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Bob8513
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« on: February 04, 2010, 07:40:43 PM » |
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I have not posted for a while, and want to update. Quick summary: I am 73 yrs old, been on Librium for over 40 yrs for anxiety and panic attacks, 2 of them sent me to the hospital many years ago. Librium gave me a life, so I do not regret using it.
Pharmacy and pc doctor advised at my age, librium is very dangerous. Up 'til now, I was doing very well, taking 15 mg/day for a long time. Pc doctor advised taper, but advised going from 15mg to 10 mg/day. Too big a cut! After about 2 wks, bad symptoms, including palps and instances of very high BP. Went back to 15 mg/day and stabilized. Pc doctor admitted he was not expert on Librium, advised I see a Psychiatrist. I searched for one that would take my insurance ( a big task!), and meanwhile started cutting more slowly myself. Since the smallest available dose of librium is 5mg, and the half life is as long as 100 hours, I decided to skip one 5 mg pill per week for a while. Then 2 weeks later, I cut another 5 mg, then 2 weeks later, another 5 mg. I am currently at 90 mg/week,( having started at 105 mg/week), have been at that level for a month, and feel pretty much OK.
I saw a Psy today for the first time, and he basically agreed with my approach. He did say that I should go for a month each time before cutting dose.
I thank everyone who posts here, since the information has greatly helped me assess my issue, and converse intelligently with the doctors. It will take me over a year to quit this drug, but at 73, a year is not that long a time.
Will keep you updated on my progress!
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Logged
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40 year user Librium 15 mg/day for anxiety - worked great!
11/2009 informed by Dr of dangers in older folks, need to taper off
Dr recommended cutting from 15 to 10 mg/day - after 3 wks, BP very elevated
12/09 - went back to 15 mg/ day, started cutting out (1) 5mg/wk
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