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Hello,

I developed very severe propio spinal myoclonus after 4 weeks on Prozac. I stopped that med at about week 5/6 but then continued to have muscle spasms on a nightly basis that were greatly interfering with my sleep/quality of life. They are still ongoing (2 1/2 years later). I consulted a neurologist who prescribed Klonopin. I have taken approximately .25 mg of Klonopin daily for about 1 year. I recently learned some more about dependence and the extreme effects that benzos can have on the brain and have been rethinking this medicine. I have skipped a couple of doses in the last couple of weeks and have had 2 instances of depersonalization/strong anxiety that overcame me and so I am exploring more as to how to discontinue and see if I can live with my original symptoms of myoclonus.

I would love some guidance on how to best taper as I am feeling a little scared and overwhelmed by the crazy number of symptoms and time of withdrawal that might be experienced and the lack of medical guidance/understanding that relates to this drug.

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Hello SoulSister,

 

Wecome to Benzo Buddies! I'm so sorry you had such a severe reaction to prozac, I have heard of movement disorders being a side effect of this drug.  Skipping doses is really not a great idea, I do know this first hand from experience. I was put on ativan for a supposed middle ear issue.  I would occasionally skip a dose to see how my 'ears' were doing and went into full blown withdrawal.

 

A slow taper can help to minimize withdrawal symptoms. Generally 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.

 

Do some reading here, there is a lot of good information that will allow you to find the plan that works best for you.  We'll be happy to support and encourage you as you work to be benzo free.  Please do ask questions, we're here to help.

 

General Taper Plans   

 

The Ashton Manual

 

pianogirl  :)

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Thank you piano girl! I so appreciate your wisdom about not skipping a dose and the potential repercussions of doing so...I am super grateful to have the wisdom and experience of others here to lean on as I explore a taper.
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