Hi, first time tapering off xanax

[[Me...]]

Hi everyone,

I'm a thirty-something female, been taking Xanax for over 10 years and been wanting to stop for a long time.  I finally bit the bullet, fired my enabling doctor and went to see a new one.  The new doc put me on a 12 weeks tapering plan and I am in week 4 now, but I'm having trouble with tapering at this rate.  I'm experiencing heavy withdrawal symptoms, and can't get out of bed most of the time.  I'm just hoping to find some relief and knowledge about withdrawal here or help encourage others who are coping with withdrawal as well.

Love, Merck

 

[[pi...]]

Hello Merckwaerdigh,

 

Welcome to Benzo Buddies!  Unfortunately many doctors subscribe to a too fast taper rate. While there are some people who can handle a more rapid reduction of benzos, there are still many who can not. These types of drugs make such significant changes to the central nervous system. It's important to let the system recover slowly.

 

Let us know what dose of xanax you started with. Additionally, a 12 week taper plan is very fast, especially for someone who has taken the drug for 10 years. Generally a slow taper can help to minimize withdrawal symptoms. 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. The manual was written by Dr. Heather Ashton, an expert in the field.  You might consider copying pertinent sections of the manual and taking it to your doctor. Some are receptive to the plan, mine was. Others are not as receptive.

 

I'm glad you've joined the forum. We understand what you are going through. This can be a challenging process but it is doable. Benzo withdrawal is not a race, slow and steady is the way to go.  You'll receive good support and encouragement here as you journey towards being benzo free. Please do ask questions, we're here to help.

 

General Taper Plans 

 

The Ashton Manual

 

pianogirl 

[[CH...]]

Hello, I'm was taking a fast acting lorazepam 1 mg for 11 years, I am doing a slow taper so I don't feel horrible withdrawal. I will be done in December. Perhaps, you can go back to your enabling doctor and get your Xanax and do a slow taper. You might as well be doing cold turkey which indicates your new doctor doesnt have much experience getting someone off of benzodiazepines.