Strategies for Discontinuing Lorazepam
I’m a 23-year-old male, and to summarize my situation, I was diagnosed with a significant anxiety disorder around the summer of either 2022 or 2023; it’s hard to recall exactly. Initially, I was prescribed 1 mg of lorazepam and 10 mg of Lexapro, which I continued for nearly a year. Interestingly, I managed to discontinue both medications after starting to smoke marijuana without experiencing withdrawal symptoms. However, in 2024, I found myself in a tough spot: I lost my long-standing job, my car broke down repeatedly, and various stressors caused my anxiety to resurface much worse than before. At that point, marijuana was not effective for me anymore, so I decided to stop using it altogether and resumed taking 10 mg of Lexapro and 1 mg of lorazepam. Fortunately, my life has improved since then, and I’ve found a new job that feels more stable. While I generally feel decent, my attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) seems to be getting more pronounced. This raises concerns as I believe I need to reinstate Vyvanse, which I had taken previously before starting the SSRIs. The dilemma is that my physician warned against taking both lorazepam and Vyvanse simultaneously. The challenge I face now is the inability to let go of lorazepam, as I fear my anxiety will become overwhelming again. My immediate worry, however, revolves around my ADHD, which is beginning to impact my workflow and focus at work. What are the ways to safely discontinue lorazepam?
Answers (1)
4/23/2025, 2:20:56 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's great to hear that you've found a new, stable job and that you're feeling decent overall. However, it's understandable to be concerned about finding the right balance between managing your anxiety and addressing your ADHD. Discontinuing lorazepam safely is important, and there are strategies you can use to facilitate this process.
Explanation:
Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine that can be habit-forming, particularly if used for an extended time. It's common to have concerns about anxiety resurfacing during the discontinuation process, especially if you're feeling anxious about your ADHD as well. The key is to approach this process gradually and with proper support.
Prioritized Next Steps:
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Consult with Your Physician: Since you're on both Lexapro and lorazepam, it's essential to discuss your plans with your doctor. They can create a tapering schedule tailored to your situation. This gradual reduction can help minimize withdrawal symptoms and anxiety spikes.
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Gradual Tapering: Typically, a doctor may recommend decreasing your lorazepam dose slowly (e.g., reducing by 0.25 mg every one to two weeks), allowing your body to adjust. Follow their guidance precisely.
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Alternative Anxiety Management Techniques:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Consider therapy to develop coping strategies for anxiety without medication.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices like deep breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga can help manage anxiety levels as you transition off lorazepam.
- Regular Exercise: Engaging in physical activity can reduce anxiety symptoms naturally.
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a journal of your mood, anxiety levels, and any ADHD symptoms. This will help you and your doctor make informed decisions about your treatment.
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Evaluate ADHD Treatment Options: Discuss reinstating Vyvanse with your physician after you have safely tapered off lorazepam. They can assess your situation and monitor for any potential interactions.
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Support System: Engage friends, family, or support groups. Sharing your experiences can provide emotional support during the tapering process.
Reassurance:
It's completely normal to have concerns about reducing medications like lorazepam, especially with past experiences. Trust in the gradual process and ensure you have professional guidance. By taking these steps, you can carefully navigate this transition while managing both your anxiety and ADHD effectively.
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