I want to stop relying on them?].
I have taken 0.5mg Xanax to sleep for 5 years. How do I stop and taper off?
Question posted by Sonne on 11 Nov 2018
Last updated on 14 November 2018
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Answers
Stephen Treloar
12 Nov 2018
Hi, firstly I agree with Ros 2 that any tapering should be done under the guidance of your doctor. I will add that when I was asked to discontinue Xanax (Alprazolam), my psychiatrist switched me to Valium (Diazepam) first as it is longer lasting and then had me taper down from that dose of Valium to a progressively smaller and smaller dose over about 6 months to a substantially lower equivalent daily dose. These days I only take it as needed; so it can be done without pain or suffering just so you know.
Good luck.
Sonne
12 Nov 2018
Thanks Steven!
My GP says why would you want to replace one with a other benzo.
So he says just taper of.
So I’m reading on how others did it.
So since yesterday I only have taken .25mg and will do this for 2 weeks. Next I will take for two weeks .25mg and skip the next day then take it again and skip a day again , for 2weeks.
What you think
Stephen Treloar
12 Nov 2018
Hi, around about 25% of your total dose in any two to three week period was the rule I worked by but I was on a far higher dose than you are taking (I was on 6-8 mg Xanax). 50% and you may notice it although it is a small dose so any side effects should be minimal I hope. I would urge you to wait three weeks before you start skipping days however as restless nights can be tiring. Give your body a real chance to adjust and you should do just fine I expect.
Take care and good luck.
Sonne
12 Nov 2018
Thank you again , I will take your suggestions.
Peace
Ros 2
11 Nov 2018
Hello Sonne, Xanax is designed for anxiety & panic... it is too short acting for sleep. I take Diazepam 10mg at bedtime for sleep to relax my muscles. Taper off on this drug very slowly & with the assistance of your doctor!
Take care & be well
Sonne
12 Nov 2018
Thank you, I appreciate your comment.
Nitro061
14 Nov 2018
I do Lunesta.
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Further information
- Xanax uses and safety info
- Xanax prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Xanax (detailed)
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