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Concern Regarding Withdrawal and Duratio
Hello Doctor. I was prescribed Sertraline 50 mg and Clonazepam 0.25 mg for anxiety and panic symptoms. I am worried about dependency and withdrawal, especially with Clonazepam. If I take these medicines as prescribed, is withdrawal common? How are these medicines usually tapered safely, and what side effects should I realistically expect in the first few weeks?
Answers (7)
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Treatment can be possible without clonazepam also
And also side effects are far less than expected by population
Medicine help a lot
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consult
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consult
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U can taper with the help of psychiatrist
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Share your doubts with your doctor, he will psychoeducateyou, keep regular follow ups. Don't self medicate. Dependancy takes time to occur prior to that he will stop clonazepam.
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regular follow ups
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No withdrawal as such. Please take the medicines as prescribed
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Hi,once the symptoms are stabilized , clonazepam is first gradually tapered over weeks .Later sertraline. Consult online for questions regarding the same
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Dr. Bojja Sarada Sireesha
Neuropsychiatrist
8 yrs exp
Puducherry
Sertraline and low-dose Clonazepam are commonly prescribed for Anxiety Disorders and panic symptoms. Clonazepam is usually given short term to reduce anxiety while sertraline starts working. Dependence and withdrawal are generally more likely with higher doses or long-term unsupervised use, not usually with short-term low-dose use under medical guidance.
Next Steps
Continue medications as prescribed and follow up regularly
Clonazepam should be tapered gradually, not stopped suddenly
Typically the doctor reduces dose slowly over weeks depending on duration of use and response
Sertraline usually takes 2–6 weeks for noticeable benefit
Health Tips
Initial few weeks may cause mild nausea, headache, sleep changes, increased anxiety/jitteriness, or fatigue with sertraline in few patients.
Clonazepam may cause sleepiness initially
Take medicines regularly and avoid alcohol
Do not panic if mild side effects occur early—they often settle with time
Combine treatment with breathing exercises, sleep hygiene, and psychotherapy if possible
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.