Ck1111 Posted October 23, 2023 Share Posted October 23, 2023 Hello, im confused about what to post and where. So please bare with me. Im 41 years old, female and have been on quetiapine and escitalopram for 12 years or so . I have been skipping doses of the lexapro for the last year. I naively thought this was ok to do. My anxiety, panic and ocd has been incredibly bad i assumed it was just my illness getting worse( bpd, adhd, anxiety, ocd, ptsd) the meds no longer working . At their peak i was taking 20 mg escitalopram and 75 quetipaine. but naturally tapered over the years. I thought they were working but now im convinced they are making me worse. Im worried i have kindled myself from skipping doses of lexapro. As i said i have been stable on 25 mg of quetiapine that i take regualry but for over a year have been skipping doses of 10 mg of lexapro, i may only take 3 tablets a week. I had the realisation i wanted to come of the meds starting with the lexapro, i went on holiday recently ( 2 weeks ago) and took 1 , 10 mg pill in 8 days I Was feeling sick so the next week took 5 mg only 3 days a week and found this site. Ive since realised skipping doses was a terrible thing to do. i have now decided to take 5 mg every of the lexapro every day . The sickness and headache subsided but im feeling high as a kite And manic. im not sure what to do im trying to find a psychiatrist but its taking ages. Please advise 🙏🏻🙏🏻 sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Ck1111 Posted October 23, 2023 Author Share Posted October 23, 2023 Is the 5 mg lexapro a good idea should ontake more or less ? thanks in advance. sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Moderator Onmyway Posted October 24, 2023 Moderator Share Posted October 24, 2023 Hi @Ck1111, maybe 5mg is too high a dose to reinstate and that may be the reason you are feeling high. Can you try lowering your dose to 2.5mg and see if that helps? If you were taking 5x3=15mg total a week, then that gives you an average dose of 2.15 mg so 2.5mg may be a more appropriate dose for reinstatement. Do your symptoms get better or worse after taking the escitalopram? OMW "Nothing so small as a moment is insurmountable, and moments are all that we have. You have survived every trial and tribulation that life has thrown at you up until this very instant. When future troubles come—and they will come—a version of you will be born into that moment that can conquer them, too." - Kevin Koenig I am not a doctor and this should not be considered medical advice. You can use the information and recommendations provided in whatever way you want and all decisions on your treatment are yours. In the next few weeks I do not have a lot of capacity to respond to questions. If you need a quick answer pls tag or ask other moderators who may want to be tagged. Aug 2000 - July 2003 (ct, 4-6 wk wd) , citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn, wellbutrin for a few months, trazodone prn Dec 2004 - July 2018 citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn (rarely used) Aug 2018 - citalopram 40 mg (self titrated up) September 2018 - January 2019 tapered citalopram - 40/30/20/10/5 no issues until a week after reaching 0 Feb 2019 0.25 xanax - 0.5/day (3 weeks) over to klonopin 0.25 once a day to manage severe wd March 6, reinstated citalopram 2.5 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 mg for sleep 2-3 times a week Apr 1st citalopram 2.0 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 once a week (off by 4/14/19- no tapering) citalopram (liquid) 4/14/19 -1.8 mg, 5/8/19 - 1.6 mg, 7/27/19 -1.5 mg, 8/15/19 - 1.35, 2/21/21 - 1.1 (smaller drops in between), 6/20/21 - 1.03 mg, 8/7/21- 1.025, 8/11/21 - 1.02, 8/15/21 - 1.015, 9/3/21 - 0.925 (fingers crossed!), 10/8/21 - 0.9, 10/18/21 - 0.875, 12/31/21 - 0.85, 1/7/22 - 0.825, 1/14/22 - 0.8, 1/22/22 - 0.785, 8/18/22 - 0.59, 12/15/2022 - 0.48, 2/15/22 - 0.43, 25/07/23 - 0.25 (mistake), 6/08/23 - 0.33mg Supplements: magnesium citrate and bi-glycinate Link to comment
Ck1111 Posted October 24, 2023 Author Share Posted October 24, 2023 Thankyou for your reply. up until 4 weeks ago i was taking about 10 Mg 3 x per week. So around 30 mg some weeks i may have taken more or maybe less. i have been so absent mindedly taking them as i dont get withdral affects quickly they usually come on around 2-3 days after not taking it with me feeling sick so i remeber to take it. My paranoia and anxiety and ocd have been crazy but i just though thats my illness coming back or getting worse. Anyway after having the realisation the pills arent working i still feel crazy . No wonder as i found out skipping doses is terrible and ive been doing that for so so long years probably . Anyway i decided enough is enough i want to stop as im taking quetiapine and oral minoxidil for my hair this cocktail is playing a number on my heart and causing palpitations. 3 weeks ago i took 1 (10 mg) tablet in a week. I felt sick and dizzy mostly with increased anxiety. the following week i took 3 (5mg) in a week and felt sick with a massive headache in the days i skipped the dose. This week i have devided to take the 5 mg everyday so this is my 3 day doing this . As i said i feel high as a. Kite. Sickness has gone, headache has gone but i keep alternating between euphoria, increased energy and panic and disturbing thoughts. should i continue this week on 5 and ride this out or drop down to 2.5 allready. im so confused. This site is so wonderful its given me some hope back. I had written myself off as crazy and this is my life now. This has made me positive about my situation more so than for a very long time. sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Moderator Onmyway Posted October 24, 2023 Moderator Share Posted October 24, 2023 (edited) Because of your erratic schedule in the last weeks, we would be guessing the right dose. Is advise dividing your total amount taken in the last month by 30 and continue taking that dose consistently. Can you please create a drug signature? Instructions in link below. It will help provide better advice to you. Omw Edited October 24, 2023 by Onmyway "Nothing so small as a moment is insurmountable, and moments are all that we have. You have survived every trial and tribulation that life has thrown at you up until this very instant. When future troubles come—and they will come—a version of you will be born into that moment that can conquer them, too." - Kevin Koenig I am not a doctor and this should not be considered medical advice. You can use the information and recommendations provided in whatever way you want and all decisions on your treatment are yours. In the next few weeks I do not have a lot of capacity to respond to questions. If you need a quick answer pls tag or ask other moderators who may want to be tagged. Aug 2000 - July 2003 (ct, 4-6 wk wd) , citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn, wellbutrin for a few months, trazodone prn Dec 2004 - July 2018 citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn (rarely used) Aug 2018 - citalopram 40 mg (self titrated up) September 2018 - January 2019 tapered citalopram - 40/30/20/10/5 no issues until a week after reaching 0 Feb 2019 0.25 xanax - 0.5/day (3 weeks) over to klonopin 0.25 once a day to manage severe wd March 6, reinstated citalopram 2.5 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 mg for sleep 2-3 times a week Apr 1st citalopram 2.0 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 once a week (off by 4/14/19- no tapering) citalopram (liquid) 4/14/19 -1.8 mg, 5/8/19 - 1.6 mg, 7/27/19 -1.5 mg, 8/15/19 - 1.35, 2/21/21 - 1.1 (smaller drops in between), 6/20/21 - 1.03 mg, 8/7/21- 1.025, 8/11/21 - 1.02, 8/15/21 - 1.015, 9/3/21 - 0.925 (fingers crossed!), 10/8/21 - 0.9, 10/18/21 - 0.875, 12/31/21 - 0.85, 1/7/22 - 0.825, 1/14/22 - 0.8, 1/22/22 - 0.785, 8/18/22 - 0.59, 12/15/2022 - 0.48, 2/15/22 - 0.43, 25/07/23 - 0.25 (mistake), 6/08/23 - 0.33mg Supplements: magnesium citrate and bi-glycinate Link to comment
Ck1111 Posted October 24, 2023 Author Share Posted October 24, 2023 I mean tbh i would be completley guessing. All i know was maybe 30 for 2 months previously 10 mg 1 week, 15 mg the next and this week 5 mg twice so far. So that would be not including this week around 85 mg in a month. Im not sure what that would be im terribke at maths 🥴 i will work in making my drug signature today. im feeling a bit erratic and unsble to concentrate. sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Ck1111 Posted October 24, 2023 Author Share Posted October 24, 2023 I cant work out the maths but it seems like 5 mg is too high. And i should be taking 2.8 or 2.9. i cant get hold of the liquid and my 3 brain cells cannot work out how to make it myself. i could take half the pill at 2.5 ml or 3/4 at 3.75 mg neither is ideal i guess if i need 2.9 I need a psychiatryist to get me a prescription for the liquid so i can do this properly but its taking ages probably a month. this truly does suck. sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Moderator Onmyway Posted October 24, 2023 Moderator Share Posted October 24, 2023 You can use a calculator to do the math, you need to plug in the total of the medicine taken in 30 days and divide it by 30. ÷ is the sign for division on a calculator. Any doctor, including your family doctor or primary care physician or nurse practitioner can prescribe liquid escitalopram. Consistent dosing is really important so need to do this or find other ways to measure accurate doses. Please read the link below carefully. 1 "Nothing so small as a moment is insurmountable, and moments are all that we have. You have survived every trial and tribulation that life has thrown at you up until this very instant. When future troubles come—and they will come—a version of you will be born into that moment that can conquer them, too." - Kevin Koenig I am not a doctor and this should not be considered medical advice. You can use the information and recommendations provided in whatever way you want and all decisions on your treatment are yours. In the next few weeks I do not have a lot of capacity to respond to questions. If you need a quick answer pls tag or ask other moderators who may want to be tagged. Aug 2000 - July 2003 (ct, 4-6 wk wd) , citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn, wellbutrin for a few months, trazodone prn Dec 2004 - July 2018 citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn (rarely used) Aug 2018 - citalopram 40 mg (self titrated up) September 2018 - January 2019 tapered citalopram - 40/30/20/10/5 no issues until a week after reaching 0 Feb 2019 0.25 xanax - 0.5/day (3 weeks) over to klonopin 0.25 once a day to manage severe wd March 6, reinstated citalopram 2.5 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 mg for sleep 2-3 times a week Apr 1st citalopram 2.0 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 once a week (off by 4/14/19- no tapering) citalopram (liquid) 4/14/19 -1.8 mg, 5/8/19 - 1.6 mg, 7/27/19 -1.5 mg, 8/15/19 - 1.35, 2/21/21 - 1.1 (smaller drops in between), 6/20/21 - 1.03 mg, 8/7/21- 1.025, 8/11/21 - 1.02, 8/15/21 - 1.015, 9/3/21 - 0.925 (fingers crossed!), 10/8/21 - 0.9, 10/18/21 - 0.875, 12/31/21 - 0.85, 1/7/22 - 0.825, 1/14/22 - 0.8, 1/22/22 - 0.785, 8/18/22 - 0.59, 12/15/2022 - 0.48, 2/15/22 - 0.43, 25/07/23 - 0.25 (mistake), 6/08/23 - 0.33mg Supplements: magnesium citrate and bi-glycinate Link to comment
Ck1111 Posted October 24, 2023 Author Share Posted October 24, 2023 Its about 2.9 i cant make this myself im Not clever enough at maths. its going to take at least 2 weeks to get the liquid. In the meantime should i take 2.5. , 5 or 3.75 its the best i can do left to my own devices. Dividing the pills in quaters is not going to be accurate enough to get 3.75. today ive taken 2.5 was going to take the other 2.5 later in the eve. I dont know what to do. As i said i cant measure 2.9 on my own. The 5 is making me manic and the 2.5 i feel a bit sick. I realky need to stabilise in a dose. Should i take the 3.75 as the compromise even though it wont be very accurate by the time ive devided a 10 mg pill in half then quatering the other half with my pull cutter.😩 sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Ck1111 Posted October 24, 2023 Author Share Posted October 24, 2023 Ah i just reread the message. Im going to find a dr who can prescribe the liquid thankyouX sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Moderator Onmyway Posted October 24, 2023 Moderator Share Posted October 24, 2023 Hi @Ck1111 You can also dissolve the drug into water and measure that way. We can help with the maths. but if you can get the liquid by Friday then that would be preferable. Did you try 2.5 mg and that made you sick to your stomach? Do you think you might be sensitive to any amount? Omw 1 "Nothing so small as a moment is insurmountable, and moments are all that we have. You have survived every trial and tribulation that life has thrown at you up until this very instant. When future troubles come—and they will come—a version of you will be born into that moment that can conquer them, too." - Kevin Koenig I am not a doctor and this should not be considered medical advice. You can use the information and recommendations provided in whatever way you want and all decisions on your treatment are yours. In the next few weeks I do not have a lot of capacity to respond to questions. If you need a quick answer pls tag or ask other moderators who may want to be tagged. Aug 2000 - July 2003 (ct, 4-6 wk wd) , citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn, wellbutrin for a few months, trazodone prn Dec 2004 - July 2018 citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn (rarely used) Aug 2018 - citalopram 40 mg (self titrated up) September 2018 - January 2019 tapered citalopram - 40/30/20/10/5 no issues until a week after reaching 0 Feb 2019 0.25 xanax - 0.5/day (3 weeks) over to klonopin 0.25 once a day to manage severe wd March 6, reinstated citalopram 2.5 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 mg for sleep 2-3 times a week Apr 1st citalopram 2.0 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 once a week (off by 4/14/19- no tapering) citalopram (liquid) 4/14/19 -1.8 mg, 5/8/19 - 1.6 mg, 7/27/19 -1.5 mg, 8/15/19 - 1.35, 2/21/21 - 1.1 (smaller drops in between), 6/20/21 - 1.03 mg, 8/7/21- 1.025, 8/11/21 - 1.02, 8/15/21 - 1.015, 9/3/21 - 0.925 (fingers crossed!), 10/8/21 - 0.9, 10/18/21 - 0.875, 12/31/21 - 0.85, 1/7/22 - 0.825, 1/14/22 - 0.8, 1/22/22 - 0.785, 8/18/22 - 0.59, 12/15/2022 - 0.48, 2/15/22 - 0.43, 25/07/23 - 0.25 (mistake), 6/08/23 - 0.33mg Supplements: magnesium citrate and bi-glycinate Link to comment
Ck1111 Posted October 24, 2023 Author Share Posted October 24, 2023 I went to the dr today, ive manged to get a prescription for the liquid starting tomorrow. I will settle on 3 mg as its easier for me to dispense and see how i settle on that over the next month. The 5 mg made me panicky and high, today on 2.5 mg i have felt a bit manic but not as panicky as yesterday. Ive been full of energy today but since crashed. Ive not felt too sick today only mildly. I feel a bit more normal compared to yesterday. Hopefully the 3 mg will be the sweetspot i will soon find out . Thankyou for your advice today. 1 sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Ck1111 Posted October 24, 2023 Author Share Posted October 24, 2023 I defintley feel sensitive to the lexapro, is this kindling from the inconsistent dosing. And missed doses? sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Ck1111 Posted October 25, 2023 Author Share Posted October 25, 2023 Hi everyone. Im a newbie here and finding all this new invaluable information exciting amd overwhelming. My question is i need to stabilise on lexapro before tapering further. My dosing has been incredibly erratic prior to finding this site. Ive skipped multiple days and everything for years not knowing any better. This was on (10mg) My Current ideal dose would be around 3 mg. Since skipping a whole week and then lowering to 5 the next week ( stupid i know and since learned from this site) After working out the amount i took in the last month and dividing it by 30. I have recently been taking pills but want to switch to the liquid. Im horrible at measuring and dont have the scales or syringes yet. Ive heard its unwise to just move to the liquid. So should i half a pill and take 2.5 and 1 mg of the liquid pushing me up to 3.5. or just jump to the liquid at 3 mg. I dont know whats better. sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Administrator Emonda Posted October 25, 2023 Administrator Share Posted October 25, 2023 Hi @Ck1111, I've just moved your new topic back here to your page. It's best to keep everything relating to yourself in one spot. 8 minutes ago, Ck1111 said: My question is i need to stabilise on lexapro before tapering further. Yes, you need to be stable before tapering further. 9 minutes ago, Ck1111 said: My dosing has been incredibly erratic prior to finding this site. Ive skipped multiple days and everything for years not knowing any better. Refer back to the advice of Onmyway...you need to be consistent and accurate with your dose. 11 minutes ago, Ck1111 said: Ive heard its unwise to just move to the liquid Have a read of the 4th post down from Gridley: I hope this helps... 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. Start of taper: Jan ’22 Vortioxetine 15mg, End year 1: 4.5mg, End year 2: 2.38mg, Year 3: 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
Ck1111 Posted October 25, 2023 Author Share Posted October 25, 2023 Omg, ive just taken 3 drops of the liquid lexapro and its just set of a major panic attack within 5 minutes of taking it. My ocd is kicking off telling me i didnt take the correct amount of drops. And maybe ive overdosed. Impossible my rational brain counted out the 3 drops. I was not at home when i took it and i had to go and sit in the nearest shop. . I told The lady my heart was beating and im having a panic attack. I calmed down and got home but everything felt weird and spacey. I dont like this feeling atall. Withdrawal felt better i felt more real and myself but with sickness and elevated anxiety but this has made me feel crazy and in a full blown panic. Ive really messed up i cant get the accurate dosing. Ive ordered scales so maybe im going to grind down the pills and do it That way. I havent got ant support yet to do this correctly only this site. I called my nhs drs pravtice for help getting prescriptions but theytold me they wouldnt help me, their protocol is to go to 5 mg then alternate then stop and put the phone down on me when i told them about the hyperbolic taper. 😩Its so hard finding the right support that dosent cost a fortune to get of these horrible drugs. But it was oh someasy getting on them. I also feel stigmatised because im taking them And not taken seriously. sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Moderator Onmyway Posted October 25, 2023 Moderator Share Posted October 25, 2023 @Ck1111 it is possible but highly unlikely that the medicine caused the panic attack within a few min. It doesn't normally get metabolized that fast to have such a sudden effect. Could you have had a panic attack because you expected that this would cause problems? How did the symptoms change after? Please keep detailed notes with your symptoms every hour. From what you are posting I am not sure that you have read the threads that I posted - you need to read at least the first few posts in each thread. If you had read about the liquid you would know that we do not recommend using drop but using syringes to measure liquid medicines. Drops aren't accurate enough. You will need to get out the patient leaflet and find out how mang mg per ml the drug is in the liquid and then measure using a small syringe - at the pharmacy ask for a 1ml syringe. If you are using the Lundbeck version in the UK which is 20mg/ml then you would need to take 0.15 ml of the medicine - on the 1ml syringe syringe the 1.5 notch. If you wanted 2.5 mg then you'd do the 1.25 notch on the 1ml syringe. We usually recommend making a slow change to liquid - first doing 25% liquid and 75% pill, then 50/50, then 75/25 and then 100 liquid over four weeks. But you were unwilling to measure small doses of the pills so I didn't offer that. Pls see @Emonda's links for that. If you want to stay with the liquid you will need to measure precisely. If you want to do the 4 week transition you will need to do the proper measuring with the scale. There you will need to remember that the pill weight is not the same as the active ingredient weight - the pill has fillers. If you want to go the scale way pls let us know and we will help but you HAVE TO read what we link to you because you have to take responsibility for properly measuring the medicine. We can't fix this for you. This is one of the hardest things you will do in your life and it will be hard for a while so you need to take this seriously. NOTHING is going o magically lift it. You will have to go through this process and learn whatever math skills you need to learn to manage this for yourself. We can help but we can't do it for you. Otherwise you will go through the same horrible time you are going through. This is in your hands. OMW 1 "Nothing so small as a moment is insurmountable, and moments are all that we have. You have survived every trial and tribulation that life has thrown at you up until this very instant. When future troubles come—and they will come—a version of you will be born into that moment that can conquer them, too." - Kevin Koenig I am not a doctor and this should not be considered medical advice. You can use the information and recommendations provided in whatever way you want and all decisions on your treatment are yours. In the next few weeks I do not have a lot of capacity to respond to questions. If you need a quick answer pls tag or ask other moderators who may want to be tagged. Aug 2000 - July 2003 (ct, 4-6 wk wd) , citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn, wellbutrin for a few months, trazodone prn Dec 2004 - July 2018 citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn (rarely used) Aug 2018 - citalopram 40 mg (self titrated up) September 2018 - January 2019 tapered citalopram - 40/30/20/10/5 no issues until a week after reaching 0 Feb 2019 0.25 xanax - 0.5/day (3 weeks) over to klonopin 0.25 once a day to manage severe wd March 6, reinstated citalopram 2.5 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 mg for sleep 2-3 times a week Apr 1st citalopram 2.0 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 once a week (off by 4/14/19- no tapering) citalopram (liquid) 4/14/19 -1.8 mg, 5/8/19 - 1.6 mg, 7/27/19 -1.5 mg, 8/15/19 - 1.35, 2/21/21 - 1.1 (smaller drops in between), 6/20/21 - 1.03 mg, 8/7/21- 1.025, 8/11/21 - 1.02, 8/15/21 - 1.015, 9/3/21 - 0.925 (fingers crossed!), 10/8/21 - 0.9, 10/18/21 - 0.875, 12/31/21 - 0.85, 1/7/22 - 0.825, 1/14/22 - 0.8, 1/22/22 - 0.785, 8/18/22 - 0.59, 12/15/2022 - 0.48, 2/15/22 - 0.43, 25/07/23 - 0.25 (mistake), 6/08/23 - 0.33mg Supplements: magnesium citrate and bi-glycinate Link to comment
Ck1111 Posted October 25, 2023 Author Share Posted October 25, 2023 Thansk for replying. I did read it but im having problems getting the correct equipment. And it will take time if i have to order it. As i have stated maths is not my strong point. All of this measuring , tapering, conversions on top off that making my own formula, is very complex for me. My Concentration has been affected, plus cognitive skills. And i havr adhd. Maths, graphs, data is not my forte in general. All this plus managing my symptoms and condition is alot for me to get ny head around. Im trying to simplify this as much as possible. It shouldnt be so complicated. It might make sense and be easy for others but its not for me. sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Moderator Onmyway Posted October 25, 2023 Moderator Share Posted October 25, 2023 Hi @Ck1111, we can do calculations and give you proper instructions. For now, you should be able to get a simple 1ml syringe from any pharmacy - if one does't have it, try another one. In the UK Boots generally have them but small pharmacies do as well. You may need to pay them some small amount of money for it. With that syringe, you should then measure 0.125ml (you can ask the pharmacist show you which notch that is). That would be 2.5 mg=1.25ml IF the producer of your medicine is Lundbeck. Otherwise check what the dilution is. Lundbeck's dilution is 20mg/ml. You can get help on this from a pharmacist. Going to 2.5mg from 3mg may help prevent the agitation you felt. Can you pls take note of your symptoms for 24 hrs for every hour on the hour while you are awake. Also note when you take your other medicines and other major things you do in that hour (eat, have a stressful conversation with boss, listen to the news etc.) Then post these here. We will try to determine whether the drug is hurting you more than it is helping you. Thank you for doing your signature. Can you let us know why you are taking progesterone? Hormones can have side effects such as depression/anxiety. Minoxidil is also an uncommon prescription with serious side effects and you are not being being prescribed the other standard meds to treat its side effects such as a beta blocker. Can you let us know how you ended up with that prescription? Are you taking it for blood pressure? Why that and not other more common medicines? This is usually prescribed after you have failed multiple medicines. OMW 1 "Nothing so small as a moment is insurmountable, and moments are all that we have. You have survived every trial and tribulation that life has thrown at you up until this very instant. When future troubles come—and they will come—a version of you will be born into that moment that can conquer them, too." - Kevin Koenig I am not a doctor and this should not be considered medical advice. You can use the information and recommendations provided in whatever way you want and all decisions on your treatment are yours. In the next few weeks I do not have a lot of capacity to respond to questions. If you need a quick answer pls tag or ask other moderators who may want to be tagged. Aug 2000 - July 2003 (ct, 4-6 wk wd) , citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn, wellbutrin for a few months, trazodone prn Dec 2004 - July 2018 citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn (rarely used) Aug 2018 - citalopram 40 mg (self titrated up) September 2018 - January 2019 tapered citalopram - 40/30/20/10/5 no issues until a week after reaching 0 Feb 2019 0.25 xanax - 0.5/day (3 weeks) over to klonopin 0.25 once a day to manage severe wd March 6, reinstated citalopram 2.5 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 mg for sleep 2-3 times a week Apr 1st citalopram 2.0 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 once a week (off by 4/14/19- no tapering) citalopram (liquid) 4/14/19 -1.8 mg, 5/8/19 - 1.6 mg, 7/27/19 -1.5 mg, 8/15/19 - 1.35, 2/21/21 - 1.1 (smaller drops in between), 6/20/21 - 1.03 mg, 8/7/21- 1.025, 8/11/21 - 1.02, 8/15/21 - 1.015, 9/3/21 - 0.925 (fingers crossed!), 10/8/21 - 0.9, 10/18/21 - 0.875, 12/31/21 - 0.85, 1/7/22 - 0.825, 1/14/22 - 0.8, 1/22/22 - 0.785, 8/18/22 - 0.59, 12/15/2022 - 0.48, 2/15/22 - 0.43, 25/07/23 - 0.25 (mistake), 6/08/23 - 0.33mg Supplements: magnesium citrate and bi-glycinate Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus manymoretodays Posted October 25, 2023 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted October 25, 2023 (edited) Hi ck1111, Looks like you got started. Welcome. And did your signature. Awesome. With your signature information, below all your posts now: Do please put in dates, year, spell month(s) out, and day, especially with your current escitalopram changes. I'm not seeing when the quetiapine was started, or when you briefly did olanzapine either. That is much better than saying current, or 5 months ago, etc. Because it won't always be today. Easy access to your signature for updates/edits: AccountSettings/signature updates/edits hit SAVE at the bottom when done. Thanks. Love, peace, healing, and growth, manymoretodays(mmt) Oh, I did want to ask if you were interested in tapering, to go drug free perhaps one day? And I agree, you do need to know, and why don't you post what the dilution of your liquid escitalopram is? This should be on the label. We like to know how many mg(milligram) in how much mL(millileter). Thanks. Edited October 25, 2023 by manymoretodays 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
Ck1111 Posted October 25, 2023 Author Share Posted October 25, 2023 Literally within 5 mins of taking the liquid drops. I felt disoriented and i felt a major panic. when i got home rougly 30 mins later i had to lie down. I felt a little better after eating and a bath. Throughout the day my anxiety lessened but ive had brain fog worse than usual And my concentration has been awful all day. Ive also had an erratic heatbeat and chest pain. Im not sure if its related or muscular. I did a yoga class at 6 pm and felt agitated with a racing heart. By the end of the class i felt much calmer heart calmed down. Its now nearly .8 pm im going to drink some coconut water and have and a bit of food. I will also take some magnesium. Im worried about taking the quetiapine this evening as this also affect the heart. I used to get heart flutters often when i was on 20 mg of lexapro with the quetiapine. My hormones were tested as i was complaining of hairloss which was getting worse around 4 years ago hence the oral minoxidil lonitren (0.625 )1/4 of a 2.5 mg pill was prescribed. Progesterone was also suggested to help with the hairloss i was also told it has a calming effect when taken at night time, would help my anxiety and is good for the skin has an antiageing effect. i have ordered the 1ml syringes from amazon and it will arrive tomorrow. Im Scared to take the liquid again after today. The only positives is that my sickness and headache went away today. sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Moderator Onmyway Posted October 25, 2023 Moderator Share Posted October 25, 2023 You may be dealing both with withdrawal and with an adverse reaction to the drug. Tomorrow take 2.5mg (as advised). Can you figure out the right notch on the syringe without a pharmacist? Is your medicine Lundbeck? Do you still have concerns over hairloss? Your heart flutter may also be from minoxidil. Does progesterone actually calm you down? Pls follow @manymoretodays's instruction on the signature - 3 weeks ago will not be the right date 1 week from now. Also note the changes you made today and yesterday. OMW "Nothing so small as a moment is insurmountable, and moments are all that we have. You have survived every trial and tribulation that life has thrown at you up until this very instant. When future troubles come—and they will come—a version of you will be born into that moment that can conquer them, too." - Kevin Koenig I am not a doctor and this should not be considered medical advice. You can use the information and recommendations provided in whatever way you want and all decisions on your treatment are yours. In the next few weeks I do not have a lot of capacity to respond to questions. If you need a quick answer pls tag or ask other moderators who may want to be tagged. Aug 2000 - July 2003 (ct, 4-6 wk wd) , citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn, wellbutrin for a few months, trazodone prn Dec 2004 - July 2018 citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn (rarely used) Aug 2018 - citalopram 40 mg (self titrated up) September 2018 - January 2019 tapered citalopram - 40/30/20/10/5 no issues until a week after reaching 0 Feb 2019 0.25 xanax - 0.5/day (3 weeks) over to klonopin 0.25 once a day to manage severe wd March 6, reinstated citalopram 2.5 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 mg for sleep 2-3 times a week Apr 1st citalopram 2.0 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 once a week (off by 4/14/19- no tapering) citalopram (liquid) 4/14/19 -1.8 mg, 5/8/19 - 1.6 mg, 7/27/19 -1.5 mg, 8/15/19 - 1.35, 2/21/21 - 1.1 (smaller drops in between), 6/20/21 - 1.03 mg, 8/7/21- 1.025, 8/11/21 - 1.02, 8/15/21 - 1.015, 9/3/21 - 0.925 (fingers crossed!), 10/8/21 - 0.9, 10/18/21 - 0.875, 12/31/21 - 0.85, 1/7/22 - 0.825, 1/14/22 - 0.8, 1/22/22 - 0.785, 8/18/22 - 0.59, 12/15/2022 - 0.48, 2/15/22 - 0.43, 25/07/23 - 0.25 (mistake), 6/08/23 - 0.33mg Supplements: magnesium citrate and bi-glycinate Link to comment
Ck1111 Posted October 25, 2023 Author Share Posted October 25, 2023 (edited) Well the ideal amout dividing the last month by 30 was 2.9mg to make it easy i wanted to take 3mg .I took 375 yesterday and felt a bit sick i took 3/4 of a 5 mg pill that i cut up so that would of been somewhat innacurate. I am still dealing with hairloss but the minoxidil really helps even though it has side effects such as water retention, low blood pressure.And as you stated isnt great for the heart but its such a low dose im too vain to stop it. And its another reason I want off the pschy meds as im sensitive to hairloss from them . Sertraline caused bad hairloss (telegon effluvium) thats why i stipped taking it and switched meds. The oral lexapro is cipralex 20mg/ml and is lundbeck. I do think i sleep better when i take the progesterone so i feel better during the day and i look fresher when i take it. Edited October 25, 2023 by Ck1111 Missed a bit out plus spelling mistakes sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Moderator Onmyway Posted October 25, 2023 Moderator Share Posted October 25, 2023 Ok. Are you saying you want to keep the 3mg dose tomorrow as well then? In that case 0.15ml on the syringe would be the right notch. Keep notes on the symptoms every hour tomorrow. Heart palpitations can cause anxiety - the body is interpreting them as signs of danger. Why are you not taking minoxidil as a foam - it is sold under the brand name Rogaine/Regain - it would have fewer side effects topically. I am presuming you are interested only in growing hair on your head rather than other parts of the body. You can also buy it in Boots as a generic foam (ask the pharmacist for minoxidil foam). By the way, if anyone ever offers you finasteride for hair loss - I'd advise to do your own research before you ever agree to it - it has horrible, some think permanent, side effects. Pls update the dates on the signature. "Nothing so small as a moment is insurmountable, and moments are all that we have. You have survived every trial and tribulation that life has thrown at you up until this very instant. When future troubles come—and they will come—a version of you will be born into that moment that can conquer them, too." - Kevin Koenig I am not a doctor and this should not be considered medical advice. You can use the information and recommendations provided in whatever way you want and all decisions on your treatment are yours. In the next few weeks I do not have a lot of capacity to respond to questions. If you need a quick answer pls tag or ask other moderators who may want to be tagged. Aug 2000 - July 2003 (ct, 4-6 wk wd) , citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn, wellbutrin for a few months, trazodone prn Dec 2004 - July 2018 citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn (rarely used) Aug 2018 - citalopram 40 mg (self titrated up) September 2018 - January 2019 tapered citalopram - 40/30/20/10/5 no issues until a week after reaching 0 Feb 2019 0.25 xanax - 0.5/day (3 weeks) over to klonopin 0.25 once a day to manage severe wd March 6, reinstated citalopram 2.5 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 mg for sleep 2-3 times a week Apr 1st citalopram 2.0 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 once a week (off by 4/14/19- no tapering) citalopram (liquid) 4/14/19 -1.8 mg, 5/8/19 - 1.6 mg, 7/27/19 -1.5 mg, 8/15/19 - 1.35, 2/21/21 - 1.1 (smaller drops in between), 6/20/21 - 1.03 mg, 8/7/21- 1.025, 8/11/21 - 1.02, 8/15/21 - 1.015, 9/3/21 - 0.925 (fingers crossed!), 10/8/21 - 0.9, 10/18/21 - 0.875, 12/31/21 - 0.85, 1/7/22 - 0.825, 1/14/22 - 0.8, 1/22/22 - 0.785, 8/18/22 - 0.59, 12/15/2022 - 0.48, 2/15/22 - 0.43, 25/07/23 - 0.25 (mistake), 6/08/23 - 0.33mg Supplements: magnesium citrate and bi-glycinate Link to comment
Ck1111 Posted October 25, 2023 Author Share Posted October 25, 2023 Not everyone has the enzyme needed for minoxidil foam to work. It didnt do much for me the oral does help. I dont know what to take tomorrow ive updated my signature hopefully it makes sense. So to reiterate this last month i took 3 x 10 mg, week 1 1 x 10 mg, week 2 3x5mg week 3 this week sunday 5 mg monday 5mg tuesday 375 today 3 mg Im all over the place indont know what to do. sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Ck1111 Posted October 25, 2023 Author Share Posted October 25, 2023 Around 9.30 this evening i felt like i my heart was racing again i checked my pulse on an app on my phone and it was at 117bmp which is abnormal. I had panic and went to my concierge. I live in a complex and have great neigbours. I though i might of needed to go to urgent care. But luckily one of my neighhours spotted a dr who lives here and he had a chat with me. He said he thinks its anxiety and i need to calm down. But to let him know if anything changes and gave me his number. on returning to my flat i feel better. my heart rate has lowered again. But still feel a weird tightness in my chest. I feel an absolute mess today. sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Moderator Onmyway Posted October 25, 2023 Moderator Share Posted October 25, 2023 Hi @Ck1111 You should get your heart checked by your GP or in an ER of you're worried. We can't advise you on that and a random doctor in the hallway can't say it's OK without further tests such as an ECG. We can't take responsibility for treatment or diagnosis and you should make sure your heart is OK before we continue with helping you with tapering or withdrawal. Above everything else we want you to be healthy and safe. "Nothing so small as a moment is insurmountable, and moments are all that we have. You have survived every trial and tribulation that life has thrown at you up until this very instant. When future troubles come—and they will come—a version of you will be born into that moment that can conquer them, too." - Kevin Koenig I am not a doctor and this should not be considered medical advice. You can use the information and recommendations provided in whatever way you want and all decisions on your treatment are yours. In the next few weeks I do not have a lot of capacity to respond to questions. If you need a quick answer pls tag or ask other moderators who may want to be tagged. Aug 2000 - July 2003 (ct, 4-6 wk wd) , citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn, wellbutrin for a few months, trazodone prn Dec 2004 - July 2018 citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn (rarely used) Aug 2018 - citalopram 40 mg (self titrated up) September 2018 - January 2019 tapered citalopram - 40/30/20/10/5 no issues until a week after reaching 0 Feb 2019 0.25 xanax - 0.5/day (3 weeks) over to klonopin 0.25 once a day to manage severe wd March 6, reinstated citalopram 2.5 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 mg for sleep 2-3 times a week Apr 1st citalopram 2.0 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 once a week (off by 4/14/19- no tapering) citalopram (liquid) 4/14/19 -1.8 mg, 5/8/19 - 1.6 mg, 7/27/19 -1.5 mg, 8/15/19 - 1.35, 2/21/21 - 1.1 (smaller drops in between), 6/20/21 - 1.03 mg, 8/7/21- 1.025, 8/11/21 - 1.02, 8/15/21 - 1.015, 9/3/21 - 0.925 (fingers crossed!), 10/8/21 - 0.9, 10/18/21 - 0.875, 12/31/21 - 0.85, 1/7/22 - 0.825, 1/14/22 - 0.8, 1/22/22 - 0.785, 8/18/22 - 0.59, 12/15/2022 - 0.48, 2/15/22 - 0.43, 25/07/23 - 0.25 (mistake), 6/08/23 - 0.33mg Supplements: magnesium citrate and bi-glycinate Link to comment
Ck1111 Posted October 26, 2023 Author Share Posted October 26, 2023 Last night was a scary night. But my heart rate has returned to normal. I had an ecg last month As ive been worried about my heart for a while and everything was normal. Im going to book in for an echocardiogram to make sure. Health anxiety is another component of my ocd so i also must be mindful that whilst tapering this symptom could get worse for a while until i level out. In the meantime im going to hold for a good while on 2.5 of a pill and ride out any withdrawls that may come with this. As even though i felt sick i was more functional. If it feels anyway unbearable after a week i will updose to 3 again hopefully my equipment will arrive by then. I will need help with the measuring. sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Ck1111 Posted October 26, 2023 Author Share Posted October 26, 2023 My scales have arrived i feel it woudl be better if i stayed at the 3 mg tablet form. can anyone advise me how to make 3 mg from a 10 mg pill on the scales? sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Ck1111 Posted October 26, 2023 Author Share Posted October 26, 2023 My diary of today. 9 am woke up and took 2.5 pill and feel tired from the night before 10.30 breakfast feeling ok. Had a coffee and noticed i felt anxious but in an excitable way not unpleasant. Intense urge to talk to an emotionally unavailable toxic guy i was seeing casually. I know hes not good for me but our interactions replace my fear with anger and eases my feelings of lonliness and replaces them with desperation.! I see him like the drugs, something i need to quit. I dont feel healthy enough for a loving healthy relationship right now but my lonliness is crushing, i cant meet new people whilst im Going through this mess, i cant trust my judgement. Strangers can also trigger a panic attack from me ( i have intense stranger danger around men particularly) 2.30, i took my minixidil, iron tablet and probiotic drink. I feel more like myslef but i think the nausea is returning. i feel like ive got a hangover and just generally exauhsted. Talking to people i feel like im slurring my words a bit. 4pm a walk in the park . Im feeling more positive and grounded. Also a long chat on the phone with a friend and felt better. I always feel happy when im connecting with nature. Didnt feel like going to yoga today but much less anxiety overall , appetite not great tried to eat some rissotto, greek yoghurt and some fruit. Took my magnesium. 9.40 pm and have a slight headache in the back of my head but overall still feeling ok but i have an urge to clean my flat. 10.30 pm in bed feeling ok. A much better day compared with yesterday I have booked in with a cardiologist next week to check my heart. I think it could be palpitations mixed with anxiety. But it will put my mind at rest knowing for sure what it is. sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Ck1111 Posted October 31, 2023 Author Share Posted October 31, 2023 Updates. Its been nearly a week on the 2.5 mg lexapro and a month Since i started the tapering journey. Im feeling really good. Ive had some mild anxiety, headaches and mild nausea. Ive been taking the omega and magnesium. Plus iron,collagen and protein. I had some acupuncture yesterday and a thai massage and my headache And sickness completely dissapeared today. Im going to do it weekly. I feel very fortunate that im in a good place, no outside stressors so i can do whats best for me and my recovery. Im going to hold at this dose for 6 weeks before i consider my next taper. Also i feel more clear headed and less crazy overall after my reductions. Long may it continue in this direction. sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Moderator Onmyway Posted October 31, 2023 Moderator Share Posted October 31, 2023 Hi @Ck1111 that is great news. How are you cutting up/weighing your pill? I haven't had acupuncture treatments but have read that people should ask for the calming rather than the activating treatments. Make sure you get the same one next time as well. OMW "Nothing so small as a moment is insurmountable, and moments are all that we have. You have survived every trial and tribulation that life has thrown at you up until this very instant. When future troubles come—and they will come—a version of you will be born into that moment that can conquer them, too." - Kevin Koenig I am not a doctor and this should not be considered medical advice. You can use the information and recommendations provided in whatever way you want and all decisions on your treatment are yours. In the next few weeks I do not have a lot of capacity to respond to questions. If you need a quick answer pls tag or ask other moderators who may want to be tagged. Aug 2000 - July 2003 (ct, 4-6 wk wd) , citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn, wellbutrin for a few months, trazodone prn Dec 2004 - July 2018 citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn (rarely used) Aug 2018 - citalopram 40 mg (self titrated up) September 2018 - January 2019 tapered citalopram - 40/30/20/10/5 no issues until a week after reaching 0 Feb 2019 0.25 xanax - 0.5/day (3 weeks) over to klonopin 0.25 once a day to manage severe wd March 6, reinstated citalopram 2.5 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 mg for sleep 2-3 times a week Apr 1st citalopram 2.0 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 once a week (off by 4/14/19- no tapering) citalopram (liquid) 4/14/19 -1.8 mg, 5/8/19 - 1.6 mg, 7/27/19 -1.5 mg, 8/15/19 - 1.35, 2/21/21 - 1.1 (smaller drops in between), 6/20/21 - 1.03 mg, 8/7/21- 1.025, 8/11/21 - 1.02, 8/15/21 - 1.015, 9/3/21 - 0.925 (fingers crossed!), 10/8/21 - 0.9, 10/18/21 - 0.875, 12/31/21 - 0.85, 1/7/22 - 0.825, 1/14/22 - 0.8, 1/22/22 - 0.785, 8/18/22 - 0.59, 12/15/2022 - 0.48, 2/15/22 - 0.43, 25/07/23 - 0.25 (mistake), 6/08/23 - 0.33mg Supplements: magnesium citrate and bi-glycinate Link to comment
Ck1111 Posted October 31, 2023 Author Share Posted October 31, 2023 Im just cutting the pills into quarters. I know its not ideal but im not having any bad withdrawals. my next taper i want to make the liquid and drop to 2 mg. I told the accupuncturist i wanted to reset my nervous system and to help with the sickness and headaches . whatever he did worked. I have zero withdrawal symptons today Im hoping im going to be one of the lucky few who finds recovery easy. I dont want to get too cocky though as its early days. sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Moderator Onmyway Posted October 31, 2023 Moderator Share Posted October 31, 2023 Hi @Ck1111, it's great that things have quieted down. The drop you are proposing from 2.5 to 2mg is a 20% drop which we don't endorse. We recommend not lowering your dose by more than 10% of your previous dose in 4 weeks. That would make your next dose 2.25mg. You mentioned you bought a scale. Are you not using the scale? OMW "Nothing so small as a moment is insurmountable, and moments are all that we have. You have survived every trial and tribulation that life has thrown at you up until this very instant. When future troubles come—and they will come—a version of you will be born into that moment that can conquer them, too." - Kevin Koenig I am not a doctor and this should not be considered medical advice. You can use the information and recommendations provided in whatever way you want and all decisions on your treatment are yours. In the next few weeks I do not have a lot of capacity to respond to questions. If you need a quick answer pls tag or ask other moderators who may want to be tagged. Aug 2000 - July 2003 (ct, 4-6 wk wd) , citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn, wellbutrin for a few months, trazodone prn Dec 2004 - July 2018 citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn (rarely used) Aug 2018 - citalopram 40 mg (self titrated up) September 2018 - January 2019 tapered citalopram - 40/30/20/10/5 no issues until a week after reaching 0 Feb 2019 0.25 xanax - 0.5/day (3 weeks) over to klonopin 0.25 once a day to manage severe wd March 6, reinstated citalopram 2.5 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 mg for sleep 2-3 times a week Apr 1st citalopram 2.0 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 once a week (off by 4/14/19- no tapering) citalopram (liquid) 4/14/19 -1.8 mg, 5/8/19 - 1.6 mg, 7/27/19 -1.5 mg, 8/15/19 - 1.35, 2/21/21 - 1.1 (smaller drops in between), 6/20/21 - 1.03 mg, 8/7/21- 1.025, 8/11/21 - 1.02, 8/15/21 - 1.015, 9/3/21 - 0.925 (fingers crossed!), 10/8/21 - 0.9, 10/18/21 - 0.875, 12/31/21 - 0.85, 1/7/22 - 0.825, 1/14/22 - 0.8, 1/22/22 - 0.785, 8/18/22 - 0.59, 12/15/2022 - 0.48, 2/15/22 - 0.43, 25/07/23 - 0.25 (mistake), 6/08/23 - 0.33mg Supplements: magnesium citrate and bi-glycinate Link to comment
Ck1111 Posted October 31, 2023 Author Share Posted October 31, 2023 Some people can go quicker though cant they. As im having minimal withdrawals im very tempted. Ill see how i feel in a few weeks. I instinctively feel that lexapro is going to be easy for me to quit as my side effects are so minimal.As i could skip pills for days without effects. I might be being incredibly optimistic though. I do know that when the time comes to quitting the quetiapine i will have to do strict 10 percent reductions. As my body is so addicted to it. sertraline(jan 2012)100 mg up to 200. switched to escitalopram (august 2012) 20 mg)no taper x quetiapine(100mg) ,Slow taper down to 25 quet (2013)escitalopram (20)( april 2022)Tried olanzapine + prozac for 2 weeks (no taper) switched back to (10 mg escitalopram but skipping doses and (25 quet) last 4 yrs coasting on this duo. reduced escitalopram on 9 october 2023) took 1 pill 10mg in a week 16 th october , 3x 5mg in a week. , started this week 5 mg sunday 5 mg monday 375 tuesday and today 25th october 2023) 3 mg liquid) 26th oct 2023 (2.5)mg going to hold here.Also taking oral minoxidil 0.650 mg ,(since jan2021) magnesium, probiotics, collagen, iron,omega369, (,jan 2022)progesterone 100 mg Link to comment
Moderator Onmyway Posted October 31, 2023 Moderator Share Posted October 31, 2023 @Ck1111, let's wait for 6 weeks and decide then. OMW "Nothing so small as a moment is insurmountable, and moments are all that we have. You have survived every trial and tribulation that life has thrown at you up until this very instant. When future troubles come—and they will come—a version of you will be born into that moment that can conquer them, too." - Kevin Koenig I am not a doctor and this should not be considered medical advice. You can use the information and recommendations provided in whatever way you want and all decisions on your treatment are yours. In the next few weeks I do not have a lot of capacity to respond to questions. If you need a quick answer pls tag or ask other moderators who may want to be tagged. Aug 2000 - July 2003 (ct, 4-6 wk wd) , citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn, wellbutrin for a few months, trazodone prn Dec 2004 - July 2018 citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn (rarely used) Aug 2018 - citalopram 40 mg (self titrated up) September 2018 - January 2019 tapered citalopram - 40/30/20/10/5 no issues until a week after reaching 0 Feb 2019 0.25 xanax - 0.5/day (3 weeks) over to klonopin 0.25 once a day to manage severe wd March 6, reinstated citalopram 2.5 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 mg for sleep 2-3 times a week Apr 1st citalopram 2.0 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 once a week (off by 4/14/19- no tapering) citalopram (liquid) 4/14/19 -1.8 mg, 5/8/19 - 1.6 mg, 7/27/19 -1.5 mg, 8/15/19 - 1.35, 2/21/21 - 1.1 (smaller drops in between), 6/20/21 - 1.03 mg, 8/7/21- 1.025, 8/11/21 - 1.02, 8/15/21 - 1.015, 9/3/21 - 0.925 (fingers crossed!), 10/8/21 - 0.9, 10/18/21 - 0.875, 12/31/21 - 0.85, 1/7/22 - 0.825, 1/14/22 - 0.8, 1/22/22 - 0.785, 8/18/22 - 0.59, 12/15/2022 - 0.48, 2/15/22 - 0.43, 25/07/23 - 0.25 (mistake), 6/08/23 - 0.33mg Supplements: magnesium citrate and bi-glycinate Link to comment
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