I gotta get off the klonopin it is destroying me

[TexasBird]

I have been taking clonazepam (klonopin) for almost four years to help me fall asleep. I was diagnosed with OSA in October of this year and started using my CPAP in November. I stopped taking my clonazepam because I read somewhere that you shouldn't take it if you use a CPAP (not sure where I saw this). I also wanted to see how I would do without taking it once I started using the CPAP. I now cannot remember the last time I took my clonazepam at bedtime. I am falling asleep naturally for the first time in years. I am starting to feel better during the day because I am finally getting good sleep. I was worried that it would be difficult to get off the clonazepam but I have not had any side effects or felt bad at all. I understand everyone is different but after reading this thread I was wondering...is it dangerous to stop taking clonazepam cold turkey? I cannot see my phychiatrist right now (no insurance) so I have not been able to talk to her about it. Thanks.

[fishy]

I am currently taking 2mg of klonopin at bedtime. I am getting ready to taper off of it. DO NOT STOP BENZOS COLD TURKEY....THEY CAN CAUSE SEIZURES IF YOU DO!!! With that said, go to Benzobuddies.org and they will help you with a taper plan. Remember, it is not a race, taper so that you can remain functional. Many on there are using a 5%/week (holding as necessary) taper....some even slower. I will start my taper once I've had some time to get used to this cpap.

Good luck...and go SLOW.

[ems]

I have been taking clonazepam (klonopin) for almost four years to help me fall asleep. I was diagnosed with OSA in October of this year and started using my CPAP in November. I stopped taking my clonazepam because I read somewhere that you shouldn't take it if you use a CPAP (not sure where I saw this). I also wanted to see how I would do without taking it once I started using the CPAP. I now cannot remember the last time I took my clonazepam at bedtime. I am falling asleep naturally for the first time in years. I am starting to feel better during the day because I am finally getting good sleep. I was worried that it would be difficult to get off the clonazepam but I have not had any side effects or felt bad at all. I understand everyone is different but after reading this thread I was wondering...is it dangerous to stop taking clonazepam cold turkey? I cannot see my phychiatrist right now (no insurance) so I have not been able to talk to her about it. Thanks.

Hi Texas... yes, it is dangerous to cold turkey off ANY benzo. That said, I know several people who, like you, did just fine. I wouldn't worry about it at this point. Glad you are sleeping well without it.