Tapering off Klonopin problems

July 31, 2017

Hi, I have been on Klonopin 4mg a day for at least 15 years. I want to taper off. My Doctor had me cut back by 1mg in about November of last year. Ever since then I have been having terrible pins and needles sensations and some burning of my skin. I knew nothing about tapering off Benzos. After reading info on line I had figured out these sensations may be withdrawal symptoms. I had gone to 4 doctors including my regular doctor, 2 dermatologists and a neurologist trying to figure out why I was having theses skin sensations. Their conclusions were that it was caused by anxiety. I had been having extreme anxiety for about 20 years and never had these skin problems. I was given Gabapentin by my regular doctor when these feelings got so severe. It helped some but I still had it. Well after telling my doctor that I thought this may be caused by withdrawal he said it may be. I asked to be put back on the 4mg to get straightened out and try to taper off much more slowly eventually. He agreed. I have been taking the 4mg daily again for about 3 weeks and the Gabapentin. I am feeling better, but still get the skin sensations occasionally especially when I don't take the Gabapentin on time. When I have a good nights sleep I wake up with my skin feeling really good. After I am up a while I start getting the sensations a bit. My living situation is pretty stressful which is the cause of most of my anxiety. (Long story). This has all been very frustrating to me. I am 62 years old and I am also diabetic. I am hoping to learn things hear that will help me understand all of this and be able to help myself. I have very little if any social support and feel no one understands. Any questions feel free to ask as I am pretty open about myself.

July 31, 2017

Hello Welcome to Benzobuddies!

We are glad you found us, sorry that your living situation is causing you stress. You are making a good decision to taper off these drugs. I think that the forum will be invaluable for support and encouragement for you. You are no longer alone and you will come through this.

Tapering slowly is the best way to withdraw from benzodiazepines. Reducing your daily dose by somewhere between 5% and 10% every 10 - 14 days is the rule of thumb, you can go slower, whatever feels comfortable. The aim is to keep symptoms manageable.

I would suggest you read The Ashton Manual, It is a great resource for understanding the effect benzo’s have on our body. It provides Tapering and withdrawal information and includes a list of common symptoms

You will find some very valuable support and information on the forum. Our members are happy to share their personal experiences with you and support you.. Please feel free to browse the boards and post questions to any of the dedicated threads.

I'll leave you a few links:

The Ashton Manual.

Withdrawal Support

General Taper Plans

Other Medications Board

Gabapentin (Neurontin) Withdrawl Support Group

When you can, please add a signature (history of meds/doses etc) it will help members give you relevant advice. ”Create a signature”

Welcome aboard

Magrita