Help. Do I continue cold turkey or taper?

[[Co...]]

I have taken Clonozepam for almost 20 years. I have not really increased my dose much, so I take 1mg daily, and 2 mg on weekends, to sleep in. I had no complaints, but I ran out about  9 days ago, and after 6 days, I felt horrible.

On Thursday of last week, so about 6 days after I ran out, I felt so horrible. My head was pressured, I was dizzy and nauseous, and I thought I was having a stroke. I went to the emergency room, and they gave me all sorts of tests. They thought I had peripheral vertigo, even though I heard the specialist say that i didn't have that. I think the ER doctor just wanted something to put down.

Anyway, I did not mean to quit cold turkey, but I did. I have a Dr. appointment on Tuesday, and I'm not sure whether to continue cold turkey, as it has already been 9 days, or to start the clonozepam again and taper off slowly?

I would love some advice on this.

[[Rx...]]

Feel real bad for you.  I went through an uninformed cold turkey hell.  I personally had to get help real quick after this attempt.

[Guest [ba...]]

Hi Coralteach!

 

Welcome to the forum. I'm glad that you found us.

 

The symptoms you are experiencing sound like classic benzo withdrawal symptoms.  It's no surprise that you have become dependent on them after using them for 20 years.

 

The preferred method for withdrawing from benzos is to do a slow taper.  Cold Turkey is not advised.  The symptoms from a cold turkey withdrawal are quite severe, and can last for months.  Symptoms are generally less for a slower taper. 

 

The usual window for reinstatement (to do a slow taper) is around two weeks, so you could reinstate if you wish to.  You would also have the option to continue with your c/t, but you've seen the severity of the symptoms it can bring.  Ultimately, the decision is yours.  I think you should consult with the Ashton Manual and get input from members of the forum to help you make an informed decision. 

 

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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