Hello going through withdrawal

[[Ph...]]

Hi.  I was prescribed Ativan over the course of 2 months and have a dependency now.  I have tapered to a .25mg a day use but having a tough time at this point and need some help.  About 3 weeks into the Ativan use i started to develop insomnia issues.  Little did i know it was probably just on the nights i wouldnt dose.  So I also have been on Zolpidem for about 1.5 months.  I am trying to get off both and seeking advice on the best path forward.

[[ma...]]

Hello Phizzle Welcome to benzobuddies.

 

We are glad you joined.  You’ve joined a very supportive community.  Its best to taper one drug at a time, I would start with the Ativan.  Then when the time comes, the Zolpidem will need tapering in a similar fashion to benzodiazepines.  You'll find plenty of information and receive lots of support along the way.  Post to any of the dedicated boards, our members are knowledgeable, and will help with any questions you might have.

 

It’s generally suggested reducing no faster than 5-10% every 10-14 days,  many taper slower than that, it depends on withdrawal symptoms. Taper at a rate that’s comfortable, the goal is to remain functional.  Having some withdrawal symptoms is normal.  The most common symptoms are anxiety and insomnia.  Withdrawal symptoms are temporary and do go away with some time.

 

I recommend that you take a look at The Ashton Manual, It provides a great deal of information that can be very reassuring during any stage of this process. The manual includes a list of common symptoms with helpful explanations. . CHAPTER III

 

Here a few links to resources:

 

The Ashton Manual 

Colorado Consortium Benzodiazepine Deprescribing Guidelines

Planning Your Withdrawal (Taper)

Withdrawal Support (during your taper)

 

We have a dedicated board dealing with Insomnia you can connect with others who can offer some ideas and help.

 

Insomnia

 

There is a support group here dedicated to members who are tapering from Ativan I will give you a link to it.  I'm sure the members there will be happy to assist you with advice.

 

Ativan Tapering Thread

 

If you would like 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

 

[[Ph...]]

Thank you for the info.  I was thinking the same thing about tapering one drug at a time.  So that is good to hear.  I think i have tapered the Ativan a little too aggressively as I now feel allllllll the anxiety coming back.  Basically it's all the original symptoms i was put on it to begin with.

 

TBH, i was tapering when i didnt even know that i was withdrawing.  I went from doing 1mg a day and then quit for 3.5 days.  They were pretty brutal and i had no idea what the heck was going on.  After i figured out it was the Ativan withdrawal I had to take a 0.5mg dose.  I felt fine the rest of that day.  The past 2 days i have been at 0.25mg and it has been rough.  But manageable if i stay very busy.  I walk or run like 10 miles a day to burn off the energy from the akathisia feeling.  Obviously the anxiety has spiked and insomnia would be there for sure if i wasnt still on Zolpidem + 0.1mg of clonidine.  Ive only taken the clonidine the past 3 nights.

 

Going to see a recovery specialist in 2 days.  Hoping he has a plan to slowly taper.  Since i was only on each drug at 2 months or less i feel like maybe i can be a bit more aggressive.

[[ma...]]

Its great that you are managing to walk 10 miles a day,  and running too, I am impressed. I think you have a great attitude, it will serve you well.

 

I wouldn't be too aggressive with your taper, I believe that slow and careful is the best way with these drugs.

 

Good Luck to you, lets know how you get on with the specialist

 

Magrita