possible withdrawal symptoms from occasional 0.5 mg & 0.25mg Ativan

[[da...]]

Thanks to this wonderful organization and the people who help here, in 2012 I successfully tapered free from Flurazepam. I have been super cautious of Benzos ever since. Occasionally I was given, or used, 0.5 mg of Ativan to calm for medical conditions.  Recently,  I have been taking this dose more frequently at night for sleep.  Probably 25 times in 90 days, but more nights in a row recently.  But several times I had cut the pill in half, to only 0.25 mg. Then, I did not take it for a few days, co-incident with a heat wave.  I began having the following symptoms: Stomach bloating, immediate panic feeling, dry throat, head and ears feeling hot.  I realized that these were like -- though not as severe -- the Flurazepam withdrawal symptoms 12 years ago.

The Ativan doses I have been taking seem so small (even 0.25 mg) and spaced out.  Do Members think they could still produce these Withdrawal symptoms?  I would be so very grateful for anyone's opinion.

[[Pa...]]

Hello @[da...], welcome back to BenzoBuddies

I'm so sorry, you must be devastated to feel these awful symptoms again, the power of these pills never ceases to amaze me.  I believe what's come into play is your past use, making any future use risky, are you aware of this theory? Kindling - Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (benzoinfo.com)

I think a quick taper would be the best course of action for you to take now.  You're likely to suffer but hopefully not as bad or as long as you did with the Flurazepam.  

I'm sorry to see you back here but you've come to the right place for help. 

@[Pa...]