Fightinghard Posted October 11, 2021 Share Posted October 11, 2021 Hey Alice- I’m with you on the aka and stress, etc. my experience is it sets you back but not like a medication or similar. I’m currently in the hurt locker from a change in melatonin. That set me way back. I think stress can make symptoms worse but I don’t believe it impedes healing. I’ve seen many people with very stressful situations improve with aka. good luck! 2003-2006- Zoloft then Wellbutrin, Ritalin, concerta , Adderall. Don’t remember dosage, tapers or timeframes. ADD treatment. I think I had some WD? Definitely PSSD which resolved over time. Zoloft 100 MG April18-april 22, 2020 Buspirone 20 mg from April 18-May 18 10 mg from May 18 - May 27 2020 Lexapro 5 mg from April 22 through May 1st 10 mg from May 1 through June 1 5 mg from June 1 though june 18 2.5 mg from June 18 through June 25 1.25 mg from June 25 through July 4 2020 Ambien - 2.5 mg April 21 and 26 2020 Trazodone 50 mg- 3 times late April and 4 days the first week in June 2020 Supplements: Melatonin .23 mg Link to comment
Alice1 Posted October 11, 2021 Author Share Posted October 11, 2021 @Fightinghard I agree 100% because my ADWD Akathisia improved enormously right when Covid was in full scare, and I literally was working retail and trying to convince my boss not to shut down and hide on a daily basis. That was just a fraction of the stress I had in 2020. My Akathisia still went away. December 2014 - Lexapro 20 mg August 2016 Med free (6 week taper) December 22 2021 added Abilify 5mg / Ativan .5mg / Depakote ER 1000mg Discontinued Abilify 5mg on 12-30-21---accidental dose on 1-13-22 (looks like Ativan) Ativan PRN/Discontinued 1-14-22 Only drug is Depakote ER 1000mg ( looking to taper slow and safe for once ) 3/24/22 Depakote 625mg Propranolol 20-40mg PRN Link to comment
Fightinghard Posted October 11, 2021 Share Posted October 11, 2021 I’ve seen a lot of stories and interact with allot of people with aka from ADWD, benzos, AP, etc. My takeaway from it all is reduce stress when you can, eat healthy (that’s individual. I’m going low gluten because it’s always bothered me), light exercises to tolerance, no meds, stay away from supplements (my mistake) except maybe magnesium, no caffeine, no alcohol and have positive interactions with people when you can. You’ll rebound. I’ve seen a bunch of people Post one day that they can’t take the aka anymore and the next week they are recovered. good luck! 1 2003-2006- Zoloft then Wellbutrin, Ritalin, concerta , Adderall. Don’t remember dosage, tapers or timeframes. ADD treatment. I think I had some WD? Definitely PSSD which resolved over time. Zoloft 100 MG April18-april 22, 2020 Buspirone 20 mg from April 18-May 18 10 mg from May 18 - May 27 2020 Lexapro 5 mg from April 22 through May 1st 10 mg from May 1 through June 1 5 mg from June 1 though june 18 2.5 mg from June 18 through June 25 1.25 mg from June 25 through July 4 2020 Ambien - 2.5 mg April 21 and 26 2020 Trazodone 50 mg- 3 times late April and 4 days the first week in June 2020 Supplements: Melatonin .23 mg Link to comment
Fightinghard Posted October 11, 2021 Share Posted October 11, 2021 I hope you don’t mind a quick question… as your aka started to lift, did you start to feel down? Almost depressed? I’m having more days where my body feels tired and I’m more depressed feeling. I think it’s the aka lifting and the body is trying to adjust. That’s my guess. 2003-2006- Zoloft then Wellbutrin, Ritalin, concerta , Adderall. Don’t remember dosage, tapers or timeframes. ADD treatment. I think I had some WD? Definitely PSSD which resolved over time. Zoloft 100 MG April18-april 22, 2020 Buspirone 20 mg from April 18-May 18 10 mg from May 18 - May 27 2020 Lexapro 5 mg from April 22 through May 1st 10 mg from May 1 through June 1 5 mg from June 1 though june 18 2.5 mg from June 18 through June 25 1.25 mg from June 25 through July 4 2020 Ambien - 2.5 mg April 21 and 26 2020 Trazodone 50 mg- 3 times late April and 4 days the first week in June 2020 Supplements: Melatonin .23 mg Link to comment
Alice1 Posted October 11, 2021 Author Share Posted October 11, 2021 @Fightinghard I've heard of that, but I never really experienced it myself. I have experienced those feelings along with Aka but to say it was a after effect of Aka is beyond me. It makes sense though. I’ve heard of anxiety cases feeling like that when they’re close to recovery. December 2014 - Lexapro 20 mg August 2016 Med free (6 week taper) December 22 2021 added Abilify 5mg / Ativan .5mg / Depakote ER 1000mg Discontinued Abilify 5mg on 12-30-21---accidental dose on 1-13-22 (looks like Ativan) Ativan PRN/Discontinued 1-14-22 Only drug is Depakote ER 1000mg ( looking to taper slow and safe for once ) 3/24/22 Depakote 625mg Propranolol 20-40mg PRN Link to comment
Fightinghard Posted October 21, 2021 Share Posted October 21, 2021 Hey Alice- how are you hanging in there? This aka healing is crazy! I’m starting to do more naturally and not think about it. It’s like the symptoms most days are less intense so I’m able to just do things. Now I’m still limited in driving but I’ll take my kids to their practice some days when I need to. It’s weird though, I feel better but I’m not and I’m still limited. I think emotionally I’m feeling better which is why I’m feeling better. Anyway hoping you are seeing some better days. 2003-2006- Zoloft then Wellbutrin, Ritalin, concerta , Adderall. Don’t remember dosage, tapers or timeframes. ADD treatment. I think I had some WD? Definitely PSSD which resolved over time. Zoloft 100 MG April18-april 22, 2020 Buspirone 20 mg from April 18-May 18 10 mg from May 18 - May 27 2020 Lexapro 5 mg from April 22 through May 1st 10 mg from May 1 through June 1 5 mg from June 1 though june 18 2.5 mg from June 18 through June 25 1.25 mg from June 25 through July 4 2020 Ambien - 2.5 mg April 21 and 26 2020 Trazodone 50 mg- 3 times late April and 4 days the first week in June 2020 Supplements: Melatonin .23 mg Link to comment
Fightinghard Posted October 26, 2021 Share Posted October 26, 2021 Hey Jeff- I hope things are settling down some. It’s so hard with WDaka to know how much to do or not do. I’ve read your thread and I’ve been trying to adopt a similar approach to healing by staying busy. Are you very sensitive to things? Like loud noises make you ‘jump’ or maybe fast movements catch your attention? It’s hard to describe. I’ve rubbed up against something and I ‘flinch’. Just curious if you push though it or not. i hope healing continues for you! 2003-2006- Zoloft then Wellbutrin, Ritalin, concerta , Adderall. Don’t remember dosage, tapers or timeframes. ADD treatment. I think I had some WD? Definitely PSSD which resolved over time. Zoloft 100 MG April18-april 22, 2020 Buspirone 20 mg from April 18-May 18 10 mg from May 18 - May 27 2020 Lexapro 5 mg from April 22 through May 1st 10 mg from May 1 through June 1 5 mg from June 1 though june 18 2.5 mg from June 18 through June 25 1.25 mg from June 25 through July 4 2020 Ambien - 2.5 mg April 21 and 26 2020 Trazodone 50 mg- 3 times late April and 4 days the first week in June 2020 Supplements: Melatonin .23 mg Link to comment
Alice1 Posted October 26, 2021 Author Share Posted October 26, 2021 That’s a good approach but you definitely want to take it easy. Look to soothe your CNS more than anything. December 2014 - Lexapro 20 mg August 2016 Med free (6 week taper) December 22 2021 added Abilify 5mg / Ativan .5mg / Depakote ER 1000mg Discontinued Abilify 5mg on 12-30-21---accidental dose on 1-13-22 (looks like Ativan) Ativan PRN/Discontinued 1-14-22 Only drug is Depakote ER 1000mg ( looking to taper slow and safe for once ) 3/24/22 Depakote 625mg Propranolol 20-40mg PRN Link to comment
Ktven48 Posted October 26, 2021 Share Posted October 26, 2021 On 10/21/2021 at 1:56 PM, Fightinghard said: Hey Alice- how are you hanging in there? This aka healing is crazy! I’m starting to do more naturally and not think about it. It’s like the symptoms most days are less intense so I’m able to just do things. Now I’m still limited in driving but I’ll take my kids to their practice some days when I need to. It’s weird though, I feel better but I’m not and I’m still limited. I think emotionally I’m feeling better which is why I’m feeling better. Anyway hoping you are seeing some better days. Just chiming in to say this is exactly how I am doing in my recovery. The darkest part of my aka was 2-3 weeks and it slowly slowly started to wane in intensity. I’m still nervous to make ANY plans with people or going places but I hope that changes soon. My mood seems to be a little down in the dumps but maybe because my body is used to be restless/running on adrenaline 24/7. It’s been almost 8 weeks of this craziness but I can feel the healing happening. Dec 2017 Zoloft 3 nights - bad reaction end up in hospital // Jan 2018-Jan 2019- Venlafaxine 75mg Trazadone 200mgstarted in hospital // 2019-2020 - Slow venlafaxine taper ended up at 3 beads in mid 2020 pretty flawless taper with minimal withdrawal Symptoms was on 10-20mg PRN adderall during this time // Jan 2021-March 2021 Miscarriage, Adderall CT, Vaccine still on 3 beads // April 2021-July 2021 Start experiencing withdrawal type symptoms, depression anxiety not sure why - increased to 5-10 beads over two months // July 2021 Pregnant // August 2021 tried to wean down back to 3 beads // September 2021 Hard crash - insomnia, akathisia, panic attacks, cortisol rushes, constant adrenaline rushes, depression, no appetite, nausea on and off, muscle pain // current: October 7th Reinstated 37.5mg of Venlafaxine 200mg Trazadone // 5-10 mg of propranolol Clonazepam PRN last dose Oct 6th trying to stay off Supplements: Occasional L-theanine Prenatal mag citrate 400–600mg before bed Link to comment
Alice1 Posted October 26, 2021 Author Share Posted October 26, 2021 @Fightinghard When I recovered the first time from Aka I remember not doing anything in particular to help. The first 3 years I walked and meditated everyday, I had a counselor, and did everything possible to try to get better. I really didn’t start getting better until I just forgot about all that stuff and started focusing on normal things. If you ask me, I think just time and drug abstinence are the only things required. Then once you start feeling better even just a little bit, it’s important to just start living your life, smart and carefully of course. 1 December 2014 - Lexapro 20 mg August 2016 Med free (6 week taper) December 22 2021 added Abilify 5mg / Ativan .5mg / Depakote ER 1000mg Discontinued Abilify 5mg on 12-30-21---accidental dose on 1-13-22 (looks like Ativan) Ativan PRN/Discontinued 1-14-22 Only drug is Depakote ER 1000mg ( looking to taper slow and safe for once ) 3/24/22 Depakote 625mg Propranolol 20-40mg PRN Link to comment
Fightinghard Posted October 26, 2021 Share Posted October 26, 2021 Thanks! I agree that removing your focus from the situation and doing other things helps when you can. There is something about neural pathways needing to regenerate. I’m at a point where I don’t pace and have not had terror and fear is very infrequent. I’m just so sensitive to things like my legs feel weird and I’m easily startled with things. Burning chest. I’m driving now and tv is getting better. I’m hoping things improve. But I notice when I do things (not too much) I feel better. Especially social things. So I’m hoping to go back to work next month part time… we’ll see. Keep healing! 2003-2006- Zoloft then Wellbutrin, Ritalin, concerta , Adderall. Don’t remember dosage, tapers or timeframes. ADD treatment. I think I had some WD? Definitely PSSD which resolved over time. Zoloft 100 MG April18-april 22, 2020 Buspirone 20 mg from April 18-May 18 10 mg from May 18 - May 27 2020 Lexapro 5 mg from April 22 through May 1st 10 mg from May 1 through June 1 5 mg from June 1 though june 18 2.5 mg from June 18 through June 25 1.25 mg from June 25 through July 4 2020 Ambien - 2.5 mg April 21 and 26 2020 Trazodone 50 mg- 3 times late April and 4 days the first week in June 2020 Supplements: Melatonin .23 mg Link to comment
Fightinghard Posted October 27, 2021 Share Posted October 27, 2021 @Alice1 @Ktven48 I honestly think the key to recovery is low stress on the cns and consistency. I’ve made the mistake of using supplements along the way. Magnesium glycinate and melatonin along with fish oil. Melatonin has proven to be a really difficult one for me. I think as long as you remove the offending drug and don’t add or takeaway to many other things, the cns can adapt to the environment to reach homeostasis. I know at least 3 people that had aka and healed while taking meds. But they stayed constant on those meds. One you are at a point that you can interact with the world, integrate slowly. Before I realized I had aka I was driving 5 hours a day 3 days a week. I drove to and from Louisville and watched my daughters cheer event which is loud and bright. Point is I had a rough week after that but I bounced back enough to make it to my sons track, etc. I was active and struggling but I was doing it. Then on May 23rd I reduced my melatonin dose by half from .3 to .15mg thinking I didn’t need it anymore. What a mistake. It set me way back. May 25 I drive to Cleveland from Columbus (my home) and back. Worked, did a lot of things. On June 2 I basically became agoraphobic and I’ve struggled since. All because I messed with my dosage. I’m completely convinced this caused this. I know at least 6 other people this happened to. Plus I’ve tried to taper since and each time it has been a challenge. I’m down to .23 mg. I finally decided to hold steady and let my body heal considering I’ve was slowly doing better prior to the set back. I’m sharing these experiences to say stress and activity will cause issues but in my experience they are short lived set backs. 3-7 days? But food, meds, and supplements are much more impactful and set you back further. So I’m not touching anything except the melatonin I’m taking and eating clean. Maybe some Epsom salt baths. Be very careful As you feel better. Give it cns a constant environment to allow for healing. 2003-2006- Zoloft then Wellbutrin, Ritalin, concerta , Adderall. Don’t remember dosage, tapers or timeframes. ADD treatment. I think I had some WD? Definitely PSSD which resolved over time. Zoloft 100 MG April18-april 22, 2020 Buspirone 20 mg from April 18-May 18 10 mg from May 18 - May 27 2020 Lexapro 5 mg from April 22 through May 1st 10 mg from May 1 through June 1 5 mg from June 1 though june 18 2.5 mg from June 18 through June 25 1.25 mg from June 25 through July 4 2020 Ambien - 2.5 mg April 21 and 26 2020 Trazodone 50 mg- 3 times late April and 4 days the first week in June 2020 Supplements: Melatonin .23 mg Link to comment
Ktven48 Posted October 27, 2021 Share Posted October 27, 2021 11 minutes ago, Fightinghard said: @Alice1 @Ktven48 I honestly think the key to recovery is low stress on the cns and consistency. I’ve made the mistake of using supplements along the way. Magnesium glycinate and melatonin along with fish oil. Melatonin has proven to be a really difficult one for me. I think as long as you remove the offending drug and don’t add or takeaway to many other things, the cns can adapt to the environment to reach homeostasis. I know at least 3 people that had aka and healed while taking meds. But they stayed constant on those meds. One you are at a point that you can interact with the world, integrate slowly. Before I realized I had aka I was driving 5 hours a day 3 days a week. I drove to and from Louisville and watched my daughters cheer event which is loud and bright. Point is I had a rough week after that but I bounced back enough to make it to my sons track, etc. I was active and struggling but I was doing it. Then on May 23rd I reduced my melatonin dose by half from .3 to .15mg thinking I didn’t need it anymore. What a mistake. It set me way back. May 25 I drive to Cleveland from Columbus (my home) and back. Worked, did a lot of things. On June 2 I basically became agoraphobic and I’ve struggled since. All because I messed with my dosage. I’m completely convinced this caused this. I know at least 6 other people this happened to. Plus I’ve tried to taper since and each time it has been a challenge. I’m down to .23 mg. I finally decided to hold steady and let my body heal considering I’ve was slowly doing better prior to the set back. I’m sharing these experiences to say stress and activity will cause issues but in my experience they are short lived set backs. 3-7 days? But food, meds, and supplements are much more impactful and set you back further. So I’m not touching anything except the melatonin I’m taking and eating clean. Maybe some Epsom salt baths. Be very careful As you feel better. Give it cns a constant environment to allow for healing. Learned this the hard way. Dropped a lot of extra meds and supplements. Letting my brain adjust to my néw dose and will continue tapering late next year. I really need to heal after this crazy crash. Dec 2017 Zoloft 3 nights - bad reaction end up in hospital // Jan 2018-Jan 2019- Venlafaxine 75mg Trazadone 200mgstarted in hospital // 2019-2020 - Slow venlafaxine taper ended up at 3 beads in mid 2020 pretty flawless taper with minimal withdrawal Symptoms was on 10-20mg PRN adderall during this time // Jan 2021-March 2021 Miscarriage, Adderall CT, Vaccine still on 3 beads // April 2021-July 2021 Start experiencing withdrawal type symptoms, depression anxiety not sure why - increased to 5-10 beads over two months // July 2021 Pregnant // August 2021 tried to wean down back to 3 beads // September 2021 Hard crash - insomnia, akathisia, panic attacks, cortisol rushes, constant adrenaline rushes, depression, no appetite, nausea on and off, muscle pain // current: October 7th Reinstated 37.5mg of Venlafaxine 200mg Trazadone // 5-10 mg of propranolol Clonazepam PRN last dose Oct 6th trying to stay off Supplements: Occasional L-theanine Prenatal mag citrate 400–600mg before bed Link to comment
Alice1 Posted November 3, 2021 Author Share Posted November 3, 2021 Update, 3 weeks ago I tested positive for Covid. My whole family contracted the virus and we were all down for the count. Thankfully we all have pulled through. I tested negative this morning, but I’m going to continue to wear a mask and social distance for a week for good measure. Needless to say Covid sent my symptoms through the roof. Once again I caught myself thinking that since the severity is so so high that I’ll take forever to heal again. Well I’m not claiming victory or anything, but it does seem that the Akathisia is clearing up a bit again. I’m still riddled with terror, DR, and this weird full body tension that peaks for a couple hours everyday, but I do think things are starting to level off again. This is where the rubber meets the road for me. This has happened 3 times now where I start to feel a little better, but then I’ll do something stupid, and set myself back. I’ve already caught myself going for a vigorous bike ride through the fields of where I live. I just can’t do that right now. I think I will set a goal to return to a light duty part time position at my former place of employment sometime this month. Again, I absolutely can not go full, tilt, and boogie, and work 6 days a week. I’m thinking maybe 3-4 days. So , that’s my update. I am nowhere near recovered again, but I do definitely feel the wheels turning in that direction. There will be bumps, and waves, but I’m feeling more optimistic about recovery again. I’ll update when I have one. Thx. December 2014 - Lexapro 20 mg August 2016 Med free (6 week taper) December 22 2021 added Abilify 5mg / Ativan .5mg / Depakote ER 1000mg Discontinued Abilify 5mg on 12-30-21---accidental dose on 1-13-22 (looks like Ativan) Ativan PRN/Discontinued 1-14-22 Only drug is Depakote ER 1000mg ( looking to taper slow and safe for once ) 3/24/22 Depakote 625mg Propranolol 20-40mg PRN Link to comment
Alice1 Posted November 9, 2021 Author Share Posted November 9, 2021 @Altostrata @brassmonkey Hey guys , I was diagnosed with Covid 4 weeks ago. I have mostly recovered from Covid, but now my WD symptoms are through the roof. Like 14/10 scale. Does this make sense? I assuming the physical stress from fighting the infection is what’s causing it. Just wanted to know if you agree. Thanks. December 2014 - Lexapro 20 mg August 2016 Med free (6 week taper) December 22 2021 added Abilify 5mg / Ativan .5mg / Depakote ER 1000mg Discontinued Abilify 5mg on 12-30-21---accidental dose on 1-13-22 (looks like Ativan) Ativan PRN/Discontinued 1-14-22 Only drug is Depakote ER 1000mg ( looking to taper slow and safe for once ) 3/24/22 Depakote 625mg Propranolol 20-40mg PRN Link to comment
Daisygirlsk Posted November 9, 2021 Share Posted November 9, 2021 34 minutes ago, Alice1 said: @Altostrata @brassmonkey Hey guys , I was diagnosed with Covid 4 weeks ago. I have mostly recovered from Covid, but now my WD symptoms are through the roof. Like 14/10 scale. Does this make sense? I assuming the physical stress from fighting the infection is what’s causing it. Just wanted to know if you agree. Thanks. I recently had a severe cold/sinus infection and my wd became much more severe..I read that the immune response really stimulates the CNS. this process is so incredibly long and frustrating April 2011 - citalopram 20 mg April 2018 - tapered in 4 weeks Nov 2018 - reinstated 20 mg Stopped 8 days later bad reaction November 5 2020 - reinstated citalopram 0.5mg. Increase to 1mg November 10 2020 - stopped citalopram. December 8 2020 - reinstate 2.5mg citalopram. Stayed on until December 17 December 20 2020 - discontinue citalopram again Dec 2020 - start ativan for akathisia Nov 2020 to Jan 2021 - tried low dose Seroquel, Risperidone, Luvox, Zoloft and Prozac. just added symptoms no benefit Feb 2021 - ativan went paradoxical. landed in hospital. cold turkeyed. Totally drug free since Feb 21, 2021 Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted November 9, 2021 Administrator Share Posted November 9, 2021 Post-covid symptoms seem to overlap with some withdrawal symptoms. This may be what you feel. Also, your energy reserve and resistance is depleted from being ill. This is not medical advice. Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a knowledgeable medical practitioner. "It has become appallingly obvious that our technology has surpassed our humanity." -- Albert Einstein All postings © copyrighted. Link to comment
Fightinghard Posted November 9, 2021 Share Posted November 9, 2021 Hey Alice- just checking in. I hope things are settling down for you and you’re able to get some relief. 2003-2006- Zoloft then Wellbutrin, Ritalin, concerta , Adderall. Don’t remember dosage, tapers or timeframes. ADD treatment. I think I had some WD? Definitely PSSD which resolved over time. Zoloft 100 MG April18-april 22, 2020 Buspirone 20 mg from April 18-May 18 10 mg from May 18 - May 27 2020 Lexapro 5 mg from April 22 through May 1st 10 mg from May 1 through June 1 5 mg from June 1 though june 18 2.5 mg from June 18 through June 25 1.25 mg from June 25 through July 4 2020 Ambien - 2.5 mg April 21 and 26 2020 Trazodone 50 mg- 3 times late April and 4 days the first week in June 2020 Supplements: Melatonin .23 mg Link to comment
Fightinghard Posted November 9, 2021 Share Posted November 9, 2021 Sorry Alice-when I signed on your latest updates didn’t show up for me. Sorry about Covid but glad you’re in h heading the right direction. 2003-2006- Zoloft then Wellbutrin, Ritalin, concerta , Adderall. Don’t remember dosage, tapers or timeframes. ADD treatment. I think I had some WD? Definitely PSSD which resolved over time. Zoloft 100 MG April18-april 22, 2020 Buspirone 20 mg from April 18-May 18 10 mg from May 18 - May 27 2020 Lexapro 5 mg from April 22 through May 1st 10 mg from May 1 through June 1 5 mg from June 1 though june 18 2.5 mg from June 18 through June 25 1.25 mg from June 25 through July 4 2020 Ambien - 2.5 mg April 21 and 26 2020 Trazodone 50 mg- 3 times late April and 4 days the first week in June 2020 Supplements: Melatonin .23 mg Link to comment
NeDaytoDayMJ Posted November 9, 2021 Share Posted November 9, 2021 3 hours ago, Alice1 said: @Altostrata @brassmonkey Hey guys , I was diagnosed with Covid 4 weeks ago. I have mostly recovered from Covid, but now my WD symptoms are through the roof. Like 14/10 scale. Does this make sense? I assuming the physical stress from fighting the infection is what’s causing it. Just wanted to know if you agree. Thanks. Hi I was diagnosed with covid on Oct 18. The past two weeks my symptoms were the worst they have ever been. The past 5 days I have found some relief. Covid definitely messed with me. I’m just getting my taste back. How is your taste? I think covid takes awhile to get fully out of your system. 2010 - 2018 Zoloft 75 mg 2019 Zoloft 50mg 2019 Zoloft 25 mg 2020 Zoloft 12.5mg 2020 Switched July 6, 2020 to Lexapro 10 mg Nov 10, 2020 5 mg 2021 Feb 2, 2021 2.5 mg until July 24, 2021 (Date quit) 2021 Lexapro .5 mg Reinstatement Aug 18, 2021 2021 Lexapro .42 mg Nov 16, 2021 2021 Lexapro .35 mg Dec 1, 2021 2021 Lexapro .5 mg updose Dec 11, 2021 2022 Lexapro 1.0 mg updose March 15, 2022 2022 Quit Lexapro March 19, 2022 Link to comment
Alice1 Posted December 3, 2021 Author Share Posted December 3, 2021 @Altostrata Hi Alto, Whats the scoop for PGAD . I am a 47 year old man and I've been in WD for 5 years . I got better in 4 years but took antibiotic and morphine for a kidney stone and got setback . That was 11 months ago .. Last night I was intimate with my girlfriend and my genitals have been restless and aroused since (24 hours ago) .. Is this something that will calm down ? I don't want to research or read anything because I might cause a fear cycle .. Thanks Jeff December 2014 - Lexapro 20 mg August 2016 Med free (6 week taper) December 22 2021 added Abilify 5mg / Ativan .5mg / Depakote ER 1000mg Discontinued Abilify 5mg on 12-30-21---accidental dose on 1-13-22 (looks like Ativan) Ativan PRN/Discontinued 1-14-22 Only drug is Depakote ER 1000mg ( looking to taper slow and safe for once ) 3/24/22 Depakote 625mg Propranolol 20-40mg PRN Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted December 3, 2021 Administrator Share Posted December 3, 2021 Please use search in the Symptoms forum to see our discussions about PGAD. This is not medical advice. Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a knowledgeable medical practitioner. "It has become appallingly obvious that our technology has surpassed our humanity." -- Albert Einstein All postings © copyrighted. Link to comment
Alice1 Posted December 16, 2021 Author Share Posted December 16, 2021 Update, I have been experiencing symptoms of PGAD for the last 2 weeks. After reading the thread on PGAD I'm optimistic about healing from it but I'm also discouraged because it seems to have an acute period to it . A lot have said that the first months were the worst and that certainly seems like the case . Akathisia is also ramped up from Covid 1.5 months ago. Life is challenging right now, that is for sure . I am sleeping and functioning about 65%. Work is a challenge for sure . Holidays are going to be rough this year but they are almost over and that will help .. Anyway, if anybody has any positive PGAD stories don't hesitate to share .. I'll update when I have one .. December 2014 - Lexapro 20 mg August 2016 Med free (6 week taper) December 22 2021 added Abilify 5mg / Ativan .5mg / Depakote ER 1000mg Discontinued Abilify 5mg on 12-30-21---accidental dose on 1-13-22 (looks like Ativan) Ativan PRN/Discontinued 1-14-22 Only drug is Depakote ER 1000mg ( looking to taper slow and safe for once ) 3/24/22 Depakote 625mg Propranolol 20-40mg PRN Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus ChessieCat Posted December 16, 2021 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted December 16, 2021 From the posts that other members have made when the PGAD worsens in most instances it seems to be increased stress. My suggestion would be to try to incorporate some non drug de-stressing/calming techniques at least 3 or 4 times a day, every day. It doesn't need to be for very long. Just a few minutes each time. Even if all you do is turn your attention to something else, like looking out of a window or stand up and march on the spot. Doing it regularly throughout the day can help to stop the stress from building up so even though you might still be stressed it is at a lower level. To start with you might need to set a reminder, but after a few weeks of doing this it will become more of a habit. I now find that when something stresses me I realise it much faster than I used to and am able to take a few moments and calm myself. It has become almost automatic. If I am in the middle of doing something I might just say to myself something like "chill", "relax", "you're okay" and take a few deeper breaths. * NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA * MISSION ACCOMPLISHED: (6 year taper) 0mg Pristiq on 13th November 2021 ADs since ~1992: 25+ years - 1 unknown, Prozac (muscle weakness), Zoloft; citalopram (pooped out) CTed (very sick for 2.5 wks a few months after); Pristiq: 50mg 2012, 100mg beg 2013 (Serotonin Toxicity) Tapering from Oct 2015 - 13 Nov 2021 LAST DOSE 0.0025mg Post 0 updates start here My tapering program My Intro (goes to tapering graph) VIDEO: Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome and its Management Link to comment
Alice1 Posted December 16, 2021 Author Share Posted December 16, 2021 @ChessieCat Thank you ChessieCat, But what puzzles me is that after 5 years AD free I just now get PGAD ? I've had akathisia for 4 of those years so maybe that's all that's required for the development of PGAD. I just got over covid too so maybe that is contributing. If anybody reading this is freaked about me having akathisia for 4 years don't worry . It gets better but be careful because you can reignite it like I did with antibiotics . 1 December 2014 - Lexapro 20 mg August 2016 Med free (6 week taper) December 22 2021 added Abilify 5mg / Ativan .5mg / Depakote ER 1000mg Discontinued Abilify 5mg on 12-30-21---accidental dose on 1-13-22 (looks like Ativan) Ativan PRN/Discontinued 1-14-22 Only drug is Depakote ER 1000mg ( looking to taper slow and safe for once ) 3/24/22 Depakote 625mg Propranolol 20-40mg PRN Link to comment
ThatOneGirlStitch Posted December 17, 2021 Share Posted December 17, 2021 3 hours ago, Alice1 said: If anybody reading this is freaked about me having akathisia for 4 years don't worry . It gets better but be careful because you can reignite it like I did with antibiotics . Thank you Current: Bupropion 450mg, Neurontin 800mg, Klonopin 0.5mg History: July 2020: started Cogentin 1mg, Lamictal 50mg, Zoloft 150mg, Zyprexa 5mg (+5mg as needed), Klonopin 0.5mg November 2020: stopped all meds cold-turkey February 2021: started Latuda 60mg, Lithium 300mg, Melatonin 5mg, Protonix 40mg, Topamax 25mg 2 weeks later: stopped Topamax, increased Lithium 900mg, started Klonopin 1mg, Lexapro 20mg, Neurontin 400mg April 2021: started Bupropion 150mg, Revia ?mg May 2021: stopped Revia, Protonix, Lexapro, increased Neurontin 800mg, started Celexa 10mg August 2021: decreased Celexa 5mg (stopped Celexa 2 weeks later), increased Bupropion 300mg September 2021: increased Latuda 80mg October 2021: decreased Lithium 600mg for 4 days, Lithium 300mg for 4 days, stopped Lithium, Latuda, increased Bupropion 450mg, started Remeron 15mg, decreased Remeron 7.5mg, stopped Remeron Link to comment
LexAnger Posted December 17, 2021 Share Posted December 17, 2021 Hi Alice1, I am very sorry to hear your setback! I think you guessed it right. Its most likely caused by covid. I had a horodous experience after catching covid in March 2020. Covid alone can cause healthy ppl symptoms very much alike psychological drug withdrawal, not only mess up those who already in the thick of withdrawal. There is a covid support group on Facebook where you can read many stories about how covid causes neurological symptoms to the so called long haulers. Lexanger Drug free Sep. 23 2017 2009 Mar.: lexapro 10mg for headache for 2 weeks. 2009-2012: on and off 1/4 to 1/3 of 10mg 2012 June--2013 Jan,: 1/4-1/3 of 10mg generic, bad jaw pain 2013 Jan-Mar: 10 mg generic. severe jaw and head pain; 2013 Mar--Aug. started tapering (liquid ever since) from 10 to 5 (one step) then gradually down to 2.25 mg by July. first ever panic attack, severe head/jaw pain 2013 Aug.: back to 2.75 mg; Nov: back to Brand Lex. 2.75mg -- 3mg, 2014 June: stopped PPI, head pressure/numbness. up-dosed 4.5mg, severe reaction mental symptoms added on 2014 Aug--2015 Aug: Micro taper down to 3.2mg, .025mg (<1%) cut holding 2-3 weeks. 2015 Aug 15th, Accidental one dose of 4.2mg. worsening brain non-functional, swollen head, body, coma like, DR 2016 Feb., started dosing 10am through 11 pm everyday 2/13--3.2mg, 3/15-- 2.9mg, 4/19-- 2.6mg, 6/26--2.2mg, 7/22 --1.9mg, 8/16--1.8mg，8/31--1.7m g, 9/13--1.6mg, 9/27--1.5mg, 10/8--1.4mg, 10/14--1.3mg， 11/1--1.2mg, 11/29--1.1mg, 12/12--1mg, 12/22--0.9mg 2017: 1/7--0.8mg, 1/15--0.7mg, 1/17--0.6mg, 1/20--0.52, 1/21--0.4mg, 1/22--0.26, 1/23--0.2, 2/13--0.13mg, 2/20--0.06mg, 3/18--0.13mg, 6/1--0.12mg, 7/6--0.1mg, 7/14--0.08mg, 8/17--0.04mg, 8/20--0.03mg, 8/28--0.02mg, 9/6--0.0205mg, 9/8--0.02mg, 9/17--0.015mg, 9/20--0.01mg, 9/21--0.0048mg, 9/22--0.0001mg, Link to comment
Alice1 Posted December 17, 2021 Author Share Posted December 17, 2021 15 hours ago, LexAnger said: I had a horodous experience after catching covid in March 2020 @LexAnger Hey Lex ... Good to here from you . It's been forever .. Hope you're somewhat decent . How long was your covid wave ? December 2014 - Lexapro 20 mg August 2016 Med free (6 week taper) December 22 2021 added Abilify 5mg / Ativan .5mg / Depakote ER 1000mg Discontinued Abilify 5mg on 12-30-21---accidental dose on 1-13-22 (looks like Ativan) Ativan PRN/Discontinued 1-14-22 Only drug is Depakote ER 1000mg ( looking to taper slow and safe for once ) 3/24/22 Depakote 625mg Propranolol 20-40mg PRN Link to comment
LexAnger Posted December 19, 2021 Share Posted December 19, 2021 Hi Alice, I'm not doing any better than the time withdrawal from Lexapro. My initial covid lasted 3 weeks with mild typical flu like symptoms, the followed by 1 whole year long hauler neurological symptoms before lifting. After that, I had several episodes of either flare ups or new infections (lost in a super complicated situation). It seems my body is extremely sensitive to this virus as I got very sick every time I was close to someone carries the virus even they have no symptoms. I'm not vaccinated due to sensitivity concern. The covid long hauling is very much like another round of psychic drug withdrawal, only much more deadly feeling, plus other symptoms the real withdrawal doesn't have, such as blood related issues. What are your covid situation and symptoms? Lex Drug free Sep. 23 2017 2009 Mar.: lexapro 10mg for headache for 2 weeks. 2009-2012: on and off 1/4 to 1/3 of 10mg 2012 June--2013 Jan,: 1/4-1/3 of 10mg generic, bad jaw pain 2013 Jan-Mar: 10 mg generic. severe jaw and head pain; 2013 Mar--Aug. started tapering (liquid ever since) from 10 to 5 (one step) then gradually down to 2.25 mg by July. first ever panic attack, severe head/jaw pain 2013 Aug.: back to 2.75 mg; Nov: back to Brand Lex. 2.75mg -- 3mg, 2014 June: stopped PPI, head pressure/numbness. up-dosed 4.5mg, severe reaction mental symptoms added on 2014 Aug--2015 Aug: Micro taper down to 3.2mg, .025mg (<1%) cut holding 2-3 weeks. 2015 Aug 15th, Accidental one dose of 4.2mg. worsening brain non-functional, swollen head, body, coma like, DR 2016 Feb., started dosing 10am through 11 pm everyday 2/13--3.2mg, 3/15-- 2.9mg, 4/19-- 2.6mg, 6/26--2.2mg, 7/22 --1.9mg, 8/16--1.8mg，8/31--1.7m g, 9/13--1.6mg, 9/27--1.5mg, 10/8--1.4mg, 10/14--1.3mg， 11/1--1.2mg, 11/29--1.1mg, 12/12--1mg, 12/22--0.9mg 2017: 1/7--0.8mg, 1/15--0.7mg, 1/17--0.6mg, 1/20--0.52, 1/21--0.4mg, 1/22--0.26, 1/23--0.2, 2/13--0.13mg, 2/20--0.06mg, 3/18--0.13mg, 6/1--0.12mg, 7/6--0.1mg, 7/14--0.08mg, 8/17--0.04mg, 8/20--0.03mg, 8/28--0.02mg, 9/6--0.0205mg, 9/8--0.02mg, 9/17--0.015mg, 9/20--0.01mg, 9/21--0.0048mg, 9/22--0.0001mg, Link to comment
ryan1982 Posted December 19, 2021 Share Posted December 19, 2021 Hey @Alice1 Hope you’re doing as well as you can. Sorry to hear you’re still suffering. You and I were both thrown into our current waves by throwing other medications into the mix. I tried an anti-seizure med once last Dec and low dose naltrexone in April and I’m still struggling. Are we considered “kindled” or is it just a wave that’s especially long? I can’t believe I still feel like this 9 months later. 2005- 2008: Lorazepam (max dose- 1 MG daily) 2008- 2016: Lexapro (max dose-10 MG daily) January 2017- March 2017- Pristiq (max dose- 100 MG daily) April 2017- June 2017: Trintellix (max dose- 10 MG) July 2017- October 2017: Lexapro (max dose-10 MG daily) November 2017- April 2018- Luvox (max dose- 100 MG) May 2018- Zoloft (max dose- 18.75) 5/28/18- 3 MG Lexapro, 6/3/18- 3 MG Lexapro, 6/7/18- 3.5 MG Lexapro, 6/13/18- 4 MG Lexapro, 6/21/18- 4.5 MG Lexapro, 6/28/18- 3/29/21- 4 MG Lexapro, 3/30/21- Present- 3.8 MG Lexapro **Bad Wave Caused by Trileptal 150 MG (one pill) in December '20 and Low Dose Naltrexone .12 MG (one pill) in April '21** "The Journey is The Reward" Link to comment
Alice1 Posted December 20, 2021 Author Share Posted December 20, 2021 @ryan1982 Hey Ryan. I don't agree with the word "Kindled", although we are chemically setback . To me, kindling means we've started and stopped the same medication or substance more than once , and are experiencing a more intense reaction (withdrawal) than last time . Today is actually the one year point for me since my setback . Don't be discouraged by the time . I know of a woman who went through benzo wd and recovered . Some time after, she was seriously attacked by a dog and was seriously injured . She was back in acute for 18 months . She possibly underwent treatment that brought all the symptoms back though . I've been in a setback community for many months and from what I've learned, setbacks can last anywhere from 1 month to 4 years, but they all do resolve in time . Anxiety, stress, and fear are contributing factors to how long it takes to recover .. Research TMS (Tension Myositis syndrome) .. Keep on walking and eventually you'll get there . Also, Look up "Pain Free You" on YouTube .. December 2014 - Lexapro 20 mg August 2016 Med free (6 week taper) December 22 2021 added Abilify 5mg / Ativan .5mg / Depakote ER 1000mg Discontinued Abilify 5mg on 12-30-21---accidental dose on 1-13-22 (looks like Ativan) Ativan PRN/Discontinued 1-14-22 Only drug is Depakote ER 1000mg ( looking to taper slow and safe for once ) 3/24/22 Depakote 625mg Propranolol 20-40mg PRN Link to comment
ryan1982 Posted December 20, 2021 Share Posted December 20, 2021 Thanks for the resources, Jeff. I pray you feel better soon, bud. Thanks- I never agreed with the kindling part either, chemical setback seems like a much more apt description. Be well, my friend, and have a great holiday. 2005- 2008: Lorazepam (max dose- 1 MG daily) 2008- 2016: Lexapro (max dose-10 MG daily) January 2017- March 2017- Pristiq (max dose- 100 MG daily) April 2017- June 2017: Trintellix (max dose- 10 MG) July 2017- October 2017: Lexapro (max dose-10 MG daily) November 2017- April 2018- Luvox (max dose- 100 MG) May 2018- Zoloft (max dose- 18.75) 5/28/18- 3 MG Lexapro, 6/3/18- 3 MG Lexapro, 6/7/18- 3.5 MG Lexapro, 6/13/18- 4 MG Lexapro, 6/21/18- 4.5 MG Lexapro, 6/28/18- 3/29/21- 4 MG Lexapro, 3/30/21- Present- 3.8 MG Lexapro **Bad Wave Caused by Trileptal 150 MG (one pill) in December '20 and Low Dose Naltrexone .12 MG (one pill) in April '21** "The Journey is The Reward" Link to comment
ryan1982 Posted December 21, 2021 Share Posted December 21, 2021 Hey @Alice1- Would you be willing to share the group you’re involved in? I think it would be great for me to be with people going through the same thing. Thanks so much, buddy. Ryan 2005- 2008: Lorazepam (max dose- 1 MG daily) 2008- 2016: Lexapro (max dose-10 MG daily) January 2017- March 2017- Pristiq (max dose- 100 MG daily) April 2017- June 2017: Trintellix (max dose- 10 MG) July 2017- October 2017: Lexapro (max dose-10 MG daily) November 2017- April 2018- Luvox (max dose- 100 MG) May 2018- Zoloft (max dose- 18.75) 5/28/18- 3 MG Lexapro, 6/3/18- 3 MG Lexapro, 6/7/18- 3.5 MG Lexapro, 6/13/18- 4 MG Lexapro, 6/21/18- 4.5 MG Lexapro, 6/28/18- 3/29/21- 4 MG Lexapro, 3/30/21- Present- 3.8 MG Lexapro **Bad Wave Caused by Trileptal 150 MG (one pill) in December '20 and Low Dose Naltrexone .12 MG (one pill) in April '21** "The Journey is The Reward" Link to comment
Alice1 Posted December 21, 2021 Author Share Posted December 21, 2021 @ryan1982 https://www.facebook.com/groups/1093469197749873/ Here you go buddy ,, December 2014 - Lexapro 20 mg August 2016 Med free (6 week taper) December 22 2021 added Abilify 5mg / Ativan .5mg / Depakote ER 1000mg Discontinued Abilify 5mg on 12-30-21---accidental dose on 1-13-22 (looks like Ativan) Ativan PRN/Discontinued 1-14-22 Only drug is Depakote ER 1000mg ( looking to taper slow and safe for once ) 3/24/22 Depakote 625mg Propranolol 20-40mg PRN Link to comment
ryan1982 Posted December 21, 2021 Share Posted December 21, 2021 Thanks so much, bud. 2005- 2008: Lorazepam (max dose- 1 MG daily) 2008- 2016: Lexapro (max dose-10 MG daily) January 2017- March 2017- Pristiq (max dose- 100 MG daily) April 2017- June 2017: Trintellix (max dose- 10 MG) July 2017- October 2017: Lexapro (max dose-10 MG daily) November 2017- April 2018- Luvox (max dose- 100 MG) May 2018- Zoloft (max dose- 18.75) 5/28/18- 3 MG Lexapro, 6/3/18- 3 MG Lexapro, 6/7/18- 3.5 MG Lexapro, 6/13/18- 4 MG Lexapro, 6/21/18- 4.5 MG Lexapro, 6/28/18- 3/29/21- 4 MG Lexapro, 3/30/21- Present- 3.8 MG Lexapro **Bad Wave Caused by Trileptal 150 MG (one pill) in December '20 and Low Dose Naltrexone .12 MG (one pill) in April '21** "The Journey is The Reward" Link to comment
ThatOneGirlStitch Posted December 21, 2021 Share Posted December 21, 2021 Hi @ryan1982 @Alice1 I’m in the early stage of chemical set back. Hanging in there. Hoping best healing to you both. 1 Current: Bupropion 450mg, Neurontin 800mg, Klonopin 0.5mg History: July 2020: started Cogentin 1mg, Lamictal 50mg, Zoloft 150mg, Zyprexa 5mg (+5mg as needed), Klonopin 0.5mg November 2020: stopped all meds cold-turkey February 2021: started Latuda 60mg, Lithium 300mg, Melatonin 5mg, Protonix 40mg, Topamax 25mg 2 weeks later: stopped Topamax, increased Lithium 900mg, started Klonopin 1mg, Lexapro 20mg, Neurontin 400mg April 2021: started Bupropion 150mg, Revia ?mg May 2021: stopped Revia, Protonix, Lexapro, increased Neurontin 800mg, started Celexa 10mg August 2021: decreased Celexa 5mg (stopped Celexa 2 weeks later), increased Bupropion 300mg September 2021: increased Latuda 80mg October 2021: decreased Lithium 600mg for 4 days, Lithium 300mg for 4 days, stopped Lithium, Latuda, increased Bupropion 450mg, started Remeron 15mg, decreased Remeron 7.5mg, stopped Remeron Link to comment
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