Brotizolam Tapering After 3 Weeks Full Dose + 10 Days at 3/4 Dose
Continue tapering brotizolam gradually by reducing the dose by 25% every 1-2 weeks until complete discontinuation, which should take approximately 4-8 more weeks from your current point. 1, 2
Your Current Status and Next Steps
You have already begun tapering appropriately by reducing to 3/4 dose for 10 days. Here is your specific continuation plan:
Week-by-Week Tapering Schedule
From your current 3/4 dose position:
- Weeks 1-2: Reduce to 1/2 of the original full tablet (50% of original dose) 1, 2
- Weeks 3-4: Reduce to 1/4 of the original full tablet (25% of original dose) 1, 2
- Weeks 5-6: Reduce to 1/8 of the original full tablet, or take 1/4 tablet every other night 1, 3
- Week 7+: Complete discontinuation 1
Alternative Approach: Interval Extension
Instead of cutting tablets smaller, you can extend the time between doses once you reach 1/4 tablet: 1
- Take 1/4 tablet every night for 1-2 weeks
- Then every other night for 1-2 weeks
- Then every third night for 1 week
- Then stop completely
Why This Gradual Approach Matters
Abrupt discontinuation of benzodiazepines like brotizolam can cause seizures and death - this is as dangerous as suddenly stopping blood pressure or diabetes medications. 4, 2 The gradual taper allows your brain's GABA receptors time to readjust after adapting to the medication. 5, 6
Since you've only used brotizolam for approximately 5 weeks total (3 weeks + 10 days), your risk of severe withdrawal is lower than long-term users, but the tapering principle still applies. 5, 6
Expected Withdrawal Symptoms (Usually Mild at Your Duration)
Monitor for these symptoms, which should be mild given your short usage duration: 1, 2, 3
- Mild anxiety or restlessness
- Temporary sleep difficulty (rebound insomnia for 1-3 days after each reduction)
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Mild tremor or shakiness
If you experience severe anxiety, confusion, seizures, or severe tremors, seek immediate medical attention. 4, 2
Strategies to Minimize Withdrawal Discomfort
Sleep Hygiene (Critical During Tapering)
Implement these non-medication strategies: 1, 2
- Fixed sleep and wake times (even on weekends)
- No screens 1 hour before bed
- Cool, dark bedroom environment
- No caffeine after 2 PM
- Regular daytime exercise (but not within 3 hours of bedtime)
Symptomatic Management
- For muscle aches: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen as needed 1
- For anxiety: Deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation 2, 6
- Avoid alcohol completely during tapering (increases seizure risk) 4, 2
Critical Safety Points
Do not speed up this taper. The 25% reduction every 1-2 weeks is evidence-based to minimize withdrawal risks. 1, 2 If you experience significant symptoms at any reduction, pause at that dose for an additional 1-2 weeks before proceeding. 2, 3
Do not restart at higher doses if you have trouble sleeping - this creates a cycle of dependence. Instead, use the sleep hygiene strategies above and consider brief use of over-the-counter melatonin (1-3 mg) if needed. 1, 6
When to Seek Medical Help
Contact a physician if you experience: 4, 2
- Seizures or convulsions
- Severe confusion or disorientation
- Hallucinations
- Severe tremors that interfere with daily activities
- Suicidal thoughts
- Inability to complete the taper due to severe symptoms
Given your relatively short duration of use (5 weeks total), you should be able to complete this taper successfully with the schedule outlined above. 5, 3