Posted by Guy on July 19, 2004, at 17:24:37
In reply to Sleep Problems, Klonopin, and Pregnancy, posted by traveler on July 19, 2004, at 11:22:06
Yes, I've been on and off sleep meds for several years. My biggest problem is that I now have a sleep phobia, which means I get panicky when I can't sleep. This of course just results in more insomnia. That's why I say the key to stopping meds is to relax and just accept the sleep you get. Your body's innate regulatory system will always make sure you get enough sleep to survive. You won't die from insomnia, but you will suffer for a while until your natural sleep pattern reestablishes itself. Meds restructure your brain's sleep architecture, and it takes time for the natural structure to return. I'm once again trying to get off meds, because, for me, they all seem to poop out after a while. I also do not care for many of the side effects. At first when you stop all meds, you may get only shallow, broken sleep for a while. After a couple of weeks the broken bits join together and the deep sleep starts to return. Like I said, the main thing is to not get too excited about the insomnia...it will pass and you will feel better. You are on a very small dose of clonazepam, so you should be able to stop one way or another. You could try cutting the pill into smaller and smaller bits or you could try substituting a small bit of Remeron for a few days. Just don't freak out if you have to go for a day or two without sleep. (Keep in mind that street junkies go for 5 to 7 days without sleep when they binge on speed.) Hope this helps.
poster:Guy
thread:367734
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20040719/msgs/367894.html