What Causes Weight Loss, Lack Of Taste, High BP And Depression Post Benzodiazepine Withdrawal?
Question: Over the past four months I was titrated off 6mg of Klonopin to 0mg. I had been taking the Benzo for 8 years. About 1 month into the titration I noticed these symptoms; tinisitis, depersonalization, head feeling full, temperature to heat sensitivity, weight loss (2 lbs per week - needed), lack of taste in food, higher BP, slight confusion, slight depression, and sleep disturbance. I am now completely off the Benzo for 9 days. Still experience the symptoms and added are; dizziness, less sleep disturbance, tiredness, low motivation, sweating (profuse), clamminess, smell, sensitive to touch, skin feels hot, and vision issues. My PCP wanted to add in a 1.5mg dose, but I refused due to reading about long-term Benzo use, liver issues, etc. How long will symptoms last? I have read up to 2 years. The feeling of pressure in my head is overwhelming.
Brief Answer:
You will feel better in 6-8 weeks.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting your query.
The symptoms that you are having are due to withdrawal of benzo after a long term use. Most of the symptoms will take at least 6-8 weeks to disappear. After that only mild symptoms may persist. You can increase your fluid intake and start with relaxation exercises like deep breathing exercises and Yoga. Avoid any caffeine and alcohol.
I hope this answers your query.
In case you have additional questions or doubts, you can forward them to me, and I shall be glad to help you out.
Wishing you good health.
Regards.
Dr. Praveen Tayal.
For future query, you can directly approach me through my profile URL http://bit.ly/Dr-Praveen-Tayal
You will feel better in 6-8 weeks.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting your query.
The symptoms that you are having are due to withdrawal of benzo after a long term use. Most of the symptoms will take at least 6-8 weeks to disappear. After that only mild symptoms may persist. You can increase your fluid intake and start with relaxation exercises like deep breathing exercises and Yoga. Avoid any caffeine and alcohol.
I hope this answers your query.
In case you have additional questions or doubts, you can forward them to me, and I shall be glad to help you out.
Wishing you good health.
Regards.
Dr. Praveen Tayal.
For future query, you can directly approach me through my profile URL http://bit.ly/Dr-Praveen-Tayal
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar