You didn't specify the dose of the Xanax, or how you were taking it (ie, 3 times a day, or just "as needed" here and there?)
Taking a benzo PRN, or "as needed", when you're not taking the med with any regularity, does not lead to dependency. After 10 years, a doc would still probably recommend a taper, to be on the safe side.
How were you taking the Xanax, and are you on any other meds? Have you tried any other meds (like antidepressants) for anxiety?
Ok folks, we're NOT permitted to give specific advice on tapering, or advice on dosing, etc. Please keep that in mind when replying to threads.
marlena, the safest and best way for you to discontinue a benzodiazepine is under the guidance of your doctor. There are real risks involved if it is not done properly.
After taking a benzo regularly for several years, you have becomne physically dependent on it. For the record, that's different than being "addicted" to something. An addiction involves mental cravings, abuse of a Rx, among other things, where dependence is simply your body needing the medication to maintain "normal". Also, dependency will result in you experiencing w/d's if the med is abruptly stopped. Put simply, dependence is PHYSICAL, addiction is MENTAL/EMOTIONAL.
The other good reason to get your doc involved is so you can put in place a plan to deal with the anxiety. Rebound anxiety is one of the more common issues with coming off an anxiolytic. Therapy would be very helpful. I sure hope you've already had therapy at this stage of the game, but either way, it's vital for you to learn coping mechanisms BEFORE you are hit with the rebound anxiety.
Please turn to your doctor for guidance on this. Best of luck to you! Keep us updated!
Come off of them slowly cause u are pretty much addicted to them now so u will deff have to come off of them slowly