Jennita
05-22-2004, 03:50 PM
lol jennita by the way how are you doing all is well i hope just want to tell you you've been a great help for me hope to chat with you soon :wave: kelleigh
I'm good, thanks! Except I recently strained my upper back at the gym. Remember when I said it's not the Olympics and not to over-due the exercise? Well, why didn't I listen to myself???? :rolleyes:
I think I simply forgot to pay attention to my form on that one pulley rowing machine which does require good form to not get hurt. I hadn't used that one in particular in awhile, so I forgot.
Ouch, it hurts to move.... well, I will just have to take some time to heal up. Other than that, things are pretty good. :D
I'm good, thanks! Except I recently strained my upper back at the gym. Remember when I said it's not the Olympics and not to over-due the exercise? Well, why didn't I listen to myself???? :rolleyes:
I think I simply forgot to pay attention to my form on that one pulley rowing machine which does require good form to not get hurt. I hadn't used that one in particular in awhile, so I forgot.
Ouch, it hurts to move.... well, I will just have to take some time to heal up. Other than that, things are pretty good. :D
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howard678
05-22-2004, 11:37 PM
exactly thats why i'm so concerned you definitly needed this time off you had to much on your plate you hang in there ok hope you're getting enough rest and taking it easy ok again my thoughts are with you you've supported me it's time for me to support you hugs kelleigh
Thanks Kelleigh. I`ve basically become a homebound taperer. The rest is a good thing but I do not like the funky dreams, and staying home for a while makes it harder to get back in the groove once you start to get back out to function. Nonetheless, we have to accept the things we cannot change. The human body is one fine piece of equipments with it`s own internal alarms. It lets you know when to back off, and if that angers anyone that is too bad. How long would they mourn for me? :rolleyes: Unlike some, I am lucky to have rent money and cable to watch cheesy movies on. When push comes to shove, health has to come first. Without that, you are nowhere anyways. Thank you for being here. :)
Thanks Kelleigh. I`ve basically become a homebound taperer. The rest is a good thing but I do not like the funky dreams, and staying home for a while makes it harder to get back in the groove once you start to get back out to function. Nonetheless, we have to accept the things we cannot change. The human body is one fine piece of equipments with it`s own internal alarms. It lets you know when to back off, and if that angers anyone that is too bad. How long would they mourn for me? :rolleyes: Unlike some, I am lucky to have rent money and cable to watch cheesy movies on. When push comes to shove, health has to come first. Without that, you are nowhere anyways. Thank you for being here. :)
no patience
05-23-2004, 06:22 PM
Thanks Kelleigh. I`ve basically become a homebound taperer. The rest is a good thing but I do not like the funky dreams, and staying home for a while makes it harder to get back in the groove once you start to get back out to function. Nonetheless, we have to accept the things we cannot change. The human body is one fine piece of equipments with it`s own internal alarms. It lets you know when to back off, and if that angers anyone that is too bad. How long would they mourn for me? :rolleyes: Unlike some, I am lucky to have rent money and cable to watch cheesy movies on. When push comes to shove, health has to come first. Without that, you are nowhere anyways. Thank you for being here. :)
your welcome howard you were always there for me when i asked you like 100s of questions hope your doing ok and hope you're just kicking back i feel really bad i wish there was something i could do for you i can't wait until this is just a memory for you you definitly deserve a break i still give you so much credit in doing this all on your own with no aid what so ever but it's great you and your body realized it's time for a break sorry about the funky dreams had some myself coming off methadone lets just say i did'nt tell anyone about them because they would think i was crazy lol post when you feel up to ok hang in there i wish i could say if you need anything just let me know but it's a little hard over the internet lol you may not feel the greatest but you're doing a great job so many people would of given up and you have'nt that's a wonderful thing take care ok hugs kelleigh :angel: p.s back on klonopin panic came back i hate myself :blob_fire
your welcome howard you were always there for me when i asked you like 100s of questions hope your doing ok and hope you're just kicking back i feel really bad i wish there was something i could do for you i can't wait until this is just a memory for you you definitly deserve a break i still give you so much credit in doing this all on your own with no aid what so ever but it's great you and your body realized it's time for a break sorry about the funky dreams had some myself coming off methadone lets just say i did'nt tell anyone about them because they would think i was crazy lol post when you feel up to ok hang in there i wish i could say if you need anything just let me know but it's a little hard over the internet lol you may not feel the greatest but you're doing a great job so many people would of given up and you have'nt that's a wonderful thing take care ok hugs kelleigh :angel: p.s back on klonopin panic came back i hate myself :blob_fire
no patience
05-23-2004, 06:30 PM
I'm good, thanks! Except I recently strained my upper back at the gym. Remember when I said it's not the Olympics and not to over-due the exercise? Well, why didn't I listen to myself???? :rolleyes:
I think I simply forgot to pay attention to my form on that one pulley rowing machine which does require good form to not get hurt. I hadn't used that one in particular in awhile, so I forgot.
Ouch, it hurts to move.... well, I will just have to take some time to heal up. Other than that, things are pretty good. :D
sorry about your back jennita sould've listened to yourself just kidding lol i really want to start going to the gym myself but i just can't bring myself to do it i'm slowly getting back to normal i guess so i have to bring myself to do it it's just hard for me to be around people still glad to hear you're doing good other than your back hope you feel better soon keep in touch luv kelleigh
I think I simply forgot to pay attention to my form on that one pulley rowing machine which does require good form to not get hurt. I hadn't used that one in particular in awhile, so I forgot.
Ouch, it hurts to move.... well, I will just have to take some time to heal up. Other than that, things are pretty good. :D
sorry about your back jennita sould've listened to yourself just kidding lol i really want to start going to the gym myself but i just can't bring myself to do it i'm slowly getting back to normal i guess so i have to bring myself to do it it's just hard for me to be around people still glad to hear you're doing good other than your back hope you feel better soon keep in touch luv kelleigh
no patience
05-24-2004, 01:05 PM
:wave: hi howard just checking in on you want to make sure your ok just worried about ya hope all is well just want to support you in any way i can even if it means posting you every 5 minutes just kidding (they have stalking laws) lol i no you've heard this a million times hang in there better days are coming :angel: :angel:
Jennita
05-24-2004, 03:56 PM
sorry about your back jennita sould've listened to yourself just kidding lol i really want to start going to the gym myself but i just can't bring myself to do it i'm slowly getting back to normal i guess so i have to bring myself to do it it's just hard for me to be around people still glad to hear you're doing good other than your back hope you feel better soon keep in touch luv kelleigh
My back is already starting to feel better but no back exericises for this week!!! Don't worry; later on you can go to the gym. I stayed away from the gym for a very long time during my acute withdrawal; the most I could hope for is to walk around or maybe stretch because I simply did not have the energy and felt so bad all the time. Your time will come. Start getting ready now by simple, easy stretching and mild walking. As soon as you are off drugs for awhile, some energy will come back and you can do more.
I know, being around people isn't easy these days; everyone is judgemental and there's alot of egotists out there. I think it's best to realize that people we don't know really will not matter in our lives in any respect....only people we do get to know or hang out with, or family matters the most. I think I've learned this as I've aged; I used to worry more when I was young. Now I've been able to put in in perspective...as in, most people aren't worth my worry, and if there are some who are, that means they are good folks who won't judge me anyway! I usually don't even notice peoples' faces anymore while out in public, except maybe that obviously friendly one. I myself try to be friendly but not bother people too much.
My back is already starting to feel better but no back exericises for this week!!! Don't worry; later on you can go to the gym. I stayed away from the gym for a very long time during my acute withdrawal; the most I could hope for is to walk around or maybe stretch because I simply did not have the energy and felt so bad all the time. Your time will come. Start getting ready now by simple, easy stretching and mild walking. As soon as you are off drugs for awhile, some energy will come back and you can do more.
I know, being around people isn't easy these days; everyone is judgemental and there's alot of egotists out there. I think it's best to realize that people we don't know really will not matter in our lives in any respect....only people we do get to know or hang out with, or family matters the most. I think I've learned this as I've aged; I used to worry more when I was young. Now I've been able to put in in perspective...as in, most people aren't worth my worry, and if there are some who are, that means they are good folks who won't judge me anyway! I usually don't even notice peoples' faces anymore while out in public, except maybe that obviously friendly one. I myself try to be friendly but not bother people too much.
no patience
05-24-2004, 07:11 PM
hi jennita glad your back is feeling better i actually have been doing some slight walking trying little by little your attitude is definitly the right one one day i will have the same attitude again thanks for votes of confidence i'm slowly trying to get my life the way it was and i'm working on dealing with people again it's not so much i care what they think of me but just being around them but hopefully that will pass i've actually been doing quite a bit more than i was i think my brain hopefully is on it's way to recovering glad all is well on your end post you soon kelleigh
no patience
05-27-2004, 07:49 AM
hi howard you havent responded to alot of my posts i know you're in a rough situation to put it mildly hope i havent done anything to offend you i consider you a good friend and just want you to be ok :angel: i'm praying for you kelleigh
no patience
05-29-2004, 12:13 PM
never mind [FONT=Franklin Gothic Medium]
howard678
05-29-2004, 10:39 PM
Kayleigh,
I am coping. There is not much more to report than that I am afraid. Certain symptoms have disappeared to be replaced with a breathless feeling that comes and goes. Have had it before and it is a documented benzo withdrawal symptom. What about you? What is going on?
I am coping. There is not much more to report than that I am afraid. Certain symptoms have disappeared to be replaced with a breathless feeling that comes and goes. Have had it before and it is a documented benzo withdrawal symptom. What about you? What is going on?
Jennita
05-30-2004, 03:45 AM
Hey kelleigh, hope your getting along ok with your klonopin withdrawal!
no patience
05-30-2004, 10:10 AM
[hi howard that never mind reply was me trying to change the size and color of my post and i just could'nt get it hope you're doing better glad to hear from you kelleigh
no patience
05-30-2004, 10:22 AM
hi jenitta i wish i could say i was off klonopin but i'm not i tried to get off it but started having panic attacks again i guess i picked the right name for my very first thread on her when does it end i know gettin of the antidepressant is gonna be the easy part before they put me on lexapro i weaned off effexor with no problems at all i know the klonopin gonna be the toughy i don't know if the panic was part of w/d or what my my dr got pretty upset with me when i told her i tried to wean myself of it i'm so scared now i went through methadone w/which was a living nightmare and now being so nieve i'll have to suffer through klonopin w/d sorry to ramble on just venting thank for listening kelleigh
Jennita
05-30-2004, 06:42 PM
hi jenitta i wish i could say i was off klonopin but i'm not i tried to get off it but started having panic attacks again i guess i picked the right name for my very first thread on her when does it end i know gettin of the antidepressant is gonna be the easy part before they put me on lexapro i weaned off effexor with no problems at all i know the klonopin gonna be the toughy i don't know if the panic was part of w/d or what my my dr got pretty upset with me when i told her i tried to wean myself of it i'm so scared now i went through methadone w/which was a living nightmare and now being so nieve i'll have to suffer through klonopin w/d sorry to ramble on just venting thank for listening kelleigh
Oh, I didn't think you were off yet, just tapering. Withdrawals happen while tapering, so I wondered.
Have you tapered down the dose at all? I think I remember you saying you tried to skip a dose.....that's not good, you must taper down the dose instead. No wonder you didn't get too far, you can't just quit like that.....not even one dose. You need to take doses as usual, only cutting it down.
Hope you are still trying to take less of it, tapering should be slow, like around 10% cut only and no sooner than every two weeks.
Oh, I didn't think you were off yet, just tapering. Withdrawals happen while tapering, so I wondered.
Have you tapered down the dose at all? I think I remember you saying you tried to skip a dose.....that's not good, you must taper down the dose instead. No wonder you didn't get too far, you can't just quit like that.....not even one dose. You need to take doses as usual, only cutting it down.
Hope you are still trying to take less of it, tapering should be slow, like around 10% cut only and no sooner than every two weeks.
howard678
05-30-2004, 06:48 PM
Kelleigh,
Why did you stop the Effexor?
Why did you stop the Effexor?
no patience
05-31-2004, 10:20 AM
Kelleigh,
Why did you stop the Effexor?
hi howard i was put on effexor about a year ago and it just wasn't doing it's job so my primary wanted to up and my councelor said noway because i was already on 150 mgs so when i was going through methadone w/ds they either belief that it wasn't working or being on methadone was masking certain side effects that i had. when i came off methadone they played process of elimanation so when i bagan to have panic attacks they were not sure if it was from the effexor or coming off methadone because they were puzzled at first because the anxiety and panic was lasting so long and there are alot of drs out there that don't like effexor and my councelor just happened to be one of them some people that take it can just not get off it thanks god i did. hope how are you doing howard hope you're time off is aiding you in your recovery caht with you soon hugs kelligh :angel:
Why did you stop the Effexor?
hi howard i was put on effexor about a year ago and it just wasn't doing it's job so my primary wanted to up and my councelor said noway because i was already on 150 mgs so when i was going through methadone w/ds they either belief that it wasn't working or being on methadone was masking certain side effects that i had. when i came off methadone they played process of elimanation so when i bagan to have panic attacks they were not sure if it was from the effexor or coming off methadone because they were puzzled at first because the anxiety and panic was lasting so long and there are alot of drs out there that don't like effexor and my councelor just happened to be one of them some people that take it can just not get off it thanks god i did. hope how are you doing howard hope you're time off is aiding you in your recovery caht with you soon hugs kelligh :angel:
no patience
05-31-2004, 10:30 AM
Oh, I didn't think you were off yet, just tapering. Withdrawals happen while tapering, so I wondered.
Have you tapered down the dose at all? I think I remember you saying you tried to skip a dose.....that's not good, you must taper down the dose instead. No wonder you didn't get too far, you can't just quit like that.....not even one dose. You need to take doses as usual, only cutting it down.
Hope you are still trying to take less of it, tapering should be slow, like around 10% cut only and no sooner than every two weeks.
hi jenitta yeah i'm still trying to taper iw as suppose to be on 4 0.5 mgs a day and i'm only taking 2 now when i got my self down to 2 i tried to stop but did'nt work out so well thanks for caring and thanks for the 10% info i did'nt know that and did'nt know every 2 weeks either than you so much chat soon i'll let you know how it's going kelleigh
Have you tapered down the dose at all? I think I remember you saying you tried to skip a dose.....that's not good, you must taper down the dose instead. No wonder you didn't get too far, you can't just quit like that.....not even one dose. You need to take doses as usual, only cutting it down.
Hope you are still trying to take less of it, tapering should be slow, like around 10% cut only and no sooner than every two weeks.
hi jenitta yeah i'm still trying to taper iw as suppose to be on 4 0.5 mgs a day and i'm only taking 2 now when i got my self down to 2 i tried to stop but did'nt work out so well thanks for caring and thanks for the 10% info i did'nt know that and did'nt know every 2 weeks either than you so much chat soon i'll let you know how it's going kelleigh
Jennita
05-31-2004, 03:05 PM
hi jenitta yeah i'm still trying to taper iw as suppose to be on 4 0.5 mgs a day and i'm only taking 2 now when i got my self down to 2 i tried to stop but did'nt work out so well thanks for caring and thanks for the 10% info i did'nt know that and did'nt know every 2 weeks either than you so much chat soon i'll let you know how it's going kelleigh
Your welcome, and congratulations for getting down to 2, that's good progress so keep up the good work!
Your welcome, and congratulations for getting down to 2, that's good progress so keep up the good work!
howard678
05-31-2004, 03:16 PM
hi howard i was put on effexor about a year ago and it just wasn't doing it's job so my primary wanted to up and my councelor said noway because i was already on 150 mgs so when i was going through methadone w/ds they either belief that it wasn't working or being on methadone was masking certain side effects that i had. when i came off methadone they played process of elimanation so when i bagan to have panic attacks they were not sure if it was from the effexor or coming off methadone because they were puzzled at first because the anxiety and panic was lasting so long and there are alot of drs out there that don't like effexor and my councelor just happened to be one of them some people that take it can just not get off it thanks god i did. hope how are you doing howard hope you're time off is aiding you in your recovery caht with you soon hugs kelligh :angel:
Kelleigh,
Sounds like you were on the maximum dose of Effexor. Did it work against your panic or anxiety? Or was it mostly prescribed for depression? My doc wants me on it, the sustained release version. In my research it gets some of the best reviews of the ADs for addressing anxiety and panic states, and the stimulating effects are reported to subside faster than the others, within a few days. The benefits are said to come much faster. But some have reported a nasty withdrawal syndrome lasting about 3 weeks. I have resisted thus far as I have yet to see the necessity. But will admit that I would be one more prone to take gambles (short term use) as I very much need to work. If I did not have to work, I would come off the Valium safely but as quickly as possible then wait it out. The little Valium I take now does very little.
Kelleigh,
Sounds like you were on the maximum dose of Effexor. Did it work against your panic or anxiety? Or was it mostly prescribed for depression? My doc wants me on it, the sustained release version. In my research it gets some of the best reviews of the ADs for addressing anxiety and panic states, and the stimulating effects are reported to subside faster than the others, within a few days. The benefits are said to come much faster. But some have reported a nasty withdrawal syndrome lasting about 3 weeks. I have resisted thus far as I have yet to see the necessity. But will admit that I would be one more prone to take gambles (short term use) as I very much need to work. If I did not have to work, I would come off the Valium safely but as quickly as possible then wait it out. The little Valium I take now does very little.
howard678
05-31-2004, 03:33 PM
Your welcome, and congratulations for getting down to 2, that's good progress so keep up the good work!
Kayleigh,
1 mg of Klonopin is no small amount, especially for a new user, and should address your anxiety. But making small cuts with those .5 tabs is difficult. You could get a pill cutter and cut one of the pills in 4s and remove one piece, .125, but that is still a big cut, over 10%, and the percentages would gets higher the more you go down. People say slow taper but just how can get tedious and some coaching is needed. They now make what is called "Klonopin wafers," .125 tabs that are cross scored. These facilitate small cuts. Or, the better bet IMO, is a switch to Valium, easier to taper as it has a longer half-life and there are 2 mg tablets available. So from 1 mg of Klonopin a day you would switch to 20 mgs of Valium and cut 1 mg a week then perhaps slow down to .5 mgs a week once you are down to 10 mgs. But as you have seen, no matter which what way you go, there is often nothing easy about this. But some ways appear better than others. No matter what you do, you`ll need a doc that knows about and supports what you are doing, tapering. Otherwise, they would have no reason to prescribe the smaller tablets I spoke of.
Kayleigh,
1 mg of Klonopin is no small amount, especially for a new user, and should address your anxiety. But making small cuts with those .5 tabs is difficult. You could get a pill cutter and cut one of the pills in 4s and remove one piece, .125, but that is still a big cut, over 10%, and the percentages would gets higher the more you go down. People say slow taper but just how can get tedious and some coaching is needed. They now make what is called "Klonopin wafers," .125 tabs that are cross scored. These facilitate small cuts. Or, the better bet IMO, is a switch to Valium, easier to taper as it has a longer half-life and there are 2 mg tablets available. So from 1 mg of Klonopin a day you would switch to 20 mgs of Valium and cut 1 mg a week then perhaps slow down to .5 mgs a week once you are down to 10 mgs. But as you have seen, no matter which what way you go, there is often nothing easy about this. But some ways appear better than others. No matter what you do, you`ll need a doc that knows about and supports what you are doing, tapering. Otherwise, they would have no reason to prescribe the smaller tablets I spoke of.
no patience
05-31-2004, 03:38 PM
hi howard my dr actually put me on it for depression in the beginning i was on 37.5 and it wasn't doing much then 75 which worked out pretty well but then i started feeling kind of blue again and having trouble sleeping so he upped it again to tell you the truth i was taking this on methadone and i know methadone can kind of stop depression in itself so i coul'dnt tell you if it was working or not but i've read so many success storys abou this stuff changing peoples lifes unfortunatly for me when i stopped methadone it just was'nt doing anything for my anxiety and as you know with w/d comes complete lonliness so there were so many things going on they thought maybe to much serotonin maybe it just wasn't working anymore and you know the rest so they switched me to lexapro i weaned off of effexor without any problems i just had one incident when i was still weaning on a high dose and forgot to take it and felt lets just say crazy but again i had been on it for a year or so so it was in my system pretty good my dr did mention that it has a very high success rate and i never had any w/d symptoms coming off it and my wean was'nt that long either i know you're not to happy with these medications but if you discover you want to try it and it just doe'snt settle right with you you can stop i'm sure you're really pondering this one what ever decision you make i hope you at least consider trying something i know you don't like them to put it mildly but you don't have to stay on it forever just short term until you feel a little better i'm not trying to tell you what to do by all means but without lexapro i still be laying on my couch in lonliness good luck lets hear what you decide ok hope you're doing ok hugs to kelleigh
no patience
05-31-2004, 03:45 PM
hi howard i actually did by a pill cutter it was getting pretty annoying with my steak knife lol i did'nt realize they made wafers i actually read also that klonopin for some people had to be made into special sizes in order for them to wean off guess they were not to prepared like they say some drs are good at prescribing but not w/ding there patients is that why they made the wafer ? yeah i also read in the ahton manual that valium was easier to taper from than klonopin thanks for all that you share it makes me one step closer to benzo knoweledge which i new nothing about until your hard hitting response and i thank you for that thanks howard thinking of you
no patience
05-31-2004, 03:51 PM
thanks jenitta you and howard have been so supportive you guys are like my guardian angels luv kelleigh :angel: :angel:
howard678
05-31-2004, 05:39 PM
hi howard i actually did by a pill cutter it was getting pretty annoying with my steak knife lol i did'nt realize they made wafers i actually read also that klonopin for some people had to be made into special sizes in order for them to wean off guess they were not to prepared like they say some drs are good at prescribing but not w/ding there patients is that why they made the wafer ? yeah i also read in the ahton manual that valium was easier to taper from than klonopin thanks for all that you share it makes me one step closer to benzo knoweledge which i new nothing about until your hard hitting response and i thank you for that thanks howard thinking of you
Kayleigh,
I can help with suggestions with tapering, am an old hat at it now. For one thing, forget the steak knife. In fact, you may consider giving it a rest for a few weeks and see how you do at the 1 mg a day. When ready to taper that, it is going to be very difficult to taper Klonopin with the .5 mg pills. Tried that... I would not bother slicing over edges, etc. Tapering needs to be systematic while still flexible, and the cuts, as exact as possible. I know you like what the K does for you, and I would be the first to call these excellent drugs if it were not for the significant tolerance/addiction risks and the potential for a horrific withdrawal syndrome. I was very pleased with benzos, until, you know the story...
Kayleigh,
I can help with suggestions with tapering, am an old hat at it now. For one thing, forget the steak knife. In fact, you may consider giving it a rest for a few weeks and see how you do at the 1 mg a day. When ready to taper that, it is going to be very difficult to taper Klonopin with the .5 mg pills. Tried that... I would not bother slicing over edges, etc. Tapering needs to be systematic while still flexible, and the cuts, as exact as possible. I know you like what the K does for you, and I would be the first to call these excellent drugs if it were not for the significant tolerance/addiction risks and the potential for a horrific withdrawal syndrome. I was very pleased with benzos, until, you know the story...
no patience
06-01-2004, 08:36 AM
hi howard did'nt like the steak knife huh lol thanks for helping me just sorry there is no way i can help you i know you are probabaly not 100% but by your posts it seems you are doing a tiny bit better hope this ends for you soon kelleigh :angel: :wave:
Jennita
06-01-2004, 02:38 PM
thanks jenitta you and howard have been so supportive you guys are like my guardian angels luv kelleigh :angel: :angel:
I just really hope you will be out of this nightmare soon :angel: :wave:
I just really hope you will be out of this nightmare soon :angel: :wave:
no patience
06-02-2004, 08:09 AM
thanks jenitta :angel:
no patience
06-02-2004, 08:51 AM
hi howard just checking in to make sure you're ok thinking bout and praying for you ever night in hopes that this awful experience will be over for you soon kelleigh :angel:
howard678
06-03-2004, 12:01 AM
hi howard just checking in to make sure you're ok thinking bout and praying for you ever night in hopes that this awful experience will be over for you soon kelleigh :angel:
It is better. Calm is the word. Pray for that. Do not worry about tomorrow. It is not here yet.
It is better. Calm is the word. Pray for that. Do not worry about tomorrow. It is not here yet.
no patience
06-03-2004, 08:09 AM
hi howard glad to here it's a little better have you decided about effexor yet or are you just gonna continue with no xtra meds just curious i thought maybe you were just feeling so bad that you were considering that option but if you say things are a little better maybe you don't have to go against your better judgement if you know what i mean i know you are dead set against ssris so i figured maybe it was just the horrible way you felt talking i'll chat with you later you're not back at work are you i hope you're still taking it easy hugs kelleigh :angel:
no patience
06-03-2004, 06:19 PM
hey howard i have a weird question for you i have a friend sara who is addicted to opiates and likes benzos her mother takes klonopin also and she takes them from her and when she takes them she chews them up why??????? what is the point in that i'm trying to convince this girl to get some help but i'm almost ready to give up again i don't understand what chewing them would do would'nt it just make you really drowsy???? i know it's a strange question but i thought if anyone knew the answer it would be you thanks and hope you're feeling ok hugs and prayers kelleigh :confused:
no patience
06-04-2004, 05:42 PM
hi howard i noticed you havent posted in a few days hope your ok and if you have chosen not to post anymore i wish you the best kelleigh :angel:
howard678
06-05-2004, 12:53 AM
hey howard i have a weird question for you i have a friend sara who is addicted to opiates and likes benzos her mother takes klonopin also and she takes them from her and when she takes them she chews them up why??????? what is the point in that i'm trying to convince this girl to get some help but i'm almost ready to give up again i don't understand what chewing them would do would'nt it just make you really drowsy???? i know it's a strange question but i thought if anyone knew the answer it would be you thanks and hope you're feeling ok hugs and prayers kelleigh :confused:
The answer to that is simple. I know all too well. If you chew them they will go to work faster. It is actually better to put them under the tongue and wait a few minute for them the dissolve, swallowing them as liquid. That is if one is after quick relief. Benzos are water soluable. I`ll still be around posting. Am feeling a bit better. Hope you are too. :)
The answer to that is simple. I know all too well. If you chew them they will go to work faster. It is actually better to put them under the tongue and wait a few minute for them the dissolve, swallowing them as liquid. That is if one is after quick relief. Benzos are water soluable. I`ll still be around posting. Am feeling a bit better. Hope you are too. :)
no patience
06-05-2004, 09:05 AM
glad to see you're still posting and so glad you're feeling better that is strange about my frind doing that i just thought it was kind of strange thanks for answering though i figured you would know well hope to hear from you soon and again i'm glad to hear you're feeling better chat with you later kelleigh p.s. are you still off from work and taking it easy ? :angel: :wave:
no patience
06-05-2004, 10:15 AM
howard got another question for you(sorry to keep bothering you) does klonopin give you an increased appetite when i went through methadone w/d i lost like 20 lbs and since i've been on klonopin all i want to do is eat i never was a big eater either and lets just say the 20 lbs is back thanks howard you're the best hugs kelleigh :wave: :) :angel:
howard678
06-06-2004, 04:00 AM
Kayleigh
I gained weight when I was on benzos full force but have lost a lot of weight in tapering. Loss of apetite has been part of the withdrawal. I have lost too much.
I gained weight when I was on benzos full force but have lost a lot of weight in tapering. Loss of apetite has been part of the withdrawal. I have lost too much.
no patience
06-06-2004, 10:02 AM
that explains it then like i said i lost alot of wait during w/d you ust have no desire to eat until you're famished don't loose to much more ok thanks howard kelleigh :angel:
no patience
06-06-2004, 10:25 AM
howard there is a post on the panic disorder board called clonzapam between a rock and a hard place could you read it and give him some advice him and his wife are both on it and they got a 2nd opinion because his wife was'nt getting any better so there dr cut them off won't release any meds or there records and is leaving them to go cold turkey thanks howard i know this your area of expertise kelleigh :wave:
howard678
06-07-2004, 02:19 AM
that explains it then like i said i lost alot of wait during w/d you ust have no desire to eat until you're famished don't loose to much more ok thanks howard kelleigh :angel:
I won`t Kelleigh, am making myself eat, even going for high calorie stuff.
I won`t Kelleigh, am making myself eat, even going for high calorie stuff.
no patience
06-07-2004, 09:15 AM
howard thats great that you're making yourself eat you need all the energy you can get during this i just could'nt i lost interest in everything i could'nt even watch tv or anything i'm glad you're eating though because i know that atleast with opiate w/d it can cause anorexia(i know i spelled that wrong) good to hear from you keep in touch kelleighp.s. thanks for responding to that post i knew you could give him some good information thanks howard with all the info you've given me on benzos i just knew this person was in trouble and knew you could give him some good advice thanks again howard :angel:
howard678
06-07-2004, 01:50 PM
howard thats great that you're making yourself eat you need all the energy you can get during this i just could'nt i lost interest in everything i could'nt even watch tv or anything i'm glad you're eating though because i know that atleast with opiate w/d it can cause anorexia(i know i spelled that wrong) good to hear from you keep in touch kelleighp.s. thanks for responding to that post i knew you could give him some good information thanks howard with all the info you've given me on benzos i just knew this person was in trouble and knew you could give him some good advice thanks again howard :angel:
Kayleigh,
Are you still working?
Kayleigh,
Are you still working?
no patience
06-07-2004, 02:37 PM
hi howard yeah i'm still working how about you are you still on leave or have you gone back i have today off i'll have mondays off until july so i get a 3 day weekend but not for long chat with you soon hugs and prayers for you kelleigh :angel: :wave: :)
howard678
06-07-2004, 11:51 PM
hi howard yeah i'm still working how about you are you still on leave or have you gone back i have today off i'll have mondays off until july so i get a 3 day weekend but not for long chat with you soon hugs and prayers for you kelleigh :angel: :wave: :)
My hat goes off to you for working. Yes, I am back to work 4 days now. It has been a good distraction in the past and seems to be so again. If I can stay at this level of discomfort I should have no problems continuing. Though I have the anxiousness to contend with, my performance has probably actually been better as I am on a pretty low dose, hardly clouded at all by the drug anymore.
My hat goes off to you for working. Yes, I am back to work 4 days now. It has been a good distraction in the past and seems to be so again. If I can stay at this level of discomfort I should have no problems continuing. Though I have the anxiousness to contend with, my performance has probably actually been better as I am on a pretty low dose, hardly clouded at all by the drug anymore.
no patience
06-08-2004, 08:53 AM
thanks howard the same to you to i know what you mean about work it does take your mind off things i know your probably not 100% but i'm glad you're doing a little better i can't wait until this is all over for you hope to chat again soon hugs kelleigh :angel: :wave:
howard678
06-09-2004, 12:22 AM
Kelleigh,
Mr. Gray is not answering on the panic disorder thread. Guess he and his wife may be cold turkeying off Konopin. Well, it has been done before....
Mr. Gray is not answering on the panic disorder thread. Guess he and his wife may be cold turkeying off Konopin. Well, it has been done before....
no patience
06-09-2004, 06:52 PM
i noticed that he seemed pretty concerned but not a peep i guess maybe you're right hope all is well on your end my boss gave me the day off tomorrow because i'm in so much pain my insurance screwed up the due date on my fentynal prescription so my dr had to fax a form to them and it can take up to 48 hrs so i'm without pain medication and lets just say i could break everything in my house right now i'm hurting so bad hope all is well wish mr gray would answer i want to see how it went for him hugs kelleigh
howard678
06-09-2004, 11:14 PM
i noticed that he seemed pretty concerned but not a peep i guess maybe you're right hope all is well on your end my boss gave me the day off tomorrow because i'm in so much pain my insurance screwed up the due date on my fentynal prescription so my dr had to fax a form to them and it can take up to 48 hrs so i'm without pain medication and lets just say i could break everything in my house right now i'm hurting so bad hope all is well wish mr gray would answer i want to see how it went for him hugs kelleigh
Sorry to hear you are in pain. Stay strong. Let us do all that is possible to cope. Mr. Gray... Are a lot of benzo addicted people like that, come, share a story, and disappear. Is always a mystery what becomes of them. Some surely cold turkey and beat it. Others switch, move to opiates or drown the withdrawals in alcohol as best they can. Others get back on the benzos. But without a report we are left to just wonder...
Sorry to hear you are in pain. Stay strong. Let us do all that is possible to cope. Mr. Gray... Are a lot of benzo addicted people like that, come, share a story, and disappear. Is always a mystery what becomes of them. Some surely cold turkey and beat it. Others switch, move to opiates or drown the withdrawals in alcohol as best they can. Others get back on the benzos. But without a report we are left to just wonder...
no patience
06-10-2004, 10:40 AM
thanks howard you're right about mr gray probably won't hear from him again maybe he found the answers he was looking for i hope you're doing well i'll chat with you soon and thanks for thinking of me hugs and prayers kelleigh :angel: :wave:
howard678
06-10-2004, 05:00 PM
Thanks Kayleigh,
I am still coping, just tapering the Valium, taking no other meds. I am prepared for any bumps in the raod that may lie ahead but for noe the storm has settled.
I am still coping, just tapering the Valium, taking no other meds. I am prepared for any bumps in the raod that may lie ahead but for noe the storm has settled.
no patience
06-10-2004, 06:06 PM
:angel: :angel: :angel: :angel:no problem howard i'm so glad to hear you're feeling better you are the only reason i come on the addiction and recovery board because i feel i've made a faceless friend in you i still can't thank you enough for all the knowledge you've given to me muchly appreciated i'm so happy to hear it's atleast calm for you right now you've done an awesome job so many people would have just given up you're will power is amazing keep up the great work hugs kelleigh p.s i finally got my patches so my back is feeling so much better i know insurance has rules but sometimes they make mistakes post soon ok howard i keep meaning to ask you. you mentioned you take beta blockers from time to time what exactly are those? just curious because i've never heard of them before and just curious what they do
no patience
06-11-2004, 02:29 AM
hey howard me again what happened to jennita she just like disappeared(did i spell that right?) just thought maybe you knew i also posted you on page 60 :confused:
howard678
06-11-2004, 03:11 AM
hey howard me again what happened to jennita she just like disappeared(did i spell that right?) just thought maybe you knew i also posted you on page 60 :confused:
I do not know where she is. You may trying doing a search, see where she is posting.
I do not know where she is. You may trying doing a search, see where she is posting.
no patience
06-12-2004, 09:43 AM
hey howard did you read the other post to you on page 60 i asked you what beta blockers were i kept meaning to ask you cause you had mentioned you take them from time to time and i never heard of them and just wondered what they were for also when is your taper finally over or can you not predict it hope you're still feeling a little better kelleigh :wave:
howard678
06-12-2004, 10:36 AM
hey howard did you read the other post to you on page 60 i asked you what beta blockers were i kept meaning to ask you cause you had mentioned you take them from time to time and i never heard of them and just wondered what they were for also when is your taper finally over or can you not predict it hope you're still feeling a little better kelleigh :wave:
The betas I have are metoprolol. I have only resorted to taking one twice. Will only do so if my heart rate and BP spike for a few hours with no signs of coming down. Just for my safety. I do not know when the taper will end. If I feel good on the small doses, once I get to to like 8 mgs and below, I will keep going real slow. If not, I will speed it up and get off. Should be off in Sept at the earliest, Dec at the latest.
The betas I have are metoprolol. I have only resorted to taking one twice. Will only do so if my heart rate and BP spike for a few hours with no signs of coming down. Just for my safety. I do not know when the taper will end. If I feel good on the small doses, once I get to to like 8 mgs and below, I will keep going real slow. If not, I will speed it up and get off. Should be off in Sept at the earliest, Dec at the latest.
no patience
06-13-2004, 09:48 AM
wow howard and when did you start this taper? it takes quite a long time huh you must just get so fed up with it sometimes i was really hoping it would be over for you sooner i was just curious what beta blockers were because i've never heard of them well hope to chat soon hugs kelleigh :angel: :wave:
howard678
06-14-2004, 05:01 PM
wow howard and when did you start this taper? it takes quite a long time huh you must just get so fed up with it sometimes i was really hoping it would be over for you sooner i was just curious what beta blockers were because i've never heard of them well hope to chat soon hugs kelleigh :angel: :wave:
I am not really on beta blockers. I just have them in case they are needed. Have taken two in the last month...
I am not really on beta blockers. I just have them in case they are needed. Have taken two in the last month...
no patience
06-14-2004, 10:07 PM
hi howard yeah i knew you had'nt taken very many of them so is everything you're not still on leave are you ? it really seems like things have goten a little better for you you must be so proud of your self when to you discover that your body was dependant on benzos i've never really gotten your full story and did you decide it was time to get off or did the dr just think you did'nt need them anymore forgive me for being so forward but i was just curious (i'm always curious huh) hope i'm not offending you in anyway because i know you're a very private person hope to chat with you soon hugs kelleigh :angel: :wave:
howard678
06-14-2004, 10:59 PM
hi howard yeah i knew you had'nt taken very many of them so is everything you're not still on leave are you ? it really seems like things have goten a little better for you you must be so proud of your self when to you discover that your body was dependant on benzos i've never really gotten your full story and did you decide it was time to get off or did the dr just think you did'nt need them anymore forgive me for being so forward but i was just curious (i'm always curious huh) hope i'm not offending you in anyway because i know you're a very private person hope to chat with you soon hugs kelleigh :angel: :wave:
I`m better. I decided it was time to get off Xanax when I tried to cut down and went into major withdrawal symptoms. Benzos (Valium, Klonopin, Xanax, Ativan) are like any other dope. Once you are hooked you are either going backwards or forwards. Forwards toward off of it, or backwards and dosing higher and higher to get the same affect or to just simply feel normal. There are no other choices. I decided to go forward.
I`m better. I decided it was time to get off Xanax when I tried to cut down and went into major withdrawal symptoms. Benzos (Valium, Klonopin, Xanax, Ativan) are like any other dope. Once you are hooked you are either going backwards or forwards. Forwards toward off of it, or backwards and dosing higher and higher to get the same affect or to just simply feel normal. There are no other choices. I decided to go forward.
no patience
06-15-2004, 05:43 PM
[that's great you decided to go forward not many people would have done that they would have taken the easy way out and just kept upping their dose you should be really proud of your self again i hope i did'nt offend you by asking but you're doing a great job and keep up the good work kelleigh :angel:
howard678
06-16-2004, 04:46 PM
[that's great you decided to go forward not many people would have done that they would have taken the easy way out and just kept upping their dose you should be really proud of your self again i hope i did'nt offend you by asking but you're doing a great job and keep up the good work kelleigh :angel:
Well, the fact that upping the dose does not solve the problem has something to do with it. One still deals with symptoms as they up it more and more. It is not really the easier way, at least not in the long run. I am not really proud, just interested in saving my butt.
Well, the fact that upping the dose does not solve the problem has something to do with it. One still deals with symptoms as they up it more and more. It is not really the easier way, at least not in the long run. I am not really proud, just interested in saving my butt.
no patience
06-16-2004, 05:36 PM
thats definitly a good way of putting it all i was really saying is that most people would'nt have tried to solve their problem the way you did maybe i worded it incorrectly by saying the easy way out but a majority of people today would have just relied on upping their dose if you're not proud of yourself you should be kelleigh :angel:
howard678
06-16-2004, 07:50 PM
thats definitly a good way of putting it all i was really saying is that most people would'nt have tried to solve their problem the way you did maybe i worded it incorrectly by saying the easy way out but a majority of people today would have just relied on upping their dose if you're not proud of yourself you should be kelleigh :angel:
Well I give the credit to my creator, actually. Do not talk about that much. Religion and politics, generally do not discuss either with strangers. But he gets the credit for everything, though I may take some, I give it right back... But actually, upping the dose would be just crazy. It just goes higher and higher until your dead. Or you cannot get the pills. Imagine that kinda fun? Cold turkeying from some huge dose of Xanax or Valium. Maybe when I was younger but am too old for that sort of thing now. I can use my head because I am not powerless over these pills. They sit here but I take only what I am alloted to take. Is a different sort of addiction than the herion junkie, alcoholic, or cokehead...
Well I give the credit to my creator, actually. Do not talk about that much. Religion and politics, generally do not discuss either with strangers. But he gets the credit for everything, though I may take some, I give it right back... But actually, upping the dose would be just crazy. It just goes higher and higher until your dead. Or you cannot get the pills. Imagine that kinda fun? Cold turkeying from some huge dose of Xanax or Valium. Maybe when I was younger but am too old for that sort of thing now. I can use my head because I am not powerless over these pills. They sit here but I take only what I am alloted to take. Is a different sort of addiction than the herion junkie, alcoholic, or cokehead...
no patience
06-17-2004, 08:53 AM
all the said makes sense and our creator definitily gets full credit for helping us through these situations kelleigh :angel:
no patience
06-26-2004, 05:12 PM
hey howard i went to cape cod on vacation just wanted o see how you are doing i went on vacation and i'm more tired then before i went lol kelleigh
howard678
06-26-2004, 07:33 PM
hey howard i went to cape cod on vacation just wanted o see how you are doing i went on vacation and i'm more tired then before i went lol kelleigh
Hey, hope you had fun and are doing good. I for some reason cannot imagine a vacation right now. But I am doing good. Just trying not to think about this stuff is a plus. I will be off these drugs before long...
Hey, hope you had fun and are doing good. I for some reason cannot imagine a vacation right now. But I am doing good. Just trying not to think about this stuff is a plus. I will be off these drugs before long...
no patience
06-26-2004, 08:13 PM
yeah i had a good time i can't wait for you to be off these drugs also hope you're feeling ok and i hope you can have some kind of vacation soon with the job stress you describe and all that you've been through you definitly deserve one hope to chat soon missed ya kelleigh :angel: :angel:
howard678
06-26-2004, 11:42 PM
yeah i had a good time i can't wait for you to be off these drugs also hope you're feeling ok and i hope you can have some kind of vacation soon with the job stress you describe and all that you've been through you definitly deserve one hope to chat soon missed ya kelleigh :angel: :angel:
Thanks, missed seeing you on as well. I will be over this pretty soon, as I am functioning well now on a pretty low dose. One good thing has come out of this, I never go out and spend any money, so the bank balance grows. Yes, I am going to take a vacation. A long one, maybe 2 to 4 months. One thing that is for sure, I will never be the same after this. I will have a gained a respect for a laid back, low stress life...
Thanks, missed seeing you on as well. I will be over this pretty soon, as I am functioning well now on a pretty low dose. One good thing has come out of this, I never go out and spend any money, so the bank balance grows. Yes, I am going to take a vacation. A long one, maybe 2 to 4 months. One thing that is for sure, I will never be the same after this. I will have a gained a respect for a laid back, low stress life...
no patience
06-27-2004, 12:47 PM
you have a great attitude and i hope that vacation comes for you soon keep up the good work 2 to 4 months would be great for all you've been through and so glad to hear you're feeling better you deserve it chat with you soon kelleigh :angel: :wave:
no patience
07-02-2004, 09:40 PM
hiya howard just a quick hello to make sure you're doing ok post back soon kelleigh :wave:
chefob1
07-03-2004, 06:52 AM
my problem is no one detoxes off of methadone right....you have to drop 5 mg every two weeks and then when you are off/off, a suggestion is clonidine snd trazadone to help sleep....there should be little if no discomfort...everyone seems to think they can take 30mg and stop tomorrow and they should be fine....it doesnt work that way.....chef
no patience
07-03-2004, 10:57 AM
chefob believe me i know from experience it does'nt work that way my drs were the ones that woud'nt wean me off it iwent through many months of hells especially with panic and just feeling like there was a part of me missing so i completly understand what you're saying thanks for the info kelleigh :wave:
no patience
07-04-2004, 11:43 AM
hey howard how are ya have'nt talked with you in awhile hope all is still going ok for you post back soon miss ya kelleigh :wave:
no patience
07-05-2004, 12:07 PM
hi howard have'nt heard from you in awhile hope everythings ok this will be my last attempt of bothering you again hope you're ok and hope i did'nt do anything to offend you i figure if you don't post back you must not want to again hope everthing is ok kelleigh :angel: :wave:
no patience
07-14-2004, 07:22 PM
hi howard i really miss ya i hope you're doing ok you haven't posted in awhile and i'm concerned i hope everything is ok and hope you're feeling ok did you take that 4 month vacation that you mentioned lol post back soon i miss chatting with ya ok kelleigh :wave: :angel: :confused:
no patience
07-17-2004, 10:59 AM
hi howard really worried about you hope you're ok post back soon i miss chatting with you kelleigh :angel: :angel:
no patience
07-22-2004, 07:13 PM
hi howard i saw you posted today i hope you're not mad at me for something i really miss chatting with you and i want to know how you're feeling i really consider you one of my computer pals i hope i did'nt do something to upset you please post back hugs to you and hope all is well kelleigh :angel: :wave: :angel:
no patience
07-28-2004, 07:58 PM
well howard apparently you're not posting anymore i wish you all the best and hope your taper is over soon kelleigh :angel: :angel:
windysan
07-29-2004, 08:32 AM
Howard is okay. I speak with him often. Nothing to worry about. He's just not posting much on the net cuz he's trying to heal himself. He's doing fine.
no patience
07-31-2004, 01:27 PM
thanks windsysan when you talk to him let him know i'm thinking of him thanks for the info i was really beginning to worry how are you doing kelleigh :angel: :angel: :angel:
howard678
07-31-2004, 10:37 PM
Kayleigh,
Still in the game here, down to 8.5 mgs of Valium a day. I am managing. How are you doing? Still working? I only have part time work now.
Still in the game here, down to 8.5 mgs of Valium a day. I am managing. How are you doing? Still working? I only have part time work now.
no patience
08-01-2004, 01:57 PM
oh my gosh howard it's so great to finally hear from you i was so worried but then windysan told me you were healing and heard from you from time to time yeah i'm still working very hard at that my boss has lost so much help because i guess now a days people don't like hard work i've been cleaning from 8 in the morning until 5 at night sometimes it's really doing a number on my back but other then that i'm ok so you're down to 8.5 wow are you still suffering any symptoms lets hope not again i'm so glad to hear from you thought maybe i did something wrong but then i thought about it and i know sometimes i just don't feel like getting on the boards to tired so you're part time is that good or bad probably good in the sense you're not over doing it i know this taper has been pretty rough on you well post when you fell up to it aagain it's so great to hear from you big hugs kelleigh :angel: :wave: :angel: :bouncing:
howard678
08-02-2004, 02:01 AM
oh my gosh howard it's so great to finally hear from you i was so worried but then windysan told me you were healing and heard from you from time to time yeah i'm still working very hard at that my boss has lost so much help because i guess now a days people don't like hard work i've been cleaning from 8 in the morning until 5 at night sometimes it's really doing a number on my back but other then that i'm ok so you're down to 8.5 wow are you still suffering any symptoms lets hope not again i'm so glad to hear from you thought maybe i did something wrong but then i thought about it and i know sometimes i just don't feel like getting on the boards to tired so you're part time is that good or bad probably good in the sense you're not over doing it i know this taper has been pretty rough on you well post when you fell up to it aagain it's so great to hear from you big hugs kelleigh :angel: :wave: :angel: :bouncing:
It`s actually pretty close to a blowout at this point here even with making small cuts. I won`t bother with a symptom list. I do not believe I could work a job with any real excertion or stress and this point, no matter how bad I had to. So its time to make a few more cuts, roll the dice and get on off. We will then see how long the withdrawals last.
It`s actually pretty close to a blowout at this point here even with making small cuts. I won`t bother with a symptom list. I do not believe I could work a job with any real excertion or stress and this point, no matter how bad I had to. So its time to make a few more cuts, roll the dice and get on off. We will then see how long the withdrawals last.
no patience
08-03-2004, 04:22 PM
howard i'm really sorry i know narcotic w/d and benzo w/d are different but i know kind of what you're going through and i feel for you you have hung in there and that is wonderful i'm praying for the day you can say you feel better again i'm so glad to hear from you but sorry for this ordeal it must be pretty bad if you don't want to name your symptoms i'm here rooting for you i know it does'nt ease the awful symptoms you're feeling but i really am here for you post when you feel ok luv and hugs oh and prayers kelleigh :angel: :angel: :angel:
no patience
08-07-2004, 02:38 PM
hi howard just checking in on you hope all is well i just really hope you're doing ok just a check in luv and hugs kelleigh :angel: :angel:
windysan
08-08-2004, 12:13 PM
Howard is doing well. I speak with him often. He might make a geographical change which will be good for him.
John 3:16
08-08-2004, 01:26 PM
Howard,
If you "drop back in here" just wanted you to know I have been thinking of you! I am SO SORRY you have had such a rough go at it but I have no doubt you will make it (I know- little comfort when you are in the midst of what you are in!)! Just continue move forward and know my thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you! You will be happy to know I no longer take ANY (even though I took just 2 or 3 a week) Xanax- started on a different antidepressant (as I have suffered from depression long before my opiate addiction) and it has really helped with my panic attacks/anxiety! I am even sleeping 5-6 hours a night! Thought that might be music to your ears!
I am almost three months clean with the exception of taking 2 or 3 pain pills throughout some surgical procedures but my addictionologist approved that! I have just had cervical cancer removed and suffered a painful blood clot- have really been "tested!" I managed to stay clean even though I was faced with a very scary situation! I give God all the glory though! I still am having a rough go at it- lethargic, lack of motivation, and general "blahs" every now and then but my addicitonologist said those are the last things to fall into place! No "high on life" feeling yet, but am looking forward to it!
Anyway- you hang in there and if you'd like- drop me a little post and let me know what's going on! Again, hang in there, my friend!
Best wishes and God bless,
michelle
If you "drop back in here" just wanted you to know I have been thinking of you! I am SO SORRY you have had such a rough go at it but I have no doubt you will make it (I know- little comfort when you are in the midst of what you are in!)! Just continue move forward and know my thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you! You will be happy to know I no longer take ANY (even though I took just 2 or 3 a week) Xanax- started on a different antidepressant (as I have suffered from depression long before my opiate addiction) and it has really helped with my panic attacks/anxiety! I am even sleeping 5-6 hours a night! Thought that might be music to your ears!
I am almost three months clean with the exception of taking 2 or 3 pain pills throughout some surgical procedures but my addictionologist approved that! I have just had cervical cancer removed and suffered a painful blood clot- have really been "tested!" I managed to stay clean even though I was faced with a very scary situation! I give God all the glory though! I still am having a rough go at it- lethargic, lack of motivation, and general "blahs" every now and then but my addicitonologist said those are the last things to fall into place! No "high on life" feeling yet, but am looking forward to it!
Anyway- you hang in there and if you'd like- drop me a little post and let me know what's going on! Again, hang in there, my friend!
Best wishes and God bless,
michelle
no patience
08-11-2004, 08:21 AM
thanks windysan
no patience
08-13-2004, 07:17 AM
hi michelle i haven't talked to you in a long time hope all is good luv kelleigh
Brenda1953
08-13-2004, 08:40 AM
I'm a newbie who originally posted here a couple days while beginning a morphine CT.
However, I have been off benzos for over a year now. 4-6 mgs of Xanax a day which I realize is not a huge dose but not too shabby either. I took it for 5 years.
I did start with the Ashton protocol. I did not follow it specifically. To be honest, at first my brain was so fogged I couldn't even figure out the switchover plan.
So I started with 40 mgs of valium. She would recommend 80, a 2 to 1 ratio. I was a zombie!! Valium is a way different drug. Much more sedating. So I cut it to 20 and that worked for me.
Yes, I had wd symptoms but nothing unbearable.
I then cut pretty rapidly at first. I cut the dosage in half every two weeks til I got down to 5 mgs then slowed it down. Toward the end at 3 mgs, I just thought I want this poison out of my body. It took me probably 8 months all told. It's a long haul. I kept reading that it's not a race and it's important to keep that in mind becuase it does go slowly.
Valium is very long acting. I think it's half life can be as long as 200 hours. That was the rationale behind Dr. Ashton's protocol. That the drug would metabolize so slowly, the wd would be minimized.
Anyway, I switched to restoril and tapered down to 7.5 mgs and quit. Restoril is a big nothing in the benzo world. I really couldn't even tell I was taking it. And when I stopped, my symptoms got no worse.
It was a long unpleasant trip but does not compare to this nightmare of narcotic wd, IMO. I was never this sick. Sure, I had anxiety, insomnia, little electric shocks, etc. Who cares? I just ignored it.
And trust me, I'm not trying to start the argument of which wd is worse. Just relating my personal experience.
Nor am I trying to belittle anyone's experience. I know many people have had horrendous benzo wds. It seems to be an individual thing.
The bad news is that it seems to rewire your brain permanently. Over a year later and I still suffer from occassional panic attacks and almost daily insomnia. I know they say it doesn't cause permanent brain damage but you can't prove it by me. Maybe it takes longer than a year.
So get it off it now. Do not listen to the doctors. Listen to us who have been there.
I loved that Xanax buzz BTW. All the worries of the world just floating away. I think Xanax may be the only benzo that does that. I have pretty much tried them all.
Brenda
However, I have been off benzos for over a year now. 4-6 mgs of Xanax a day which I realize is not a huge dose but not too shabby either. I took it for 5 years.
I did start with the Ashton protocol. I did not follow it specifically. To be honest, at first my brain was so fogged I couldn't even figure out the switchover plan.
So I started with 40 mgs of valium. She would recommend 80, a 2 to 1 ratio. I was a zombie!! Valium is a way different drug. Much more sedating. So I cut it to 20 and that worked for me.
Yes, I had wd symptoms but nothing unbearable.
I then cut pretty rapidly at first. I cut the dosage in half every two weeks til I got down to 5 mgs then slowed it down. Toward the end at 3 mgs, I just thought I want this poison out of my body. It took me probably 8 months all told. It's a long haul. I kept reading that it's not a race and it's important to keep that in mind becuase it does go slowly.
Valium is very long acting. I think it's half life can be as long as 200 hours. That was the rationale behind Dr. Ashton's protocol. That the drug would metabolize so slowly, the wd would be minimized.
Anyway, I switched to restoril and tapered down to 7.5 mgs and quit. Restoril is a big nothing in the benzo world. I really couldn't even tell I was taking it. And when I stopped, my symptoms got no worse.
It was a long unpleasant trip but does not compare to this nightmare of narcotic wd, IMO. I was never this sick. Sure, I had anxiety, insomnia, little electric shocks, etc. Who cares? I just ignored it.
And trust me, I'm not trying to start the argument of which wd is worse. Just relating my personal experience.
Nor am I trying to belittle anyone's experience. I know many people have had horrendous benzo wds. It seems to be an individual thing.
The bad news is that it seems to rewire your brain permanently. Over a year later and I still suffer from occassional panic attacks and almost daily insomnia. I know they say it doesn't cause permanent brain damage but you can't prove it by me. Maybe it takes longer than a year.
So get it off it now. Do not listen to the doctors. Listen to us who have been there.
I loved that Xanax buzz BTW. All the worries of the world just floating away. I think Xanax may be the only benzo that does that. I have pretty much tried them all.
Brenda
howard678
08-15-2004, 01:28 AM
Thought that might be music to your ears! michelle
Michelle, hearing from you in and of itself is music to my ears. :) And the fact that there are people here wondering where I am, how I am doing means a lot to me. It is not something I get much of anywhere else at this moment. This is a bummer, am very vulnerable to stress and sometime I can think my way around it, sometimes I cannot. Sometimes I just get hit with a wave of symptoms out of the blue. I am no longer working, and shortly, am going to taco bell then sit on the back porch for a hour or so.
I have only two directions to go here, forwards or backwards, backwards means staying on the drugs and increasing doses, forwards means getting on off. I`ll be off in about 3 weeks then perhaps the real fun will begin, or I may get off easy. We will see. Hope all the rest of you are okay. :)
Brenda,
Your benzo story is very interesting, as your benzo withdrawals were not so bad for you and that gives me hope. Yet just as I was jumping for joy you speak of your brain being permanently re-wired and experiencing panic a year off. Wonderful! It is those sorts of testimonies that I avoid at another site. Makes you want to stay on. Like how can a downer (Xanax/Valium) be so destructive? I wish they had not banned the qualludes, the favorite of my youth. Jennita was okay in about 6 weeks but has had long term insomnia. Where are you at Jennita? :) I down to 7.5 mgs of V.
P.S. Brenda Valium is much more sedating than Xanax at first but that typically ends in about 5 weeks. Did with me.
Michelle, hearing from you in and of itself is music to my ears. :) And the fact that there are people here wondering where I am, how I am doing means a lot to me. It is not something I get much of anywhere else at this moment. This is a bummer, am very vulnerable to stress and sometime I can think my way around it, sometimes I cannot. Sometimes I just get hit with a wave of symptoms out of the blue. I am no longer working, and shortly, am going to taco bell then sit on the back porch for a hour or so.
I have only two directions to go here, forwards or backwards, backwards means staying on the drugs and increasing doses, forwards means getting on off. I`ll be off in about 3 weeks then perhaps the real fun will begin, or I may get off easy. We will see. Hope all the rest of you are okay. :)
Brenda,
Your benzo story is very interesting, as your benzo withdrawals were not so bad for you and that gives me hope. Yet just as I was jumping for joy you speak of your brain being permanently re-wired and experiencing panic a year off. Wonderful! It is those sorts of testimonies that I avoid at another site. Makes you want to stay on. Like how can a downer (Xanax/Valium) be so destructive? I wish they had not banned the qualludes, the favorite of my youth. Jennita was okay in about 6 weeks but has had long term insomnia. Where are you at Jennita? :) I down to 7.5 mgs of V.
P.S. Brenda Valium is much more sedating than Xanax at first but that typically ends in about 5 weeks. Did with me.
Twinlynn
08-15-2004, 10:48 AM
Howard,
Nice to see your name on the board, again. :-) I'd been wondering how you were doing--you have had such a tough time. It's so ironic how our bodies all vary when coming off any type of drugs. I, too, have always been stricken with dread when I read those "permanent changes" information. I did read, recently, though, that there is a distinct possibility that the cells in the vicinity of the possible damaged ones, can adapt to taking on some of their capabilities. In any case, it seems that science is still not sure about what constitutes a permanent change....but they say the brain of drug addicts almost always does mend over time. That made me feel a while lot better. I get stressed way to easily by everything I read and learn! I feel obsessed that I completely understand it and all its implications!! (But that's why I needed meds to control my OCD! Before I began to take them...I was constantly lost in a word of tehnicality about anything I read!!! As if I were going for my PhD in each subject! LOL!!) :-)
How much do you still have to taper? In any case, good luck to you. I know you must be nervous awaiting "D-Day." Lynn :-)
Am off now to watch all those horrible "talking head" pundits on the Sunday shows..."Meet the Press", etc, etc!! Good way to keep my blood pressure up! LOL!
Nice to see your name on the board, again. :-) I'd been wondering how you were doing--you have had such a tough time. It's so ironic how our bodies all vary when coming off any type of drugs. I, too, have always been stricken with dread when I read those "permanent changes" information. I did read, recently, though, that there is a distinct possibility that the cells in the vicinity of the possible damaged ones, can adapt to taking on some of their capabilities. In any case, it seems that science is still not sure about what constitutes a permanent change....but they say the brain of drug addicts almost always does mend over time. That made me feel a while lot better. I get stressed way to easily by everything I read and learn! I feel obsessed that I completely understand it and all its implications!! (But that's why I needed meds to control my OCD! Before I began to take them...I was constantly lost in a word of tehnicality about anything I read!!! As if I were going for my PhD in each subject! LOL!!) :-)
How much do you still have to taper? In any case, good luck to you. I know you must be nervous awaiting "D-Day." Lynn :-)
Am off now to watch all those horrible "talking head" pundits on the Sunday shows..."Meet the Press", etc, etc!! Good way to keep my blood pressure up! LOL!
howard678
08-15-2004, 08:52 PM
Howard,
Nice to see your name on the board, again. :-) I'd been wondering how you were doing--you have had such a tough time. It's so ironic how our bodies all vary when coming off any type of drugs. I, too, have always been stricken with dread when I read those "permanent changes" information. I did read, recently, though, that there is a distinct possibility that the cells in the vicinity of the possible damaged ones, can adapt to taking on some of their capabilities. In any case, it seems that science is still not sure about what constitutes a permanent change....but they say the brain of drug addicts almost always does mend over time. That made me feel a while lot better. I get stressed way to easily by everything I read and learn! I feel obsessed that I completely understand it and all its implications!! (But that's why I needed meds to control my OCD! Before I began to take them...I was constantly lost in a word of tehnicality about anything I read!!! As if I were going for my PhD in each subject! LOL!!) :-)
How much do you still have to taper? In any case, good luck to you. I know you must be nervous awaiting "D-Day." Lynn :-)
Am off now to watch all those horrible "talking head" pundits on the Sunday shows..."Meet the Press", etc, etc!! Good way to keep my blood pressure up! LOL!
Twinlynn,
Thanks for the reply. Do you have a benzo withdrawal story of your own? If so, please share. Tell me about how you conquered the bear and soon became a happy go lucky, productive member of society.
Actually, I cannot wait until "D Day," about a month from now. I am already in considerable withdrawals at 7.5 mgs of Valium. Am surprised I got this low, but am going to try to get to 3.5 before jumping. Getting off means I am on the way to the true healing. I doubt I will be in for many surprises. Have one withdrawal under my belt already.
Nice to see your name on the board, again. :-) I'd been wondering how you were doing--you have had such a tough time. It's so ironic how our bodies all vary when coming off any type of drugs. I, too, have always been stricken with dread when I read those "permanent changes" information. I did read, recently, though, that there is a distinct possibility that the cells in the vicinity of the possible damaged ones, can adapt to taking on some of their capabilities. In any case, it seems that science is still not sure about what constitutes a permanent change....but they say the brain of drug addicts almost always does mend over time. That made me feel a while lot better. I get stressed way to easily by everything I read and learn! I feel obsessed that I completely understand it and all its implications!! (But that's why I needed meds to control my OCD! Before I began to take them...I was constantly lost in a word of tehnicality about anything I read!!! As if I were going for my PhD in each subject! LOL!!) :-)
How much do you still have to taper? In any case, good luck to you. I know you must be nervous awaiting "D-Day." Lynn :-)
Am off now to watch all those horrible "talking head" pundits on the Sunday shows..."Meet the Press", etc, etc!! Good way to keep my blood pressure up! LOL!
Twinlynn,
Thanks for the reply. Do you have a benzo withdrawal story of your own? If so, please share. Tell me about how you conquered the bear and soon became a happy go lucky, productive member of society.
Actually, I cannot wait until "D Day," about a month from now. I am already in considerable withdrawals at 7.5 mgs of Valium. Am surprised I got this low, but am going to try to get to 3.5 before jumping. Getting off means I am on the way to the true healing. I doubt I will be in for many surprises. Have one withdrawal under my belt already.
bookgal
08-16-2004, 01:37 AM
Hi my sister was on the effexor, and so was I Do know what you are going tru, but I think the Effexor is what is the cause of your anxiety. My sister and I have stop that med, and are better. ask your doctor to put you on a other anxiety med.
no patience
08-19-2004, 10:38 AM
hi howard how are you just wanted to make sure you're doing ok post back soon luv kelleigh :angel: :wave:
no patience
08-19-2004, 10:41 AM
hi twinnlynn how are you and you're sister doing have'nt talked to you in awhile hope all is well luv kelleigh :angel: :wave:
no patience
08-19-2004, 10:43 AM
Hi my sister was on the effexor, and so was I Do know what you are going tru, but I think the Effexor is what is the cause of your anxiety. My sister and I have stop that med, and are better. ask your doctor to put you on a other anxiety med.
you're right bookgal i was on effexor and they thought that was causing some of my anxiety so i weaned off it and they put me on lexapro effexor can be a bad antidepressant for certain people welcome to the boards luv kelleigh :wave:
you're right bookgal i was on effexor and they thought that was causing some of my anxiety so i weaned off it and they put me on lexapro effexor can be a bad antidepressant for certain people welcome to the boards luv kelleigh :wave:
no patience
08-27-2004, 03:40 PM
hi howard hope all is going ok i miss you post when you're ready big hugs kelleigh :angel: :wave:
no patience
08-28-2004, 08:14 PM
hi howard just want you to know i'm still here supporting you hugs and prayers hope your taper is going well post whwn you feel up to it i completly understand you have days even weeks that you just don't feel up to posting but i just want you know i'm thinking of you and keep up the good work easier said than done but hang in there ok kelleigh :angel:
Angelbaby03
08-29-2004, 11:16 AM
Dont worry, I know people in your same situation!!!! you will get better, trust me!
~Ash
~Ash
no patience
09-01-2004, 07:43 PM
hey howard miss ya love kelleigh :angel: :angel: :angel:
no patience
09-03-2004, 07:44 AM
hi howard just a quick hello and well wishes love kelleigh :angel: :wave: :angel:
no patience
09-05-2004, 02:44 PM
hi howard how are you i'm ok just checking in even though we can't see eachother i consider you a special friend and i'm just concerned that's why i keep posting from time to time in hopes that i'll get a quick update on how you're feeling i can assume not so well because you usually don't post that often when you're not up to it well i just wanted you to know i think about your situation everyday and pray that it will all be over for you soon let me know how you're doing when you're feeling up to it ok your friend kelleigh big hugs ((((((HOWARD))))) :angel: :angel: :wave: :angel: :angel:
no patience
09-10-2004, 08:02 AM
:angel: :angel: :angel: hi howard please be ok i've had an awful few weeks howard my boss hired a new girl who later we find out is in to drugs which is her decision i never judge people but the one thhing i did judge her for was she took it upon her self to go into my purse an help her self to 24 of my methadone and 15 of my clonzapam is'nt that nice well i filed a police report and the could'nt do anything because noone saw her do it well the police report aided me in getting my methadone back i did'nt really care about the clonzapam cause i don't really use it any more but we have been trying to set her up for the last week and it's just not working maybe she figures she over did her self i don't know so enough of me how are you i really miss you i know it sounds corny but you have become a very special friend i sincerly care how your taper is going and how you are feeling i wish i could take it all away i feel you've suffered enough well even if you don't post i hope you read this just to let you know i'm still thinking of you prayers and hugs love kelleigh
no patience
09-10-2004, 10:55 AM
:nono: ps howard are you still taking it easy with work i hope so love kelleigh
no patience
09-12-2004, 04:18 PM
hi howard just some daily support kelleigh :angel: :angel: :angel:
no patience
09-14-2004, 04:33 PM
hi howard i know i've been posting you alot but it's just because i'm worried about you usually when you don't post you're not doing so well i hope it's just because you're to busy and not the fact that you're still suffering pop in soon with a quick hello i'd really like to know how your doing if you don't and are still suffering i'm really sorry and you're in my prayers ok big hugs kelleigh :angel: :angel: :angel:
andyarj
09-14-2004, 05:20 PM
hi i had to chime in . I have posted on this topic a little im a terrible typist and speller so i cant get my piont across to well . but i have been on ssri,s for years [off now]i had terrible w/d;s i stress think serriously before starting med therapy, talk or group therapy should be first.ok trazadone did not help for sleep , made me feel odd, and i stoped taking it when i got that male side affect prolonged and painful erection.needless to say no more trazadone.but i think if it works and no side affects good for you.today i dont sleep to well because of back surgerys[long story]and take methadone for pain and opiate dependancy . i love this board wish i could type faster thanks to all of you for so much good advice and carring[sp]. Andy
no patience
09-16-2004, 10:35 AM
hi welcome to the boards andyarj sorry if i misspelled that sounds like you had an awful experience with trazadone it's amazing how different people are when i was going through methadone w/ds i would never have slept w/o it i made it 4 months w/o methadone and tried everything from ultram to fentynal you name it i tried it unfortunatly i'm back on methadone it's for chronic pain the w/d i went through i will never forget it remains in my nightmares forever i have degenerative disc disease and 2 bulging discs what did you have back surgery for well it's nice meeting you and again welcome post back soon kelleigh :wave: :angel:
no patience
09-17-2004, 07:50 AM
hi howard still thinking of you hugs kelleigh :angel: :angel: :angel:
no patience
09-18-2004, 10:31 AM
howard i know i'm a pain but where are you PLEASE POST SOON!!!!!!! love kelleigh :( :( :(