Conversion from Xanax to Valium

[tazzyslady]

My doctor is switching me from Xanax to Valium by my request. I have a problem with the conversion he has given me. 3.5 mg of Xanax to 15-20 mg. of Valium. I've checked 10 different conversion charts with most showing 35 mg. being the best conversion. So I know I'm going to be deficient. My question is how severe can the withdrawls be? I already have high blood pressure and am taking clonodine for it.

I was switched from Ativan 6 mg to Xanax 2.5 last July and the withdrawal sucked but I lived. I know now that the conversion wasn't exactly correct but it was a lot closer than this one is. 20 mg is all I can get him to write for at the moment. So what the heck can I expect as far as symptoms? Seizures? Puking?

Thanks for your input.

 

[Gyrospeck]

It varies from person to person, but for me the switch was relatively easy. I found Valium to be stronger in many ways and it gets stronger and more effective the longer your on it because it takes about 4 weeks to reach its peak effects. The first day or two I noticed a small change, but it wasn't bad. It's a different feeling (Valium is more physical, more sedating, and much longer lasting). These effects balanced out the slight reduction in mental anxiety relief provided by Xanax IME. For me, the switch was a very positive one. Valium is clearly a better drug for long-term maintenance. Xanax will always be king for a sudden panic attack, however.

My advice: once you make the switch, don't touch Xanax for at least a few months. It will mess up the transition a little bit.