Introduction

[[As...]]

Hello, my name is Alex. I was prescribed Benzodiazepines for three years. First, Ativan for four weeks, and then high dose valium. I was never warned about withdrawal or side-effects. So, stopped taking them cold turkey and suffered three seizures. The first seizure was at work, and lasted seven minutes. I was lucky to survive. But I was discharged and told that I could stop taking them. My last seizure was three weeks ago. I was told that I the next seizure will likely be fatal. I am now on a 20 mg Valium taper, which my doctor wanted to eliminate after four weeks. I refused, and told my doctor that it would kill me. I  provided her a copy of the Ashton manual and a taper plan to reduce my dosage by 1 mg every two weeks. She agreed, thankfully.

 

I'm still anxious, but doing much better. Still very fearful, but glad I found a community to support me. I felt hopeless, but now I feel there is a light at the end fo the tunnel. I can't wait to feel like I felt before; social, intelligent, compassionate; all qualities I've lost because of this medication.

[[ma...]]

Hi Alex   Welcome to Benzobuddies

 

We are glad you joined, I am sorry for what you have gone through,  benzodiazepines should be tapered slowly.  Seizures can be dangerous as you know,  and since you have  had  seizures before its  very important that you work closely with your doctor.  We have a great community here, feel free to check out the forum, post questions so members can respond.

 

I will leave you some info:   

 

The Ashton Manual ,  is an excellent resource for information about these medications and gives a lot of information about withdrawal/tapering.  It is generally recommended to taper no more than 5-10% every 10-14 days. 

 

The Ashton Manual. 

General Taper Plans

Withdrawal Support

 

Members who are benzo free, post here for support:

Post withdrawal recovery support.

 

Please take time to add a signature (history of meds/doses etc) it will help members give you relevant advice.  Go to the top of the page and select PROFILE then choose forum profile then insert drug history into the text box and remember to click change profile

 

Welcome aboard

Magrita

 

[[ga...]]

Welcome, ASmith.  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