Ativan Withdrawl?

[jasna65]

I was using Ativan o.5 mg for a year, and I am experiencing strange symptoms such as horrible pain and pressure in my jaw and buzzing in my ears. I also have anxiety and skin crawling.
I have had so many tests done on my body, all coming back normal.
Many listed symptoms of Ativan withdrawl, I think this may be due to the Ativan, however, I have used such a small amount, 0.5mg, once a day. I cannot find information how to taper off this small amount? My Doctor has prescribed Diazepam, what would be the best formula to taper off the Ativan?

[vicki595]

The OP doesn't say anything about the doctor ordering a taper with diazepam;only that he/she has prescribed it.  Again, I think the prudent thing to do is to discuss all of this with the doctor.

[Ann2497]

Seems that some people aren't understanding what I am trying to say.  There is a taper schedule using the Diazepam not the Ativan.

You would follow a taper taking the Diazepam only.  

There are charts in the Ashton Manual on how to do this.

[vicki595]

Again, as long as you're taking the diazepam, there's no need to taper the Ativan or worry about having a seizure.  

Please run this by your doctor so you feel confident with what you're doing.

[OxyTired]

Would definitely do this with your doctors guidance. Any benzo withdrawal can cause life threatening symptoms like seizures.  Don't be reluctant to call the doctor or his office, that is his job.
Good to hear you are getting off Ativan! Let us know how you are doing.

[Ann2497]

We can't give taper schedules for the Ativan but Diazepam is the best drug to use to taper off of Ativan.  Did your dr give you a taper schedule?  He obviously knew that prescribing Diazepam is the recommended way to go so I am surprised he didn't give you a schedule.

I would google the ASHTON MANUAL.  It gives taper schedules for different benzos.  

[vicki595]

We can't provide taper information, it's against forum guidelines.  Are you still taking the Ativan or did you stop and start?   How did the doctor tell you to take the diazepam?  He/she is really the person you should be asking about this.

It does sound like Ativan withdrawal even though you still take it. Often,the body begins to require a larger dose and a withdrawal syndrome will occur if the dose isn't increased.   The Valium might help that so follow the,directions for it and, I'm sure, he doesn't want you to take the Ativan with it. If you're taking Valium, there's no need to taper the Ativan. You'll be covered because diazepam is the same type of drug,just longer acting.  I hope this helps.