Posted by Viridis on December 17, 2003, at 13:33:09
In reply to Re: klonopin withdrawal/need advice on tapering » cubbybear, posted by Emme on December 17, 2003, at 9:07:31
It sounds like you should try it (cautiously) and see how it works out.
I've done very well with Klonopin and have not tried to discontinue it -- I've been on 1 mg/day for quite a while now and that dose has continued to work for me. I do take Xanax as well, for occasional "breakthrough" anxiety. One thing that did get me a little concerned, though, is that after using Xanax sporadically (usually not more than once a week, sometimes not for two weeks or more), I became tolerant to the very low dose I was using. I still take it, but have to use quite a bit more to achieve the same effect.
I don't consider this a "problem", in the sense that I don't use Xanax any more often or feel any craving for it, and I'm definitely not dependent on it. My pdoc is OK with this -- basically he prescribes the same small amount and allows me to use it as needed. So far, my tolerance seems to have plateaued (and the most I take is still only 1.0-1.5 mg), but I am using it very sparingly.
Anyway, this is just me, but my pdoc has told me that this sort of thing happens more often with Xanax than other benzos, in his experience.
Xanax is a great med and does seem to have antidepressant properties for some people. I'd just be careful with it, especially if the goal is to discontinue another benzo. But it sounds like you and your doctor are approaching this sensibly, so good luck!
One other suggestion: some people here seem to do very well with Neurontin for anxiety. It's a very safe drug and might be worth a try. I had great results with it at the very beginning, but it quickly stopped working for me. However, some other people report more lasting results, and the side effect profile generally is minimal. So, it might be a worth a try as an alternate med to calm your nerves during Klonopin withdrawal, and I really doubt it would do any harm.
poster:Viridis
thread:289805
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20031213/msgs/290984.html