 

[[me...]]

Welcome to the forum!  We're glad to have you as a new member.  The best way for a longer term user to get off benzos is a slow, steady reduction (no ups and downs), to as near zero as is comfortable for you. 

 

You'll find plenty of information and support here.  Our members have gone through all aspects of withdrawal, and you're likely to find  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% 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 and other symptoms 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!

 

 

 

[[Ro...]]

Thank you very much for the information! Glad to be here.

 

 

 

Welcome to the forum!  We're glad to have you as a new member.  The best way for a longer term user to get off benzos is a slow, steady reduction (no ups and downs), to as near zero as is comfortable for you. 

 

You'll find plenty of information and support here.  Our members have gone through all aspects of withdrawal, and you're likely to find  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% 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 and other symptoms 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!

 

[[Th...]]

In my opinion I would cut it in half than level off and jump off when you are ready. Dr.s most often mean well but have not taken the drugs themselves. I really think follow your symptoms. If after a week or two you feel better than jump off. Yes it is definitely scary. I stayed on .5mg xanax my whole pregnancy because the benefits outweigh the side effects and I would and could not handle them pregnant. Take it slow, slow is the best!

[[Ro...]]

I really appreciate your input. This is what I am leaning towards and possibly titration after if necessary. Thank you!

 

In my opinion I would cut it in half than level off and jump off when you are ready. Dr.s most often mean well but have not taken the drugs themselves. I really think follow your symptoms. If after a week or two you feel better than jump off. Yes it is definitely scary. I stayed on .5mg xanax my whole pregnancy because the benefits outweigh the side effects and I would and could not handle them pregnant. Take it slow, slow is the best!