xanax withdrawal

[busterboy]

I have been taking xanax for 7 years and I just spent 7 days in a detox center.  I have not had xanax in 2 weeks but now it has been 2weeks and I am feeling some symptoms of withdrawal.  What should I do???

[xanweaner]

I understand your pain all too well!!! Start reading everything you can find on xanax withdrawal and weaning down. You will discover that this is a VERY difficult drug to stop taking and requires a good treatment plan and the commitment to stick it out, no matter what. You should be under a care of a psychologist or psychiatrist on an out-patient basis who will prescribe the right withdrawal dosages. I am doing it by cutting back, very, very slowly. It has been very difficult but I am committed to getting off. Yes, my symptoms return, too, but fortunately, not severe as they were when I started to take it. I am currently on the same dosage now for over 3 weeks and won't begin to cut down again until I feel stable at this dose. Unfortunately, I have been on xanax every 4 hours, 4 times per day. That is what we needed to keep my shaking under control. Everyone's course of withdrawal will be different. Just keep reading and you will get support from this. It reinforces just how difficult this whole withdrawal process is. Also, look up Gwen Olsen on google and watch her videos on utube. They are quite insightful. Good luck, hang in there, and don't start taking it again, if you can hold out. Remember, this whole process takes time - a lot of time!!!

[Roger Gould, M.D.]

I think you should go back to the detox center and ask for their recommendations...they are the ones who know you, and know the field.