Connect
← Return to Valium (diazepam) Taper
Discussion
Comment receiving replies
Thank you Merry. I am trying to get off Valium now at 2.25mmgs from 4mgs as it has never worked for me and once I realised it is dangerous and addictive taken longer than a couple of weeks or so. I knew I had to get off it, but the battle to do so has been awful. It is the worst thing I have ever gone through in my life, even though I am tapering so slowly. I fear what the result will be as already I have anxiety far far in excess of my original condition, It gave me agoraphobia, massively increased tinnitus, internal shivers , huge weight loss, lack of appetite, sleep gone. I am so very scared and wish I had not taken even one. I never had a problem with food till the Valium, now I am so sensitive to any sugars and carbs. I am at a loss, what to do to get my life back. I had thought maybe something like mirtazapine at a very low dose may help me, but am scared to take anything. I just want me back. Desperate to survive
Replies to "Thank you Merry. I am trying to get off Valium now at 2.25mmgs from 4mgs as..."
Connect
Hello @chinchuck
Often the use of antidepressants can be very helpful in weaning off of drugs like Valium. Here is a copy of a post from a pharmacist about coming off of addictive meds, like Valium and others. This was written some time ago and might be helpful to you.
"The goal to be “addiction-free” is admirable! I commend your motivation to improve.
Taking antidepressants for MDD (Major Depressive Disorder) and GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder) shouldn’t be considered “addictions.” Antidepressants aren’t addictive, but missing doses or stopping abruptly can cause withdrawal-like symptoms including sudden worsening of depression. MDD and GAD are often chronic diseases that can require lifelong treatment. Sometimes people feel so much better with treatment they think they don’t need treatment any more. Your clinician can help you try to taper off safely. Communication with your healthcare provider is important in providing a personalized taper and options for resuming therapy, if needed.
Extra care should be taken regarding tapering from clonazepam. It will be important for you to get tapering instructions from your psychiatrist. Withdrawal from benzodiazepines like clonazepam can be serious and may include tremors, anxiety, sweating, psychosis and seizures. The onset and severity of withdrawal depends on the which drug was used, for how long and other patient specific factors. If needed, you could ask about less addictive anti-anxiety medications.
Your psychiatrist can help you through discontinuing marijuana. Drug-free social support may help.
I wish you the best of luck in battling the true addictions you mentioned. Physical activity, sunshine and adequate rest will help to boost mood and endorphin levels. You are taking on a lot at one time. Don’t throw it all away because of 1 missed step. Celebrate every day of progress."
Will you keep in touch with Connect during this process?