Let me tell you from experience that not all doctors know anything about these drugs. They read about them in their little book and hand them out not knowing enough about the side effects. My doctor prescribed them because of trouble sleeping and wrote the prescription for a two month supply taking one each day...
I have been off of them for 6 weeks now, after finding out that they are only to be takend for 5 - 7 days maximum... The numbness in my body continues and I have very little use of my hands. I am unable to keep my balance when walking and my muscles do not work in my legs and they give out on me frequently. The burning under my skin is almost unbearable at times.
My new doctor has informed me that this withdrawal syndrome may last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years... Don't take these drugs for any reason, find another way.
I appreciate your article on the dangers of benzodiazepines also, but you are really misinforming people by telling them that their doctors know all about benzos. I would be amazed if you could find 50 doctors in the US who know how truly dangerous these drugs are, or have any clue how to properly manage a slow taper to take any one off of them. They are also unaware of the extent of the possible side effects. This leads to many people on benzos, or in tolerance withdrawal to be misdiagnosed with, (and then treated for) a plethora of health problems both physical and mental.
Accurate information on benzodiazepines and how to properly withdraw from them can be found here:
http://www.benzo.org.uk/
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Evening Dr, Diana
Just a word to thank you for making people aware of the dangers of benzodiazepine, but why not take it a step further by explaining what one goes trough when going in withdrawl of these meds, especially if somebody is addicted to them, I was addicted to them and getting off them was a horrible experience, at the time I was using them in a illicit way, oh boy did I pay the bill for that my detox was under medical supervision and had to be a inn-patient, there is no way I could stop by myself impossible the benzo in question was ativan s/l I consider it the crack of benzo's
Suffolk
Thanks so much for your kind comment.
You know, I think that you would be a much better person to explain what withdrawal is like. It sounds like you went through a horrible time, and others who are hooked should hear the truth. It's an awful thing, to be a slave to a drug, whether legal or not, isn't it?
Afternoon Doctor !
Yes it is a awfull thing I couldnt agree more with you, bu the way Doc I took your advice and posted of my experience with benzodiazepine...you might want to take a look at it and comment me.
Have a Nice Day !
Awesome post! I am so very glad that you told your story. It was a brave and generous thing to do, and I hope that people read it carefully.
Best of luck in your recovery!
Dr. Diana Walcutt