Low level lorazepam substitution to diazepam help needed

[[Ca...]]

Hi. I'm currently on 1.5 Ativan and I'm planning to do a substitution taper with diazepam and need help in terms of dosage reductions and length of time per interval. I'm taking .5 lorazepam  three times a day. Tried a direct taper but couldn't hack it. Read the Ashton lorazepam diazepam substitution but that was for 3mg and I'm only at half of that so I don't know if my tapering schedule needs to go that long since I'm starting out so much lower. Also should the first couple crossovers be quick as in terms of a few days rather than 1 -2 weeks. My psychiatrist is willing to go along with this but seems to want to hurry it. I came to benzo buddies because I'm scared of trying to do this by myself and you folks seem to have a lot more experience then I. Was put on this by my physician 5 months ago and having anxiety and agitation  symptoms  jitters  even while  taking my dosages .  Feel like the Lorazepam is actually causing some of these symptoms and want to get off of it although I don't know if I'll l be okay without taking something I feel I have to try. Can anybody suggest bus schedule using Ashton as the basis? I appreciate any help

[[me...]]

Welcome to the forum! We're glad  to have you as a new member.

 

You'll find lots of information and support here.  Our members have been through all aspects of withdrawal, and you're likely to find  people who understand what you're going through.

 

For those who are starting a new taper, we suggest reducing no faster than 5-10% every 10-14 days at first, and then adjusting the taper rate to suit your own needs.  One exception: very short-term users of a few weeks or less may be able to taper faster.  Having some withdrawal symptoms is normal, especially near the end of a taper and for a few months after discontinuing the medication.  First/only withdrawals after a slow taper tend to be easier than multiple reinstatements/withdrawals over time, which may make symptoms worse and longer lasting. The most common symptoms are anxiety and insomnia, but there are many others. These are temporary and will go away in time.

 

Here are a few links you may find useful:

 

Substitution Taper Plans   

 

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. Section III explains and describes symptoms, and there is also a section with suggested taper schedules.

 

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