Using Clonazolam / Etizolam for 7 weeks, need to quit

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I've been using the RCs Clonazolam and Etizolam for about 7 weeks. There have been a couple days off here and there during the earlier stages, but now it's an everyday thing. I've not been using high amounts. I have done 0.5mg of clonazolam a couple times, but it was really too much. It's been a daily 0.25mg/day habit for the most part. I have tried switching back and forth to Etizolam, which usually requires two doses for me at 0.5mg during the day if I am not using Clonazolam. I have not at any point gone above 1.5mg of Etizolam in a day (just a couple times, not recently) or more than 0.5 Clonazolam in a day (just a couple times, not recently). But my use of these two RCs has never been to get a buzz, blackout, etc. I just use them therapeutically in small doses.

 

Clonazolam at a low does gives me an overwhelming sense of clarity. I'm not tired or buzzed, just ready to face the day. I have anxiety, but it isn't bad - I just like the calming effects and I tend to be more productive and focused while taking it. That being said, I know it's an RC and it's obviously addictive. I can feel the withdrawal set in mid-morning and I usually dose 0.25mg of clonazolam them, and I'm good all day long - I even sleep well with Trazadone 50mg prescribed to me.

 

I am also on Venlafaxine (Effexor) 150mg daily, prescribed; as well as 600mg Gabapentin 3x daily, presribed. And I have 20mg Propranol, prescribed as needed, to take for anxiety. It's a beta blocker known as the "stage fright" pill, lowers your blood pressure and heart rate, and basically makes panic attacks avoidable. It's just not as effective as the RCs that I've been using.

 

I've lowered my dose to ~0.2mg clonazolam over the past week, and it has remained effective with no withdrawal symptoms as long as I take it.

 

I don't necessarily plan on ceasing use of clonazolam and etizolam altogether, but I don't want to be dependent on them. I just want to get out of the daily habit which the withdrawal symptoms have gotten me in. I didn't realize this would happen at first, and thought it was just fine to take these pills every day. At the low doses I've been taking, it makes a world of difference in my productivity during a crazy day at work when I'm overwhelmed. I plan on just using them on those days, just a couple times a week. I don't have a desire to use them recreationally - getting the "drunk" feeling or blacking out have never been a goal.

 

So my question is - I've only been using this stuff for 7 weeks at small doses. What are the chances of bad side effects like seizures, blood pressure, nausea, etc. if I stop (even though it might not be enjoyable for a few days)? Will Gabapentin help relieve some of these symptoms? And if blood pressure ends up going up, would Propranolol keep that in check.

 

I am a diagnosed alcoholic, so my doctor is hesitant to prescribe any benzos. I am almost 4 months sober from alcohol, and over the past year, I've drank alcohol on maybe only 20 days total, so 345 sober days (I had a few hiccups as most people in my situation do). I don't honestly think I have that issue with abusing benzos that makes doctors so scared to prescribe them to alcoholics. I was on Xanax for years, taken as needed and usually less of a dose than prescribed, and it worked well. I never even used all my refills before they expired. So I don't think I'm prone to going crazy on benzos. But my doctor won't prescribe it or any other benzo anymore nevertheless.

 

Like I said, I just want to avoid the dependent state that I'm in now, having to use clonazolam every day. I would like to avoid going to a doctor for diazepam because I don't want another "strike" on my medical record. So I would rather taper with clonazolam and/or etizolam, which I have a plethora of right now and I have a microgram scale if that helps with any recommendations.

 

But overall - would just quitting cold turkey on such a small daily dose after just 7 weeks of use be dangerous?

 

Thanks!

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Hello smCLT Welcome to Benzobuddies!

 

We are glad you found us, these types of medications are only recommended for short term use ( 2/3 weeks.)  It only takes a few weeks for the body to become dependent on benzodiazepines. Sporadic use can also lead to dependency.  Anyone on benzos more than a short time should taper off carefully.

 

In answer to your question, I would not stop cold turkey.  Stopping benzodiazepines abruptly can be dangerous . These drugs can also be a lethal mix with alcohol.  I have been sober over 20 years, I know how tough it is. Well done at 4 months sober, your doing great.

 

The rule of thumb is to reduce your daily dose by somewhere between 5% and 10% every 10 - 14 days.  You can taper a little quicker or slower, whatever feels comfortable. The aim is to keep any 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     

 

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