How to know when to taper or updose

[[be...]]

Hello, I was taking 0.5mg clonazepam, 3x daily.  On Dec 18, 2019, I reduced to 0.25mg clonazepam,  3x daily.  I am experiencing withdrawal symptoms, anxiety, problems sleeping, problems managing daily chores.

 

I am going to liquid form to taper slowly. 

 

How do I know when I can taper again?

How do I know if I need to updose?

 

Thanks.

[[Pa...]]

Your reduction on Dec 18, 2019 was too much, I guess you've figured that out by now, but you ask an important question, do you go up in dose before you begin your taper? Going up back up in dose is an option, but we won't know how much would relieve your current symptoms, I've seen members have to go higher in order to reverse the effects of the last cut, are you prepared to do this?  Of course, you may not need to go up as high as you were taking, we just don't know. 

 

If you do decide to up-dose, you'll want to do it slowly adding incrementally so you can determine what is effective.  The purpose of a slow taper is to minimize symptoms so we can remain functional and it sounds like you aren't, so it might be your best course to do this. 

 

Keep in mind that no taper, no matter how slow will be symptom free, there is still discomfort and pain.  Let us know what you decide to do then we'll discuss how you'll know when it's time to cut your dose, to learn how to listen to your body's signals. 

[[be...]]

Thank you, I appreciate your advice more than you know.

 

I cut Dec 18.  It's been 2 months.  The symptoms are *slowly* improving I think.  But, if it's another 6 months before I am functional, then I would consider updosing.  But, as you said, no guarantees.

 

So, I don't have a decision!

[[Pa...]]

I see you tempered your description of slowly improving from your last cut, the fact that you have improved at all is a signal to me that it may not be a good idea to up-dose at this time.  If your body has adapted to this reduced dose and its rewarding you with somewhat improved symptoms, then I feel it would be best to remain at this dose a little longer.  I'd give it another week and reevaluate how you're feeling. Write down your symptoms today, keep track so you'll have a better tool to make your decision with.

 

You're right, there are no guarantees, this is a miserable process from start to finish then long after our last dose when our brain is finally free to make the last of the needed structural repairs.