How to wean off Xanax when taken every other day

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I have chronic pancreatitis.  Narcotics by mouth do nothing for my pain. I found several yrs. Ago that generic Xanax helped my pain . I stated taking it every other day so not to build tolerance too fast. My dose is quite high.  I take 3 1mg at9am then another 1mg dose at 12:30 then last dose of 1 mg at 4:00. This is only every other day. I will soon be getting surgery  for the pancreatitis and need to come off the Xanax. I would appreciate any and all ideas as the best way to do this with the least amount of withdrawals.  Thanks!

 

[Guest [Le...]]

Hello, KRS - welcome to BenzoBuddies!

 

Congrats on your decision to come off of the Xanax. Try not to come off too quickly though, as that can set off an array of unpleasant symptoms - you’ve come to the right place to plan a comfortable taper.

 

I'm so glad you decided to join the forum - you'll find plenty of information and support here. Our members have gone through all aspects of benzodiazepine use and withdrawal, so you'll be able to connect with others who understand what you're going through.

 

Here are a couple of links that may be a good starting place for you:

 

  General Taper Plans

  Withdrawal Support

 

Please take a moment to Create a Signature. This will allow members to see where you are in the process, so that they can better support you.

 

Looking forward to seeing you on the forum!

Leslie 

 

 

The Ashton Manual is an authoritative resource on what to expect during withdrawal and recovery. It provides information that can be very reassuring during any stage of this process, including a list of common symptoms with helpful explanations.

 

For those who are currently tapering, a starting guideline is that the dosage not be reduced faster than by 5-10% every 10-14 days, although some taper even more slowly than that. One exception: very short-term users of a few weeks or less may be able to taper somewhat faster.

[Guest [ou...]]

How soon are you getting surgery?

If you have to quit before surgery, a 'comfortable' taper might not be compatible with your timetable.

Also, your taking Xanax every other day may become problematic.

Consult your doctor (if you haven't already) because, as LeslieAsh pointed out:

coming off too quickly can set off an array of unpleasant symptoms.

Best of luck.

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Referrals with insurance are still being worked out. I have yet to see the surgeon. If I can't stop the Xanax in time, I hope they will still be able to control my post op pain in spite of the benzos. My worry is controlling the pain when I get home with whatever they give me with  the addition on the benzos on board every other day. I will discuss this with the medical team and hopefully they will have a solution.