CeruleanSea Posted July 2, 2022 Author Share Posted July 2, 2022 More ups and downs. I’m experiencing insomnia each night & fatigue each day. But!! Honestly? My sex life is much better! Holding at this dose for the month & enjoying the moment. Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted July 4, 2022 Author Share Posted July 4, 2022 I’m starting to experience unbelievable insomnia. This has never been a problem before. I used to sleep reliably 9pm-5am, now I’m awake after midnight. Hoping for improvements. Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
Ariel Posted July 4, 2022 Share Posted July 4, 2022 @CeruleanSea Congrats on the ups and sorry about the downs. Do you know the melatonin topic? Also, sleep topic 1996-2018 - misc. polypharmacy, incl. SSRIs, SNRIs, neuroleptics, lithium, benzos, stimulants, antihistamines, etc. (approx. 30+ drugs) 2012-2018 - 10mg lexapro/escitalopram (20mg?) Jan. 2018 - 10mg -> 5mg, then from 5mg -> 2.5mg, then 0mg --> July 2018 - 0mg 2017(?)-2020 - vyvanse/lisdexamfetamine 60-70mg 2020-2021 - 70mg down to 0mg --> July 2021 - 0mg March-April 2021 - vortioxetine 5-10mg (approx. 7 weeks total; CT) --> April 28th, 2021 - 0mg August 2021 - 2mg melatonin August 1, 2022 - 1mg melatonin March 31, 2023 - 0mg melatonin 2024 supplements update: electrolyte blend in water sipped throughout the day; 1 tsp fish oil blend w/ morning meal (incl. vit. A+D+E); calcium; vitamin C+zinc Courage is fear that has said its prayers. - Karle Wilson Baker love and justice are not two. without inner change, there can be no outer change; without collective change, no change matters. - Rev. angel Kyodo williams Holding multiple truths. Knowing that everyone has their own accurate view of the way things are. - text on homemade banner at Afiya house I am not a medical professional; this is not medical advice. Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted July 7, 2022 Author Share Posted July 7, 2022 Thanks for the tip Ariel! I have been figuring out how to sleep better. Hoping that this improves the other symptoms. Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted July 8, 2022 Author Share Posted July 8, 2022 I’m starting to experience more of the brain fog & unclear thinking. I’m just not as sharp-witted as before meds. In 2021 I reinstated to 50 because of this. For now, instead I’m holding. At the moment, I’m chalking this up to changes in neurotransmitter levels & poor sleep. Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
Blossom71 Posted July 14, 2022 Share Posted July 14, 2022 Uuurrgggh, i'm sorry to hear the brain fog is increasing @CeruleanSea I'm hoping your sleep is improving a bit as i find when my sleep goes out of whack, it affects me massively. Sending love, and sheep to count!! Sertraline (Lustral): 2014. Sept 50mg. Oct 100mg. Dec 150mg. 2015-2019. 150mg. 2019 Apr-May 0mg. Beg May 150mg. End May 100mg. Late June 125mg. Late Aug 100mg. 2020 Jan 75mg. April 50mg. 2022 50mg. 1Jan 45mg. 1Feb 40.5mg. Water T. 24Feb 39.5mg. 3Mar 38.5mg. 18Mar 38mg. 25Mar 37.5mg. 22Apr 37mg. 5May 36.5mg. 18May 36mg. 1Jun 35.3mg. 15Jun 34.5mg. 30Jun 34mg. 15Jul 33.5mg. 22Jul 33mg. 5Aug 32.5mg. 19Aug 32mg. 1Sept 31.5mg. 1Oct 31mg. 27 Oct 30.5. 16 Nov 30mg. 30 Nov 29.5mg. 14 Dec 29mg 2023. 2 Jan 28.5mg. 6 Feb 28mg. 10 Mar 27.5mg. 1 Apr 26.5mg. 1 May 26mg. 1 Jun 25.5mg. 1 Jul 25mg. 1 Aug 24.5mg. 17 Aug 24mg. 5 Sept 23.5mg. 9 Oct 23mg. Desogestrel: 2014 - present: Supplements: Magnesium. 400mcg Vitamin D. 10mcg. Multivit/min. 1 tab. B Complex Certirizine: 2022 May 10mg. Dec 20mg. 2023. 15mg. Omeprazole.: 2016 20mg. 2022 20mg. 15Jan 15mg. 9Feb 10mg. 25Feb 6.5mg. 15Mar 3mg. 3Apr 1.5mg. 15Apr 0mg 2023. 20mg. 15 Sept 15mg. Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted July 18, 2022 Author Share Posted July 18, 2022 I am still experiencing insomnia. This summer has been stressful, but honestly I also have the bad habit of reading my smartphone at night. I was at the doctor's office today for some labs, and the provider I saw reiterated the importance of good sleep. I will be working on that. I do feel a little depressed and dumb, but suspect poor sleep to be the major contributor. Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
Ariel Posted July 19, 2022 Share Posted July 19, 2022 @CeruleanSea I hear you. Sleep affects everything else. When I don't sleep well (which is most of the time, thanks to WD) it exacerbates symptoms and makes the days that much harder to get through. Most of the choices I make during my waking hours are attempts to support sleep later on that night. Sometimes the strategies work, sometimes not. It is, of course, unpredictable. But I've learned a lot about what not to do, and that's not nothing. If I do everything right, it may not guarantee improved sleep, but maybe it increases the likelihood of less worse sleep. (That is some serious insomnia-affected grammar, haha) Hang in there, CS. It gets better! One of my favorite things to read in the success stories is when people write about how much their sleep has improved. Yes please. Good things await. Sending healing vibes <3 1 1996-2018 - misc. polypharmacy, incl. SSRIs, SNRIs, neuroleptics, lithium, benzos, stimulants, antihistamines, etc. (approx. 30+ drugs) 2012-2018 - 10mg lexapro/escitalopram (20mg?) Jan. 2018 - 10mg -> 5mg, then from 5mg -> 2.5mg, then 0mg --> July 2018 - 0mg 2017(?)-2020 - vyvanse/lisdexamfetamine 60-70mg 2020-2021 - 70mg down to 0mg --> July 2021 - 0mg March-April 2021 - vortioxetine 5-10mg (approx. 7 weeks total; CT) --> April 28th, 2021 - 0mg August 2021 - 2mg melatonin August 1, 2022 - 1mg melatonin March 31, 2023 - 0mg melatonin 2024 supplements update: electrolyte blend in water sipped throughout the day; 1 tsp fish oil blend w/ morning meal (incl. vit. A+D+E); calcium; vitamin C+zinc Courage is fear that has said its prayers. - Karle Wilson Baker love and justice are not two. without inner change, there can be no outer change; without collective change, no change matters. - Rev. angel Kyodo williams Holding multiple truths. Knowing that everyone has their own accurate view of the way things are. - text on homemade banner at Afiya house I am not a medical professional; this is not medical advice. Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted July 19, 2022 Author Share Posted July 19, 2022 Kind of good news -- one of my labs revealed that I am significantly lower in B12 than I used to be. At this point, I might only need a multivitamin to start feeling normal again. Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted September 2, 2022 Author Share Posted September 2, 2022 I’m still on 37.5 mg sertraline. From July I had medication changes to my non-SSRI meds & as a result I’m sleeping great! My summer was intense with work & family obligations. We never took a vacation or had much fun, to be honest. I’ve been absent-minded for my whole life, but during this stressful time I’ve had more memory & concentration problems. I’m nervous about continued issues. I’m hoping that with relaxation + fun it will abate. Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted November 30, 2022 Author Share Posted November 30, 2022 I'm considering going off coffee or caffeine. I think it's a dog chasing its tail situation here: anxiety --> sertaline prescription -- > somnolence, orthostatic hypotension, reduced norepinephrine/dopamine --> caffeine --> anxiety Doing this is tough for me! I have virtually no other vices and a strong coffee fills me with joy. It also helps my orthostatic hypotension symptoms and warms me up in the cold. But, I think I need a change if I'm going to quit sertraline. I also think it would be good simply to see what I'm dealing with without the constant infusion. My plan is to get some electrolytes to help with the orthostatic hypotension symptoms. Then, use these in place of frequent coffee. I'm planning to basically quit over the weekend, but take Excedrine Migraine when I feel a caffeine headache kick in. Once I'm off, I may feel MORE somnolent from the sertraline. Riding it out will be tough. But I think I need to in order to really have the best chance for success on a taper. Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted December 1, 2022 Author Share Posted December 1, 2022 Augh, I am definitely experiencing seasonal affective disorder. The sun is up for a little over 8 hours a day in my part of the world right now. The temperature has averaged 36 degrees fahrenheit, 2.2 degrees Celsius. I know what I should do. I should get up, exercise, be social, go out, and use my SAD lamp. But instead I am truly slogging through my days with low energy. I don't mean to be lazy but I am quite lazy both at work and home. Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted December 5, 2022 Author Share Posted December 5, 2022 (edited) Two days ago, I finally started reducing my sertraline again. I've been on 37.5 since April 2022. It's been a tough, busy time, and I held. But I now am jumping to 31.25, as I can dry cut a 25 mg pill into 1/4 to achieve the 6.25 easily. Then I take the other pill. This, I'll acknowledge, is a 17% percent cut and not the slow careful way I would ideally go. But for now, I feel amazing! I feel joy in an intensity I have not for a while. When others make a little joke I really laugh. I also feel uniquely chatty, although I recognized this as my old personality from before medication. I feel unusually motivated and focused at work. I am intending to proceed from here. But if negative symptoms become excessive, I will go back to a 10% reduction. In order to to that, I'll have to change the time I take the medication to midday -- part of what makes it challenging to proceed is that childcare at night inevitably interrupts water titration. I end up taking 37.5 out of convenience. Edited December 5, 2022 by CeruleanSea adding note about focus Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted December 6, 2022 Author Share Posted December 6, 2022 I feared this drop but am still doing well. Today, I made 2 phone calls that I’d normally procrastinate on. I no longer am overly satisfied, overly calm, emotionally removed from life in the way I was. There have been downsides., I have been really unfocused at work & had a mild headache. Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted December 7, 2022 Author Share Posted December 7, 2022 (edited) Day 4, I'm starting to really feel this drop. Not surprising, it is 12.5% of the original prescription and a big drop in receptor occupancy. Dizziness: Motion sickness + disequilibrium, especially close to 24 hours since taking the medication. Emotional: Anxiety, more visceral and physical. More positive mood also. Vivid Dreams/Nightmares: It is as if more anxiety is coming into my dream life, not just my waking life. Appetite change: I simply don't feel as hungry and like grazing all day. When I do eat I am a bit more satisfied. I am determined to press on. I am really appreciating feeling more fully. Edited December 7, 2022 by CeruleanSea adding note about appetite Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted December 8, 2022 Author Share Posted December 8, 2022 Day 5, doing better. I'm now more aware of the seriousness of SSRI's and the seriousness of this undertaking. I had such disequilibrium yesterday, I knocked something off a shelf by accident! I was unsteady and swayed into it, despite having no intoxicants at all in my system. Ginger ale has helped. Insomnia: I had trouble sleeping and awoke a lot in the night. Cognitive change: I've had trouble with focus today. I'm taking a live online course and am finding myself with mind drifting off. Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted December 10, 2022 Author Share Posted December 10, 2022 After a day of 13 withdrawal symptoms from Glenmullen’s chart yesterday, I’m finally taking it easier. I’ve even been having olfactory hallucinations (the persistent sense of a bad smell that no one else can smell). I was taking a 25 mg pill & dry cutting a 25 mg into 1/4’s, trying to get down to 31.25. It’s likely the method wasn’t accurate enough, as tiny shards were breaking off the 1/4ths. Today I increased back to only a 10% reduction of my prior dose. 33.75 mg. I water titrated to get a more accurate dose. Fingers crossed for tomorrow! Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted December 10, 2022 Author Share Posted December 10, 2022 After going 'up' a bit to 33.75, today has gone much better. Withdrawal symptoms are significantly milder. I was quite affected by them, even more than I could see. I regret trying to go faster. But it's inevitable -- I think we all try it sometime. The withdrawal symptoms are unbelievable in their intensity. I am really feeling freaked out about the damage imposed by my decades of ssri use. No way but forward through this! Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted December 11, 2022 Author Share Posted December 11, 2022 My word-finding problems and intrusive thoughts have grown in intensity. I’m taking fish oil. I haven’t breen exercising due to a minor leg injury, but figuring out how to get some swimming in this week to aid in my healing. Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted December 13, 2022 Author Share Posted December 13, 2022 Today went well! A reduction of no more than 10% of the prior dose is truly best practice. I read through my history and I saw that I have frequently freaked out & changed dose within the first weeks. I’m planning to go slowly from here on out, including the first few days after a change. Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted December 14, 2022 Author Share Posted December 14, 2022 Water titration and 33.75 mg is working! I’m glad to be reducing the dose. Having both positive & negative symptoms. Psychological: low energy, poor concentration, increased anxiety, but — more personality + passion! Memory problems: Mild Mood swings: slightly elevated mood Disequilibrium & headache are reduced! Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted December 15, 2022 Author Share Posted December 15, 2022 My energy has been absurdly low! I have little energy right now. BUT it is December in North America. It is cold, rainy, and gloomy in my area and has been pretty much all week. I’m making myself go out for a walk tomorrow to break up the doldrums. Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted December 16, 2022 Author Share Posted December 16, 2022 It's been a week since switching to 33.75. Things are slightly better every day! I am surprised by how much more motivated I am feeling. I am more focused at work and more goal-oriented. 1 Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted December 18, 2022 Author Share Posted December 18, 2022 A week & a day from going to 33.75….I’m sad to say I’m so irritable now! I used to be quite nice to my kids even in the face of unbelievably poor behavior, but that version of me is gone! Today I yelled at them about their bedtime highjinks & refused to keep laying with the youngest who hoped I’d keep her company as she fell asleep. No more Mr. Nice mom?!! Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus manymoretodays Posted December 18, 2022 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted December 18, 2022 Hi Cerulean, Stay put. Try try to avoid too frequent changes in your dosage now. You'll be nice again. There are symptoms......not you. Neuro-emotions Also: Managing Anger And best. Peace and calm. L, P, H, and G, mmt Late 2023- gone to emeritus status, inactive, don't @ me, I can check who I've posted on, and I'm not really here like I used to be......thanks. Started with psycho meds/psychiatric care circa 1988. In retrospect, and on contemplation, situational overwhelm. Rounding up to 30 years of medications(30 medication trials, poly-pharmacy maximum was 3 at one time). 5/28/2015-off Adderal salts 2.5mg. (I had been on that since hospital 10/2014) 12/2015---just holding, holding, holding, with trileptal/oxcarb at 75 mg. 1/2 tab at hs. My last psycho med ever! Tapered @ 10% every 4 weeks, sometimes 2 weeks to 2016 Dec 16, medication free!! Longer signature post here, with current supplements. Herb and alcohol free since 5/15/2016. And.....I quit smoking 11/2021. Lapsed. Redo of quit smoking 9/28/2022. Can you say Hallelujah?(took me long enough)💜 None of my posts are intended as medical advice. Please discuss any decisions about your medical care with a knowledgeable medical provider. My success story: Blue skies ahead, clear sailing Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted December 18, 2022 Author Share Posted December 18, 2022 Thanks, @manymoretodays. I appreciate those links! It's nice to hear from someone who has been there. I'm fully intending to go ahead and sleep when I am tired, and turn to my partner to fill in with the kids when I just don't have patience. 1 Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus manymoretodays Posted December 18, 2022 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted December 18, 2022 Good, good. And I'm sorry there hasn't been much input into your postings lately. I'll try to keep an eye out. Maybe, if time......go lend support too, on other members Introduction threads. That helps build your own little community here too. We all need it from time to time. Happy Holidays. L, P, H, and G, mmt Late 2023- gone to emeritus status, inactive, don't @ me, I can check who I've posted on, and I'm not really here like I used to be......thanks. Started with psycho meds/psychiatric care circa 1988. In retrospect, and on contemplation, situational overwhelm. Rounding up to 30 years of medications(30 medication trials, poly-pharmacy maximum was 3 at one time). 5/28/2015-off Adderal salts 2.5mg. (I had been on that since hospital 10/2014) 12/2015---just holding, holding, holding, with trileptal/oxcarb at 75 mg. 1/2 tab at hs. My last psycho med ever! Tapered @ 10% every 4 weeks, sometimes 2 weeks to 2016 Dec 16, medication free!! Longer signature post here, with current supplements. Herb and alcohol free since 5/15/2016. And.....I quit smoking 11/2021. Lapsed. Redo of quit smoking 9/28/2022. Can you say Hallelujah?(took me long enough)💜 None of my posts are intended as medical advice. Please discuss any decisions about your medical care with a knowledgeable medical provider. My success story: Blue skies ahead, clear sailing Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted December 26, 2022 Author Share Posted December 26, 2022 My family celebrated Christmas & the holidays went well for me! one positive sign: I cried over a beautiful gift from my children. In past years I would have been overly medicated & unfeeling. It’s nice to have feelings again! I’ve started a regular exercise routine & it gives me a big energy + mood boost. 1 Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus manymoretodays Posted December 27, 2022 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted December 27, 2022 Good. So good to hear this CS!!! I'm a crier......LOL. It 's something I have had to come to terms with, as I cry at music, at happy things, at sad things, when maybe I should laugh?........I don't know. I've got friends who think it is some kind of "spirtual trait"......LOL. It's a bit weird at times. I laugh too and that is pretty normalized.......I hope. Alright Good update and report. L, P, H, and G,. mmt Late 2023- gone to emeritus status, inactive, don't @ me, I can check who I've posted on, and I'm not really here like I used to be......thanks. Started with psycho meds/psychiatric care circa 1988. In retrospect, and on contemplation, situational overwhelm. Rounding up to 30 years of medications(30 medication trials, poly-pharmacy maximum was 3 at one time). 5/28/2015-off Adderal salts 2.5mg. (I had been on that since hospital 10/2014) 12/2015---just holding, holding, holding, with trileptal/oxcarb at 75 mg. 1/2 tab at hs. My last psycho med ever! Tapered @ 10% every 4 weeks, sometimes 2 weeks to 2016 Dec 16, medication free!! Longer signature post here, with current supplements. Herb and alcohol free since 5/15/2016. And.....I quit smoking 11/2021. Lapsed. Redo of quit smoking 9/28/2022. Can you say Hallelujah?(took me long enough)💜 None of my posts are intended as medical advice. Please discuss any decisions about your medical care with a knowledgeable medical provider. My success story: Blue skies ahead, clear sailing Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted December 28, 2022 Author Share Posted December 28, 2022 It’s been almost 3 weeks since I switched to 33.75, and my reduction symptoms have greatly improved. Doing exercise, swimming every other day, has accelerated my improvement. Im grateful for access to a good pool & to have to health & freedom to do this. 1 Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted December 28, 2022 Author Share Posted December 28, 2022 @manymoretodays Hey strong feelings make you cry! My husband is the same way but he gets little tears in his eyes & denies that it is happening. It’s sweet. Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted January 6, 2023 Author Share Posted January 6, 2023 I’ve come down with bronchitis, so I’m holding at my current dosage until I am healthy. I’m doing fairly well but I am noticing more generalized anxiety. This anxiety was part of my experience before meds. For now I’m noticing it and trying not to give it too much attention. Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted January 9, 2023 Author Share Posted January 9, 2023 Mistake — last night I forgot to take my dose. I’d measured out 50 ml of water for titration but was distracted by a family member who needed me. I had insomnia & could never sleep deeply. In the morning I discovered my mistake & took my current dose. The whole thing makes me frustrated about the drug manufacturers. Why do they insist on doses only coming in limited & large amounts? Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted January 14, 2023 Author Share Posted January 14, 2023 Still waiting to reduce here. I’m fighting off the bronchitis I’ve mentioned. And my MD is increasing my thyroid medication this week, which can potentially cause jitteriness. I want to know where symptoms are coming from if any. Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
Tulip52 Posted January 16, 2023 Share Posted January 16, 2023 Curious about what you decided to do with caffeine intake. I’m at a point to where if I don’t have it when I wake up I get anxious but after I do drink it I have much more anxiety. BUT, I’m wondering now, how do I stay stable from my last taper and quit caffeine at the same time? 94-2000 Prozac, 2000-2001 zoloft 2001-2003 paxil, 2002 1 mg klonopin 2003-2004 effexor, ct klonopin, in hospital put on Seroquel & lexapro , 2005 Ct lexapro, in the hospital again, imipramine 250mg, 2009-2010 weaned off seroquel, 2016-17tapered imipramine to 150, 2017-19 100 mg, 2020 jumped to 50 mg a week later went back up to 60. 11/22 56 mg 12-22 50mg 4/5/23 - 47mg 4/16 - 40 mg 6/27/23-35mg, 4/15/24 33mg 1/20 1 mg ropinirol 3/21 ropinirol 2 mg 4/23 Ozempic .25, 6/26/23 .37mg 12/1/23 .39mg, 4/24 40mg 1/24 1mg clonidine Supplements: boron, diatomaceous earth, cream of tartar and Celtic sea salt, transdermal magnesium oil Link to comment
CeruleanSea Posted January 20, 2023 Author Share Posted January 20, 2023 Still holding. I've been having horrid headaches all week following the change of my thyroid medication. Sending a message to my MD to figure it out. Hoping to be in a place to reduce again soon. @Tulip52 I have slightly reduced caffeine. I now have tea in the afternoon instead of coffee. I realized I was using it to warm up and for a little break, and I don't need the caffeine. I haven't felt anything much as a result of the reduction. Zoloft 50 mg since 2019. 2024. January. 33.75 February. 33.75 March 32.5 April 30.0 2023. January 33.75 mg February 32.5 mg March 30.0 mg April 27.5 mg June 50 mg August 40 mg September-December 37.5 mg December 33.75 mg 2022. January 50mg February 45 mg March 40.5 April-November 37.5 December 33.75 mg Prior to discontinuation: 20 years of a variety of antidepressants & anti-anxiety meds from months to years at a time (fluoxetine, nefazodone, venlafaxine, clonazepam, hydroxyzine). I was unknowingly experiencing discontinuation and was frequently diagnosed with anxiety/exacerbations of previous illness as opposed to discontinuation. Supplements: Fish oil, Vitamin D3, magnesium, B complex, l-theanine Link to comment
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