Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
How To Withdraw From Lexaton?
Dear Doc, I have been on sleep meds for over 10 years. I ve taken a range of Benzos, and was told by a Sleep Spec. that since I had had a haemorrhage stroke in 1997, the sleep center of my brain was affected--- hence the continued use of sleep meds. I now take Lexaton 10mg but I ve reduced myself to 5mg with reasonably good results. Do you think I could reduce the 5mgs in half, for about 2 weeks, then quarters for 2 weeks etc? I take very refreshing naps ( about 1 1/2 hours most days), so I have real doubts about the sleep center of my brain being damaged. I think I ve just formed a habit of insomnia. How can I taper Lexaton correctly.
Mon, 19 Nov 2018
Hi,
Sorry to hear about your problem. you are very right, we can always give it a try to get rid of the medicine. The method is exactly as you said that we should gradually reduce the dose. But you should not half the dose immediately. Rather you should reduce it by one fourth every 2 to 4 weeks. Like if you reduce to 5 mg now and after 2 weeks three fourth of the tablet for 4 weeks then half tablet for 4 weeks and hence reduce it. Where ever you feel that you can't sleep you should jump back.
Also, you should maintain a proper a sleep hygiene.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Mahboob Ur Rahman,
General & Family Physician
Sorry to hear about your problem. you are very right, we can always give it a try to get rid of the medicine. The method is exactly as you said that we should gradually reduce the dose. But you should not half the dose immediately. Rather you should reduce it by one fourth every 2 to 4 weeks. Like if you reduce to 5 mg now and after 2 weeks three fourth of the tablet for 4 weeks then half tablet for 4 weeks and hence reduce it. Where ever you feel that you can't sleep you should jump back.
Also, you should maintain a proper a sleep hygiene.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Mahboob Ur Rahman,
General & Family Physician
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Loading Online Doctors....