Molly19 Posted April 30, 2018 Share Posted April 30, 2018 Hello everyone, I am so glad I found this forum. I feel so lost and alone struggling to navigate this withdrawal. Here's my story: I started 10mg of Amitriptyline on November 1st 2017. I was originally prescribed this for sleep when the doctor took my off my pantoprazole 40 mg cold turkey and I ended up very sick ( I was put on that because they thought maybe I had H. Pylori so once the test came back negative they took me off of it cold turkey.) Due to being so sick coming off the pantoprazole they decided the taper me off it properly by reinstating it and lowering the does by 25% each week. In the mean time he gave me amitriptyline 10mg to help me sleep as I felt so sick. I came off the pantoprazole properly this time, and decided I didn't need to be on the amitriptyline it was making me feel sick to my stomach and making me VERY dizzy to the point where I passed out and hit the floor. So I called my doctor who said just to stop the amitriptyline, it is not an addictive drug and he has never heard of withdrawals on this med. After his last cold turkey mistake I dropped down to 7.5mg of Amitriptyline and felt fine...until day 10 then was I sick!!! After 9 days of this (extreme nausea, headaches, anxiety, aches etc) I couldn't take it anymore and reinstated to 10mg, within 24 hrs I was feeling much better but back on 10mg. Of course when I saw my doctor after this he rolled his eyes and said I must have had the flu. So fed up I got a new doctor. The new doctor also felt that 10mg was such a low dose and withdrawals are impossible on this med. However the fainting and bouts of nausea concerned him, I explained this all started once I began taking this pill but he told me there is no way I could have such bad side effects on 10mg. He sent me for a CT scan on my head, lots of blood work, hooked me up to a blood pressure monitor, heart rate monitor etc. In the mean time I passed out a few more times and continued to feel sick, finally he decided that I must be having an allergic reaction to the meds (im sensitive to meds anyways) since it was causing my blood pressure to drop VERY low. He then told me I must come off them tonight!! 10 to 0 ill be just fine and he refused to give me any more refills because this drug is too dangerous for me this was in March 2018. I refused to go cold turkey (as i had no support on this) so I tapered off of 10mg over 50 days dropping .2mg per night which brought me to the end of my pills. I have been off of Amitriptyline for 2 weeks now as I took my last dose on April 14 2018. For the first 2 weeks I experienced headaches, fatigue, aches, nausea, anxiety etc. I am now dealing with an emotional roller coast and nausea that comes and goes throughout the day. Some days are okay, some days are bad. I have not had any fainting spells since I started tapering which is great but how long will this wax and wane nausea last? Im feeling really low at the moment. Everyone expected that once i was off the drugs I would be perfectly fine within a week or two and the doc will never admit there is withdrawals and just put me on another med :( No one really understands, im hoping someone on here does <3 November 1 2017- Amitriptyline 10mg prescribed December 2017- Amitriptyline cut to 7.5mg -horrendous withdrawals (tried to quit due to bad side effects: Nausea, dizziness, foggy head, fainting, depression etc) December 24th 2017- Amitriptyline reinstated to 10mg March 1st 2018- Began to taper off 10 mg by .2mg per night April 15th 2018- Amitriptyline free, suffering withdrawals. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus SkyBlue Posted April 30, 2018 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted April 30, 2018 22 hours ago, Molly19 said: I have been off of Amitriptyline for 2 weeks now as I took my last dose on April 14 2018. For the first 2 weeks I experienced headaches, fatigue, aches, nausea, anxiety etc. I am now dealing with an emotional roller coast and nausea that comes and goes throughout the day. Some days are okay, some days are bad. I have not had any fainting spells since I started tapering which is great but how long will this wax and wane nausea last? Im feeling really low at the moment. Everyone expected that once i was off the drugs I would be perfectly fine within a week or two and the doc will never admit there is withdrawals and just put me on another med No one really understands, im hoping someone on here does ❤️ Hello Molly, and welcome to SA. I'm so glad you found this forum, too. I can promise you there are many here who understand your situation. I am so sorry about what you have been through, from cold turkeys to extreme symptoms to denial of withdrawal. You have really been through a lot. It sounds like you are most certainly in withdrawal. Unfortunately 0.2mg per night does seem too fast to reduce. Because you've been off for such a short time, I'm wondering if reinstatement (then tapering more slowly, at a maximum of 10% per month) might be an option. There are other moderators who are more experienced in this; I will check with them--I know you've reinstated already so I'm not sure what is best yet. in the meantime please check out this thread: http://survivingantidepressants.org/topic/7562-about-reinstating-and-stabilizing-to-reduce-withdrawal-symptoms/?tab=comments#comment-33809 I'll ask the other moderators about this. (Also, thanks for filling out a signature. That really helps.) 2020: After 18+ years (entire adult life) on Paxil, a dangerous doctor-led "taper" in 2015, and four years tapering off the last 1 mg thanks to SA and the Brassmonkey slide, I AM COMPLETELY FREE OF PAXIL! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! Forever. 2021: Began conservative, proper, CNS-respecting taper of Zoloft, led by the only expert on me -- me. Making own liquid. 5-10% plus holds. 2022: Holding on Zoloft for now. Current dose 47 mg. Hanging in, hanging on. Severe protracted PAWS, windows and waves. While I may not be doing "a lot" by outside standards, things are graaaaadually getting better. Yoga (gentle to medium); walks; daily breath practice; nutrition, fruits/veg; nature; water; EastEnders (lol); practicing self-compassion, self-care; boundaries; connection; allowing feelings; t r u s t ing that I, too, will heal. (--> may need to be reminded of this.) "You are not alone, and this is not the end of your story." - Baylissa Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted May 1, 2018 Administrator Share Posted May 1, 2018 Welcome, Molly. Congratulations on tapering as slowly as you were able with the amitriptyline you had. Too bad you still got withdrawal symptoms. A little reinstatement, such as 0.2mg amitriptyline, might help while not disturbing your blood pressure. Any doctor can prescribe these drugs. Is there a doctor who's more understanding with whom you can work? Otherwise, how have your withdrawal symptoms changed since you came off completely? It's a good sign you have windows. 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
Molly19 Posted May 1, 2018 Author Share Posted May 1, 2018 Hello Altostrata and Sky blue thank you both for responding...its been such a roller coaster. I will be discussing the option of reinstating with my doctor on Friday. I think because I was only on this drug for a few months and a low dose they want me to tough it out. OR run a bunch of tests because there is no such thing as withdrawals on this med and the internet is full of hypochondriacs according to one of my doctors. He thinks obviously there is something else going on it cannot be withdrawals especially on such a low dose. Sadly I live in a small town there are like 3 full time doctors all of which think the same I have seen all 3 now. Yesterday I did not have any withdrawal symptoms it was wonderful. Today however I'm back to the nausea and aches and pains...very frustrating! I really appreciate your help though...Do either of you know how long the nausea will last? Also do you believe what i'm going through is withdrawals or something more serious? Thank you for your help. I feel so alone and worried November 1 2017- Amitriptyline 10mg prescribed December 2017- Amitriptyline cut to 7.5mg -horrendous withdrawals (tried to quit due to bad side effects: Nausea, dizziness, foggy head, fainting, depression etc) December 24th 2017- Amitriptyline reinstated to 10mg March 1st 2018- Began to taper off 10 mg by .2mg per night April 15th 2018- Amitriptyline free, suffering withdrawals. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Gridley Posted May 1, 2018 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted May 1, 2018 I'm sorry you're going through this, Molly19. As if the misery of withdrawal weren't enough, you have to deal with the doctors' obtuse denial of what you're going through. These drugs are very powerful and can have a strong effect at low doses. Some people are very sensitive to these drugs (you said you were sensitive to meds). It sure sounds like withdrawal to me, especially given the very fast taper you were forced to do. It is tragic these doctors don't know any better. This link lists common withdrawal symptoms. Nausea is one of them. PDF Monthly List of Dr Glenmullen's Symptoms to Print & PDF Monthly List BLANK to Print Unfortunately, there is no way to predict how long this will last. It will end though. We understand even though your doctors don't. Gridley Introduction Lexapro 20 mg since 2004. Begin Brassmonkey Slide Taper Jan. 2017. End 2017 year 1 of taper at 9.25mg End 2018 year 2 of taper at 4.1mg End 2019 year 3 of taper at 1.0mg Oct. 30, 2020 Jump to zero from 0.025mg. Current dose: 0.000mg 3 year, 10 month taper is 100% complete. Ativan 1 mg to 1.875mg 1986-2020, two CT's and reinstatements Nov. 2020, 7-week Ativan-Valium crossover to 18.75mg Valium Feb. 2021, begin 10%/4 week taper of 18.75mg Valium End 2021 year 1 of Valium taper at 6mg End 2022 year 2 of Valium taper at 2.75mg End 2023 year 3 of Valium taper at 1mg Jan. 24, 2024: Hold at 1mg and shift to Imipramine taper. Taper is 95% complete. Imipramine 75 mg daily since 1986. Jan.-Sept. 2016 tapered to 14.4mg March 22, 2022: Begin 10%/4 week taper Aug. 5, 2022: hold at 9.5mg and shift to Valium taper Jan. 24, 2024: Resume Imipramine taper. Current dose as of Oct 15: 3.2mg Taper is 96% complete. Supplements: multiple, quercetin, omega-3, vitamins C, E and D3, magnesium glycinate, probiotic, zinc, melatonin .3mg, iron, serrapeptase, nattokinase, L-Glutamine, milk thistle, choline I am not a medical professional and this is not medical advice. It is information based on my own experience as well as that of other members who have survived these drugs. Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted May 1, 2018 Administrator Share Posted May 1, 2018 Molly, you'll have to ride out the withdrawal symptoms. They should very gradually get less frequent and less intense. Please let us know if this does not happen. Many people do better with fish oil and magnesium supplements, seehttp://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/36-king-of-supplements-omega-3-fatty-acids-fish-oil/ http://survivingantidepressants.org/topic/15483-magnesium-natures-calcium-channel-blocker/ A lot of people find them helpful. Try a little bit of one at a time to see how it affects you -- but don't take when you feel nauseous. 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
Molly19 Posted May 2, 2018 Author Share Posted May 2, 2018 Hello everyone thank you for your kind words. I wish I was NEVER given these meds...especially because I didn't really need them. I do take magnesium and fish oil supplements to help my headaches and brain zaps they make such a difference. The nausea is my biggest issue especially after a good day. I would feel so hopeful it's over and then bam the next day sick again i would feel so hopeless. But now that I found this page and read about waves and windows I understand what is happening to me. Being told it's all in my head OR that i let the internet hypochondriacs convince me i am having these symptoms OR there is obviously something else going so i can prescribe you another med...all that was very disheartening. I can't wait to move the medical help in this town is horrific. Thank goodness i found this group. So basically everything im going through sounds like withdrawals...so I shouldn't panic there is something else wrong at this stage just wait for the withdrawals to pass. Thank you everyone ❤❤❤ I wish you all a speedy recovery as well 💜 November 1 2017- Amitriptyline 10mg prescribed December 2017- Amitriptyline cut to 7.5mg -horrendous withdrawals (tried to quit due to bad side effects: Nausea, dizziness, foggy head, fainting, depression etc) December 24th 2017- Amitriptyline reinstated to 10mg March 1st 2018- Began to taper off 10 mg by .2mg per night April 15th 2018- Amitriptyline free, suffering withdrawals. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Carmie Posted May 2, 2018 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted May 2, 2018 1 hour ago, Molly19 said: Hello everyone thank you for your kind words. I wish I was NEVER given these meds...especially because I didn't really need them. I do take magnesium and fish oil supplements to help my headaches and brain zaps they make such a difference. The nausea is my biggest issue especially after a good day. I would feel so hopeful it's over and then bam the next day sick again i would feel so hopeless. But now that I found this page and read about waves and windows I understand what is happening to me. Being told it's all in my head OR that i let the internet hypochondriacs convince me i am having these symptoms OR there is obviously something else going so i can prescribe you another med...all that was very disheartening. I can't wait to move the medical help in this town is horrific. Thank goodness i found this group. So basically everything im going through sounds like withdrawals...so I shouldn't panic there is something else wrong at this stage just wait for the withdrawals to pass. Thank you everyone ❤❤❤ I wish you all a speedy recovery as well 💜 Hi Molly, You are definitely not a hypochondriac. Don’t listen to the doctors, they haven’t got a clue. There are sooo many withdrawal symptoms you can get n sometimes u may feel like a hypochondriac but believe me, you are not. A while ago I had to have a filling replaced and I had lots of tooth pain and jaw pain and and an earache and I stupidly thought I had an infection. Nope, that wasn’t the case. I did need to get the filling done but the dentist said that my nerve wasn’t exposed and my pain was psychosomatic. Later on I read that other people had these pains while going through withdrawals. I have similar symptoms that happen all the time when I get withdrawals but every now and again new symptoms pop up and when I check out whether other people have had these symptoms in withdrawals, Yep, that’s nearly always the case. The CNS affects every part of our body. That’s not to say don’t get checked out if you think something is really wrong but more than likely it’s withdrawals. Wishing you all the best Molly💚💚 Seroquel. 2019:➡️ From 7.25mg to 5.80mg. 2020➡️5.60 to 4.80. 2021➡️4.60 to 4.0. 2022➡️3.95 to 3.55. 2023➡️ From 3.50 to 3.25. 2024➡️Jan15=3.20✔️ Feb19=3.15✔️ March26=3.10✔️May1=3.0✔️ June7=3mg✔️ July 15= 2.95✔️ This is NOT medical advice.Consult your doctor. Link to comment
Molly19 Posted May 2, 2018 Author Share Posted May 2, 2018 14 hours ago, Carmie said: Hi Molly, You are definitely not a hypochondriac. Don’t listen to the doctors, they haven’t got a clue. There are sooo many withdrawal symptoms you can get n sometimes u may feel like a hypochondriac but believe me, you are not. A while ago I had to have a filling replaced and I had lots of tooth pain and jaw pain and and an earache and I stupidly thought I had an infection. Nope, that wasn’t the case. I did need to get the filling done but the dentist said that my nerve wasn’t exposed and my pain was psychosomatic. Later on I read that other people had these pains while going through withdrawals. I have similar symptoms that happen all the time when I get withdrawals but every now and again new symptoms pop up and when I check out whether other people have had these symptoms in withdrawals, Yep, that’s nearly always the case. The CNS affects every part of our body. That’s not to say don’t get checked out if you think something is really wrong but more than likely it’s withdrawals. Wishing you all the best Molly💚💚 I was initially worried when the doctor said that but some withdrawal symptoms have basically disappeared. The nausea seems to be getting better..i think I have a day or a few hrs without it then it's back. So I'm assuming that's the window and wave thing everyone talks about which is a classic withdrawal pattern. So I'm thinking that must be it.🤔 November 1 2017- Amitriptyline 10mg prescribed December 2017- Amitriptyline cut to 7.5mg -horrendous withdrawals (tried to quit due to bad side effects: Nausea, dizziness, foggy head, fainting, depression etc) December 24th 2017- Amitriptyline reinstated to 10mg March 1st 2018- Began to taper off 10 mg by .2mg per night April 15th 2018- Amitriptyline free, suffering withdrawals. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Carmie Posted May 7, 2018 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted May 7, 2018 On 5/3/2018 at 4:39 AM, Molly19 said: I was initially worried when the doctor said that but some withdrawal symptoms have basically disappeared. The nausea seems to be getting better..i think I have a day or a few hrs without it then it's back. So I'm assuming that's the window and wave thing everyone talks about which is a classic withdrawal pattern. So I'm thinking that must be it.🤔 Im so glad your nausea is getting better. Yes, all these weird symptoms we get are the windows and waves cycle we all go through. The thing is we get symptoms we don’t even relate to withdrawals but yep, I’ve found that many of them are. I’ve had earaches and toothaches but no infections. I had a burning mouth for a long time last year but it eventually went away. Withdrawals affect our CNS which pretty much affects everything in our bodies. Hope you are coping okay Molly, sending hugs🤗 Seroquel. 2019:➡️ From 7.25mg to 5.80mg. 2020➡️5.60 to 4.80. 2021➡️4.60 to 4.0. 2022➡️3.95 to 3.55. 2023➡️ From 3.50 to 3.25. 2024➡️Jan15=3.20✔️ Feb19=3.15✔️ March26=3.10✔️May1=3.0✔️ June7=3mg✔️ July 15= 2.95✔️ This is NOT medical advice.Consult your doctor. Link to comment
Molly19 Posted May 7, 2018 Author Share Posted May 7, 2018 Yes i am doing alright. Furious and worried...but alright. I saw my doctor again I explained that nausea is getting better less intense, less often etc. I had nausea while on these pills too along with other side effects (dizziness, fatigue, fainting, foggy head) didnt have any issues until these... anyways so I went in for my appointment he totally disregarded withdrawals...(they dont exist in his mind) and said that the nausea is most likely IBS (don't have any of those symptoms) or perhaps gastroparesis..... Gastroparesis sound very serious... but im assuming I would have other symptoms beside my nausea spells that come and go with no pattern whatsoever.... I need to move and find new medical care. Thats like telling someone who has the odd headache..oh must be a brain tumor. Sorry for the rant...just so frustrated and now worried of course its something else, even though i think its withdrawals..hearing a medical professional say nope..must be something else way more serious you can't help but worry (especially with the anxiety I have too coming off of this)...sorry again about the rant he is an a** ! November 1 2017- Amitriptyline 10mg prescribed December 2017- Amitriptyline cut to 7.5mg -horrendous withdrawals (tried to quit due to bad side effects: Nausea, dizziness, foggy head, fainting, depression etc) December 24th 2017- Amitriptyline reinstated to 10mg March 1st 2018- Began to taper off 10 mg by .2mg per night April 15th 2018- Amitriptyline free, suffering withdrawals. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Songbird Posted May 8, 2018 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted May 8, 2018 11 hours ago, Molly19 said: he is an a** ! Yep, he totally sounds it! You were smart to do your own slow taper. It's great that your nausea is gradually improving - it's a good sign that your body is gradually sorting it all out. Have you tried ginger? If I ever feel nauseous I find ginger tea helps me a lot. 2001–2002 paroxetine 2003 citalopram 2004-2008 paroxetine (various failed tapers) 2008 paroxetine slow taper down to 2016 Aug off paroxetine2016 citalopram May 20mg Oct 15mg … slow taper down2018 citalopram 13 Feb 4.6mg 15 Mar 4.4mg 29 Apr 4.2mg 6 Jul 4.1mg 17 Aug 4.0mg 18 Nov 3.8mg 2019 15 Mar 3.6mg 21 May 3.4mg 26 Dec 3.2mg 2020 19 Feb 3.0mg 19 Jul 2.9mg 16 Sep 2.8mg 25 Oct 2.7mg 23 Oct 2.6mg 24 Dec 2.5mg 2021 29 Aug 2.4mg 15 Nov 2.3mg Link to comment
Molly19 Posted May 8, 2018 Author Share Posted May 8, 2018 12 hours ago, Songbird said: Yep, he totally sounds it! You were smart to do your own slow taper. It's great that your nausea is gradually improving - it's a good sign that your body is gradually sorting it all out. Have you tried ginger? If I ever feel nauseous I find ginger tea helps me a lot. Thanks Songbird, the last few days have been great. However yesterday and today I have had really bad anxiety (lots of crying) and feeling nauseous. Some of which im sure is due to my appt with Grumpy now im worried there is something else wrong and I will never recover. But I keep telling myself if it was something bad...and not withdrawal I doubt I would be having these wave and windows. Im only 3 weeks off this med, I was very sensitive to while i was on it and tapered quickly so perhaps my body just needs time to heal. I just hope thats what is causing the nausea :( Sorry I just feel so overwhelmed, scared, sick, etc today November 1 2017- Amitriptyline 10mg prescribed December 2017- Amitriptyline cut to 7.5mg -horrendous withdrawals (tried to quit due to bad side effects: Nausea, dizziness, foggy head, fainting, depression etc) December 24th 2017- Amitriptyline reinstated to 10mg March 1st 2018- Began to taper off 10 mg by .2mg per night April 15th 2018- Amitriptyline free, suffering withdrawals. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Gridley Posted May 9, 2018 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted May 9, 2018 Stressors (like an appointment with a horrible doctor) are very likely to cause increased symptoms. That is completely normal. As Songbird said, the fact that your nausea is slowly getting better is a great sign. A setback due to stressors is just a blip. Health anxiety (thinking there's something terribly wrong with you) is a common withdrawal symptom. Yes, your body needs time to heal. Please try to avoid stressors whenever possible. Gridley Introduction Lexapro 20 mg since 2004. Begin Brassmonkey Slide Taper Jan. 2017. End 2017 year 1 of taper at 9.25mg End 2018 year 2 of taper at 4.1mg End 2019 year 3 of taper at 1.0mg Oct. 30, 2020 Jump to zero from 0.025mg. Current dose: 0.000mg 3 year, 10 month taper is 100% complete. Ativan 1 mg to 1.875mg 1986-2020, two CT's and reinstatements Nov. 2020, 7-week Ativan-Valium crossover to 18.75mg Valium Feb. 2021, begin 10%/4 week taper of 18.75mg Valium End 2021 year 1 of Valium taper at 6mg End 2022 year 2 of Valium taper at 2.75mg End 2023 year 3 of Valium taper at 1mg Jan. 24, 2024: Hold at 1mg and shift to Imipramine taper. Taper is 95% complete. Imipramine 75 mg daily since 1986. Jan.-Sept. 2016 tapered to 14.4mg March 22, 2022: Begin 10%/4 week taper Aug. 5, 2022: hold at 9.5mg and shift to Valium taper Jan. 24, 2024: Resume Imipramine taper. Current dose as of Oct 15: 3.2mg Taper is 96% complete. Supplements: multiple, quercetin, omega-3, vitamins C, E and D3, magnesium glycinate, probiotic, zinc, melatonin .3mg, iron, serrapeptase, nattokinase, L-Glutamine, milk thistle, choline I am not a medical professional and this is not medical advice. It is information based on my own experience as well as that of other members who have survived these drugs. Link to comment
Molly19 Posted May 9, 2018 Author Share Posted May 9, 2018 Thank you for your kind words. It just hard hearing your nausea is probably a chronic disease that we can't do anything about...no way it's withdrawals. So of course I looked it up since it's my health and i want to know what is wrong. Then after reading all the info and sad stories it scared me even more I am already suffering with anxiety (never had it before this drug). Plus I think I'm in another wave yesterday and today have been HORRIBLE for anxiety and the nausea has lasted all day. But for a week I was doing great and that's big step 😊 it's just been a bad two days and I want this to be over and have my life back November 1 2017- Amitriptyline 10mg prescribed December 2017- Amitriptyline cut to 7.5mg -horrendous withdrawals (tried to quit due to bad side effects: Nausea, dizziness, foggy head, fainting, depression etc) December 24th 2017- Amitriptyline reinstated to 10mg March 1st 2018- Began to taper off 10 mg by .2mg per night April 15th 2018- Amitriptyline free, suffering withdrawals. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Gridley Posted May 9, 2018 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted May 9, 2018 You can see from the following link that nausea is a common withdrawal symptom. PDF Monthly List of Dr Glenmullen's Symptoms to Print By the way, are you on any supplements? Gridley Introduction Lexapro 20 mg since 2004. Begin Brassmonkey Slide Taper Jan. 2017. End 2017 year 1 of taper at 9.25mg End 2018 year 2 of taper at 4.1mg End 2019 year 3 of taper at 1.0mg Oct. 30, 2020 Jump to zero from 0.025mg. Current dose: 0.000mg 3 year, 10 month taper is 100% complete. Ativan 1 mg to 1.875mg 1986-2020, two CT's and reinstatements Nov. 2020, 7-week Ativan-Valium crossover to 18.75mg Valium Feb. 2021, begin 10%/4 week taper of 18.75mg Valium End 2021 year 1 of Valium taper at 6mg End 2022 year 2 of Valium taper at 2.75mg End 2023 year 3 of Valium taper at 1mg Jan. 24, 2024: Hold at 1mg and shift to Imipramine taper. Taper is 95% complete. Imipramine 75 mg daily since 1986. Jan.-Sept. 2016 tapered to 14.4mg March 22, 2022: Begin 10%/4 week taper Aug. 5, 2022: hold at 9.5mg and shift to Valium taper Jan. 24, 2024: Resume Imipramine taper. Current dose as of Oct 15: 3.2mg Taper is 96% complete. Supplements: multiple, quercetin, omega-3, vitamins C, E and D3, magnesium glycinate, probiotic, zinc, melatonin .3mg, iron, serrapeptase, nattokinase, L-Glutamine, milk thistle, choline I am not a medical professional and this is not medical advice. It is information based on my own experience as well as that of other members who have survived these drugs. Link to comment
Molly19 Posted May 10, 2018 Author Share Posted May 10, 2018 Hi Gridley, I am taking magnesium and Omega supplements and a probiotic that my naturopath suggested. That's an interesting chart Ill print it off maybe if I can see improvements it will help the anxiety. Thank you so much for that November 1 2017- Amitriptyline 10mg prescribed December 2017- Amitriptyline cut to 7.5mg -horrendous withdrawals (tried to quit due to bad side effects: Nausea, dizziness, foggy head, fainting, depression etc) December 24th 2017- Amitriptyline reinstated to 10mg March 1st 2018- Began to taper off 10 mg by .2mg per night April 15th 2018- Amitriptyline free, suffering withdrawals. Link to comment
Molly19 Posted May 10, 2018 Author Share Posted May 10, 2018 Hello everyone, I hope I am posting this in the right forum. I have been off of amitriptyline now for just over 3 weeks. The nausea is improving but seems to be the worst in the morning.... is this common with withdrawals?? My doctor thought perhaps i have acid reflux but I don't to be on another pill if its a well known withdrawal symptom. On a bad day the nausea lasts all day, but on a good day it is just there for a bit in the morning. Thanks for your help everyone I really appreciate it. November 1 2017- Amitriptyline 10mg prescribed December 2017- Amitriptyline cut to 7.5mg -horrendous withdrawals (tried to quit due to bad side effects: Nausea, dizziness, foggy head, fainting, depression etc) December 24th 2017- Amitriptyline reinstated to 10mg March 1st 2018- Began to taper off 10 mg by .2mg per night April 15th 2018- Amitriptyline free, suffering withdrawals. Link to comment
Molly19 Posted May 10, 2018 Author Share Posted May 10, 2018 Hey everyone sorry to post again. Last night was so rough and I'm so scared I have experienced some anxiety it comes and goes generally pretty mild. However last night I went to bed no problem but woke up shaking/shivering and super scared, then I would get to hot and sweaty. I'd calm down and go back to sleep then it would happen again. My poor fiance barely got any sleep I feel so shaky/anxious today....what is this?? Is this a panic attack? I didn't have these issues until coming off this med.Going to the doctor at 2pm today. Does anyone have any natural remedies they can suggest? November 1 2017- Amitriptyline 10mg prescribed December 2017- Amitriptyline cut to 7.5mg -horrendous withdrawals (tried to quit due to bad side effects: Nausea, dizziness, foggy head, fainting, depression etc) December 24th 2017- Amitriptyline reinstated to 10mg March 1st 2018- Began to taper off 10 mg by .2mg per night April 15th 2018- Amitriptyline free, suffering withdrawals. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Gridley Posted May 10, 2018 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted May 10, 2018 (edited) It is likely that your increased anxiety is due to the stressor of your doctor's appointment. If you'll look back at your earlier posts, you are improving. I wouldn't read too much into your experience of last night. Whenever I have a bad stressor coming up, I get a lot of anticipatory anxiety. Then things settle back down. These links may be helpful for your doctor's appointment: How do you talk to a doctor about tapering and withdrawal? What should I expect from my doctor about withdrawal symptoms? Have you tried Epsom salt baths or footbaths if you don't have a tub? Edited May 10, 2018 by Gridley Gridley Introduction Lexapro 20 mg since 2004. Begin Brassmonkey Slide Taper Jan. 2017. End 2017 year 1 of taper at 9.25mg End 2018 year 2 of taper at 4.1mg End 2019 year 3 of taper at 1.0mg Oct. 30, 2020 Jump to zero from 0.025mg. Current dose: 0.000mg 3 year, 10 month taper is 100% complete. Ativan 1 mg to 1.875mg 1986-2020, two CT's and reinstatements Nov. 2020, 7-week Ativan-Valium crossover to 18.75mg Valium Feb. 2021, begin 10%/4 week taper of 18.75mg Valium End 2021 year 1 of Valium taper at 6mg End 2022 year 2 of Valium taper at 2.75mg End 2023 year 3 of Valium taper at 1mg Jan. 24, 2024: Hold at 1mg and shift to Imipramine taper. Taper is 95% complete. Imipramine 75 mg daily since 1986. Jan.-Sept. 2016 tapered to 14.4mg March 22, 2022: Begin 10%/4 week taper Aug. 5, 2022: hold at 9.5mg and shift to Valium taper Jan. 24, 2024: Resume Imipramine taper. Current dose as of Oct 15: 3.2mg Taper is 96% complete. Supplements: multiple, quercetin, omega-3, vitamins C, E and D3, magnesium glycinate, probiotic, zinc, melatonin .3mg, iron, serrapeptase, nattokinase, L-Glutamine, milk thistle, choline I am not a medical professional and this is not medical advice. It is information based on my own experience as well as that of other members who have survived these drugs. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Songbird Posted May 11, 2018 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted May 11, 2018 Hi Molly, I think your issues may be from more than the amitriptyline withdrawal. PPIs are not psych meds but are turning out to have many of the same issues. Just like ADs, doctors have thought them harmless, prescribed them to just about everyone and insisted there is no withdrawal. It is becoming more evident that PPIs do some quite serious stuff to the body and do have a withdrawal syndrome. I think it's possible that your body did not handle amitriptyline all that well because it was already in PPI withdrawal. PPIs can also cause low magnesium levels, so magnesium supplements could be a good idea. Nausea and acid reflux can be symptoms of PPI withdrawal. Many people find ginger an effective treatment for nausea. I like to sip ginger tea, but other forms of ginger are also okay. 2001–2002 paroxetine 2003 citalopram 2004-2008 paroxetine (various failed tapers) 2008 paroxetine slow taper down to 2016 Aug off paroxetine2016 citalopram May 20mg Oct 15mg … slow taper down2018 citalopram 13 Feb 4.6mg 15 Mar 4.4mg 29 Apr 4.2mg 6 Jul 4.1mg 17 Aug 4.0mg 18 Nov 3.8mg 2019 15 Mar 3.6mg 21 May 3.4mg 26 Dec 3.2mg 2020 19 Feb 3.0mg 19 Jul 2.9mg 16 Sep 2.8mg 25 Oct 2.7mg 23 Oct 2.6mg 24 Dec 2.5mg 2021 29 Aug 2.4mg 15 Nov 2.3mg Link to comment
Melissa5000 Posted May 14, 2018 Share Posted May 14, 2018 Hello Molly, I am sorry you are suffering so bad. In september 2017 I "tapered" 25 mg amitriptyline to zero because my painspecialist said it was no problem. I want to tell you that I do recognise all your symptoms! In the first 4 weeks after I quit I felt very nauseas. I also suffered anxiety, sweating, dizzynes and above all many aches and pains. Severe muscle pains, tendon pain, nerve pain, burning feelings, tinitus and many more symptoms. At the moment I am not that nauseous anymore. Only sometimes very mild and very short. It can stay away for many weeks. It is most likely that your symptoms will fade with time. Stress or when you are very busy can cause your symptoms to come back more intense. At least that is my experience. You are so lucky that you were not on a high dose. I wish I was... I hope you recover very soon. Don't give up hope! 2019 2.1 mg amitriptyline ,15th july 2.1 mg, 22-7 2.09 mg, 29-7 2.08 mg, 5-8 2.09 mg , 7-8 2.1 mg . 2020 Holding at 2.1 mg 2019 125 mg lyrica, 15th july 124,5 mg, 22-7 124 mg, 29-7 123,5 mg, 4-8 124 mg 2020 holding at 124 mg 2015 january building up my medication to 450 mg lyrica and 50 mg amitriptyline for face ache after a rootcanal treatment at the dentist. 2016 february start tapering lyrica from 450 mg to 200 mg 2016 october tapered 25 mg amitriptyline to 25 mg 2017 tapered lyrica from 200 mg to 100 mg 2017 september tapered my last tablet of 25 mg amitriptyline to zero (horrible muscle pain started) 2018 february tapered lyrica from 100 mg to 75 mg (my muscle pain got worse and I have a lot of nervepain in my arms and legs, sometimes all over musclepain and nerve pain and burning pain) 2018 may reinstated 25 mg lyrica. My current dose is 100 mg lyrica. My pain is still very bad but a little less intense, my mood improved. 2018 since 22th may updose amitriptyline. 9 beads. 2018 june updosing lyrica. 2018 16 th june 125 mg lyrica and 9 beads amitriptyline ( 2mg) Now I'm doing a long hold. I can't taper anymore. Too much pain. I hope to stabilize and improve while holding. I'm trying graded activity to get rid of my pain. 2019 1 jan. Lyrica 125 mg (holding) 2019 1 jan. Amitriptyline tapering from 9 beads to 8 beads (1 jan. 2019), 8,5 beads (5 jan 19), 9 beads (16 jan 19) tapper attempt failed Link to comment
Molly19 Posted May 15, 2018 Author Share Posted May 15, 2018 On 5/14/2018 at 9:32 AM, Melissa5000 said: Hello Molly, I am sorry you are suffering so bad. In september 2017 I "tapered" 25 mg amitriptyline to zero because my painspecialist said it was no problem. I want to tell you that I do recognise all your symptoms! In the first 4 weeks after I quit I felt very nauseas. I also suffered anxiety, sweating, dizzynes and above all many aches and pains. Severe muscle pains, tendon pain, nerve pain, burning feelings, tinitus and many more symptoms. At the moment I am not that nauseous anymore. Only sometimes very mild and very short. It can stay away for many weeks. It is most likely that your symptoms will fade with time. Stress or when you are very busy can cause your symptoms to come back more intense. At least that is my experience. You are so lucky that you were not on a high dose. I wish I was... I hope you recover very soon. Don't give up hope! Hi Melissa :) Thank you for responding I have been off the amitriptyline for 4 weeks the nausea was getting better and now it is bad again. I wish I was never put on this drug. How fast did you taper and how long were you on this drug for? I'm sure stress is playing a role in it to as im frustrated im not better and the nausea has been bad the last couple days. I'm glad to hear you are feeling better. :) November 1 2017- Amitriptyline 10mg prescribed December 2017- Amitriptyline cut to 7.5mg -horrendous withdrawals (tried to quit due to bad side effects: Nausea, dizziness, foggy head, fainting, depression etc) December 24th 2017- Amitriptyline reinstated to 10mg March 1st 2018- Began to taper off 10 mg by .2mg per night April 15th 2018- Amitriptyline free, suffering withdrawals. Link to comment
Melissa5000 Posted May 17, 2018 Share Posted May 17, 2018 I started 30th january 2015 with 25 mg amitriptyline. In april 2015 I updosed to 50 mg. In october 2016 I tapered 25 mg. My dose was 25 mg in october 2016. In september 2017 I tapered my last pil of 25 mg to zero. The first pil I weaned gave me hardly any problems. Some lack of sleep and feeling a bit off for just 2 weeks. So I didn't expect much trouble when I tapered my last pil. Boy what was I wrong! Big mistake. Now I pay the price for it...... Ahum. It is a very good sign that you allready had a window on nausea. I feel sorry for you that you fell back into a new wave of nausea. But that first window you had is very hopeful! 2019 2.1 mg amitriptyline ,15th july 2.1 mg, 22-7 2.09 mg, 29-7 2.08 mg, 5-8 2.09 mg , 7-8 2.1 mg . 2020 Holding at 2.1 mg 2019 125 mg lyrica, 15th july 124,5 mg, 22-7 124 mg, 29-7 123,5 mg, 4-8 124 mg 2020 holding at 124 mg 2015 january building up my medication to 450 mg lyrica and 50 mg amitriptyline for face ache after a rootcanal treatment at the dentist. 2016 february start tapering lyrica from 450 mg to 200 mg 2016 october tapered 25 mg amitriptyline to 25 mg 2017 tapered lyrica from 200 mg to 100 mg 2017 september tapered my last tablet of 25 mg amitriptyline to zero (horrible muscle pain started) 2018 february tapered lyrica from 100 mg to 75 mg (my muscle pain got worse and I have a lot of nervepain in my arms and legs, sometimes all over musclepain and nerve pain and burning pain) 2018 may reinstated 25 mg lyrica. My current dose is 100 mg lyrica. My pain is still very bad but a little less intense, my mood improved. 2018 since 22th may updose amitriptyline. 9 beads. 2018 june updosing lyrica. 2018 16 th june 125 mg lyrica and 9 beads amitriptyline ( 2mg) Now I'm doing a long hold. I can't taper anymore. Too much pain. I hope to stabilize and improve while holding. I'm trying graded activity to get rid of my pain. 2019 1 jan. Lyrica 125 mg (holding) 2019 1 jan. Amitriptyline tapering from 9 beads to 8 beads (1 jan. 2019), 8,5 beads (5 jan 19), 9 beads (16 jan 19) tapper attempt failed Link to comment
Molly19 Posted June 9, 2018 Author Share Posted June 9, 2018 Hey everyone 😊 I hope everyone is doing well. So I just finished 2.5 weeks of feeling great and then BAM last night I felt SUPER nauseous, headache, dizzy, super anxious etc. I hate these "waves" as im sure everyone does. I have been off amitriptyline now for almost 8 weeks! So im wondering is it normal to still have waves and Windows?? I have found lots of info on SSRI waves but what about tricyclics? How long can this nasty pattern last. I look forward to the day where it is an everlasting window! Thank you in advance for your help.😊 November 1 2017- Amitriptyline 10mg prescribed December 2017- Amitriptyline cut to 7.5mg -horrendous withdrawals (tried to quit due to bad side effects: Nausea, dizziness, foggy head, fainting, depression etc) December 24th 2017- Amitriptyline reinstated to 10mg March 1st 2018- Began to taper off 10 mg by .2mg per night April 15th 2018- Amitriptyline free, suffering withdrawals. Link to comment
Molly19 Posted June 10, 2018 Author Share Posted June 10, 2018 Hey everyone 😊 I hope everyone is doing well. So I just finished 2.5 weeks of feeling great and then BAM last night I felt SUPER nauseous, headache, dizzy, super anxious etc. I hate these "waves" as im sure everyone does. I have been off amitriptyline now for almost 8 weeks! So im wondering is it normal to still have waves and Windows?? I have found lots of info on SSRI waves but what about tricyclics? How long can this nasty pattern last. I look forward to the day where it is an everlasting window! Thank you in advance for your help.😊 November 1 2017- Amitriptyline 10mg prescribed December 2017- Amitriptyline cut to 7.5mg -horrendous withdrawals (tried to quit due to bad side effects: Nausea, dizziness, foggy head, fainting, depression etc) December 24th 2017- Amitriptyline reinstated to 10mg March 1st 2018- Began to taper off 10 mg by .2mg per night April 15th 2018- Amitriptyline free, suffering withdrawals. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Songbird Posted June 10, 2018 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted June 10, 2018 Hi Molly, I moved your update to your original intro topic, to keep your info together in one topic - you can add all your updates here. The waves and windows pattern can last for quite a long time , but how long is very individual and not predictable. In general the waves tend to become milder over time. 2001–2002 paroxetine 2003 citalopram 2004-2008 paroxetine (various failed tapers) 2008 paroxetine slow taper down to 2016 Aug off paroxetine2016 citalopram May 20mg Oct 15mg … slow taper down2018 citalopram 13 Feb 4.6mg 15 Mar 4.4mg 29 Apr 4.2mg 6 Jul 4.1mg 17 Aug 4.0mg 18 Nov 3.8mg 2019 15 Mar 3.6mg 21 May 3.4mg 26 Dec 3.2mg 2020 19 Feb 3.0mg 19 Jul 2.9mg 16 Sep 2.8mg 25 Oct 2.7mg 23 Oct 2.6mg 24 Dec 2.5mg 2021 29 Aug 2.4mg 15 Nov 2.3mg Link to comment
Molly19 Posted June 11, 2018 Author Share Posted June 11, 2018 Thanks Songbird, im sorry I posted it in the wrong section. Hopefully someone can offer some advice or coping strategies. I had 2.5 weeks that were great barely any symptoms. Now I feel horrible again so anxious, dizzy, nauseous and constant headache. I'm so sick of this and scared. I have been off this drug 2 months now I was only on 10mg for approx 5 months. I know everyone's withdrawal period is individualized but I really hope it won't take years to feel normal again. Im sorry I'm just having a really bad night, I'm really struggling with this wave...😔 I thought I was over this horrible withdrawal I feel so disappointed and lost November 1 2017- Amitriptyline 10mg prescribed December 2017- Amitriptyline cut to 7.5mg -horrendous withdrawals (tried to quit due to bad side effects: Nausea, dizziness, foggy head, fainting, depression etc) December 24th 2017- Amitriptyline reinstated to 10mg March 1st 2018- Began to taper off 10 mg by .2mg per night April 15th 2018- Amitriptyline free, suffering withdrawals. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Songbird Posted June 11, 2018 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted June 11, 2018 Hi Molly, I'm thinking relaxation exercises might be helpful for you. They work to calm the nervous system, reducing anxiety and other symptoms of the "fight-or-fight" response (which can include nausea). Relaxation exercises can include gentle yoga, progressive muscle relaxation, gentle yoga, calming breathing exercises, meditation, guided visualisation and so on. It's best to do them regularly, e.g. once or twice every day. I like to use recordings with gentle music and a calming voice giving the instructions so I don't really have to think about what to do. You might have to try a few things to see what works best for you. 2001–2002 paroxetine 2003 citalopram 2004-2008 paroxetine (various failed tapers) 2008 paroxetine slow taper down to 2016 Aug off paroxetine2016 citalopram May 20mg Oct 15mg … slow taper down2018 citalopram 13 Feb 4.6mg 15 Mar 4.4mg 29 Apr 4.2mg 6 Jul 4.1mg 17 Aug 4.0mg 18 Nov 3.8mg 2019 15 Mar 3.6mg 21 May 3.4mg 26 Dec 3.2mg 2020 19 Feb 3.0mg 19 Jul 2.9mg 16 Sep 2.8mg 25 Oct 2.7mg 23 Oct 2.6mg 24 Dec 2.5mg 2021 29 Aug 2.4mg 15 Nov 2.3mg Link to comment
Molly19 Posted June 12, 2018 Author Share Posted June 12, 2018 20 hours ago, Songbird said: Hi Molly, I'm thinking relaxation exercises might be helpful for you. They work to calm the nervous system, reducing anxiety and other symptoms of the "fight-or-fight" response (which can include nausea). Relaxation exercises can include gentle yoga, progressive muscle relaxation, gentle yoga, calming breathing exercises, meditation, guided visualisation and so on. It's best to do them regularly, e.g. once or twice every day. I like to use recordings with gentle music and a calming voice giving the instructions so I don't really have to think about what to do. You might have to try a few things to see what works best for you. Thanks Songbird I'll give those a try...I have tried meditation but really struggle to find peace and turn my mind off. I'll try the other suggestions 🙄 thank you for your help I really appreciate it. November 1 2017- Amitriptyline 10mg prescribed December 2017- Amitriptyline cut to 7.5mg -horrendous withdrawals (tried to quit due to bad side effects: Nausea, dizziness, foggy head, fainting, depression etc) December 24th 2017- Amitriptyline reinstated to 10mg March 1st 2018- Began to taper off 10 mg by .2mg per night April 15th 2018- Amitriptyline free, suffering withdrawals. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Gridley Posted June 12, 2018 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted June 12, 2018 Try this very simple yoga pose for anxiety. It has helped me: Lie on the floor with your legs up on the wall, more or less (less is fine) at a 90 degree angle. Support your head and lower back with pillows as is comfortable. 15-20 minutes helps with anxiety. Gridley Introduction Lexapro 20 mg since 2004. Begin Brassmonkey Slide Taper Jan. 2017. End 2017 year 1 of taper at 9.25mg End 2018 year 2 of taper at 4.1mg End 2019 year 3 of taper at 1.0mg Oct. 30, 2020 Jump to zero from 0.025mg. Current dose: 0.000mg 3 year, 10 month taper is 100% complete. Ativan 1 mg to 1.875mg 1986-2020, two CT's and reinstatements Nov. 2020, 7-week Ativan-Valium crossover to 18.75mg Valium Feb. 2021, begin 10%/4 week taper of 18.75mg Valium End 2021 year 1 of Valium taper at 6mg End 2022 year 2 of Valium taper at 2.75mg End 2023 year 3 of Valium taper at 1mg Jan. 24, 2024: Hold at 1mg and shift to Imipramine taper. Taper is 95% complete. Imipramine 75 mg daily since 1986. Jan.-Sept. 2016 tapered to 14.4mg March 22, 2022: Begin 10%/4 week taper Aug. 5, 2022: hold at 9.5mg and shift to Valium taper Jan. 24, 2024: Resume Imipramine taper. Current dose as of Oct 15: 3.2mg Taper is 96% complete. Supplements: multiple, quercetin, omega-3, vitamins C, E and D3, magnesium glycinate, probiotic, zinc, melatonin .3mg, iron, serrapeptase, nattokinase, L-Glutamine, milk thistle, choline I am not a medical professional and this is not medical advice. It is information based on my own experience as well as that of other members who have survived these drugs. Link to comment
Molly19 Posted June 12, 2018 Author Share Posted June 12, 2018 40 minutes ago, Gridley said: Try this very simple yoga pose for anxiety. It has helped me: Lie on the floor with your legs up on the wall, more or less (less is fine) at a 90 degree angle. Support your head and lower back with pillows as is comfortable. 15-20 minutes helps with anxiety. Thank you Gridley I'll try this! Thanks so much🙄 November 1 2017- Amitriptyline 10mg prescribed December 2017- Amitriptyline cut to 7.5mg -horrendous withdrawals (tried to quit due to bad side effects: Nausea, dizziness, foggy head, fainting, depression etc) December 24th 2017- Amitriptyline reinstated to 10mg March 1st 2018- Began to taper off 10 mg by .2mg per night April 15th 2018- Amitriptyline free, suffering withdrawals. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus composter Posted October 17, 2018 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted October 17, 2018 Hi Molly, It's been several months and I'm wondering how you are getting along. My case is very similar to yours. We both: started on the same dose (10 mg), were on it for a relatively short time (1-3 month), and (I'm guessing by your username) we are both female, around the same age (18-25) I reinstated to 10 mg after a hellish withdrawal episode, but I'm still not feeling back to normal. Did you feel leveled out in March 2018 when you started your taper or did you taper because you had no other option? Are you still experiencing withdrawal symptoms? Apr 2018: Began 10 mg Amitriptyline (for headaches & insomnia from concussion). Jul - Aug 2018: Fast taper to 5 mg and then 2.5 mg (too fast, hellish withdrawal at 2.5 mg). Sept 2018: Reinstated 10 mg (many symptoms improved). Oct 2018 - Apr 2019: Updosed & stabilized on 11 mg (2 waves at 3 and 5 months post-withdrawal). Apr 2019 - Apr 2020: Tapered 0.5-0.25 mg per month using compounded pills: 11 mg —> 6 mg. (2 waves at 12 and 16 months post-withdrawal.) Apr 2020 - present: Switched to a liquid taper at rate of 0.1 mg per month. Currently: 1.1 mg. No more waves. Supplements: Omega-3 fish oil, Vit B12, coenzyme Q10, Hawthorn extract (for tachycardia) Tools for insomnia/waves (as needed): Epsom salt foot soaks, 0.5 mg Melatonin, quality time, waves WILL PASS. Lifestyle: Eat real foods, mostly plants; sunlight, walking, yoga; symptom tracking on adapted Glenmullen chart. Link to comment
Molly19 Posted October 17, 2018 Author Share Posted October 17, 2018 Hey Composter, Yes I am female I was on 10mg for a total of 6 months. After feeling sick everyday and passing out since I started them the doctor FINALLY agreed that maybe just maybe it could be the pill and to stop them overnight. I originally tried to stop them on my own after being on them for nearly 2 months I only dropped to 7.5mg BUT I experienced such an awful withdrawal I ended up going back up to 10mg. The doctor refused to refill the prescription as it was so harmful so I only had what pills I had left to taper. I went from 10 to 0 in 40 days dropping .2mg everynight. I found that a constant slow drop was easier than dropping and stabilizing. I had to buy a pill crusher and a little jewellery scale to do this but it was worth it. As you can see from my previous posts that it was still a crappy experience! However i am now off these pills thank goodness and SURPRISE no more fainting... I still do experience some withdrawal symptoms that seem to come and go specifically waves of anxiety and nausea. I wouldn't up your dose if you are trying to quit. I would stabilize on 10mg then start to drop down slowly, it sounds like you are sensitive to the drops like me and many others. Are you on facebook? There are some great forums there for help especially these two: Amitriptyline (usage and withdrawals) and Amitriptyline takers. Also have you have checked out the patient forum https://patient.info/forums/discuss/amitriptyline-withdrawal-583205 there is a wonderful thread started by a lady named Amanda who had a horrible time coming off this drug, the forum is now full of people sharing this struggle. I definitely recommend you check those out, they really helped me. Hopefully this helps, I know exactly what you are going through and it is AWFUL. Though my symptoms have improved a lot i'm still not completely over it, I suppose over time my body will heal from this poison. November 1 2017- Amitriptyline 10mg prescribed December 2017- Amitriptyline cut to 7.5mg -horrendous withdrawals (tried to quit due to bad side effects: Nausea, dizziness, foggy head, fainting, depression etc) December 24th 2017- Amitriptyline reinstated to 10mg March 1st 2018- Began to taper off 10 mg by .2mg per night April 15th 2018- Amitriptyline free, suffering withdrawals. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus composter Posted October 19, 2018 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted October 19, 2018 Thank you so much for your reply and for sharing those resources. The FB group especially looks to be a useful place to connect with others on the same drug. I don't know if I will do a constant slow drop like you did but I will definitely look into the pill crusher and jewelry scale to make precise measurements. Thank you for the reassurance. I have hope knowing that others with similar issues on 10 mg are able to come off and feel functional. Apr 2018: Began 10 mg Amitriptyline (for headaches & insomnia from concussion). Jul - Aug 2018: Fast taper to 5 mg and then 2.5 mg (too fast, hellish withdrawal at 2.5 mg). Sept 2018: Reinstated 10 mg (many symptoms improved). Oct 2018 - Apr 2019: Updosed & stabilized on 11 mg (2 waves at 3 and 5 months post-withdrawal). Apr 2019 - Apr 2020: Tapered 0.5-0.25 mg per month using compounded pills: 11 mg —> 6 mg. (2 waves at 12 and 16 months post-withdrawal.) Apr 2020 - present: Switched to a liquid taper at rate of 0.1 mg per month. Currently: 1.1 mg. No more waves. Supplements: Omega-3 fish oil, Vit B12, coenzyme Q10, Hawthorn extract (for tachycardia) Tools for insomnia/waves (as needed): Epsom salt foot soaks, 0.5 mg Melatonin, quality time, waves WILL PASS. Lifestyle: Eat real foods, mostly plants; sunlight, walking, yoga; symptom tracking on adapted Glenmullen chart. Link to comment
Molly19 Posted February 11, 2019 Author Share Posted February 11, 2019 (edited) Topic title: Withdrawal relapse? Hello everyone I discontinued 10mg of amitriptyline in April 2018 (after being on this 6 months) I had a terrible reaction to it so my doctor said to stop. After reading about withdrawals I decided to taper off using what pills I had left I came off of 10mg in 40 days. Really fast i know! But the drug was too dangerous for me to stay on. The first few months after stopping were horrible. Then I started to experience waves and windows. Each time the wave was a little better. By November I had maybe 4 bad days a month- so awesome! 😊Then at the end of December everything thing changed I'm back to the bad anxiety and nausea that i experienced when I first started withdrawal. It has been over a month now. I get a couple good days here and there but I was doing much better 2 months ago than I am now. Is this a common thing that happens?? Or should I be worried? Any insights or tips would be greatly appreciated. I am not on any other meds. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart❤ Edited February 11, 2019 by ChessieCat added topic title November 1 2017- Amitriptyline 10mg prescribed December 2017- Amitriptyline cut to 7.5mg -horrendous withdrawals (tried to quit due to bad side effects: Nausea, dizziness, foggy head, fainting, depression etc) December 24th 2017- Amitriptyline reinstated to 10mg March 1st 2018- Began to taper off 10 mg by .2mg per night April 15th 2018- Amitriptyline free, suffering withdrawals. Link to comment
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