New here

[[Wo...]]

Hello,

 

I am here because I experience a lot of problems because of Lorazepam use.

I have prescribed this medication 17 years ago, when I was 15 years old, for anxiety and panick attacks.

I used 1mg of Lorazepam every now and then.

I also have depression and OCD since I was very young. I am currently on 15mg of Paroxetine daily and tried many other antidepressants in the past.

 

I started using Lorazepam daily 3 years ago because of increased anxiety.

I now use 0.7mg 4 times a day. I was in 4x 1mg but started tapering in january. I cut my dose by 0.1mg once every 10 days but I feel awfull every day.

I have an appointment with my doctor for tonight and I will bring some pages of the Ashton manual and start switching to Diazepam.

If I understood everything well, then I should replace my nightdose of 0.7 Lorazepam to 7mg of Diazepam. After 1-2 weeks, do the same with my evening dose. Then again with my mid day- and morning dose.

 

I hope someone can tell me if this is the right thing to do.

I am terrified.

 

 

[[ma...]]

Hello Woodi Welcome to Benzobuddies!

 

We are very glad you joined our community.  I am sorry you were put on these meds at such a young age. It sounds like you've got a good plan,  taking relevant information from the Ashton with you on your doctors visit is a good idea.  You have made a great decision to taper off these drugs!    We can help you with support, encouragement and taper/withdrawal information. 

 

In general it’s advised to cut your daily dose by somewhere between 5% and 10% every 10 - 14 days.  It’s okay to go slower than this, whatever feels comfortable, the aim is to try to keep symptoms manageable.

 

I would suggest that you familiarise yourself with the Ashton Manual, It is a great resource for understanding the effect benzo’s have on our body.  It provides tapering and withdrawal information and includes a list of common symptoms 

 

You will find some very valuable support and information on the forum.  Our members are happy to share their personal experiences with you and support you.. Please feel free to browse the boards and post questions to any of the dedicated threads.

 

I'll leave you a few links:

 

The Ashton Manual. 

Withdrawal Support

General Taper Plans

Depression       

 

Please take time to add a signature (history of meds/doses etc) it will help members give you relevant advice.  Go to the top of the page and select PROFILE then choose forum profile then insert drug history into the text box and remember to click change profile

 

Welcome aboard

Magrita

 

 

[[Pe...]]

Hi Woodi, welcome to BB!

Congratulations on your decision to taper off lorazepam.  I took lorazepam long term too, so I know how tough it can be. But getting off this poison can be done.  Did you see your doctor yesterday?  Was he open to you crossing over to valium? 

 

Just wanted to welcome you to the forum!  I'm sure others will be along soon.  When you have a moment be sure to fill out a signature - it helps us know how to help you. 

 

-PH

 

[[Br...]]

Woodi,

Congratulations on your wise decision to get off the benzo   

Breck

[[Co...]]

Welcome! I fairly new as well. Struggling daily but find comfort in the wonderful people helping me. George

[[Fo...]]

Your switch is ok. The quoted equivalent of 2.8 ativan is 20 of diazepam, BUT THEREis a large variation. I think I would do your switch, allowing for slight drowsiness and then taper down.

Possibly going to diazepam three times a day which is the norm.

Then you are in business

And welcome to a drug free future.

Dick