newtosobriety

I've been sober for 13 months now. When I quit drinking, I had muscle spasms all over my body and went to see a neurologist. He recommended Klonopin (Clonazepam) 1/2 pill of .5 mg every night before going to sleep. I later found out that it helped me out greatly with my anxieties, so a doctor I've seeing for alcohol addiction kept me on it and incremented the dose to 2 pills of .5 mg every day. I did not like the idea of getting addicted to another drug so I cut down gradually untill quiting completely about a month ago. Since then I've felt more anxious and depressed. Is this part of the withdrawls from this drug? I've heard it can be hard leaving this drug.

Anna

Hi,

Good for you for having 13 months sober!

You should talk to your dr about the problems you are having since quitting the clonazepam. Hopefully he will be able to help you with that.

nandm

Klonopin like many anti-anxiety and/or anti-depressant medications can cause withdrawl like symptoms. It is best to speak with your doctor. It may be that you need a medication for your anxiety and depression that is not as addicting or powerful as klonopin. Klonopin can be quite addictive if taken daily. I have a prescription for acute anxiety and can take it daily if needed. I make a point only to use when absolutely necessary as I do not want to have any problems resulting from its use. Many times anti-depressants have anti-anxiety properties as well. I would definately speak to my doctor.

Welcome to SR