A trifecta of benzos

[[fr...]]

Hello-

I am a 31 year old woman tapering off of klonopin. I am also prescribed diastat (Valium) for emergencies and ambien and lunesta (not a z drug to my knowledge). I am tapering off of .25 mg- my last drop was a year ago from 1 mg to .5 mg. I was prescribed Ativan at age 12 and had sporadic use until 19, when I began taking a standing dose. Tapered off at 24 following an overdose, prescribed klonopin again age 28 (and various administrations of PRN’s in the years between). I plan to refrain from consumption of my other PRNs until my klonopin taper finishes, and will hopefully not need the aid of the diastat during my taper. I strongly feel that I have been harmed in the dispensation of these drugs and angered that I have been given these meds for over half of my (relatively young) life. Cheers to withdrawing from these horrible compounds.

[[me...]]

Welcome to BenzoBuddies!  We are glad you decided to join us.  You'll find a lot of support and information on this forum, which is the only one of its kind online.  I am sorry you were given benzos at such a young age, but you are probably wise to be tapering.  Benzos, even if taken only as needed over time, can easily cause dependence.

 

For those starting a taper, we generally recommend starting out at a rate of 5 to 10% every 10-14 days, then adjusting the taper to suit your own needs.  Note: very short term users may be able to taper faster.

 

Withdrawal symptoms, which vary widely but commonly include anxiety and insomnia, often occur during a taper and when newly off, but these are temporary and will get better in time.  In general, first tapers are easier, but cold turkeys or multiple withdrawals may be more severe and longer lasting.  Here are a few links to get you started:

 

The Ashton Manual, a concise reference for tapering and symptom issues.  Chapter III contains excellent descriptions of common symptoms such as muscle issues, anxiety, and hyper-awareness.

 

Withdrawal Support (during your taper)

 

Once again, welcome!

[[La...]]

Welcome to the Group!