Long term medication use.{Meprobamate} for chrons disease and discontinued use o

[Christine-Gra]

  46 y/o female, dx: Chrons Disease in 1981... Medication prescribed, Meprobamate, 800mg. 3 times a day/ been using for 15 years... Moved from Ma. to Ca. recently, can not find a physician that will prescribe this medication even when medical records from previous doctor are sent to new physician... My question is, since I have only a small supply left, what can I exspect when I go off this medication... I am presently at 400 mg. 3x a day... then on sat,8-8-98, 400mg. 2x a day till 8-13-98, which will be 200mg. 2x a day, on 8-18-98, 200mg. 1x a day for 5 days, then my medication is finished... At present time, I feel fine, a bit dry mouthed, an headaches from time to time, tired... but no stomach upset or anxiety...
  I have decided to taper off this drug because I do not have access to it here in Ca. and I do not want to stop it abruptly.
  Thank you,
  Chris G
Dear Christine,
Meprobamate (Miltown) is not a standard medication used in the treatment of Crohn’s disease. That may be why you are having
trouble getting a physician to prescribe it for you. It is a medication that has been used for insomnia and anxiety disorders. It is
habit forming and should not be combined with alcohol. Sudden withdrawal of the drug after prolonged use may precipitate an
anxiety reaction or the occurrence tremors, confusion, hallucinations or seizures. As you are doing, it is recommended that you
reduce the dose gradually over a one to two week period and not stop the drug abruptly.
This response is being provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or
consultation. Always check with your personal physician when you have a question pertaining to your health.
If you would like to be seen at our institution please call 1-800-653-6568, our Referring Physicians’ Office and make an
appointment to see Dr. Muszkat, one of our experts in Gastroenterology.