Belfastchild: Lexapro Withdrawal

[Belfastchild]

I had Bilateral Carotid Body Tumors (benign) removed in 2005. I developed numerous symptoms of Autonomic Dysfunction due to vagus nerve damage. Feeling down in 2016-17 and decided to try Escitalopram. Wasn’t really depressed or anxious, and should never have started. Went into a gradual mental decline. Developed a lot of negativity, cynicism, anger, fear, paranoia. Decided to come off Lexapro in late summer. Went from 10mg to 5mg to nothing over the course of 6weeks. Once off developed severe withdrawal symptoms. Current symptoms are mostly heavy anxiety. Went to ER once about 3 weeks ago. They prescribed me some Hydroxyzine to alleviate anxiety. Have been using them sparingly (maybe one every other day). Been using some CBD oil, Athletic Greens, Omega 3/6/9 over the last two weeks to reduce anxiety. It comes in waves for me. 
 

I don’t want to reinstate if possible. Are there other things I should consider to reduce anxiety levels? My timeline is currently at about 4-5 months since cessation. 
 

Thanks so much. 

[Belfastchild]

Other meds that I take for Autonomic Dysfunction are Clonidine and Labetolol for Blood pressure. Low Dose Naltrexone (2mg) for chronic body pain and fatigue. 

[Frogie]

Hi @Belfastchild

 

Welcome to SA. I'm sorry you are going through what you are, but glad you found us.

 

We are all volunteers that have been through situations with medications as you or have been through it.

 

This is your main page, where you receive information, ask questions, and meet members that you can talk with.

 

Can you please create a signature so we know what is going on. 

 

Instructions:  Withdrawal History Signature

 

I'm sorry you had Bilateral Carotid Body Tumors, but very relieved they were benign. I'm sure that was a very anxious time for you.

 

You have been off Lexapro 4-5 months, is that correct? At this point, you I would suggest you read these links and decide if reinstatement is something you wish to do. I don't blame you for not wanting to.

 

Tips for tapering off escitalopram (Lexapro)

 

About reinstating and stabilizing to reduce withdrawal symptoms

 

Why taper by 10% of my dosage?

 

Dr Joseph Glenmullen's Withdrawal Symptoms

 

One Theory of Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome

 

Brain Remodelling

 

Here is some information on Hydroxyzine. It is actually and antihistamine that they prescribe for anxiety.

 

 

 

We don't suggest supplements on here except for 2.

 

Magnesium

Omega-3 Fish Oil

 

 

Please read the links I gave you at your leisure. When you are done, don't hesitate to ask any questions you may have. We are here to help.

 

 

 

 

 

Edited January 14, 2022 by Frogie

[ChessieCat]

I have moved your new topic to the existing topic.  There are many existing topics on SA.  SA likes to keep similar information in one place so it is easier for members to find.  Please search to see if one already exists.  You can use the site search function or a search engine and add site:survivingantidepresssants.org ot the search term.

 

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