Motherdragon Posted October 13, 2023 Share Posted October 13, 2023 2 hours ago, BigCat said: L'exposition du merde est temporaire". Love this!! 1 About Me OCD since childhood; Health anxiety since late teens; 2000 - Emetophobia began; 2019 - Perimenopause huge increase in anxiety; 2022 - ADHD diagnosis January 2023 - started tapering off venlafaxine Meds history 2000 - Prozac; 2002 - Citalopram; 2004 - Started venlafaxine; 2019 - increased to max dose 375mg; 2021 - added mirtazapine 15mg in addition to Venlafaxine AKA “California Rocket Fuel”; 2022 - ADHD diagnosis; Jan 2023 - started tapering venlafaxine; Oct 2023 - 112.5mg Venlafaxine & 30mg mirtazapine Link to comment
pinkfairy Posted October 24, 2023 Share Posted October 24, 2023 Hey just checking in hope you're managing. Pink. First AD when i was 19.Binge drinker/drugs 15 years weekend use.I was always pulled on and off.2005-2007-Mirtapine 45mg CT. 2010-2016 Paxil 40mg + Zopiclone.Jan-2016 i was CT off Paxil.Stopped alcohol Jan 2016.Given 2-4mg of Diazepam April 2016 CT them after 3 month.They reinstated 8mg of Diazepam July 2016 and the Doctor CT me off Zopiclone the same day.They then tried adding all different drugs Mirt one of them at 15mg (i took 7.5mg).I was tapered August 2016 7.5mg.Sep 2016 7mg.Oct 2016 6mg.Tried 1mg of Paxil-stopped after 2 days.Nov 2016 5.5mg.Tried olanzapine @2.5mg (stopped after a week)Dec 2016-5mg.Tried switching to liquid Jan-March 2017 (no good)back to pills.April 2017-4.75mg of Diazepam June 2017 -4.5mg.July 2018 went inpatient for 10 days.Awakening 4 days later.HELD.Sep 2017 4.3mg Dec 2017-4mg (Held)April 2019- started tapering the Mirtazapine.Sep 2019 at 6mg of Mirtazapine (HELD)Stopped smoking CT after 26 years.10.16.19..Restarted the Diazepam taper Jan 2020 micro tapering (game changer) now 18/7/23 @0.052mg Diazepam + Mirtazapine @6mg. Link to comment
BigCat Posted October 24, 2023 Author Share Posted October 24, 2023 2 hours ago, pinkfairy said: Hey just checking in hope you're managing. Pink. @pinkfairy Thanks for checking on me. Had a couple of rough weeks, but that seems to be passing. Will give it another while before continuing tapering down... Various ADs from 1991, always for depression with anxiety and agitation... sertraline, paroxetine, citalopram (with 2.5mg olanzapine briefly), coming off each for increasingly shorter times until 2000 when I went on meds full time with Clomipramine 200mg. Then Venlafaxine (XR) since 2008, initially 225mg, then 300mg, plus tried on venlafaxine with mirtazapine (California Rocket) for only a week in 2017(?) as absolutely intolerable. July '23 Venlafaxine XL 300 to 275mg. Aug '23 275 to 250mg. Sept/Oct '23 250 to 230 to 225mg. Nov '23 205mg. Dec '23 185mg. 28 Dec '23 reinstated 225mg after crashing. Supplements: Vitamin D and fish oil. "L'exposition du merde est temporaries". Although I have a background in health, I am here to learn from others, encourage others and share my experiences, not to give professional guidance. Link to comment
pinkfairy Posted October 24, 2023 Share Posted October 24, 2023 47 minutes ago, BigCat said: @pinkfairy Thanks for checking on me. Had a couple of rough weeks, but that seems to be passing. Will give it another while before continuing tapering down... Ahh I am sorry to hear that. listen to your body and you’ll know when to set sail again. All these stormy seas are leading you to one destination and that’s back home to you ⭐️✨✨✨ First AD when i was 19.Binge drinker/drugs 15 years weekend use.I was always pulled on and off.2005-2007-Mirtapine 45mg CT. 2010-2016 Paxil 40mg + Zopiclone.Jan-2016 i was CT off Paxil.Stopped alcohol Jan 2016.Given 2-4mg of Diazepam April 2016 CT them after 3 month.They reinstated 8mg of Diazepam July 2016 and the Doctor CT me off Zopiclone the same day.They then tried adding all different drugs Mirt one of them at 15mg (i took 7.5mg).I was tapered August 2016 7.5mg.Sep 2016 7mg.Oct 2016 6mg.Tried 1mg of Paxil-stopped after 2 days.Nov 2016 5.5mg.Tried olanzapine @2.5mg (stopped after a week)Dec 2016-5mg.Tried switching to liquid Jan-March 2017 (no good)back to pills.April 2017-4.75mg of Diazepam June 2017 -4.5mg.July 2018 went inpatient for 10 days.Awakening 4 days later.HELD.Sep 2017 4.3mg Dec 2017-4mg (Held)April 2019- started tapering the Mirtazapine.Sep 2019 at 6mg of Mirtazapine (HELD)Stopped smoking CT after 26 years.10.16.19..Restarted the Diazepam taper Jan 2020 micro tapering (game changer) now 18/7/23 @0.052mg Diazepam + Mirtazapine @6mg. Link to comment
Administrator Emonda Posted November 9, 2023 Administrator Share Posted November 9, 2023 How's things, @BigCat? Still love your French quote above 😂 1 Please don't send me PMs. I am not a doctor. My comments are based on my personal experience with ADs and tapering. Consult your doctor about your own medical decisions. 2017 – 2022: Vortioxetine 15mg, Jan ’22, 15mg->5mg over 4 weeks, Feb ‘22 5mg -> 7.5mg due to WD, July ’22 6.75mg (found SA website), Aug 6.07mg, Sep 5.46mg, 11 Oct 5.00mg, 18 Oct 4.88mg, 25 Oct 4.75mg, 1 Nov 4.63mg, 8 Nov 4.5mg, 3 Jan ’23 4.39mg, 10 Jan 4.28mg, 17 Jan 4.06mg, 13 Feb 3.95mg, 20 Mar 3.85mg, 3 Apr 3.75mg, 10 April 3.65mg, 31 May 3.58mg, 8 June 3.50mg, 15 June 3.43mg, 22 June 3.35mg, 12 Jul 3.29mg, 19 Jul 3.22mg, 26 Jul 3.15mg, 3 Aug 3.09mg, 30 Aug 3.02mg, 7 Sep 2.96mg, 14 Sep 2.89mg, 21 Sep 2.82mg, Oct 11 2.75mg, Oct 19 2.70mg, Oct 26 2.64mg, Nov 2 2.59mg, Nov 23 2.53mg, Nov 30 2.48mg, 7 Dec 2.43mg, 17 Dec 2.38mg, 19 Jan 2.33mg, 26 Jan 2.28mg, 2 Feb 2.24mg, 8 Feb 2.19mg, 29 Feb 2.15mg, 7 Mar 2.10mg, 14 Mar 2.06mg, 21 Mar 1.99mg, 10 Apr 1.95mg, 17 Apr 1.91mg, 24 Apr 1.87mg, 1 May 1.83mg, Link to comment
BigCat Posted November 10, 2023 Author Share Posted November 10, 2023 15 hours ago, Emonda said: How's things, @BigCat? Still love your French quote above 😂 @Emonda Thanks for asking... appreciated! I've been keeping a low profile. Thinking that I might restart tapering as I have some time off in December. Work has been tough and I crashed an' burned recently. Getting over that. Not a great one for sharing that sort of stuff here, although I am sure folk would be supportive. Delighted that you like my schoolboy "French philosophy" 😎 Looking earnest, smoking Gitanes cigarettes, say something in French and it sounds really convincing 🤣. Various ADs from 1991, always for depression with anxiety and agitation... sertraline, paroxetine, citalopram (with 2.5mg olanzapine briefly), coming off each for increasingly shorter times until 2000 when I went on meds full time with Clomipramine 200mg. Then Venlafaxine (XR) since 2008, initially 225mg, then 300mg, plus tried on venlafaxine with mirtazapine (California Rocket) for only a week in 2017(?) as absolutely intolerable. July '23 Venlafaxine XL 300 to 275mg. Aug '23 275 to 250mg. Sept/Oct '23 250 to 230 to 225mg. Nov '23 205mg. Dec '23 185mg. 28 Dec '23 reinstated 225mg after crashing. Supplements: Vitamin D and fish oil. "L'exposition du merde est temporaries". Although I have a background in health, I am here to learn from others, encourage others and share my experiences, not to give professional guidance. Link to comment
Administrator Emonda Posted November 11, 2023 Administrator Share Posted November 11, 2023 15 hours ago, BigCat said: Work has been tough and I crashed an' burned recently. Getting over that. Sorry to read this, BigCat...but good that you are getting over it. It's also good to read you paused your taper, given the rough patch. There's no point pushing through that...always best to pause until stability returns. 15 hours ago, BigCat said: Not a great one for sharing that sort of stuff here, although I am sure folk would be supportive. Yeah, I get that. But you're right; it's a supportive community here. People will cheer you on from the sideline when that's helpful. I'm sure I read back at the start of your thread that you've been sticking to the 10% max monthly taper, right? I couldn't see the steps you'd taken in your signature. For me, 10% in one go is too much. I find 4 weekly drops at 2% more tolerable. I tried one week at 2.5% a while back, and my body said, yeah-nah. We've got to adjust accordingly, given our circumstances. I look forward to reading your next update. Emonda Please don't send me PMs. I am not a doctor. My comments are based on my personal experience with ADs and tapering. Consult your doctor about your own medical decisions. 2017 – 2022: Vortioxetine 15mg, Jan ’22, 15mg->5mg over 4 weeks, Feb ‘22 5mg -> 7.5mg due to WD, July ’22 6.75mg (found SA website), Aug 6.07mg, Sep 5.46mg, 11 Oct 5.00mg, 18 Oct 4.88mg, 25 Oct 4.75mg, 1 Nov 4.63mg, 8 Nov 4.5mg, 3 Jan ’23 4.39mg, 10 Jan 4.28mg, 17 Jan 4.06mg, 13 Feb 3.95mg, 20 Mar 3.85mg, 3 Apr 3.75mg, 10 April 3.65mg, 31 May 3.58mg, 8 June 3.50mg, 15 June 3.43mg, 22 June 3.35mg, 12 Jul 3.29mg, 19 Jul 3.22mg, 26 Jul 3.15mg, 3 Aug 3.09mg, 30 Aug 3.02mg, 7 Sep 2.96mg, 14 Sep 2.89mg, 21 Sep 2.82mg, Oct 11 2.75mg, Oct 19 2.70mg, Oct 26 2.64mg, Nov 2 2.59mg, Nov 23 2.53mg, Nov 30 2.48mg, 7 Dec 2.43mg, 17 Dec 2.38mg, 19 Jan 2.33mg, 26 Jan 2.28mg, 2 Feb 2.24mg, 8 Feb 2.19mg, 29 Feb 2.15mg, 7 Mar 2.10mg, 14 Mar 2.06mg, 21 Mar 1.99mg, 10 Apr 1.95mg, 17 Apr 1.91mg, 24 Apr 1.87mg, 1 May 1.83mg, Link to comment
BigCat Posted November 18, 2023 Author Share Posted November 18, 2023 I started tapering again 5 days ago, dropping from 225 to 205mg as had been feeling OK. Had some work issues that were distressing. Then other life events have intervened and I find myself struggling to manage my cortisol levels due to a parenting disagreement with my ex. I don't want to go back to 225mg as concerned about ?kindling. Shall I just tough it out? Various ADs from 1991, always for depression with anxiety and agitation... sertraline, paroxetine, citalopram (with 2.5mg olanzapine briefly), coming off each for increasingly shorter times until 2000 when I went on meds full time with Clomipramine 200mg. Then Venlafaxine (XR) since 2008, initially 225mg, then 300mg, plus tried on venlafaxine with mirtazapine (California Rocket) for only a week in 2017(?) as absolutely intolerable. July '23 Venlafaxine XL 300 to 275mg. Aug '23 275 to 250mg. Sept/Oct '23 250 to 230 to 225mg. Nov '23 205mg. Dec '23 185mg. 28 Dec '23 reinstated 225mg after crashing. Supplements: Vitamin D and fish oil. "L'exposition du merde est temporaries". Although I have a background in health, I am here to learn from others, encourage others and share my experiences, not to give professional guidance. Link to comment
Administrator Emonda Posted November 19, 2023 Administrator Share Posted November 19, 2023 Hi BigCat, Slow reply, sorry. It's positive that you felt well enough to taper again. Although, I'm sorry to hear that you subsequently had some external stressors that set you back a bit. Work can set us all off at times. I've also watched a mate have to deal with an ex and joint parenting issues...It seems very difficult and would upset anyone...I'm thinking along the lines of a 'completely normal response to a stressful situation'. I know it's a short time frame, but is there any improvement since you posted this yesterday? I've had rough patches and been tempted to up-dose, but I am glad, with hindsight, that I managed to tough it out. That's what I would aim for. Sometimes I've set a line in the sand....if I still feel rotten in (insert period of time - normally at least 14 days), I'll consider up-dosing. I hope this helps you to ride it out. Keep us posted. Emonda Please don't send me PMs. I am not a doctor. My comments are based on my personal experience with ADs and tapering. Consult your doctor about your own medical decisions. 2017 – 2022: Vortioxetine 15mg, Jan ’22, 15mg->5mg over 4 weeks, Feb ‘22 5mg -> 7.5mg due to WD, July ’22 6.75mg (found SA website), Aug 6.07mg, Sep 5.46mg, 11 Oct 5.00mg, 18 Oct 4.88mg, 25 Oct 4.75mg, 1 Nov 4.63mg, 8 Nov 4.5mg, 3 Jan ’23 4.39mg, 10 Jan 4.28mg, 17 Jan 4.06mg, 13 Feb 3.95mg, 20 Mar 3.85mg, 3 Apr 3.75mg, 10 April 3.65mg, 31 May 3.58mg, 8 June 3.50mg, 15 June 3.43mg, 22 June 3.35mg, 12 Jul 3.29mg, 19 Jul 3.22mg, 26 Jul 3.15mg, 3 Aug 3.09mg, 30 Aug 3.02mg, 7 Sep 2.96mg, 14 Sep 2.89mg, 21 Sep 2.82mg, Oct 11 2.75mg, Oct 19 2.70mg, Oct 26 2.64mg, Nov 2 2.59mg, Nov 23 2.53mg, Nov 30 2.48mg, 7 Dec 2.43mg, 17 Dec 2.38mg, 19 Jan 2.33mg, 26 Jan 2.28mg, 2 Feb 2.24mg, 8 Feb 2.19mg, 29 Feb 2.15mg, 7 Mar 2.10mg, 14 Mar 2.06mg, 21 Mar 1.99mg, 10 Apr 1.95mg, 17 Apr 1.91mg, 24 Apr 1.87mg, 1 May 1.83mg, Link to comment
BigCat Posted November 20, 2023 Author Share Posted November 20, 2023 22 hours ago, Emonda said: Hi BigCat, Slow reply, sorry. It's positive that you felt well enough to taper again. Although, I'm sorry to hear that you subsequently had some external stressors that set you back a bit. Work can set us all off at times. I've also watched a mate have to deal with an ex and joint parenting issues...It seems very difficult and would upset anyone...I'm thinking along the lines of a 'completely normal response to a stressful situation'. I know it's a short time frame, but is there any improvement since you posted this yesterday? I've had rough patches and been tempted to up-dose, but I am glad, with hindsight, that I managed to tough it out. That's what I would aim for. Sometimes I've set a line in the sand....if I still feel rotten in (insert period of time - normally at least 14 days), I'll consider up-dosing. I hope this helps you to ride it out. Keep us posted. Emonda No worries about response time. I haven't updosed which is good. Lots of internal emotional and conversational drama, lots of wine. The saviour was having the (family) dog to stay who had a magnificent effect of moderating my cortisol... Managed to make amends with my ex, to some extent. Life getting in the way of best laid plans. I like 'completely normal response to a stressful situation' and I use that often with my own patients, and try to use it compassionately with myself. Thanks @Emonda Various ADs from 1991, always for depression with anxiety and agitation... sertraline, paroxetine, citalopram (with 2.5mg olanzapine briefly), coming off each for increasingly shorter times until 2000 when I went on meds full time with Clomipramine 200mg. Then Venlafaxine (XR) since 2008, initially 225mg, then 300mg, plus tried on venlafaxine with mirtazapine (California Rocket) for only a week in 2017(?) as absolutely intolerable. July '23 Venlafaxine XL 300 to 275mg. Aug '23 275 to 250mg. Sept/Oct '23 250 to 230 to 225mg. Nov '23 205mg. Dec '23 185mg. 28 Dec '23 reinstated 225mg after crashing. Supplements: Vitamin D and fish oil. "L'exposition du merde est temporaries". Although I have a background in health, I am here to learn from others, encourage others and share my experiences, not to give professional guidance. Link to comment
Poppy745 Posted November 20, 2023 Share Posted November 20, 2023 1 hour ago, BigCat said: No worries about response time. I haven't updosed which is good. Lots of internal emotional and conversational drama, lots of wine. The saviour was having the (family) dog to stay who had a magnificent effect of moderating my cortisol... Managed to make amends with my ex, to some extent. Life getting in the way of best laid plans. I like 'completely normal response to a stressful situation' and I use that often with my own patients, and try to use it compassionately with myself. Thanks @Emonda Hey @BigCat I am sorry that you are having a bad patch and glad that things seem a little brighter today. Well done for getting through the last few days. I completley understand how difficult life can be already without the our extra WD issues as well! Wishing you well. 1 None of my posts are medical advice, just my own experience. Please see your Doctor for any medical advice. Venlafaxine can't remember exact dose,normal starting dose(Around 2014/15-2017) Citalopram 10mg (2018-Present - Attempted to stop taking in Aug 22, but got WD - Thought it was 'relapse') 5 months 22 from Sep to Jan Venlafaxine) Back to 10mg Citalopram -as thought would be easier to stop than Venlaxine Fast Taper off Citalopram (didn't know about WD) late June to Mid July 23. CT'd until late Sep 23, Stupidly took 3 Days 10mg fluoxetine on Dr advice, intended to taper as soon a stable. Dr said Fluox easier to taper( akathasia reaction) Stopped fluox about 26/9/23. 29/9/23.Reinstated at 2.5mg Citalopram. Holding until stable to taper off. 14/11/23 Reduced to 2.375mg because felt akathasia. Holding until stable. Link to comment
BigCat Posted November 21, 2023 Author Share Posted November 21, 2023 22 hours ago, Poppy745 said: Hey @BigCat I am sorry that you are having a bad patch and glad that things seem a little brighter today. Well done for getting through the last few days. I completley understand how difficult life can be already without the our extra WD issues as well! Wishing you well. @Poppy745 Thanks for that... not sure that the wine was the best idea. Brighter today than yesterday, so hopefully all good. 1 Various ADs from 1991, always for depression with anxiety and agitation... sertraline, paroxetine, citalopram (with 2.5mg olanzapine briefly), coming off each for increasingly shorter times until 2000 when I went on meds full time with Clomipramine 200mg. Then Venlafaxine (XR) since 2008, initially 225mg, then 300mg, plus tried on venlafaxine with mirtazapine (California Rocket) for only a week in 2017(?) as absolutely intolerable. July '23 Venlafaxine XL 300 to 275mg. Aug '23 275 to 250mg. Sept/Oct '23 250 to 230 to 225mg. Nov '23 205mg. Dec '23 185mg. 28 Dec '23 reinstated 225mg after crashing. Supplements: Vitamin D and fish oil. "L'exposition du merde est temporaries". Although I have a background in health, I am here to learn from others, encourage others and share my experiences, not to give professional guidance. Link to comment
Administrator Emonda Posted November 22, 2023 Administrator Share Posted November 22, 2023 On 11/21/2023 at 5:37 AM, BigCat said: I haven't updosed which is good. Good to hear, BigCat. I hope things settle for you. On 11/21/2023 at 5:37 AM, BigCat said: lots of wine. 9 hours ago, BigCat said: not sure that the wine was the best idea Yeah, I know, at the time, you think it helps, but often the next day, or in the weeks to follow, you can pay for it. But yep, you've noted that 👍 I read the term hanxiety, and that describes the reason I've avoided alcohol for around 6 months now. On 11/21/2023 at 5:37 AM, BigCat said: The saviour was having the (family) dog to stay who had a magnificent effect of moderating my cortisol... I have two dogs; I wonder if that means I have double the stress relief 🤔. They do bring much joy and calmness. On 11/21/2023 at 5:37 AM, BigCat said: Managed to make amends with my ex, to some extent. Looking at my mate and his ex, it seems to be an ongoing 'work area'. You've just got to do the best you can in the circumstances. Keep up the great work. Emonda 1 Please don't send me PMs. I am not a doctor. My comments are based on my personal experience with ADs and tapering. Consult your doctor about your own medical decisions. 2017 – 2022: Vortioxetine 15mg, Jan ’22, 15mg->5mg over 4 weeks, Feb ‘22 5mg -> 7.5mg due to WD, July ’22 6.75mg (found SA website), Aug 6.07mg, Sep 5.46mg, 11 Oct 5.00mg, 18 Oct 4.88mg, 25 Oct 4.75mg, 1 Nov 4.63mg, 8 Nov 4.5mg, 3 Jan ’23 4.39mg, 10 Jan 4.28mg, 17 Jan 4.06mg, 13 Feb 3.95mg, 20 Mar 3.85mg, 3 Apr 3.75mg, 10 April 3.65mg, 31 May 3.58mg, 8 June 3.50mg, 15 June 3.43mg, 22 June 3.35mg, 12 Jul 3.29mg, 19 Jul 3.22mg, 26 Jul 3.15mg, 3 Aug 3.09mg, 30 Aug 3.02mg, 7 Sep 2.96mg, 14 Sep 2.89mg, 21 Sep 2.82mg, Oct 11 2.75mg, Oct 19 2.70mg, Oct 26 2.64mg, Nov 2 2.59mg, Nov 23 2.53mg, Nov 30 2.48mg, 7 Dec 2.43mg, 17 Dec 2.38mg, 19 Jan 2.33mg, 26 Jan 2.28mg, 2 Feb 2.24mg, 8 Feb 2.19mg, 29 Feb 2.15mg, 7 Mar 2.10mg, 14 Mar 2.06mg, 21 Mar 1.99mg, 10 Apr 1.95mg, 17 Apr 1.91mg, 24 Apr 1.87mg, 1 May 1.83mg, Link to comment
Administrator Emonda Posted December 12, 2023 Administrator Share Posted December 12, 2023 How's things, BigCat? Please don't send me PMs. I am not a doctor. My comments are based on my personal experience with ADs and tapering. Consult your doctor about your own medical decisions. 2017 – 2022: Vortioxetine 15mg, Jan ’22, 15mg->5mg over 4 weeks, Feb ‘22 5mg -> 7.5mg due to WD, July ’22 6.75mg (found SA website), Aug 6.07mg, Sep 5.46mg, 11 Oct 5.00mg, 18 Oct 4.88mg, 25 Oct 4.75mg, 1 Nov 4.63mg, 8 Nov 4.5mg, 3 Jan ’23 4.39mg, 10 Jan 4.28mg, 17 Jan 4.06mg, 13 Feb 3.95mg, 20 Mar 3.85mg, 3 Apr 3.75mg, 10 April 3.65mg, 31 May 3.58mg, 8 June 3.50mg, 15 June 3.43mg, 22 June 3.35mg, 12 Jul 3.29mg, 19 Jul 3.22mg, 26 Jul 3.15mg, 3 Aug 3.09mg, 30 Aug 3.02mg, 7 Sep 2.96mg, 14 Sep 2.89mg, 21 Sep 2.82mg, Oct 11 2.75mg, Oct 19 2.70mg, Oct 26 2.64mg, Nov 2 2.59mg, Nov 23 2.53mg, Nov 30 2.48mg, 7 Dec 2.43mg, 17 Dec 2.38mg, 19 Jan 2.33mg, 26 Jan 2.28mg, 2 Feb 2.24mg, 8 Feb 2.19mg, 29 Feb 2.15mg, 7 Mar 2.10mg, 14 Mar 2.06mg, 21 Mar 1.99mg, 10 Apr 1.95mg, 17 Apr 1.91mg, 24 Apr 1.87mg, 1 May 1.83mg, Link to comment
BigCat Posted December 15, 2023 Author Share Posted December 15, 2023 On 12/12/2023 at 3:51 AM, Emonda said: How's things, BigCat? Hi @Emonda, thanks for asking. Tapered from 205mg to 185mg earlier this week. No issues to report. Just the usual events of life, relationships, the death of a beloved cat, an unhelpful internal dialogue and a dodgy left knee. Could be worse. "She'll be right, mate!" 😎 1 Various ADs from 1991, always for depression with anxiety and agitation... sertraline, paroxetine, citalopram (with 2.5mg olanzapine briefly), coming off each for increasingly shorter times until 2000 when I went on meds full time with Clomipramine 200mg. Then Venlafaxine (XR) since 2008, initially 225mg, then 300mg, plus tried on venlafaxine with mirtazapine (California Rocket) for only a week in 2017(?) as absolutely intolerable. July '23 Venlafaxine XL 300 to 275mg. Aug '23 275 to 250mg. Sept/Oct '23 250 to 230 to 225mg. Nov '23 205mg. Dec '23 185mg. 28 Dec '23 reinstated 225mg after crashing. Supplements: Vitamin D and fish oil. "L'exposition du merde est temporaries". Although I have a background in health, I am here to learn from others, encourage others and share my experiences, not to give professional guidance. Link to comment
Administrator Emonda Posted December 16, 2023 Administrator Share Posted December 16, 2023 18 hours ago, BigCat said: Tapered from 205mg to 185mg earlier this week. No issues to report. Great news! 18 hours ago, BigCat said: Just the usual events of life, relationships, Yep, that's life. Ups and downs. 18 hours ago, BigCat said: the death of a beloved cat That hurts. We lost a an old dog recently...so I have an appreciation of how that feels. 18 hours ago, BigCat said: and a dodgy left knee You often crack me up with some of your descriptions...even when they are not in French 😆 The ailments of life. You're making good progress 👍 1 Please don't send me PMs. I am not a doctor. My comments are based on my personal experience with ADs and tapering. Consult your doctor about your own medical decisions. 2017 – 2022: Vortioxetine 15mg, Jan ’22, 15mg->5mg over 4 weeks, Feb ‘22 5mg -> 7.5mg due to WD, July ’22 6.75mg (found SA website), Aug 6.07mg, Sep 5.46mg, 11 Oct 5.00mg, 18 Oct 4.88mg, 25 Oct 4.75mg, 1 Nov 4.63mg, 8 Nov 4.5mg, 3 Jan ’23 4.39mg, 10 Jan 4.28mg, 17 Jan 4.06mg, 13 Feb 3.95mg, 20 Mar 3.85mg, 3 Apr 3.75mg, 10 April 3.65mg, 31 May 3.58mg, 8 June 3.50mg, 15 June 3.43mg, 22 June 3.35mg, 12 Jul 3.29mg, 19 Jul 3.22mg, 26 Jul 3.15mg, 3 Aug 3.09mg, 30 Aug 3.02mg, 7 Sep 2.96mg, 14 Sep 2.89mg, 21 Sep 2.82mg, Oct 11 2.75mg, Oct 19 2.70mg, Oct 26 2.64mg, Nov 2 2.59mg, Nov 23 2.53mg, Nov 30 2.48mg, 7 Dec 2.43mg, 17 Dec 2.38mg, 19 Jan 2.33mg, 26 Jan 2.28mg, 2 Feb 2.24mg, 8 Feb 2.19mg, 29 Feb 2.15mg, 7 Mar 2.10mg, 14 Mar 2.06mg, 21 Mar 1.99mg, 10 Apr 1.95mg, 17 Apr 1.91mg, 24 Apr 1.87mg, 1 May 1.83mg, Link to comment
BigCat Posted December 26, 2023 Author Share Posted December 26, 2023 Just in time for the dubious "cheerfest" of mid winter festivities I have hit my 2 week tapering "tearfest" of agitation, irritability, crying and rumination. Cue: Traditional expectations of others that, as if by some magical intervention of the season, I will be able to cope, "put on a brave face" and be in some way "normal"... Bah! Humbug. 1 Various ADs from 1991, always for depression with anxiety and agitation... sertraline, paroxetine, citalopram (with 2.5mg olanzapine briefly), coming off each for increasingly shorter times until 2000 when I went on meds full time with Clomipramine 200mg. Then Venlafaxine (XR) since 2008, initially 225mg, then 300mg, plus tried on venlafaxine with mirtazapine (California Rocket) for only a week in 2017(?) as absolutely intolerable. July '23 Venlafaxine XL 300 to 275mg. Aug '23 275 to 250mg. Sept/Oct '23 250 to 230 to 225mg. Nov '23 205mg. Dec '23 185mg. 28 Dec '23 reinstated 225mg after crashing. Supplements: Vitamin D and fish oil. "L'exposition du merde est temporaries". Although I have a background in health, I am here to learn from others, encourage others and share my experiences, not to give professional guidance. Link to comment
Administrator Emonda Posted December 27, 2023 Administrator Share Posted December 27, 2023 18 hours ago, BigCat said: I have hit my 2 week tapering "tearfest" of agitation, irritability, crying and rumination. So it's normally 2-weeks after a reduction that it hits you? Have you picked up on any pattern in terms of how long the WD symptoms are elevated? I can't handle the 10% monthly drop in one go, so I adopted the brassmonkey slide. I find it more tolerable. I drop 2% per week for 4 weeks, then hold for a further 2 weeks. Would you consider giving the Brassmonkey a go for your next reduction? It might make things a little easier. (the actual Brassmonkey is 2.5% reduction per week...I find 2% easier to manage) 18 hours ago, BigCat said: Cue: Traditional expectations of others that, as if by some magical intervention of the season, I will be able to cope, "put on a brave face" and be in some way "normal"... Bah! Humbug. Yep, I hear you. For this reason, I decided to pause my taper over Christmas until mid-January... Please don't send me PMs. I am not a doctor. My comments are based on my personal experience with ADs and tapering. Consult your doctor about your own medical decisions. 2017 – 2022: Vortioxetine 15mg, Jan ’22, 15mg->5mg over 4 weeks, Feb ‘22 5mg -> 7.5mg due to WD, July ’22 6.75mg (found SA website), Aug 6.07mg, Sep 5.46mg, 11 Oct 5.00mg, 18 Oct 4.88mg, 25 Oct 4.75mg, 1 Nov 4.63mg, 8 Nov 4.5mg, 3 Jan ’23 4.39mg, 10 Jan 4.28mg, 17 Jan 4.06mg, 13 Feb 3.95mg, 20 Mar 3.85mg, 3 Apr 3.75mg, 10 April 3.65mg, 31 May 3.58mg, 8 June 3.50mg, 15 June 3.43mg, 22 June 3.35mg, 12 Jul 3.29mg, 19 Jul 3.22mg, 26 Jul 3.15mg, 3 Aug 3.09mg, 30 Aug 3.02mg, 7 Sep 2.96mg, 14 Sep 2.89mg, 21 Sep 2.82mg, Oct 11 2.75mg, Oct 19 2.70mg, Oct 26 2.64mg, Nov 2 2.59mg, Nov 23 2.53mg, Nov 30 2.48mg, 7 Dec 2.43mg, 17 Dec 2.38mg, 19 Jan 2.33mg, 26 Jan 2.28mg, 2 Feb 2.24mg, 8 Feb 2.19mg, 29 Feb 2.15mg, 7 Mar 2.10mg, 14 Mar 2.06mg, 21 Mar 1.99mg, 10 Apr 1.95mg, 17 Apr 1.91mg, 24 Apr 1.87mg, 1 May 1.83mg, Link to comment
BigCat Posted December 27, 2023 Author Share Posted December 27, 2023 1 hour ago, Emonda said: So it's normally 2-weeks after a reduction that it hits you? Have you picked up on any pattern in terms of how long the WD symptoms are elevated? 2-4 days duration, usually approximately 14 days later +/- 2 days. 1 hour ago, Emonda said: I can't handle the 10% monthly drop in one go, so I adopted the brassmonkey slide. I find it more tolerable. I drop 2% per week for 4 weeks, then hold for a further 2 weeks. Would you consider giving the Brassmonkey a go for your next reduction? It might make things a little easier. (the actual Brassmonkey is 2.5% reduction per week...I find 2% easier to manage) Yep, I hear you. For this reason, I decided to pause my taper over Christmas until mid-January... I might have to reconsider the 90%/monthly approach as being too rapid/ambitious... and I hadn't predicted that the WD would coincide with Christmas (my inexperience in doing this). Coincidentally, I had been looking at micro-tapering on the site yesterday. Certainly I have decided to hold for a while, maybe until the spring here. Thanks @Emonda 1 Various ADs from 1991, always for depression with anxiety and agitation... sertraline, paroxetine, citalopram (with 2.5mg olanzapine briefly), coming off each for increasingly shorter times until 2000 when I went on meds full time with Clomipramine 200mg. Then Venlafaxine (XR) since 2008, initially 225mg, then 300mg, plus tried on venlafaxine with mirtazapine (California Rocket) for only a week in 2017(?) as absolutely intolerable. July '23 Venlafaxine XL 300 to 275mg. Aug '23 275 to 250mg. Sept/Oct '23 250 to 230 to 225mg. Nov '23 205mg. Dec '23 185mg. 28 Dec '23 reinstated 225mg after crashing. Supplements: Vitamin D and fish oil. "L'exposition du merde est temporaries". Although I have a background in health, I am here to learn from others, encourage others and share my experiences, not to give professional guidance. Link to comment
BigCat Posted December 28, 2023 Author Share Posted December 28, 2023 After lots of thought, I very much regret to report that earlier today I have re-instated back to 225mg where I was until 14th November. I have been unable to manage my recent tearfulness, irritability, agitation, angry outbursts, rumination/intrusive distressing thoughts. My behaviour has caused great upset to my family and I fear the impact that it has had on them and on my relationship with them. Irrespective about the explanation, I am still responsible and failed to step back or remove myself. Today I am feeling huge guilt for my behaviour and regret at having started the process at all, but trying for a more balanced view, I have been too impatient to taper and I have been too quick to ignore the symptoms that have been steadily worsening since early December. Just the same, my bad judgement and I feel wretched about it all. Various ADs from 1991, always for depression with anxiety and agitation... sertraline, paroxetine, citalopram (with 2.5mg olanzapine briefly), coming off each for increasingly shorter times until 2000 when I went on meds full time with Clomipramine 200mg. Then Venlafaxine (XR) since 2008, initially 225mg, then 300mg, plus tried on venlafaxine with mirtazapine (California Rocket) for only a week in 2017(?) as absolutely intolerable. July '23 Venlafaxine XL 300 to 275mg. Aug '23 275 to 250mg. Sept/Oct '23 250 to 230 to 225mg. Nov '23 205mg. Dec '23 185mg. 28 Dec '23 reinstated 225mg after crashing. Supplements: Vitamin D and fish oil. "L'exposition du merde est temporaries". Although I have a background in health, I am here to learn from others, encourage others and share my experiences, not to give professional guidance. Link to comment
Mentor Catina7 Posted December 28, 2023 Mentor Share Posted December 28, 2023 16 minutes ago, BigCat said: After lots of thought, I very much regret to report that earlier today I have re-instated back to 225mg where I was until 14th November. I have been unable to manage my recent tearfulness, irritability, agitation, angry outbursts, rumination/intrusive distressing thoughts. My behaviour has caused great upset to my family and I fear the impact that it has had on them and on my relationship with them. Irrespective about the explanation, I am still responsible and failed to step back or remove myself. Today I am feeling huge guilt for my behaviour and regret at having started the process at all, but trying for a more balanced view, I have been too impatient to taper and I have been too quick to ignore the symptoms that have been steadily worsening since early December. Just the same, my bad judgement and I feel wretched about it all. I'm sorry @BigCat. Don't beat yourself up too much. The most important thing is that we're able to function, so whatever is going to help you do that is best. You may find the following topic helpful for any negative emotions you're having: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/topic/313-shame-guilt-regret-and-self-criticism/ We all appreciate your input and support here...hang in there. I hope things improve for you soon! 2 Disclaimer: This is not professional medical advice but is based on personal experience only. 1994 - 2017: Prozac, Cymbalta, Celexa, Paxil, Wellbutrin, Zoloft, Seroquel, Buspar, Lorazepam, Xanax, Ambien 2005-present: Trazodone 50 mg 2017: Effexor XR 37.5 >> 75 mg 2020 (March): Began 10% monthly taper of Effexor XR (got down to 12 mg) 2021 (September): Completely crashed. Went back up to 37.5 mg but in doing so I kindled myself 2024: 1/1: 35.6 mg (-6 beads) | 2/1: 33.8 mg (-11 beads) | 3/1: 32.1 mg (-16 beads) | 4/1: (-18 beads) | 5/1: (-21 beads) Reasons for starting psych meds: PMDD/Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder Other medications: Levothyroxine 75 mcg Supplements: Dr. Berg's Electrolyte Powder on occasion Link to comment
Administrator Emonda Posted December 28, 2023 Administrator Share Posted December 28, 2023 Hey BigCat, We all have setbacks along the tapering journey. Don't be hard on yourself. Let's call it a learning experience...you've learnt that perhaps you need to taper slower than the maximum 10% per month...I know I do. Also, if you anticipate a stressful period coming up, use that as a good reason to hold your dose through that period. As we mentioned yesterday / the day before, perhaps a slower tapering approach may be best = Brassmonkey slide. 3 hours ago, BigCat said: I have re-instated back to 225mg where I was until 14th November. As to the 225mg, can I ask, how did you feel at 205mg? You seem to have jumped backwards two steps, rather than one. My approach to up-dosing, has been to revert to the previous dose I felt ok. Did you ever feel ok at 205mg? If you felt ok at 205mg, then maybe that might be a better place to seek stability. Whatever you decide, be accurate and consistent. Give yourself a nice long hold...a month maybe, and reassess the path forward from there. Once stable, I reckon the Brassmonkey will work for you. You can do this, mate. 2 Please don't send me PMs. I am not a doctor. My comments are based on my personal experience with ADs and tapering. Consult your doctor about your own medical decisions. 2017 – 2022: Vortioxetine 15mg, Jan ’22, 15mg->5mg over 4 weeks, Feb ‘22 5mg -> 7.5mg due to WD, July ’22 6.75mg (found SA website), Aug 6.07mg, Sep 5.46mg, 11 Oct 5.00mg, 18 Oct 4.88mg, 25 Oct 4.75mg, 1 Nov 4.63mg, 8 Nov 4.5mg, 3 Jan ’23 4.39mg, 10 Jan 4.28mg, 17 Jan 4.06mg, 13 Feb 3.95mg, 20 Mar 3.85mg, 3 Apr 3.75mg, 10 April 3.65mg, 31 May 3.58mg, 8 June 3.50mg, 15 June 3.43mg, 22 June 3.35mg, 12 Jul 3.29mg, 19 Jul 3.22mg, 26 Jul 3.15mg, 3 Aug 3.09mg, 30 Aug 3.02mg, 7 Sep 2.96mg, 14 Sep 2.89mg, 21 Sep 2.82mg, Oct 11 2.75mg, Oct 19 2.70mg, Oct 26 2.64mg, Nov 2 2.59mg, Nov 23 2.53mg, Nov 30 2.48mg, 7 Dec 2.43mg, 17 Dec 2.38mg, 19 Jan 2.33mg, 26 Jan 2.28mg, 2 Feb 2.24mg, 8 Feb 2.19mg, 29 Feb 2.15mg, 7 Mar 2.10mg, 14 Mar 2.06mg, 21 Mar 1.99mg, 10 Apr 1.95mg, 17 Apr 1.91mg, 24 Apr 1.87mg, 1 May 1.83mg, Link to comment
BigCat Posted December 29, 2023 Author Share Posted December 29, 2023 15 hours ago, Emonda said: As to the 225mg, can I ask, how did you feel at 205mg? You seem to have jumped backwards two steps, rather than one. My approach to up-dosing, has been to revert to the previous dose I felt ok. Did you ever feel ok at 205mg? If you felt ok at 205mg, then maybe that might be a better place to seek stability. Whatever you decide, be accurate and consistent. Give yourself a nice long hold...a month maybe, and reassess the path forward from there. Once stable, I reckon the Brassmonkey will work for you. You can do this, mate. About 2 weeks after dropping from 225mg to 205mg things got a bit shaky and didn't really improve much, foolishly continued to drop to 185mg after 4 weeks, hence going back to 225mg. Support very much appreciated. 1 Various ADs from 1991, always for depression with anxiety and agitation... sertraline, paroxetine, citalopram (with 2.5mg olanzapine briefly), coming off each for increasingly shorter times until 2000 when I went on meds full time with Clomipramine 200mg. Then Venlafaxine (XR) since 2008, initially 225mg, then 300mg, plus tried on venlafaxine with mirtazapine (California Rocket) for only a week in 2017(?) as absolutely intolerable. July '23 Venlafaxine XL 300 to 275mg. Aug '23 275 to 250mg. Sept/Oct '23 250 to 230 to 225mg. Nov '23 205mg. Dec '23 185mg. 28 Dec '23 reinstated 225mg after crashing. Supplements: Vitamin D and fish oil. "L'exposition du merde est temporaries". Although I have a background in health, I am here to learn from others, encourage others and share my experiences, not to give professional guidance. Link to comment
BigCat Posted December 29, 2023 Author Share Posted December 29, 2023 18 hours ago, Catina7 said: I'm sorry @BigCat. Don't beat yourself up too much. The most important thing is that we're able to function, so whatever is going to help you do that is best. You may find the following topic helpful for any negative emotions you're having: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/topic/313-shame-guilt-regret-and-self-criticism/ We all appreciate your input and support here...hang in there. I hope things improve for you soon! Thanks so much @Catina7, and for your kind comments. I will hang on in there. 1 Various ADs from 1991, always for depression with anxiety and agitation... sertraline, paroxetine, citalopram (with 2.5mg olanzapine briefly), coming off each for increasingly shorter times until 2000 when I went on meds full time with Clomipramine 200mg. Then Venlafaxine (XR) since 2008, initially 225mg, then 300mg, plus tried on venlafaxine with mirtazapine (California Rocket) for only a week in 2017(?) as absolutely intolerable. July '23 Venlafaxine XL 300 to 275mg. Aug '23 275 to 250mg. Sept/Oct '23 250 to 230 to 225mg. Nov '23 205mg. Dec '23 185mg. 28 Dec '23 reinstated 225mg after crashing. Supplements: Vitamin D and fish oil. "L'exposition du merde est temporaries". Although I have a background in health, I am here to learn from others, encourage others and share my experiences, not to give professional guidance. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus getofflex Posted December 29, 2023 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted December 29, 2023 Hello Big Cat, please go easy on yourself. You might have made a mistake, but we learn from our mistakes. I hope that going up on your dose helps you to stabilize. Just speaking for myself, in the spring and summer of 2020, I did a very long 5 month hold, and my tapering became significantly easier after that. It's something to consider. 2 Please do not private message me. Only tag me for urgent questions about tapering and reinstating - thank you. ***Please note this is not medical advice. Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a doctor who understands psych meds and how to withdraw from them, if you can find one. Lexapro Started Apr 15 2010 - 10 mg; started taper August 2017, recent taper info: Apr 2 '20 0.18 mg; Jul 16 0.17 mg, Aug 23 0.16 mg, Oct 7 0.15 mg, Nov 8 - 0.14, Jan 16 '21 - 0.13, Feb 7 - 0.12, Feb 22 - 0.11, Mar 26 - 0.10, May 21 - 0.09, June 15 - 0.08 Aug 16 - 0.07, Oct 6 - 0.06, Nov 21 0.05, Dec. 17 0.04, Jan 14 '22 0.03, Feb 19 0.02, Apr 18 0.01, May 15 0.005, Jul 8, 0.00. Psych Drug Free as of July 8, 2022!! Woohoo!!! other meds: Levothyroxine 75 mg magnesium in small amounts at 4 AM, before bed suppl AM: fish oil, flax oil, vit C, vit E, multivitamin, zinc suppl 8 PM: magnesium 350 mg, extended release vitamin C, melatonin 2 mg Paxil 2002 - 2010, switched to Lexapro 2010 Trazodone 50 mg. 2002 - 2019, fast tapered in 2019 Xanax 0.5 mg as needed 2002 - 2019, up to 3x weekly Link to comment
Administrator Emonda Posted January 15 Administrator Share Posted January 15 How's things, @BigCat? Please don't send me PMs. I am not a doctor. My comments are based on my personal experience with ADs and tapering. Consult your doctor about your own medical decisions. 2017 – 2022: Vortioxetine 15mg, Jan ’22, 15mg->5mg over 4 weeks, Feb ‘22 5mg -> 7.5mg due to WD, July ’22 6.75mg (found SA website), Aug 6.07mg, Sep 5.46mg, 11 Oct 5.00mg, 18 Oct 4.88mg, 25 Oct 4.75mg, 1 Nov 4.63mg, 8 Nov 4.5mg, 3 Jan ’23 4.39mg, 10 Jan 4.28mg, 17 Jan 4.06mg, 13 Feb 3.95mg, 20 Mar 3.85mg, 3 Apr 3.75mg, 10 April 3.65mg, 31 May 3.58mg, 8 June 3.50mg, 15 June 3.43mg, 22 June 3.35mg, 12 Jul 3.29mg, 19 Jul 3.22mg, 26 Jul 3.15mg, 3 Aug 3.09mg, 30 Aug 3.02mg, 7 Sep 2.96mg, 14 Sep 2.89mg, 21 Sep 2.82mg, Oct 11 2.75mg, Oct 19 2.70mg, Oct 26 2.64mg, Nov 2 2.59mg, Nov 23 2.53mg, Nov 30 2.48mg, 7 Dec 2.43mg, 17 Dec 2.38mg, 19 Jan 2.33mg, 26 Jan 2.28mg, 2 Feb 2.24mg, 8 Feb 2.19mg, 29 Feb 2.15mg, 7 Mar 2.10mg, 14 Mar 2.06mg, 21 Mar 1.99mg, 10 Apr 1.95mg, 17 Apr 1.91mg, 24 Apr 1.87mg, 1 May 1.83mg, Link to comment
BigCat Posted January 15 Author Share Posted January 15 14 hours ago, Emonda said: How's things, @BigCat? Hi! Going back to 225mg helped a bit. Things with my ex, son and daughter are OK. Despite this I have been struggling with mood/anxiety/tearfulness and am berating myself re relationships/parenting - I have booked in with a private psychotherapist at the end of this week. This is a change for me as have been reluctant to go private up until now. Previously used public health services before but waiting list is long and what is offered isn't what I need/want. Going to hold on 225mg for a while until I feel better. Best wishes for a good 2024. Various ADs from 1991, always for depression with anxiety and agitation... sertraline, paroxetine, citalopram (with 2.5mg olanzapine briefly), coming off each for increasingly shorter times until 2000 when I went on meds full time with Clomipramine 200mg. Then Venlafaxine (XR) since 2008, initially 225mg, then 300mg, plus tried on venlafaxine with mirtazapine (California Rocket) for only a week in 2017(?) as absolutely intolerable. July '23 Venlafaxine XL 300 to 275mg. Aug '23 275 to 250mg. Sept/Oct '23 250 to 230 to 225mg. Nov '23 205mg. Dec '23 185mg. 28 Dec '23 reinstated 225mg after crashing. Supplements: Vitamin D and fish oil. "L'exposition du merde est temporaries". Although I have a background in health, I am here to learn from others, encourage others and share my experiences, not to give professional guidance. Link to comment
BigCat Posted January 24 Author Share Posted January 24 Things could be worse/have been worse (glass half full). Experiencing an ebb and flow of mood- had several days recently when I felt really quite robust, followed by a couple of days of being close to tears for no apparent reason. Holding on 225mg with no plans to change in the near future. Still, better than being on 300mg! Various ADs from 1991, always for depression with anxiety and agitation... sertraline, paroxetine, citalopram (with 2.5mg olanzapine briefly), coming off each for increasingly shorter times until 2000 when I went on meds full time with Clomipramine 200mg. Then Venlafaxine (XR) since 2008, initially 225mg, then 300mg, plus tried on venlafaxine with mirtazapine (California Rocket) for only a week in 2017(?) as absolutely intolerable. July '23 Venlafaxine XL 300 to 275mg. Aug '23 275 to 250mg. Sept/Oct '23 250 to 230 to 225mg. Nov '23 205mg. Dec '23 185mg. 28 Dec '23 reinstated 225mg after crashing. Supplements: Vitamin D and fish oil. "L'exposition du merde est temporaries". Although I have a background in health, I am here to learn from others, encourage others and share my experiences, not to give professional guidance. Link to comment
pinkfairy Posted January 24 Share Posted January 24 41 minutes ago, BigCat said: Things could be worse/have been worse (glass half full). Experiencing an ebb and flow of mood- had several days recently when I felt really quite robust, followed by a couple of days of being close to tears for no apparent reason. Holding on 225mg with no plans to change in the near future. Still, better than being on 300mg! Huge progress. Even holding is winning. You’re doing great ☺️ 1 First AD when i was 19.Binge drinker/drugs 15 years weekend use.I was always pulled on and off.2005-2007-Mirtapine 45mg CT. 2010-2016 Paxil 40mg + Zopiclone.Jan-2016 i was CT off Paxil.Stopped alcohol Jan 2016.Given 2-4mg of Diazepam April 2016 CT them after 3 month.They reinstated 8mg of Diazepam July 2016 and the Doctor CT me off Zopiclone the same day.They then tried adding all different drugs Mirt one of them at 15mg (i took 7.5mg).I was tapered August 2016 7.5mg.Sep 2016 7mg.Oct 2016 6mg.Tried 1mg of Paxil-stopped after 2 days.Nov 2016 5.5mg.Tried olanzapine @2.5mg (stopped after a week)Dec 2016-5mg.Tried switching to liquid Jan-March 2017 (no good)back to pills.April 2017-4.75mg of Diazepam June 2017 -4.5mg.July 2018 went inpatient for 10 days.Awakening 4 days later.HELD.Sep 2017 4.3mg Dec 2017-4mg (Held)April 2019- started tapering the Mirtazapine.Sep 2019 at 6mg of Mirtazapine (HELD)Stopped smoking CT after 26 years.10.16.19..Restarted the Diazepam taper Jan 2020 micro tapering (game changer) now 18/7/23 @0.052mg Diazepam + Mirtazapine @6mg. Link to comment
BigCat Posted January 24 Author Share Posted January 24 2 hours ago, pinkfairy said: Huge progress. Even holding is winning. You’re doing great ☺️ Thank you for you kind encouragement. 😊 Various ADs from 1991, always for depression with anxiety and agitation... sertraline, paroxetine, citalopram (with 2.5mg olanzapine briefly), coming off each for increasingly shorter times until 2000 when I went on meds full time with Clomipramine 200mg. Then Venlafaxine (XR) since 2008, initially 225mg, then 300mg, plus tried on venlafaxine with mirtazapine (California Rocket) for only a week in 2017(?) as absolutely intolerable. July '23 Venlafaxine XL 300 to 275mg. Aug '23 275 to 250mg. Sept/Oct '23 250 to 230 to 225mg. Nov '23 205mg. Dec '23 185mg. 28 Dec '23 reinstated 225mg after crashing. Supplements: Vitamin D and fish oil. "L'exposition du merde est temporaries". Although I have a background in health, I am here to learn from others, encourage others and share my experiences, not to give professional guidance. Link to comment
Administrator Emonda Posted January 25 Administrator Share Posted January 25 13 hours ago, BigCat said: Holding on 225mg with no plans to change in the near future. Still, better than being on 300mg! Any reason to hold is a good reason to hold. Yep, 225mg is better than 300mg 😄 1 Please don't send me PMs. I am not a doctor. My comments are based on my personal experience with ADs and tapering. Consult your doctor about your own medical decisions. 2017 – 2022: Vortioxetine 15mg, Jan ’22, 15mg->5mg over 4 weeks, Feb ‘22 5mg -> 7.5mg due to WD, July ’22 6.75mg (found SA website), Aug 6.07mg, Sep 5.46mg, 11 Oct 5.00mg, 18 Oct 4.88mg, 25 Oct 4.75mg, 1 Nov 4.63mg, 8 Nov 4.5mg, 3 Jan ’23 4.39mg, 10 Jan 4.28mg, 17 Jan 4.06mg, 13 Feb 3.95mg, 20 Mar 3.85mg, 3 Apr 3.75mg, 10 April 3.65mg, 31 May 3.58mg, 8 June 3.50mg, 15 June 3.43mg, 22 June 3.35mg, 12 Jul 3.29mg, 19 Jul 3.22mg, 26 Jul 3.15mg, 3 Aug 3.09mg, 30 Aug 3.02mg, 7 Sep 2.96mg, 14 Sep 2.89mg, 21 Sep 2.82mg, Oct 11 2.75mg, Oct 19 2.70mg, Oct 26 2.64mg, Nov 2 2.59mg, Nov 23 2.53mg, Nov 30 2.48mg, 7 Dec 2.43mg, 17 Dec 2.38mg, 19 Jan 2.33mg, 26 Jan 2.28mg, 2 Feb 2.24mg, 8 Feb 2.19mg, 29 Feb 2.15mg, 7 Mar 2.10mg, 14 Mar 2.06mg, 21 Mar 1.99mg, 10 Apr 1.95mg, 17 Apr 1.91mg, 24 Apr 1.87mg, 1 May 1.83mg, Link to comment
Administrator Emonda Posted March 20 Administrator Share Posted March 20 How's it going, BigCat? Please don't send me PMs. I am not a doctor. My comments are based on my personal experience with ADs and tapering. Consult your doctor about your own medical decisions. 2017 – 2022: Vortioxetine 15mg, Jan ’22, 15mg->5mg over 4 weeks, Feb ‘22 5mg -> 7.5mg due to WD, July ’22 6.75mg (found SA website), Aug 6.07mg, Sep 5.46mg, 11 Oct 5.00mg, 18 Oct 4.88mg, 25 Oct 4.75mg, 1 Nov 4.63mg, 8 Nov 4.5mg, 3 Jan ’23 4.39mg, 10 Jan 4.28mg, 17 Jan 4.06mg, 13 Feb 3.95mg, 20 Mar 3.85mg, 3 Apr 3.75mg, 10 April 3.65mg, 31 May 3.58mg, 8 June 3.50mg, 15 June 3.43mg, 22 June 3.35mg, 12 Jul 3.29mg, 19 Jul 3.22mg, 26 Jul 3.15mg, 3 Aug 3.09mg, 30 Aug 3.02mg, 7 Sep 2.96mg, 14 Sep 2.89mg, 21 Sep 2.82mg, Oct 11 2.75mg, Oct 19 2.70mg, Oct 26 2.64mg, Nov 2 2.59mg, Nov 23 2.53mg, Nov 30 2.48mg, 7 Dec 2.43mg, 17 Dec 2.38mg, 19 Jan 2.33mg, 26 Jan 2.28mg, 2 Feb 2.24mg, 8 Feb 2.19mg, 29 Feb 2.15mg, 7 Mar 2.10mg, 14 Mar 2.06mg, 21 Mar 1.99mg, 10 Apr 1.95mg, 17 Apr 1.91mg, 24 Apr 1.87mg, 1 May 1.83mg, Link to comment
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