Cold Turkey

[[ak...]]

I found this forum researching the internet about Clonazapam withdrawal.  I was forced to quit cold turkey in June of 2017. Still struggling but getting better.  I was on 4mg of Clonazapam, down 3 months from 6mg. Thank you for this forum. I think the insomnia may be behind me as I am sleeping about 4 to 5 hours a night.  Way better than zero sleep.

[[me...]]

Welcome to the forum! We're glad  to have you as a new member. I'm glad you're starting to feel better.  Cold turkey can be a very difficult way to get off benzos, as those of us who've done it know.

 

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:

 

Post 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.

 

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!

 

 

[[id...]]

I found this forum researching the internet about Clonazapam withdrawal.  I was forced to quit cold turkey in June of 2017. Still struggling but getting better.  I was on 4mg of Clonazapam, down 3 months from 6mg. Thank you for this forum. I think the insomnia may be behind me as I am sleeping about 4 to 5 hours a night.  Way better than zero sleep.

 

Welcome, akaya!

Wow, cold turkey from 4 mg sounds brutal!! I'm glad you're getting better

[[ak...]]

Thank you.  It has been very tough. I did not choose cold turkey by choice.  after 6 years my new Dr. had the great idea of discontinuing my script without taper. Long story. I had a traumatic brain injury in 2007 which I thought I was as good as I could get, until this.  I had no idea withdrawls could be this bad until I met with my new Dr.and she confirmed that the physical symptoms may be gone but the brain aspect lasts much longer.  I sure would have appreciated that info in the beginning, I thought once the physical withdrawls were over, I had lost my mind. I have been very suicidal twice. Thank God google had 50 reasons not to. I am not med free, but benzo free.

[[ke...]]

You sound like youre doing ok. Good for you!