How do I switch from Xanax XR?

[[Ni...]]

Hello, I have been looking for resources for the past several months, since my doctor decided that he would be changing my medication. I have been taking Xanax for 5-6 years to treat muscle spasms which I have experienced along with joint hypermobility and multiple spine surgeries. I originally discovered that an occasional Xanax helped with my symptoms, and was told by a neurologist to "take it on a schedule"; thus began a journey, which I never imagined would land me where i am now.

Doctors have handed me off to my primary care doctor, who decided that I should be taking the XR version. Several months ago I switched from 3 daytime doses of .375 regular X and one .5 XR at bedtime- to .5 XR twice a day. I was unprepared for how rough this was, and as a result have concluded that a good portion of the symptoms I thought I was treating with Xanax are probably the result of taking it.

I am initially looking for information on getting off the .5 XR Xanax, since I am on the lowest strength. My doctor suggests switching me to Klonopen, yet reading the Ashton manual and people's comments, I'm wondering if Valium is a better choice.

I have difficulty tolerating many prescription meds, so obviously don't know what to expect.

[[Be...]]

Hello Nigella!

 

We are very glad that you found us!

 

I am sorry to hear that you are struggling. Many sensitive folks have found that by doing a symptom based taper reducing 5 - 10% every 10 - 14 days and holding when necessary produces manageable symptoms. I would like to suggest that you do some research on the various boards. Becoming well informed should better enable you to make difficult decisions as well as provide you with the tools you need for a successful taper & recovery.  You will find many knowledgeable members who will support your efforts to be benzo free. I have enclosed a few links below that may help you. Check them out!

 

Wishing you a smooth taper & speedy recovery!

Bella 

 

Please take the time to tell us about your history by creating a signature:

For a direct link:

CLICK HERE --->

Create a Signature <--- CLICK HERE 

           

Links:

Professor Heather Ashton's

Manual

Boards:

General Taper Plans   

Withdrawal Support (during your taper) 

What's happening inside your brain

Taper Info:

Suggested reduction rate is 5% - 10% every 10 - 14 days 

Create Your Own Taper Plan  by Jim Hawk 

You-Tube step-by-step  Tutorial Video

Other Tutorials:

Visual Tutorials

 

 

 

 

 

[[Li...]]

I have no idea if the following is correct so am hoping other more knowledgeable Buddies will chime in ... but here’s what The Withdrawal Project has to say about whether or not it is safe to use extended release tablets for tapering:

 

Step 11- Ensuring that a Drug is Relatively ‘Taper-friendly’ | The Withdrawal Project

https://withdrawal.theinnercompass.org/taper/step-11-ensuring-drug-relatively-taper-friendly