I have OCD and Anxiety Disorder NOS. I do not get symptom relief from SSRIs and there are too many side effects. My psychiatrist has had me on alprazolam .5 mg once daily as needed for about 10 months now. I have noticed that if I do not take the alprazolam in the afternoon I start to feel dizzy and anxious. This concerns me and I think I want to taper off and discontinue the alprazolam. Problem: I’m in school and doing well. I’m balanced and stable. If I get off the alprazolam now it might seriously hurt my attendance and grades because of withdrawal symptoms. Or worse I end up in an inpatient psychiatric unit. My ideas are 1.) wait until the end of the semester to taper off it. Or 2.) taper down to .25 mg once daily and test the water.

What are some tips for getting off benzodiazepines? It’s a great medication but I want to avoid developing a stronger dependence than I already have. How long does withdraw last? Should I monitor my blood pressure frequently? Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks you.