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Suggest Ways To Wean Off Xanax
Question: What would be the process for weaning myself off Xanax (with the NP overseeing the weaning process)? I take 100 mg of Sertraline per day and three 0.5 alprazalam per day. My children have been telling me for a while now that I'm over medicated
Brief Answer:
Consultation
Detailed Answer:
Given your age, weaning off Xanax completely is a very good idea. Xanax can cause falls and disorientation. In general it is a drug I never use, because it is fast-acting and leaves the system quickly, which causes rebound anxiety. You will need to taper it off slowly to avoid the risk of seizures and withdrawal symptoms.
Generally, I recommend stopping half the total dosage right away. For you, I'd suggest cutting down to 0.25mg three times daily now. Then you'll need to come off more slowly. Wait 2 weeks, then cut down to 0.25mg two times daily. In another 2 weeks, cut down to one time daily. Then in another 2 weeks you can stop completely. If you begin to get especially anxious or feel like you are going through withdrawal, you can slow down how quickly you're coming off, such as extending the waiting period between downtitrations to 4 weeks.
For a more comprehensive evaluation and answer, ask me on HealthCareMagic at the private link below: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Consultation
Detailed Answer:
Given your age, weaning off Xanax completely is a very good idea. Xanax can cause falls and disorientation. In general it is a drug I never use, because it is fast-acting and leaves the system quickly, which causes rebound anxiety. You will need to taper it off slowly to avoid the risk of seizures and withdrawal symptoms.
Generally, I recommend stopping half the total dosage right away. For you, I'd suggest cutting down to 0.25mg three times daily now. Then you'll need to come off more slowly. Wait 2 weeks, then cut down to 0.25mg two times daily. In another 2 weeks, cut down to one time daily. Then in another 2 weeks you can stop completely. If you begin to get especially anxious or feel like you are going through withdrawal, you can slow down how quickly you're coming off, such as extending the waiting period between downtitrations to 4 weeks.
For a more comprehensive evaluation and answer, ask me on HealthCareMagic at the private link below: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
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