Frequently Asked Questions

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1. What are the most common withdrawal symptoms?

The most commonly reported withdrawal symptoms from benzodiazepines include anxiety, insomnia, depression, and muscle pain or burning sensations.

 

2. I haven't started tapering off my benzodiazepine yet, but I'm already experiencing symptoms. What's happening?

You might be experiencing “tolerance withdrawal,” a condition where your body requires a higher dosage of the medication to achieve the same effects. If you don’t adjust your dosage accordingly, withdrawal symptoms can manifest even before you start reducing the medication.

 

3. How long will my withdrawal symptoms last?

Unfortunately, there’s no definitive answer to this question! The duration of withdrawal symptoms varies greatly from person to person, influenced by various factors. Typically, the longer you’ve been on a benzodiazepine, the longer the withdrawal symptoms may persist.

 

4. Are there alternatives I can take?

A single medication won’t instantly eliminate your symptoms. Sometimes, doctors prescribe adjunctive treatments like antidepressants, beta blockers, and pain relievers. However, antidepressants have their own challenges. They may take weeks to show effectiveness and can cause withdrawal symptoms. Beta blockers can help with palpitations and muscle tremors but must be gradually stopped if used frequently. Pain medications, like Neurontin, have varying opinions on their effectiveness for withdrawal symptoms. Generally, many benzodiazepine users believe that combining medications can complicate the withdrawal process.

 

5. Why shouldn't I just stop taking the pills abruptly?

Avoid abruptly stopping the use of benzodiazepines! This practice, known as “cold turkey,” can be hazardous, particularly if you have been taking a high dose or using benzodiazepines for an extended period. Sudden discontinuation can trigger withdrawal seizures, which are usually managed with intravenous Ativan. Abrupt withdrawal can lead to more severe symptoms and potentially prolong the duration of withdrawal, resulting in a recurrence of benzodiazepine use, accompanied by anxiety about future attempts at tapering.

 

6. It's been months since my last benzodiazepine dose, and I still feel awful! Is it withdrawal, or am I just sick?

It’s understandable to feel disheartened during withdrawal. The process doesn’t end abruptly after your last dose; your body needs time to restore balance. As you gradually move away from your last dose, you should start to feel better. Over time, your symptoms may diminish, and you might experience “windows,” which are periods when you feel more like your pre-withdrawal self. While it’s possible to encounter other health issues during this phase, it’s advisable to consult your doctor if you have any concerns about your symptoms.

 

7. Some days I feel great, but then my symptoms return. What does this indicate?

Congratulations! This fluctuation is a positive sign of healing. The journey to recovery from benzodiazepine use is rarely straightforward. Your brain needs time to function normally without the influence of these medications. It’s normal to experience setbacks, but remember that any progress you make is still progress! If you’ve felt better in the past, you can certainly feel that way again.

 

8. I've been advised to avoid caffeine, sugar, and alcohol during withdrawal. Why?

Caffeine, a stimulant, is generally not necessary for additional stimulation during withdrawal. However, if you find that caffeine worsens your symptoms, it may be wise to reduce your intake. If caffeine doesn’t seem to affect you, you can enjoy it in moderation. Gradually reducing caffeine is advisable if you decide to quit, as sudden withdrawal can trigger its own symptoms.
 

The same applies to sugar; some people believe it can worsen withdrawal symptoms, while others don’t experience any issues. High sugar consumption can lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels, causing anxiety and palpitations. Many individuals find a hypoglycemic diet—limiting refined sugars and white flour while increasing complex carbohydrates—beneficial.

Alcohol also affects the same GABA receptors in the brain as benzodiazepines. Considering that your receptors may already be sensitive from withdrawal, consuming alcohol can likely intensify your symptoms.

 

9. Why should I think about switching from my current benzodiazepine to Valium for tapering?

Switching to Valium is a personal choice. Unlike most other benzodiazepines, Valium has a longer half-life, which can prevent “inter-dose withdrawal” (feeling withdrawal symptoms between doses). This slower elimination means Valium stays in your system longer, and it is less potent per pill. It is available in 10mg, 5mg, and 2mg doses, making it easier to make smaller adjustments when tapering.

 

10. I need to undergo a medical procedure that requires sedation. Will this cause my withdrawal symptoms to return?

You don’t need to worry that taking a single dose of benzodiazepine will trigger withdrawal symptoms again. Withdrawal is a result of long-term alterations in brain receptors that occur with regular use, and these changes won’t be triggered by just one dose.