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On Xanax For Years, Have Reduced Dosage. Feels Shaky. Suggestions?
Hi, I am on xanax, have been for years, I do not abuse, have never abused, but have several issues that make this drug a good one for me, however, i had about a weeks worth stolen from me and as soon as I realized I dropped my dosage amount. I take 1 mg 3 x a day and 2mg for bed. I am now out. Yesterday I made it through the day and night with just 2mg,, I feel shaky and am wondering how long I have before I need to go to the er..My meds are due to be reflled in a few days. I am scared. can you give me some kind of time line?
Sat, 6 Jul 2013
User's Response
Dr. Balaji Bharadwaj,
Psychiatrist's Response
Psychiatrist's Response
You are taking a total dose of 5 mg alprazolam per day, which is a high dose.
Alprazolam at such high doses is difficult to stop abruptly. In fact it can also be dangerous to stop it at once - because you can have severe withdrawals and occasionally seizures.
What is the underlying problem for which you are taking alprazolam?
I would suggest that you meet a psychiatrist and discuss the psychiatric problem as well as the alprazolam (Xanax) use. He will suggest alternative medications that can be tapered without much difficulty or discomfort - in effect you will be given a detoxification regimen that can help you to quit safely.
If you have anxiety or depression he may also suggest alternate medications that can treat your disorder without being addictive.
Alprazolam at such high doses is difficult to stop abruptly. In fact it can also be dangerous to stop it at once - because you can have severe withdrawals and occasionally seizures.
What is the underlying problem for which you are taking alprazolam?
I would suggest that you meet a psychiatrist and discuss the psychiatric problem as well as the alprazolam (Xanax) use. He will suggest alternative medications that can be tapered without much difficulty or discomfort - in effect you will be given a detoxification regimen that can help you to quit safely.
If you have anxiety or depression he may also suggest alternate medications that can treat your disorder without being addictive.
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