How long it takes to get off xanax withdrawal symptoms?

[genealogist49]

I am 60, I took xanax 1mg. for 8 yrs.  The new doctor cut me off cold turkey. I have problems now and going thru hell, I am afraid i will surely die! help. How long does it take to get rid of withdrawal and what am i gonna do?

[Roger Gould, M.D.]

Going off xanax is an extremely painful and difficult and sometimes dangerous experience...you must talk to your doctor about this an either set up a weaning experience over a 4-5 period; or ask him to substitute klonopin for a month, and then go off of that over a three week period.

[Audrey9660]

I was hooked on Xanax for many years before getting weened off of it and put on the right meds.  Your doctor is an idiot, you could have had a seizure.  Dr. Gould is correct in his answer.  Xanax can also store in your tissues so it takes a long time to detox.  Good Luck, it's not easy coming off of it. I feel bad for you because it was very difficult, but I have been off it for 15 years now - thank God!