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Dr says taper off Xanax

Hi....I spoke to my doctor earlier today and he said that he wants me to just taper off xanax instead of substituting another anti-anxiety (Valium) as I taper.  I have been on them for 8 months (4mg/day) when my father passed away...so not a super long time, but long enough, and I am ready to get off of them, as to be honest, they scare me.  He said to go down 1 mg every two weeks and then substitute an antidepressant instead.  Does this taper sound too fast?  I am on day 3 (76 hrs) of vicodin WD's and am going to work on the xanax next - in about 2 weeks - as i need them now to get through this.  He did say that we could play it by ear....so I feel better about that part.

Any help/advise would be helpful.

Thanks and good luck to all!
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Avatar universal
Hi, Yes, your doctors orders override everything else.  A resource I think is well worth reading is the Ashton Manual (specifically designed by and addiction doctor for benzo withdrawals).  You can find a copy here: http://www.benzodocs.com/.  It calls out things to watch for etc.

Good luck!
Helpful - 0
1218318 tn?1266808601
If you don't feel comfortable on your reduction by the end of two weeks call your doctor's office and be sure to tell him/her. On my taper I really felt crappy the 1st week or so on a new dose, and then gradually became comfortable again. Then, time for the next cut per medical directions. NEVER 2nd guess the taper plan. When in doubt,simply follow directions. Can't go wrong that way. let go and trust.
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Avatar universal
Thanks Brian....new poster here.  I will follow the doctor.
Helpful - 0
518031 tn?1295575374
follow your Dr's. orders..we do not give medical advice here...thats what they are trained for...he should know best.....God Bless...brian
Helpful - 0
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