What dosages and duration will result in "addiction" to clonazepam ? been taking 1 and 1/2 mg daily for 5 months. is it time to talk to psychiatrist about stopping?

Addiction: Addiction will depend on the persons underlying physical and mental health. For example, a person who used to be an alcoholic or used to abuse drugs, would be much more susceptible to get addicted. People with lower body weights and even women in general metabolize medications differently, and may get addicted sooner than a larger man.The fact that you are concerned is good, so ask the Rx'ing Dr.

Yes, do discuss: Your psychiatrist has a reason for prescribing chronic clonazepam dosing for you, as opposed to episodic or symptomatic as-needed dosing. You probably have already taken it long enough for withdrawal (or physical craving). Addiction (or emotional craving) is different and would require specific measures when it comes time to stop. You should always understand your treatment plan, so do discuss.

Medication addiction: Addiction is different from dependence. Physiologic dependence is often mistaken for addiction. Addiction means that you misuse a substance to alter your consciousness despite legal or adverse health consequences. Dependence means that you need to take the medication in order to avoid unpleasant or dangerous withdrawal symptoms. If you have ever overdosed, your MD should help you get off the drug.

Not addicted: Addiction is a term reserved for patients who have a craving for a drug, which they are unable to control.Not infrequently they will increase the dosage of the drug on their own.Drug dependence, on the other hand, is something that develops when the body gets used to a substance and when it's suddenly stopped withdrawal symptoms occur.You may, or may not, exhibit withdrawal symptoms stoping clonaz

You can: develop a physiologic dependence at even very low levels, depending on your body's physiology. It's always good to review with your doctors whether or not you need to stay on a medication "forever".