Poppy745 Posted November 1, 2023 Posted November 1, 2023 Hi All. I have been looking at this site for a while now before joining. I am glad to meet you all, and thank the moderators and members for the support and comfort they give to others. My main reason for joining SA at this time is to connect with others who are going through withdrawal and tapering. Although I have some friends who have been wonderful and supportive, they do no really understand what withdrawal is like and how scared I feel about starting to taper and everything about WD, once I have stablized on reinstating Citalopram. I need to accept my situation, but some days I feel so frustrated and afraid. I am so keen to feel and be positive, as I feel having the right mind set can really help. This has been made harder the last few weeks by having a very sick parent, and has caused a lot of ongoing stress after getting to a much better place. 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.
Administrator Emonda Posted November 1, 2023 Administrator Posted November 1, 2023 Welcome to S.A. @Poppy745 So the moderators can best help you, please complete your drug signature by following these instructions. Adding a signature ensures your drug history appears at the bottom of every post, making it more efficient for those trying to assist. 1 hour ago, Poppy745 said: My main reason for joining SA at this time is to connect with others who are going through withdrawal and tapering. Certainly, many connections can be made with others walking down the same AD tapering road here... 1 hour ago, Poppy745 said: how scared I feel about starting to taper and everything about WD, once I have stablized on reinstating Citalopram. That sounds like a reasonable response...I reckon many of us have felt scared about tapering. I know I get a little uptight before making each reduction to my AD. 1 hour ago, Poppy745 said: once I have stablized on reinstating Citalopram. I look forward to seeing your drug signature so I can comment further. This link is worth reading in preparation: Why taper by 10% of my dosage? You don't want to start tapering until you are settled following your reinstatement. This could be months....but your drug signature will help clarify this. 1 hour ago, Poppy745 said: I need to accept my situation, but some days I feel so frustrated and afraid. Yes, I found it best to accept the past and move forward. Two links that may be useful for the way forward: Windows and waves pattern of stabilization non-drug coping strategies 1 hour ago, Poppy745 said: his has been made harder the last few weeks by having a very sick parent, and has caused a lot of ongoing stress This would be stressful for anyone. I've found that I am more susceptible to stress during the tapering process. The same susceptibility likely applies to you as you try to stabilise following your reinstatement. We don't suggest many supplements, but two that many of us find helpful are magnesium and omega-3 fish oil. Here are the links for info about those. Add one at a time and start with a low dose to see how it affects you. Magnesium Omega 3 Fish Oil Avoid alcohol. Please post any updates here in your thread. It is helpful to keep everything related to your journey in one spot. You are very welcome to jump onto someone else's page and interact with them. The encouragement members give each other on this site is wonderful to see. Sing out with any questions. Once again, welcome to S.A. 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. Start of taper: Jan ’22 Vortioxetine 15mg End year 1: 4.5mg End year 2: 2.38mg End year 3: 1.16mg Year 4: The brassmonkey slide continues...
Poppy745 Posted November 2, 2023 Author Posted November 2, 2023 Hi @EmondaThank you so much for your reply, comments and recommendations. It means a lot. I feel like my life has stopped, first the physical symptoms were the hardest part, now the anxiety feels like the hardes part. I guess that is the nature of withdrawal. It all feel bad at times. I am working so hard to be strong and positive and hope that I will come out the other side of this a stronger person. Hope you are doing ok down under. Thanks 🙂 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.
Poppy745 Posted November 6, 2023 Author Posted November 6, 2023 Hi. Is there anyone who is mid taper, nearing the end of their taper or off the drug all together who can help? Does the anxiety get better over the taper time? I have read all the information on waves and windows and anxiety and intrusive thoughts. I reinstated at 2.5mg about about 6 weeks ago. I think I initially stablized pretty quick both physically and anxiety wise after the first 2 weeks. Over the last week the anxiety or worse the intrusive thoughts are TERRIBLE. I have had outside stressors, but I felt that I eventually was dealing with those and settled again. But I now cannot get these intrusive thoughts to go away. The afternoon /evenings are a little better, but the worst starts again in the very early morning Can anyone give me some hope that this will get better? Thank you 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.
Administrator Emonda Posted November 7, 2023 Administrator Posted November 7, 2023 ...me again... 12 hours ago, Poppy745 said: I think I initially stablized pretty quick both physically and anxiety wise after the first 2 weeks This is very positive. 12 hours ago, Poppy745 said: Is there anyone who is mid taper, nearing the end of their taper or off the drug all together who can help? I've reduced my AD by 82%....but a long way to go. There are plenty of us on the S.A. site... 12 hours ago, Poppy745 said: Does the anxiety get better over the taper time? In my experience, yes. That doesn't mean it goes and doesn't come back. It seems to linger there, but once stable, it is generally tolerable with the odd spike here and there. Sometimes the spikes last hours, days, and sometimes longer... 12 hours ago, Poppy745 said: I have had outside stressors Don't underestimate the impact of external stress. Many of us here are very susceptible to stress...it can easily trigger a spike in anxiety that takes time to settle down. 12 hours ago, Poppy745 said: cannot get these intrusive thoughts to go away. Just confirming...you've read this link? For me, when anxiety spikes, I find getting outside for some gentle exercise helps. 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 End year 3: 1.16mg Year 4: The brassmonkey slide continues...
Poppy745 Posted November 7, 2023 Author Posted November 7, 2023 @Emonda Good to hear from you again. I have had a look at the intrustive thoughts link before, but I will look again and maybe post on there to get an idea of others experience. I worry that because I reinstated this makes a difference. What I know is that I felt fairly normal for around 3 weeks, 2 weeks after reinstament (Even the difficult setbacks in that time passed quickly and I even started to look forward and enjoy some things). This surely must mean I can get back to that again. I assume that our brains are healing while we taper and this will hopefully improve over time as well. I have read about other people feeling better as they lower the dose. It looks like you are at a similar dose to myself in your taper. You sound like you are doing ok. Keep going you are doing great! It is easy to start feeling defeated when these longer stints of waves happen, but I MUST stay positive! Thank you Emonda for your kind words. 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.
Administrator KenA Posted November 7, 2023 Administrator Posted November 7, 2023 Hi there! Was reading through your thread and just wanted to reassure you that all the symptoms you are experiencing are temporary. I too had the intrusive thoughts and anxiety as well. It did take a while, but all of those symptoms slowly faded away and they are now just a distant thought in the rear view mirror. Just keep taking it day by day and KNOW that you are healing! 1 2010-2011 - Tramadol - Can't remember dosage 2011 - CT Quit Tramadol 2011-2019 - St Johns Wart - Started out at 3 Pills a day (300 MG) and increased to 6 per day over the years August 2019 - CT Quit St Johns (Told by Hospital Dr to Stop Taking due to increased BP) September 2019 - Citalopram 10mg - Approx 2 weeks - CT Quit September 2019 - October 2019 - Clonazepam .5mg - Approx 3 weeks - CT Quit Drug Free Since October 5th 2019
koala Posted November 7, 2023 Posted November 7, 2023 Hi Poppy745 My own recent experience was quitting escitalopram in August after a too fast taper. I had an immediate bad withdrawal experience for several days. This then seemed to get better for several weeks except for dizziness, during which time I had only short isolated waves of terror. Unfortunately, the overpowering emotions - predominantly fear - came back in force about 6 weeks later. I realise now that I’d had a couple of nights drinking red wine before that. I recommenced on 2mg and initially felt like I was stabilising. But after 10 days the terror was becoming very difficult and I increased my dose on medical advice (rightly or wrongly). In the weeks that have followed I have had times feeling like stability was coming only to then feel the rug being pulled from under me once more. I think I might be getting there now - stability. And yes, the fear has lessened. Yesterday I felt fine - just very tired. Today I feel fine touchwood. My own perspective is don’t be alarmed that anxiety has returned. There is no reason to think you will not stabilise. You will have to give it time and during that time you will need to do whatever you can to feel supported and safe. For me that has included drastically scaling back daily activity (work, study, social); lots of walking; lots of chats with a few trusted friends and family members; meditation (when not in crisis); reading very light fiction; eating well and often; avoiding news; supplements (magnesium and fish oil plus a few others); early nights; psychotherapy. Hold steady and patient and I’m sure you’ll get there. Best, The Koala 1 None of my posts are medical advice, just my own experience. Please see your doctor for any medical advice. Overview: 1991: Prothiaden short stint (about 3 months); September 1999 - 2003(?): Nefazodone then paroxetine 2005(?) onwards: Escitalopram never more than 10mg (with breaks and attempted breaks - see further below) More recent escitalopram experience: Late 2019 - tapered over about 6 weeks - 6 weeks later reinstatement (full dose) taking about 3 weeks to stabilise Late 2021 - tapered over 6 months to 2mg - held there and then fairly quickly off - 3 months later reinstatement (full dose) taking about 6-8 weeks to stabilise. 2023 - tapered over several months to 1mg then jumped to 0mg on 12 August 2023. 29/9 - reinstatement at 2mg; 10/10 - 5mg; 5/12- 6mg; 2024 11/1 - 10mg; 16/1 - 8mg Other drugs and supplements: Rosuvastatin 10mg (nightly); ubiquinol 150mg (daily); magnesium glycinate 1500mg (equivalent to 300mg magnesium - twice daily); fish oil (EPA:DHA 2:1 - daily).
Moderator Emeritus getofflex Posted November 7, 2023 Moderator Emeritus Posted November 7, 2023 Have you read the link on windows and waves that was posted to you? If not here it is: Windows and Waves Pattern of Stabilization I have found it important to find non drug ways to cope with withdrawal symptoms, and also with just the typical depression and anxiety that can come up with life. Here are some things that might help. video: Claire Weekes: Managing Anxiety video: Claire Weekes on Anxiety and Panic Emotional Spirals Acknowledge Accept Float Music to Calm Anxiety Breathing Technique for Anxiety Anxiety Stuff - all kinds of stuff about anxiety attacks and things that help ... 15 hours ago, ChessieCat said: Audio: First Aid for Panic (4 minutes) Female voice - getselfhelp.co.uk Audio: First Aid for Panic (4 minutes) Male voice - getselfhelp.co.uk Meditation 1 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
Poppy745 Posted November 8, 2023 Author Posted November 8, 2023 20 hours ago, KenA said: Hi there! Was reading through your thread and just wanted to reassure you that all the symptoms you are experiencing are temporary. I too had the intrusive thoughts and anxiety as well. It did take a while, but all of those symptoms slowly faded away and they are now just a distant thought in the rear view mirror. Just keep taking it day by day and KNOW that you are healing! Hi @KenA Thank you for your kind and reasurring words! I worry that because I have been on the drug for some years, it will be harder. I really hope that this awful time passes soon. Do you feel like you are fully healed in general Ken? 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.
Poppy745 Posted November 8, 2023 Author Posted November 8, 2023 18 hours ago, koala said: Hi Poppy745 My own recent experience was quitting escitalopram in August after a too fast taper. I had an immediate bad withdrawal experience for several days. This then seemed to get better for several weeks except for dizziness, during which time I had only short isolated waves of terror. Unfortunately, the overpowering emotions - predominantly fear - came back in force about 6 weeks later. I realise now that I’d had a couple of nights drinking red wine before that. I recommenced on 2mg and initially felt like I was stabilising. But after 10 days the terror was becoming very difficult and I increased my dose on medical advice (rightly or wrongly). In the weeks that have followed I have had times feeling like stability was coming only to then feel the rug being pulled from under me once more. I think I might be getting there now - stability. And yes, the fear has lessened. Yesterday I felt fine - just very tired. Today I feel fine touchwood. My own perspective is don’t be alarmed that anxiety has returned. There is no reason to think you will not stabilise. You will have to give it time and during that time you will need to do whatever you can to feel supported and safe. For me that has included drastically scaling back daily activity (work, study, social); lots of walking; lots of chats with a few trusted friends and family members; meditation (when not in crisis); reading very light fiction; eating well and often; avoiding news; supplements (magnesium and fish oil plus a few others); early nights; psychotherapy. Hold steady and patient and I’m sure you’ll get there. Best, The Koala @koala Thank you so much for your reply. It means so much. It is reasurring to hear that you have had similar patterns and now feel that you getting there. I still cannot believe this situation is happening and go through stages of acceptance and despair! Despite this I am determined to be strong and get my life back. I am so happy that you are feeling a bit better. Lovely to meet you and Thank you again.🙂 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.
Poppy745 Posted November 8, 2023 Author Posted November 8, 2023 18 hours ago, getofflex said: Have you read the link on windows and waves that was posted to you? If not here it is: Windows and Waves Pattern of Stabilization I have found it important to find non drug ways to cope with withdrawal symptoms, and also with just the typical depression and anxiety that can come up with life. Here are some things that might help. video: Claire Weekes: Managing Anxiety video: Claire Weekes on Anxiety and Panic Emotional Spirals Acknowledge Accept Float Music to Calm Anxiety Breathing Technique for Anxiety Anxiety Stuff - all kinds of stuff about anxiety attacks and things that help ... 15 hours ago, ChessieCat said: Audio: First Aid for Panic (4 minutes) Female voice - getselfhelp.co.uk Audio: First Aid for Panic (4 minutes) Male voice - getselfhelp.co.uk Meditation @getofflex Thank you so much for your reply. I have read these links before, and must read them again to remind myself. They have helped in the past, but the thoughts and physical anxiety have got so strong over the last 5/6 days that I have struggled to stop them. It often feels like trying to keep a tidal wave at bay. I do find Claire Weeks useful and keep working hard to stop the thoughts getting routed in my mind. I will read all these links again. Thank you for taking time to reply. Really appreciate it. Poppy🙂 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.
Poppy745 Posted November 8, 2023 Author Posted November 8, 2023 20 hours ago, koala said: There is no reason to think you will not stabilise. You will have to give it time and during that time you will need to do whatever you can to feel supported and safe. For me that has included drastically scaling back daily activity (work, study, social); lots of walking; lots of chats with a few trusted friends and family members; meditation (when not in crisis); reading very light fiction; eating well and often; avoiding news; supplements (magnesium and fish oil plus a few others); early nights; psychotherapy. Hold steady and patient and I’m sure you’ll get there. Also: You have similar coping strategies to myself. I wish that I could work, but cannot even consider it. If I knew that it was ok to keep pushing I might be able to do it, but I don't want to make the waves even worse. I hope that in the months to come I will settle into a more comfortable place and can possibly look at it again. I wish I worked from home, would be easier. I do lots of walking and I have a few wonderful friends. Some don't really get it, but they try so hard to support. I have just started to enjoy reading again, as it had become so hard for a while. I will check in on you soon to see how you are doing if that's ok. Thanks so much again Koala 🙂 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.
Administrator KenA Posted November 8, 2023 Administrator Posted November 8, 2023 4 hours ago, Poppy745 said: Hi @KenA Thank you for your kind and reasurring words! I worry that because I have been on the drug for some years, it will be harder. I really hope that this awful time passes soon. Do you feel like you are fully healed in general Ken? Of course!! I know that the healing process is hard for sure!! I myself dove in head first and CT quit everything so that probably wasn't the smartest idea, but looking back, I'm glad I did it the way that I did. It was what I felt worked best for me. Was it hard? Extremely, but I made it through it and so will you! I do feel that I am probably like 98 percent healed at this point. Maybe a couple of extremely minor little things I notice, but they don't bother me at all and even now they continue to get better and better. I read in one of your other replies that you felt like you were trying to keep a tidal wave at bay. For me, I learned how to not fight the tidal wave and to just ride it out. If you try and fight them, they will just knock you over, but if you accept them and just ride them, then you float on top of them and they pass you by with time. Once I learned how to stop fighting the symptoms and truly learned acceptance is when it got easier for me to handle. Not so much better, but easier. This will come with time!! You just have to keep taking things one day at a time. And if a day seems too long, then one hour and if not an hour then one minute. Cause anybody can do anything for a minute! And they all add up to healing 1 2010-2011 - Tramadol - Can't remember dosage 2011 - CT Quit Tramadol 2011-2019 - St Johns Wart - Started out at 3 Pills a day (300 MG) and increased to 6 per day over the years August 2019 - CT Quit St Johns (Told by Hospital Dr to Stop Taking due to increased BP) September 2019 - Citalopram 10mg - Approx 2 weeks - CT Quit September 2019 - October 2019 - Clonazepam .5mg - Approx 3 weeks - CT Quit Drug Free Since October 5th 2019
Poppy745 Posted November 8, 2023 Author Posted November 8, 2023 23 minutes ago, KenA said: Of course!! I know that the healing process is hard for sure!! I myself dove in head first and CT quit everything so that probably wasn't the smartest idea, but looking back, I'm glad I did it the way that I did. It was what I felt worked best for me. Was it hard? Extremely, but I made it through it and so will you! I do feel that I am probably like 98 percent healed at this point. Maybe a couple of extremely minor little things I notice, but they don't bother me at all and even now they continue to get better and better. I read in one of your other replies that you felt like you were trying to keep a tidal wave at bay. For me, I learned how to not fight the tidal wave and to just ride it out. If you try and fight them, they will just knock you over, but if you accept them and just ride them, then you float on top of them and they pass you by with time. Once I learned how to stop fighting the symptoms and truly learned acceptance is when it got easier for me to handle. Not so much better, but easier. This will come with time!! You just have to keep taking things one day at a time. And if a day seems too long, then one hour and if not an hour then one minute. Cause anybody can do anything for a minute! And they all add up to healing @KenA Thank you Ken, this is really good advice. I try to do Claire Weeks by focusing on the feelings. If I let the thoughts in, they seem to escalate for days/weeks, so I am learning to accept the feelings and this helps to not let the thoughts become out of control. I am glad to hear that you are doing so well! Congratulations. 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.
Administrator KenA Posted November 8, 2023 Administrator Posted November 8, 2023 7 minutes ago, Poppy745 said: @KenA Thank you Ken, this is really good advice. I try to do Claire Weeks by focusing on the feelings. If I let the thoughts in, they seem to escalate for days/weeks, so I am learning to accept the feelings and this helps to not let the thoughts become out of control. I am glad to hear that you are doing so well! Congratulations. Oh my yes, I sure do remember having those intrusive thoughts. They used to scare me so bad. The best advice I was given was to just remember that they are only thoughts. No matter what pops into your head, remember that your thoughts do not control you. You are in control of them and they have no power over you if you don't let them Acceptance is the key to everything Keep hanging in there! You are doing amazing and will come through this with flying colors for sure!! 1 2010-2011 - Tramadol - Can't remember dosage 2011 - CT Quit Tramadol 2011-2019 - St Johns Wart - Started out at 3 Pills a day (300 MG) and increased to 6 per day over the years August 2019 - CT Quit St Johns (Told by Hospital Dr to Stop Taking due to increased BP) September 2019 - Citalopram 10mg - Approx 2 weeks - CT Quit September 2019 - October 2019 - Clonazepam .5mg - Approx 3 weeks - CT Quit Drug Free Since October 5th 2019
Poppy745 Posted November 9, 2023 Author Posted November 9, 2023 10 hours ago, KenA said: Oh my yes, I sure do remember having those intrusive thoughts. They used to scare me so bad. The best advice I was given was to just remember that they are only thoughts. No matter what pops into your head, remember that your thoughts do not control you. You are in control of them and they have no power over you if you don't let them Acceptance is the key to everything Keep hanging in there! You are doing amazing and will come through this with flying colors for sure!! Thank you @KenA Your encouragement really helps. I will remember this great advice. I am doing this! 🙂 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.
Mentor littlebird Posted November 9, 2023 Mentor Posted November 9, 2023 11 hours ago, KenA said: Cause anybody can do anything for a minute! And they all add up to healing I needed to read this, thank you! 11 hours ago, Poppy745 said: If I let the thoughts in, they seem to escalate for days/weeks, so I am learning to accept the feelings and this helps to not let the thoughts become out of control. I know how this is! Sorry you're going through it. I recently had a moment where I started spiraling/feeling like emotions were growing out of control when I found myself thinking, "I am so deeply sad." I remembered something I learned about distancing, and switched it to, "I'm feeling sad right now," and then, "I am thinking about feeling sad." As I pulled away, my emotions calmed down too. Helped me get a bigger perspective instead of identifying with a feeling as I initially did with "I am sad." 2 Pronouns: they/them/theirs Started on Prozac in early 2000s to treat cPTSD, been on various cocktails ever since. 2002-2004, 2017-2022: Buspar, tapered down to 0 2016-present: 100mg Seroquel for sleep -> May 2023: 90mg -> June 2023: 81mg -> September 2023: 72mg -> switched to brand name, much too strong, down to 60mg -> October 2023: 54mg -> November 2023: 50mg -> January 2024: 45mg -> April 2024: 40.5mg -> May 2024: 41mg -> June 2024: 35mg -> July 2024: 31mg -> August 2024: 28mg -> September 2024: 25mg 2016-Present: 100mg Wellbutrin SR -> January 2023: 75mg IR (37.5mg 2x a day, a mistake, don't replicate) -> February 2023 (33.75mg 2x a day) -> July 2023 (30.37mg 2x a day) -> August 2023: 25mg 2x a day -> October 2024: 22mg 2x a day 2018-present: 25mg Pristiq 2015-present: 600mg Gabapentin (200mg 3x a day) -> December 2022: 300mg Gabapentin (100mg 3x a day) per GP's recommendation after side effects -> March 2023: 90mg 3x a day (switched to liquid suspension) -> April 2023: 81mg 3x a day -> September 2023: bad generic, switched back to homemade liquid; too strong after bad generic, down to 70mg 3x a day, still bad. Adjusted slowly till at 60mg 3x a day, much better. Long hold till -> December 2023: 54mg, still feels too high after November Seroquel switch from brand name to generic, doc recommended 50mg which feels better -> January 2024: When Wellbutrin went down, Gabapentin started putting me to sleep, went down to 45mg, then 41mg to stay awake, so far so good -> February 2024: 36mg, still too high, 34mg -> March 2024: 31mg, STILL too high, 30mg down to 25mg Supplements: Multivitamin w/magnesium, probiotics, digestive enzymes, anti-viral nitric oxide nose spray as needed
Poppy745 Posted November 9, 2023 Author Posted November 9, 2023 1 hour ago, littlebird said: I needed to read this, thank you! I know how this is! Sorry you're going through it. I recently had a moment where I started spiraling/feeling like emotions were growing out of control when I found myself thinking, "I am so deeply sad." I remembered something I learned about distancing, and switched it to, "I'm feeling sad right now," and then, "I am thinking about feeling sad." As I pulled away, my emotions calmed down too. Helped me get a bigger perspective instead of identifying with a feeling as I initially did with "I am sad." @littlebird Hey. Thank you. It is good to be reminded that I can separate myself from those thoughts. I will try this! I am sorry that you have this issue as well. I have noticed that my (sometimes) positive mindset that I was working towards increasing started to slip (a lot) because of these thoughts. So, when I was on my way somewhere yesterday I kept saying to myself: I am strong, I am capable, I am doing this, I know what I want and I am getting it. Stay strong @littlebird and thank you for the support. 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.
Administrator KenA Posted November 9, 2023 Administrator Posted November 9, 2023 Hang in there @Poppy745 You are going to be just fine Always here to help if needed 1 2010-2011 - Tramadol - Can't remember dosage 2011 - CT Quit Tramadol 2011-2019 - St Johns Wart - Started out at 3 Pills a day (300 MG) and increased to 6 per day over the years August 2019 - CT Quit St Johns (Told by Hospital Dr to Stop Taking due to increased BP) September 2019 - Citalopram 10mg - Approx 2 weeks - CT Quit September 2019 - October 2019 - Clonazepam .5mg - Approx 3 weeks - CT Quit Drug Free Since October 5th 2019
Poppy745 Posted November 10, 2023 Author Posted November 10, 2023 8 hours ago, KenA said: Hang in there @Poppy745 You are going to be just fine Always here to help if needed Thank you @KenA🙂 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.
Poppy745 Posted November 11, 2023 Author Posted November 11, 2023 MODERATORS: Are you able to advice me please? I have had this low level buzzing/inner shaking feeling for nearly 2 days. I have had cortisol spikes in the morning all the time (usually passes fairly quick), but this is lasting all day and night. Is this kindling? I had acute anxiety for over a week with intrusive thoughts, (possibly related to pmt). This has calmed, but now have this inner shaking/buzzing feeling. I have been taking 2.5 mg citalopram reinstatment for 6 weeks now. Can it be an adverse reaction to the drug at this late stage? It seemed to be working fairly well until the last week and a half or so, when acute anxiety kicked in. If it is an adverse reaction do I stick with the current dose, or do I start reducing? How fast should you reduce if it is an adverse reaction? Thank you so much I really appreciate your help. 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.
Angus Posted November 11, 2023 Posted November 11, 2023 @Poppy745iI am just a member but I am thinking of you. I’m sure a mod will respond shortly- you can always tag one as well. I’m so sorry you are experiencing these symptoms and trust they will pass. Hang in there! Angus 1 Nortriptyline -2wks- April 2023, 20 mg for migraines, depression, stopped Lexapro- 1 wk May 2023, 2.5 mg Remeron- 2 days, June 2023, 2.5 mg Prozac/ fluoxetine- started July 5 2023- liquid 4 mg for a wk (1 ml)July 5- July 12, 2023 6 mg- for a wk -July 13- 20, 2023 8 mg- for a wk July 21- 28, 2023 10 mg-wk bad side effects July 29- August 5, 2023 8 mg- August 5, 2023, 7.6 mg Sept 2023, 7.45 mg February 4, 2024, 7.3 mg March 18, 7.15 mg May 12, 2024, 7 mg June 21, 2024, 6.8 mg August 25, 2024, 6.6 mg October 29, 2024, 6.36 December 5, 2024
Poppy745 Posted November 11, 2023 Author Posted November 11, 2023 19 minutes ago, Angus said: @Poppy745iI am just a member but I am thinking of you. I’m sure a mod will respond shortly- you can always tag one as well. I’m so sorry you are experiencing these symptoms and trust they will pass. Hang in there! Angus Thank you @Angus Really appreciate your kind words. 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.
Poppy745 Posted November 11, 2023 Author Posted November 11, 2023 8 hours ago, Poppy745 said: MODERATORS: Are you able to advice me please? I have had this low level buzzing/inner shaking feeling for nearly 2 days. I have had cortisol spikes in the morning all the time (usually passes fairly quick), but this is lasting all day and night. Is this kindling? I had acute anxiety for over a week with intrusive thoughts, (possibly related to pmt). This has calmed, but now have this inner shaking/buzzing feeling. I have been taking 2.5 mg citalopram reinstatment for 6 weeks now. Can it be an adverse reaction to the drug at this late stage? It seemed to be working fairly well until the last week and a half or so, when acute anxiety kicked in. If it is an adverse reaction do I stick with the current dose, or do I start reducing? How fast should you reduce if it is an adverse reaction? Thank you so much I really appreciate your help. I am also getting a lot of what I assume is muscle weakness, down my left arm and leg. I had this a very small amount before that only came with more anxiety, but it seems to be there all the time now. There is a big part of mt that wishes I had tried to stick with the CT. So hard to know. 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.
Angus Posted November 11, 2023 Posted November 11, 2023 @Poppy745i’m so sorry to hear that you are having continued symptoms. I’m sure someone w/ insight will reach out soon. I’m thinking of you! Angus 1 Nortriptyline -2wks- April 2023, 20 mg for migraines, depression, stopped Lexapro- 1 wk May 2023, 2.5 mg Remeron- 2 days, June 2023, 2.5 mg Prozac/ fluoxetine- started July 5 2023- liquid 4 mg for a wk (1 ml)July 5- July 12, 2023 6 mg- for a wk -July 13- 20, 2023 8 mg- for a wk July 21- 28, 2023 10 mg-wk bad side effects July 29- August 5, 2023 8 mg- August 5, 2023, 7.6 mg Sept 2023, 7.45 mg February 4, 2024, 7.3 mg March 18, 7.15 mg May 12, 2024, 7 mg June 21, 2024, 6.8 mg August 25, 2024, 6.6 mg October 29, 2024, 6.36 December 5, 2024
Angus Posted November 11, 2023 Posted November 11, 2023 36 minutes ago, Angus said: Sorry Poppy- didn’t mean to quote myself:(( stay strong!! 1 Nortriptyline -2wks- April 2023, 20 mg for migraines, depression, stopped Lexapro- 1 wk May 2023, 2.5 mg Remeron- 2 days, June 2023, 2.5 mg Prozac/ fluoxetine- started July 5 2023- liquid 4 mg for a wk (1 ml)July 5- July 12, 2023 6 mg- for a wk -July 13- 20, 2023 8 mg- for a wk July 21- 28, 2023 10 mg-wk bad side effects July 29- August 5, 2023 8 mg- August 5, 2023, 7.6 mg Sept 2023, 7.45 mg February 4, 2024, 7.3 mg March 18, 7.15 mg May 12, 2024, 7 mg June 21, 2024, 6.8 mg August 25, 2024, 6.6 mg October 29, 2024, 6.36 December 5, 2024
BigCat Posted November 11, 2023 Posted November 11, 2023 @Poppy745 I am mid-taper, and my self penned motto is now in my signature. I use humour to encourage myself as I find it helps me stand back and observe my predicament rather than get caught up as the participant. The truth is always that your situation now will appear very different in a few hours, tomorrow, next week or next year. Next year, today will appear as a speck of dust from 100 metres, hardly able to be recalled in any detail, just as a theme of perseverance through discomfort. And you will have learned that you can put up with it. 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. Dec 2024 to Jan 2025: fluoxetine bridge onto 60mg fluoxetine, 12.5mg venlafaxine over 5/6 weeks. 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.
Poppy745 Posted November 11, 2023 Author Posted November 11, 2023 13 minutes ago, BigCat said: @Poppy745 I am mid-taper, and my self penned motto is now in my signature. I use humour to encourage myself as I find it helps me stand back and observe my predicament rather than get caught up as the participant. The truth is always that your situation now will appear very different in a few hours, tomorrow, next week or next year. Next year, today will appear as a speck of dust from 100 metres, hardly able to be recalled in any detail, just as a theme of perseverance through discomfort. And you will have learned that you can put up with it. Hey @BigCat Thank you so much for this. It really helps. It is so easy to get wrapped up in so many symptoms and feel so afraid by it. When I feel like this I just want to be off the meds now! I feel heartbroken as I was doing so well and now feel that I have gone backwards. Like someone said to me today. Maybe it is just you that feels it is so bad, but from where I stand you are still trying to get out and about. I so want this to be over, but it can't be. I will return to read your advice when I need reminding to look at things differently. Thank you for your kindness and wise words. 🙂 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.
Angus Posted November 11, 2023 Posted November 11, 2023 @Poppy745 This can be so overwhelming- I feel the same. The symptoms change and are frightening at times because I worry if they will pass. I get all of it. Just concentrate on small steps and know it has to get better.🌸 1 Nortriptyline -2wks- April 2023, 20 mg for migraines, depression, stopped Lexapro- 1 wk May 2023, 2.5 mg Remeron- 2 days, June 2023, 2.5 mg Prozac/ fluoxetine- started July 5 2023- liquid 4 mg for a wk (1 ml)July 5- July 12, 2023 6 mg- for a wk -July 13- 20, 2023 8 mg- for a wk July 21- 28, 2023 10 mg-wk bad side effects July 29- August 5, 2023 8 mg- August 5, 2023, 7.6 mg Sept 2023, 7.45 mg February 4, 2024, 7.3 mg March 18, 7.15 mg May 12, 2024, 7 mg June 21, 2024, 6.8 mg August 25, 2024, 6.6 mg October 29, 2024, 6.36 December 5, 2024
Poppy745 Posted November 11, 2023 Author Posted November 11, 2023 2 minutes ago, Angus said: @Poppy745 This can be so overwhelming- I feel the same. The symptoms change and are frightening at times because I worry if they will pass. I get all of it. Just concentrate on small steps and know it has to get better.🌸 @Poppy745 I really appreciate your support. It means so much. The moderators might be able to shed some light on the new symptom. Yes , you are right that it is hopefully a passing symptom and it will move along shortly. I hope you are ok. 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.
Angus Posted November 11, 2023 Posted November 11, 2023 @Poppy745 I am similar to you that I am experiencing symptoms that I am trusting will alleviate with time:((- I have body burning that comes and goes in various areas. I totally can empathize because I want to be free of all of this and taper off the med…but I know I need to have patience and trust that it will pass. We can do this!!🌸 1 Nortriptyline -2wks- April 2023, 20 mg for migraines, depression, stopped Lexapro- 1 wk May 2023, 2.5 mg Remeron- 2 days, June 2023, 2.5 mg Prozac/ fluoxetine- started July 5 2023- liquid 4 mg for a wk (1 ml)July 5- July 12, 2023 6 mg- for a wk -July 13- 20, 2023 8 mg- for a wk July 21- 28, 2023 10 mg-wk bad side effects July 29- August 5, 2023 8 mg- August 5, 2023, 7.6 mg Sept 2023, 7.45 mg February 4, 2024, 7.3 mg March 18, 7.15 mg May 12, 2024, 7 mg June 21, 2024, 6.8 mg August 25, 2024, 6.6 mg October 29, 2024, 6.36 December 5, 2024
BigCat Posted November 11, 2023 Posted November 11, 2023 19 minutes ago, Poppy745 said: Hey @BigCat Thank you so much for this. It really helps. It is so easy to get wrapped up in so many symptoms and feel so afraid by it. When I feel like this I just want to be off the meds now! I feel heartbroken as I was doing so well and now feel that I have gone backwards. Like someone said to me today. Maybe it is just you that feels it is so bad, but from where I stand you are still trying to get out and about. I so want this to be over, but it can't be. I will return to read your advice when I need reminding to look at things differently. Thank you for your kindness and wise words. 🙂 Our perspective is flawed when we're WDing. We fear and predict the worst. Just because you "feel" that you're going backwards doesn't mean that you are going backwards. Don't trust those pesky feelings, they're driven by fear. 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. Dec 2024 to Jan 2025: fluoxetine bridge onto 60mg fluoxetine, 12.5mg venlafaxine over 5/6 weeks. 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.
BigCat Posted November 11, 2023 Posted November 11, 2023 16 minutes ago, Angus said: @Poppy745 I am similar to you that I am experiencing symptoms that I am trusting will alleviate with time:((- I have body burning that comes and goes in various areas. I totally can empathize because I want to be free of all of this and taper off the med…but I know I need to have patience and trust that it will pass. We can do this!!🌸 We know that we can amplify our symptoms by focussing on them, but it's really difficult at the time. Try generating another "symptom" of your own choice, something absurd like a very heavy nose, thumb or earlobe, just concentrate really hard and you will prove to yourself that these symptoms can be experienced and self generated... This works on two levels: it acts as a distraction, and it acts as evidence. 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. Dec 2024 to Jan 2025: fluoxetine bridge onto 60mg fluoxetine, 12.5mg venlafaxine over 5/6 weeks. 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.
Angus Posted November 11, 2023 Posted November 11, 2023 @BigCat Thanks for the feedback! I will definite try this. Nortriptyline -2wks- April 2023, 20 mg for migraines, depression, stopped Lexapro- 1 wk May 2023, 2.5 mg Remeron- 2 days, June 2023, 2.5 mg Prozac/ fluoxetine- started July 5 2023- liquid 4 mg for a wk (1 ml)July 5- July 12, 2023 6 mg- for a wk -July 13- 20, 2023 8 mg- for a wk July 21- 28, 2023 10 mg-wk bad side effects July 29- August 5, 2023 8 mg- August 5, 2023, 7.6 mg Sept 2023, 7.45 mg February 4, 2024, 7.3 mg March 18, 7.15 mg May 12, 2024, 7 mg June 21, 2024, 6.8 mg August 25, 2024, 6.6 mg October 29, 2024, 6.36 December 5, 2024
Poppy745 Posted November 11, 2023 Author Posted November 11, 2023 25 minutes ago, BigCat said: Our perspective is flawed when we're WDing. We fear and predict the worst. Just because you "feel" that you're going backwards doesn't mean that you are going backwards. Don't trust those pesky feelings, they're driven by fear. @BigCat This is really good advice. I will work on this. Thank you for your support. 🙏 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.
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