How To Wean Off Klonopin?

Posted on Sun, 18 Oct 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 18 Oct 2015 Answered on

Mon, 9 Nov 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I am 81 years old. 3 years ago I had a tooth infection. Not aware of this my daughter and I assumed that I was having a panic attack, as my daughter has anxiety. Dr.ordered Klonapin. I was not familiar with it. Took it for a time and when Iknew I didn't need it tried to wean myself off. was successful and now I am taking 0.5mg -1/4 tablet twice a day for a long time. Have tried ti get off it with no success so far? The k is now seeming to want more-where do I go from here.

Answered by Dr. Prakash H Muddegowda (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Need to reduce it to 0.25 mg. 0.5 mg wont work.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for asking.
I am Dr. Prakash HM and I will be answering your query.
Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:

1. Weaning should occur slowly.
2. You need to reduce from 0.5mg to 0.25 mg after a week.
3. Then continue with 0.25 mg for another week and it can be discontinued.
4. Sometimes, it might take up to 2-3 months on a low dose and the symptoms usually should start after 3-4 days of discontinuation. If it is occurring earlier, not related to medication. Usually, sleep disturbances are common. Others include tremors, sweating, headache, weakness or muscle ache.
5. Now importantly, you need to get 0.25 mg dose to start weaning. 0.5 mg is too high to discontinue.

Also, need to start on relaxation training and meditation along with proper sleep management to avoid any withdrawal symptoms.

Hope it helps.
Any further queries, here to help again.

Dr. Prakash HM

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D