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Benzodiazepines and tapering side effects
Addiction & Recovery | Last Active: Aug 27, 2022 | Replies (34)Comment receiving replies
I am having a rough time getting off of years of prescribed benzos - specifically Flurazepam and Alprazepam. When the manufacturer stopped making Flurazepam fairly suddenly, I had to try to handle that by continuing Alprazepam and adding Temazepam. Its been 7 months since this change and I am frequently anxious, I have very bad tinnitus (which I didn't have before) and I am often tired in the afternoon. My GP is generally aware about the dangers of benzos, and is trying to work with me, but its very difficult, particularly the tinnitus.
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Hello @tarheel,
Your difficulty tapering off of benzodiazepines is very understandable. Many have this problem. Has your doctor considered prescribing a anti-depressant med to help you deal with anxiety? Here is some information that was written by a Mayo pharmacist for another Member who was withdrawing from clonazepam. It is possible that the information could help you as you seek to withdraw from Alprazolam.
"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 the treatment they think they don’t need treatment anymore. 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 depend 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 by 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."
In addition to your GP, are you also working with a therapist?