Coming off a medication can be an incredibly scary decision. Especially if there is more than one med at play. Maybe you’ve been on the drug for years, maybe you tried coming off it before and it was hell or maybe you just know it’s time. I’m guessing if you are reading this, then you have been thinking about it for awhile. So, let’s dive in to some important things to consider with psych med tapering and of course, withdrawal.
When is the right time to stop a med?
It’s a big decision and one I would suggest discussing with someone you trust. Write down what the medication was originally prescribed for and make a list of the benefits and the side effects. This will help you get a clear picture. Sometimes people go down in dose, increase it again and then experience a paradoxical reaction to the drug. For instance, a med that used to curb anxiety, now at higher doses is causing it. This is another reason some people choose to come off. Side effects and health concerns too of course.
What kind of taper is best
Bridge meds….Ashton Manuel…So many tapers are out there and it’s important to work with someone who knows what they are doing. An integrative psychiatrist can be a great asset. When I’m helping someone taper, I use supplements and often times blood work, to create support so that the dose cuts are doable. The timing is something to be discussed and its important to go at your pace. Detoxification is important to assist the body in letting go of the drug metabolites.
What kind of withdrawal can be expected
There is a range from barely noticeable to awful. In my experience, most awful tapers are ones described getting stuck at the smaller dose cuts (inter-dose withdrawal), experiencing anxiety, confusion, distrust of the taper schedule, etc. Most tapers dont have to be like that.
What I have come to learn about getting off meds is that if the body is supported properly with nutrition, supplements, detox therapies, then tapers go much smoother. It's crucial to work with someone because sometimes minutes feel like days and decisions seem to big to make, so you need someone who can guide you through.
Not one taper is alike another. Even coming off the same benzo for the second time can be a completely different experience. My goal for you is to feel supported and confident and know you are good hands.
