Klonopin withdraw

[kfc1026]

I began taking .5 mg of Klonopin aday about 2 yrs ago.  I had no notable side affects when taking it, and could a skip days and be ok.  I recently got the stomach flu, and hadn't taken the Klonpin for 48 hrs.  I had great difficulty recovering from flu -- severe abdominal cramping, headache, joint pain, occasional chills/sweats - never had such a severe response to the flue before..  I realize this could be just the flu, but I began to wonder if my not taking the Klonopin was contributing to my poor recovery and the abdominal pain.  I have decided to taper off, but I do not want to take a substitute rug lie valium.  Anyone out there experience a similar situation, and have any advice on my tapering off?  I took a half pill recently, and plan to do so for the next 2 weeks, then cut that in half for another 2 weeks, and then stop...but I realize I may need to modify that based on my body's reaction.  I appreciate any advice.

[Sue357]

Hi.  I have been on 1 mg. of klonopin tid as well as Celexa, seraquel, lamictal and welllbutrin since a horrible episone that started right before the holidays. prior to that I was taking celexa wellbutrin and .5 mg of klonopin tid.  I started doing really well but was really sedated. my pdoc suggested we cut my afternoon klonopin to .5.  Well, it has been a week and I am noticing some anxiety again.  Anysuggestions?

[cj29]

I am going to echo nursegirl's comments here.  Benzos really need to be tapered off of slowly, especially if you have been on them for some time.  I was on Klonopin years ago for about a year, and I got many side effects, to include stomach cramping when I came off of it.  I went back to my doctor and asked if there was anything else I could do and he put me on a much slower taper, which did wonders while I was coming off of it.  Just ensure you do not do it on your own!

[nursegirl6572]

These types of meds need to be gradually discontinued, and while some people may not have as many problems stopping these meds as others, it is still important to taper off of them safely.

Ask your doctor for a safe taper plan and follow it.  If you have any symptoms during the taper, then call your doctor as some adjustments to the taper may be necessary.

Best of luck!