Transitioning off xanax after 20 years

I have been on xanax (alprazolam) for about 20 years under a doctor's guidance. My new doctor has advised I transition off the drug which I am currently doing. I am on 1mg and am prescribed up to 2 tablets a day (which I rarely have taken). I have started the transition process and am taking half a tablet per day. I am also taking a SNRI (modified release capsule) to help through that transition  My reason for joining this group is to monitor the side effects of withdrawal, review my progress and to see what are some of the issues facing others. 

Hello 4752    welcome to BenzoBuddies! 

 

We are glad you are here,  It’s good you have doctors support, benzodiazepines need a slow taper.  The suggested taper rate is 5/10% every 10/14 days.  Cutting  50% is too much, you can learn more about tapering on our taper plans board, and you will receive advice, support and encouragement from our members.

 

I suggest you check out the Ashton Manual, I found it a very  valuable resource for learning about benzos and the effect these drugs have on our body.  As well as taper/withdrawal information, it lists  possible withdrawal symptoms symptoms 

 

I'll leave you a few links:

 

The Ashton Manual. 

Colorado Consortium Benzodiazepine Deprescribing Guidelines

Planning Your Withdrawal(TaperPlans)

Withdrawal Support

 

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

I have been on xanax (alprazolam) for about 20 years under a doctor's guidance. My new doctor has advised I transition off the drug which I am currently doing. I am on 1mg and am prescribed up to 2 tablets a day (which I rarely have taken). I have started the transition process and am taking half a tablet per day. I am also taking a SNRI (modified release capsule) to help through that transition  My reason for joining this group is to monitor the side effects of withdrawal, review my progress and to see what are some of the issues facing others.

 

Welcome to BB 4752. How are you feeling? You said "am taking half a tablet per day". Did you decrease by 50% (1 mg xanax to .5 mgs / day)? Were you feeling ok before the doctor advised you get off the drug?