getting off meds

I have been on Xanax a long time, about 12 years. Was put on for trauma, PTSD,
which of course causes great deal of anxiety. But starting with wierd side affects, depression, agitation, etc. been very uncomfortable. When ever I ask a DR. about getting off, they just say cut down, or it's ok, stick with it. But I want the choice and don't know what kind of Dr to go to. I think some don't want the bother of dealing with it.
I take .5 about 3 times a day. Somtimes 4 times. depending. Not a huge dose, but a long time. Anyone with similiar situation or suggestions on cutting down without feeling miserable? Thanks for any info. Cherann

I dont know if valerian will be helpful but you could try it

usually a slow taper done over several weeks is recommended for stopping a zxanax type med,

keep some on hand in case new problems start so you can get back to your old dose

the frequent taking of the tablets may have become a comforting ritual for you, you could tale vitamin tablets instead

Thanks to all for info. I will consider all, and hope the right anwer pops up. I hate taking this med. Get a little angry sometimes, Dr's. should explain the long term problems
with these. I'm sure some don't have as many problems, but everyone should be counseled. At least given advice. Never took a tranquilizer in my life so wasn't really familiar with meds. These were started after getting out of lengthy hospital stay, (3 months on respirater) Unconcious and on morphine, versed drips, etc, etc. the whole time.
That's why I needed something when I finally was out. And of course at the time, I guess I was grateful I had something. But when I said I wanted to stop, about 6 months later, they then started with, well, maybe you should stay on. Will be hard for you, etc. Well, sorry guys , not to sound morbid, just a little insight into why it's been so long. I just never knew it was something that would turn difficult.
But I am determined. (I hope, lol)
Thanks again, Cherann

I would get a second or third opinion - finding a good psychiatrist should be given priority.

Why are you taking Xanax 3-4 times per day? Is it because you're feeling anxiety? Just going off the Xanax is not necessarily the right decision. Are you actively working on underingstanding and dealing with the root cause of your troubles?

Hi ChristianWithHope, thanks for input. I appreciate your input, and you're right about all that. Problem is I know the root of problem. Was actually caused by being on these so long. Due to an illness. As i posted a little higher, problems were actually caused by a physical illness and long hospital stay. And the many drugs I had to have. They also had to give me Pavlon, (I think that's the right word. And caused a little nervous system damage. It is a paralyzing drug they give to people on respirators, along with morphine and so many others, I came out of hospital, with trauma and developed PTSD. So although I know why it happened it's not like I can do a true soul searching thing here. I had no other issues, just an unexpected illness, near fatal. They say the trauma thing is normal for that. But you're right about getting help, might make me a little less mad at why I was not told about these effects, that's is really the least they can do. I know they work good for some people, even me for awhile, not against them for everyone, I just want the choice not to take them. just think you should be advised on what to expect. And yes the anxiety now probably really is a problem with the med, but since I know that and accept it, it's just trying to figure best way off, and hope for best. And if for some reason my effects from illness are going to hang in then maybe something less addicting and troublesome. Hopefully.
keep your fingers crossed for me. Thanks for responding. Thanks, Cherann

Cherann,

Pancuronium is used for muscle relaxation and as an aid to intubation or ventilation. It does not have sedative or analgesic effects. I am sure they were giving you other drugs for anxiety IV during your hospital stay as your mind is fully alert on Pavulon but you cannot move any muscle in your body.

In your head you are scared to pieces therefore you should have received Ativan. You mentioned Morphine for pain and other drugs to help you not feel anxious should always be used.

Being on a ventilator is very traumatizing. I agree with you, it is not an experience you will forget but dealing with the med now IMHO appears to be a good move.

Hugs to you.

Hey there,
Debaser is right on switching to another benzo drug to wean from.
I am using Valium. I am at 8 mg of Valium now and when I started the weaning from Ativan I was on 40 mg of Valium.
It has been pretty smooth going, a few bumps but nothing I could not handle.
You will get it done, I support you completely.

I think switching to another benzo would be the best idea
I am weaning off valium as well and taking ativan prn like kitt only a few bumps some major not many thought along the way
Talk to your doc about this for sure
10 yrs on that med is a LONG time
LYN
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