Long-term benzodiazepine use can produce physical dependence even at prescribed doses. Coming off requires patience, expertise, and support. Our clinicians follow Ashton-style tapering with modern adjustments — typically over 6–24 months, paced by symptoms rather than the calendar.
Conditions we treat
- Long-term benzodiazepine prescription dependence
- BIND (benzodiazepine-induced neurological dysfunction) symptoms
- Z-drug (zolpidem, eszopiclone) tapering
- Inter-dose withdrawal and tolerance
- Post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS)
Our approach
Tapering is not a competition. The goal is a steady, sustainable reduction that you can complete without traumatic withdrawal:
Crossover when needed
Switching to a long-half-life agent (typically diazepam) for steadier blood levels.
Micro-tapering
Reductions of 5–10% every 2–4 weeks, often using compounded liquid or split tablets.
Supportive care
Sleep, nervous system regulation, nutrition, and (when appropriate) adjunct medications.
How it works
- 1
Comprehensive intake
Medication history, prior taper attempts, and current symptoms.
- 2
Plan design
A written taper schedule co-created with you, with clear flexibility built in.
- 3
Active taper
Bi-weekly visits during reductions, with messaging access for symptom support.
- 4
Post-taper recovery
Months of monitoring and PAWS support after the last dose.
Is this right for you?
Best for
- Patients on stable benzodiazepine doses for over 6 months
- Those who have tried to taper before and run into severe withdrawal
- Patients whose prescriber is unable to support a slow taper
Not the right fit
- Active polysubstance use disorder requiring inpatient care
- Patients in acute medical crisis
- Those seeking rapid detox (we do not offer this)
Frequently asked questions
How slow is your taper?
Most patients reduce by 5–10% of their current dose every 2–4 weeks. The exact pace is set by symptoms, not a fixed schedule.
Will I have withdrawal?
A well-paced taper minimizes withdrawal. Some symptoms are common but should remain tolerable. We adjust if they don't.
What about Klonopin or Xanax — do I have to switch to Valium?
Not always. Crossover helps when shorter-acting agents cause inter-dose withdrawal, but some patients taper directly from their current medication.
Do you prescribe other medications during the taper?
When clinically appropriate, we may use adjuncts (e.g., gabapentinoids, certain antihistamines, propranolol) to ease specific symptoms — never another sedative-hypnotic class as a substitute.
Ready to start?
Schedule a free 15-minute discovery call to see if this program fits your needs.