Tapering

Tapering refers to the gradual lowering of a drug's dosage over a prolonged period of time. It is a harm reduction practice which is highly recommended for those who are physically dependent on psychoactive substances because stopping one's extended usage abruptly will result in withdrawal symptoms. In the case of certain drugs, such as benzodiazepines and alcohol, severe withdrawal symptoms can result in seizures and death.

Withdrawal symptoms may occur after ceasing usage abruptly following a few weeks or longer of steady dosing and the severity of the withdrawal symptoms increase the longer one uses the substance. For more information on tapering from benzodiazepines in a controlled manner, please see this guide.