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10
Tapering Process
• The process of gradually reducing the dose of the
benzodiazepine over time allows the brain to slowly adjust and
helps to reverse physical dependence. This also reduces the
risk and severity of withdrawal symptoms.
• Your healthcare provider may recommend that you gradually
switch to a longer-acting benzodiazepine. They are more likely
to recommend switching if you are taking certain short-acting
benzodiazepines, such as Xanax (alprazolam). A longer-acting
benzodiazepine may provide more steady levels in the body
and fewer withdrawal symptoms.
• An initial reduction of 5%-10% of the current total daily dosage
is a common starting point.
• In most cases, the dosage reduction should not exceed 25%
within a 2-week period.
• Your healthcare provider should carefully monitor your signs
and symptoms after each dose reduction.
• It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any
symptoms you may experience. Adjustments are an important
part of the process.
• If you experience significant withdrawal symptoms, your
healthcare providers should work with you to adjust the
tapering strategy. They may recommend:
» Smaller dose reductions
» Making dose reductions less often
» Pausing or temporarily stopping dose reduction
» Temporarily returning to the previous higher dose
(this is less common)
• Counseling or therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy,
can help support you during the tapering process. Support
groups involving other people undergoing benzodiazepine
taper may also help.
