Withdrawal Help

[Natron247]

My last year has been a living nightmare with anxiety.  I have switched meds several different times and still the anxiety is there.  I probably haven't felt myself for more than 4 weeks since February 2010.  I am getting to the point where I believe the meds may be my problem.  I am currently taking Paxil, Clonazepam and Remeron.  I sleep good at night because the Remeron (30mg) knocks me out, but I awake to a low level anxiety every day.  I have reduced my Paxil from 50 mgs to 12.5mgs over the past 4 months.  I have reduced my Clonazepam from 1.5mgs a day to .75mgs a day as well.  I want to focus on getting the Clonazepam out first.  I was originally given it to help with sleep, but now since I have the remeron I don't feel it is necesarry.  I would love to be off of all meds and recently started some CBT to help do so.  I don't think any docs no how bad benzo withdrawal really is since most just sign the RX and don't take it their self.  So....  If I am going to tackle the Clonazepam first (.5mgs in the am and .25 at night) should I reduce the .5mgs in the am by .125 hold for a couple of weeks then cut again by .125 till I get it comepletely out?  I feel I have become tollerant to the Clonazepam and my choice is either to go up which I will not do or just push through and get off of it all together.  Is that the right choice for some of you that may have been in the same boat?

[softlight]

Listen to mammo's advice.
In your case withdrawing from medication may be best under the supervision of a psychiatrist -but one who is interested in doing psychotherapy with you and not just drug maintenance. Keep in mind that the physical and emotional side-effects of medication withdrawal can vary sig. between individuals. You sound like you want to take charge of your life -have a look at www.mypersonalities.com for self therapy.

[Kabe827]

If you can go without it, then it is def the best choice to stop...I would decrease it by small amounts every 4 to 5 days...if that doesnt work...decrease it by small amounts for a week then decrease again for a week etc...Good Luck ..its not an easy task but well worth it!!

[mammo]

You should only do this under the guidance of your doctor. We're all different when it comes to these medications and withdrawal.  Plus, we have no idea what your health history is, so ask your doctor to tell you how to wean off and what to expect.