AboutBarbara Judge Expertise Outpatient pharmacy and general health. I have recently completed a Pharmceutical Care Certificate Program offered by Purdue University (Spring 1999 completion). I have personal experience dealing with terminally ill persons and their needs, as well as their families` needs. I graduated in 1984 from Pharmacy School and have been a Licensed Pharmacist since then. I have 18 years retail pharmacy experience. Prior to my pharmacy training I have 3 years hospital experience as a Nurse`s Aide.
Expert: Barbara Judge Date: 10/15/2006 Subject: .5mg ativan/sleep anxiety
Question I have been on a .5mg tablet of ativan one to two times a day everday for about four weeks. I had a bout of insomnia this summer that turned into anxiety over sleeping and then started to make me anxious during the day. I just started Cognitive Behavioral Therapy about a week ago - we have not touched on the sleep anxiety yet as we will begin to this week. I'd love to start to taper off the ativan. The other night I decided to only take a .25 (broke it in half) and def. felt queasy and sweaty. What is the best way to taper off once I am ready to and we begin to touch upon the sleep anxiety and change my thoughts on sleep..etc?
Answer Once you begin your behavioral therapy and have discussed healthy sleep strategies with your therapist I would recommend that you decrease your dose of Ativan by 1/2 tablet every 7 days. Keep in touch with your primary care physician about your progress as well as your Behavioral Therapist. Most patients can decrease at the rate of 1/2 tablet every 7 days with minimal difficulty when they have been on Ativan short term like you have been.
