Some doctors resist the idea of using a slow taper to discontinue benzodiazepine. In order to avoid initial rejection, it may be best to make the request in the form of a letter, so the doctor will have some time to consider the idea. A template for such a letter may be downloaded by clicking here:
    template of letter to doctor

It is strongly advised that copies of Prof. Ashton's book, Benzodiazepines: How They Work and How To Withdraw, and her paper, Reasons for a Diazepam (Valium) Taper, should be presented to the prescribing physician along with the letter. They may be found here:
    http://www.benzo.org.uk/manual/
    http://www.benzo.org.uk/ashvtaper.htm

Doctors may tend to view information in printed form as more authoritative than if it is conveyed merely verbally. When keeping the initial appointment with the doctor to begin the discontinuation process, it is therefore advisable to bring copies of the tapering schedules, either from The Ashton Manual or those found in THE BENZO BOOK:
    dosage and discontinuation tables

A preview of THE BENZO BOOK, including the table of contents, the first two chapters, and the index, may be downloaded by clicking here:
    THE BENZO BOOK preview