I,m new to tapering diazepam

[[We...]]

Hi , I am male age 60 and a recovering alcoholic sober 7 weeks this time . I have been abusing prescription diazepam for about 6 months but have taken them as prescribed for years but sometimes saved them up when I knew I was going to binge on alcohol to get me through alcohol withdrawals . Now I am sober I get a regular prescription of 28 x 2mg every 7 days and I take 8 mg a day . I find if I miss a day I am very anxious and get bad headaches and body cramps . I want to stop taking the diazepam . I found your site through general googling .

 

Thanks

[[pi...]]

Hello Wellman,

 

Welcome to Benzo Buddies! Congratulations on being alcohol free!  You've come to the right place for information and support as you taper off diazepam.

 

When you miss a day of taking diazepam you are feeling withdrawal. Sudden cessation of these types of drugs is not recommended and can bring on some strong withdrawal effects.  Since you have taken diazepam for years, it's important to taper off very slowly to minimize withdrawal symptoms.  You are fairly new off alcohol as well so your central nervous system needs to be treated gently and with great care.

 

Generally, 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'll also give you a link to the Ashton Manual. 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.

 

You've come to the right place for information, support and encouragement as you journey to be benzo free. Please do ask questions, we're here to help.

 

General Taper Plans

 

The Ashton Manual

 

pianogirl 

 

[[We...]]

Hi, Thank you for the welcome and the very useful links I am studying the Ashton pages now and learning so much about this .

 

Thaks again