Imprisoned by Klonopin

[[Mj...]]

Hello, I'm in my mid 30s and have been on klonopin for over a decade. I just watched the Lisa Ling special on CNN about benzos.  I've tried to taper numerous times without success. I was prescribed klonopin for general anxiety about 10 years ago and my dose was increased from .5mg to 4mg a day. I once quit cold turkey and almost killed myself from super delayed horrible withdrawals that increased exponentially. I want off this drug so, so very much. Please help me. -MJ

[Guest [ba...]]

Hello Mj1313!

 

Welcome to Benzobuddies.  We're glad you joined us.

 

I really get that you want to get off of these meds, and understand how your anxiety has ramped up each time you're tried to quit.  I fought with anxiety during my withdrawal, and ended up seeing a therapist to help me get through.  It took awhile, but I learned some keys to dealing with my anxiety which has really strengthened me.  I hope you'll discover some keys to help you get thru anxiety.  I'll include a link to the anxiety section of the forum below.

 

We strongly recommend a slow taper to help minimize the withdrawal symptoms.  Generally, we suggest a rate of no greater than 5-10% with cuts occurring no more often than every 10-14 days.  Many people taper much slower.  I believe the key is to listen to your body and slow down or stop before symptoms get nasty.  Resume only when you're ready.  Resist updosing. 

 

If you haven’t already done so, please take a thorough look at the Ashton Manual.  It is an authoritative guide to benzodiazepine tapering and includes sections on what to expect during withdrawal and recommended tapering rates.  The manual can be found at this link:  http://www.benzo.org.uk/manual

 

Here's a link to the withdrawal support section of the forum.  I think it's a good place to share your story and to read about others' experiences:  Withdrawal Support (during your taper)

 

Here's a link to the anxiety board.  There are various approaches to help with anxiety.  Let's see if one of them works for you.  This is a good place to start.  Anxiety

 

Please take some time to Create a Signature. This will help other members understand your history so they will be better able to support you.

Go to the top of the page and select Profile, then choose Forum Profile, insert drug history/timelines into the text box and click Change Profile.

 

Again, welcome!

 

(sorry for the delayed reply.  Laptop battery died and I had to move to power).

[[ga...]]

Welcome mj. I'm glad you found us. I recently finished my taper. I could not have done it without the information and validation I received on this forum. Spend some time exploring the site and you will find many resources to help you taper off successfully. You will make it and it will be worth it!

 

Gardie