Walleebug Posted June 15 Share Posted June 15 @Farm24 Im very sorry you had to miss your sons game. I know it's very hard to believe but one day you'll wake up and realize it hasn't happened in weeks. I just read my thread and it seems like my muscle problems really amped up in the 8-9 month range. I mean, I had muscle problems the whole time but it's when the anchor feelings really got bad and the heavy disconnected feeling amped up. I would have to go back and read it all again but I think I'd go through periods of really bad symptoms and then it'd get much better. I had a really big wave in December and January with horrible muscle problems but since the wave all muscle problems have been like 90% better. Other than some random twitching and vibrating I hardly notice my muscles anymore. I ate sugar last weekend and had some of the heavy muscle feeling this week but on a scale of 1-10 it was like a 2. Please don't get too discouraged. I promise you that I felt the same way as you at 7-8 months off and thought I was permanently damaged. My posts in my thread sound overly optimistic but please believe me when I tell you I was not doing well. I believe that being overly optimistic about how I was doing was my way of coping and dealing with the situation at the time. I just want you to know that there IS hope and that we all eventually heal. 2 2003- started 2.5 mgs Celexa Over the years upped to 10mgs. 2003 - .5mgs xanax as needed. Took about 2mgs a day for 15 years. Weaned off over 4 years. Last xanax June 4th 2022. July 20 2022- Started weaning Celexa August 29th 2022 -Stopped 2.5 mg Celexa Fine for 4-5 weeks and started having panic attacks. Sept 26 2022-Reinstated 5mgs celexa and started HORRIBLE side effects immediately. Stayed on for almost 5 weeks and stopped. October 31 2022- Off Link to comment
Farm24 Posted June 15 Author Share Posted June 15 8 hours ago, Walleebug said: @Farm24 Im very sorry you had to miss your sons game. I know it's very hard to believe but one day you'll wake up and realize it hasn't happened in weeks. I just read my thread and it seems like my muscle problems really amped up in the 8-9 month range. I mean, I had muscle problems the whole time but it's when the anchor feelings really got bad and the heavy disconnected feeling amped up. I would have to go back and read it all again but I think I'd go through periods of really bad symptoms and then it'd get much better. I had a really big wave in December and January with horrible muscle problems but since the wave all muscle problems have been like 90% better. Other than some random twitching and vibrating I hardly notice my muscles anymore. I ate sugar last weekend and had some of the heavy muscle feeling this week but on a scale of 1-10 it was like a 2. Please don't get too discouraged. I promise you that I felt the same way as you at 7-8 months off and thought I was permanently damaged. My posts in my thread sound overly optimistic but please believe me when I tell you I was not doing well. I believe that being overly optimistic about how I was doing was my way of coping and dealing with the situation at the time. I just want you to know that there IS hope and that we all eventually heal. Thank you. Did you ever have muscle tension? Sertaline- tried 50 mg beginning of June 2023. Caused hyperreflexia. So stopped after one dose. Tried several smaller doses that month. Had burning and twitching so just stopped. Lexapro June of 2023' 2.5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 7.5 mg for 2 weeks August to mid September 10 mg Mid September reduced to 7.5 October to October 15 reduced to 5 October 15 to October 30 reduced to 2.5 October 30-off Link to comment
Farm24 Posted June 18 Author Share Posted June 18 Could a mod tell me about how to do a liquid suspension? I don't understand. Do I just out the pill in maple syrup? Sertaline- tried 50 mg beginning of June 2023. Caused hyperreflexia. So stopped after one dose. Tried several smaller doses that month. Had burning and twitching so just stopped. Lexapro June of 2023' 2.5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 7.5 mg for 2 weeks August to mid September 10 mg Mid September reduced to 7.5 October to October 15 reduced to 5 October 15 to October 30 reduced to 2.5 October 30-off Link to comment
Mentor FindRest Posted June 19 Mentor Share Posted June 19 7 hours ago, Farm24 said: Could a mod tell me about how to do a liquid suspension? I don't understand. Do I just out the pill in maple syrup? Are you thinking about reinstating? According to your signature, you’ve been off Lexapro for almost 8 months. Reinstating this late has some serious risks. Regarding a liquid suspension, this link should give you the information you are looking for: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/2693-how-to-make-a-liquid-from-tablets-or-capsules/#comment-2679 1988-1996 Various AD’s, all classifications. 1996-2019 Effexor XR 37.5mg to 150mg. Jan 2017 onward, 37.5 mg. 2019 Apr 11 - July 24: Trials of Latuda then Rexulti. CT'd off per dr. Jul 24: CT Effexor (per dr) Sep 9-19: Viibryd, CT (per dr). Sep 23-27: Trintellix. CT (per dr). Sep 28 - Oct 24: Prozac 10mg. Oct 24: Stop Prozac, began Pristiq 25mg->50->25mg. 2020 Feb 1: CT Pristiq. Feb 1: Reinstated Effexor XR (10 large beads) gradually increasing to 22 beads (15L+7M) or 9.072mgai on Mar, 2020. 2021 Started Jan w 21 beads (13L+8M) or 8.47mgai ended Dec: 17 beads (7L+9M+1S) or 6.19mgai. Severe COVID + TIA. 2022 Ended yr w 14 beads (3L+5M+5S+1XS) or 4.5mgai. Major jaw injury during year + family tragedy. 2023 Jan: 13 beads (2L+5M+5S+1XS) or 4.2mgai; Feb: 12 beads (2L+4M+5S+1XS) or 3.9mgai; Mar: 11 beads (2L+4M+4S+1XS) or 3.6mgai, Apr: 10 beads (2L+3M+4S+1XS) or 3.3mgai; Jun: 9 beads (2L+3M+3S+1XS) or 3mgai, Current: July, 2023: Effexor XR - 9 beads (2L+3M+3S+1XS) or 2.7 mgai Other current meds: Ambien 10mg 3.935mg , clonazepam .125mg .107mg, omeprazole, Synthroid, Premarin. Supplements: D3, C, probiotic, K2-MK7, Mg Glycinate Link to comment
Farm24 Posted June 19 Author Share Posted June 19 8 hours ago, FindRest said: Are you thinking about reinstating? According to your signature, you’ve been off Lexapro for almost 8 months. Reinstating this late has some serious risks. Regarding a liquid suspension, this link should give you the information you are looking for: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/2693-how-to-make-a-liquid-from-tablets-or-capsules/#comment-2679 No, I had an adverse reaction. However my birth control during placebo weeks gives me awful problems. Do I'm going to try and do half a pill a day so my hormones aren't so up and down. And perhaps I can taper off that. 1 Sertaline- tried 50 mg beginning of June 2023. Caused hyperreflexia. So stopped after one dose. Tried several smaller doses that month. Had burning and twitching so just stopped. Lexapro June of 2023' 2.5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 7.5 mg for 2 weeks August to mid September 10 mg Mid September reduced to 7.5 October to October 15 reduced to 5 October 15 to October 30 reduced to 2.5 October 30-off Link to comment
Farm24 Posted July 1 Author Share Posted July 1 I had a few good days. However the numbness is awful. My body is heavy. Head is heavy. I just feel like I have significant brain damage. I'm not myself. 2 Sertaline- tried 50 mg beginning of June 2023. Caused hyperreflexia. So stopped after one dose. Tried several smaller doses that month. Had burning and twitching so just stopped. Lexapro June of 2023' 2.5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 7.5 mg for 2 weeks August to mid September 10 mg Mid September reduced to 7.5 October to October 15 reduced to 5 October 15 to October 30 reduced to 2.5 October 30-off Link to comment
Sebas Posted July 12 Share Posted July 12 On 7/1/2024 at 9:04 PM, Farm24 said: I had a few good days. These windows are a sign of (slow) recovery. Reinstatement is no guarantee to succes. It may even ramp things up. However would you decide to reinstate then just a tiny dose (<0.5 mg) is recommended and only the exact same compound you used before. On 6/19/2024 at 1:36 PM, Farm24 said: However my birth control during placebo weeks gives me awful problems. Do I'm going to try and do half a pill a day so my hormones aren't so up and down. And perhaps I can taper off that During wd there will be possible interactions with lots of meds, foods, chemicals and supplements. Evaluate if there's an escape that won't disturb stabilisation process. Bye Sebas 46 years old male job in spatial planning into sports, animals and nature Started using 20 mg Paroxetine (Paxil) in 2004 for stressrelated anxiety/depression Attempted several times to stop, starting a few years after 2004 Found out in 2015 about paxil withdrawal symptoms and the 5-10% taper guideline Started using liquid paxil in 2015/2016 2018 --> 11.2 mg of paxil 2019-2023 developed severe food- and other sensitivities (anti imflammatory, anti oxidant, food colourings, oils, herbs, chemicals etc.) 12/2023 Had been building up for 4 years to Poop-out/tolerance, introducing brassmonkey slide method 0.1mg/week 26/1/2024 10 mg (journey halfway). 14/7/2024 8.4 mg No supplements, strict diet Link to comment
Farm24 Posted July 30 Author Share Posted July 30 On 5/17/2024 at 12:21 PM, Ab22517 said: Sounds like what I’m going through, literally I get tightness in my face, tongue , cheeks back of head, and eyes. When my eyes are tight my pupils are dilated. Jaw clenching as well. I get twitching all over my body and severe restlessness/agitation , nausea and dizziness. How are you doing lately? Sertaline- tried 50 mg beginning of June 2023. Caused hyperreflexia. So stopped after one dose. Tried several smaller doses that month. Had burning and twitching so just stopped. Lexapro June of 2023' 2.5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 7.5 mg for 2 weeks August to mid September 10 mg Mid September reduced to 7.5 October to October 15 reduced to 5 October 15 to October 30 reduced to 2.5 October 30-off Link to comment
Celeste1990 Posted August 1 Share Posted August 1 @Farm24 how are you doing? Still seeing improvements? 2012-2013 - 5mg Lexapro 2015-2016 - 5mg Lexapro (the above are approximate dates but each time i was taking it for at least 6 months) April 6, 2024 - one 10mg dose Lexapro and immediate adverse reaction Link to comment
Farm24 Posted August 1 Author Share Posted August 1 3 minutes ago, Celeste1990 said: @Farm24 how are you doing? Still seeing improvements? Actually I developed air hunger and insomnia and muscle clenching. You know that feeling where you Brace, like you are going to be in a car accident? My body keeps doing that. I cut my zyrtec down, so I don't know if that is what brought this on. I haven't had air hunger before. Sertaline- tried 50 mg beginning of June 2023. Caused hyperreflexia. So stopped after one dose. Tried several smaller doses that month. Had burning and twitching so just stopped. Lexapro June of 2023' 2.5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 7.5 mg for 2 weeks August to mid September 10 mg Mid September reduced to 7.5 October to October 15 reduced to 5 October 15 to October 30 reduced to 2.5 October 30-off Link to comment
Celeste1990 Posted August 1 Share Posted August 1 2 minutes ago, Farm24 said: Actually I developed air hunger and insomnia and muscle clenching. You know that feeling where you Brace, like you are going to be in a car accident? My body keeps doing that. I cut my zyrtec down, so I don't know if that is what brought this on. I haven't had air hunger before. I’m sorry to hear it. I get the air hunger too, especially at night. I think it’s related to anxiety for me. 2012-2013 - 5mg Lexapro 2015-2016 - 5mg Lexapro (the above are approximate dates but each time i was taking it for at least 6 months) April 6, 2024 - one 10mg dose Lexapro and immediate adverse reaction Link to comment
Farm24 Posted August 1 Author Share Posted August 1 Just now, Celeste1990 said: I’m sorry to hear it. I get the air hunger too, especially at night. I think it’s related to anxiety for me. Mine gives me anxiety. I've never had physical anxiety before. I had the air hunger all day yesterday. I think that is what this is. Where your body feels tight. Like my abdomen won't relax and neither will my chest. I can't get a satisfying breath Sertaline- tried 50 mg beginning of June 2023. Caused hyperreflexia. So stopped after one dose. Tried several smaller doses that month. Had burning and twitching so just stopped. Lexapro June of 2023' 2.5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 7.5 mg for 2 weeks August to mid September 10 mg Mid September reduced to 7.5 October to October 15 reduced to 5 October 15 to October 30 reduced to 2.5 October 30-off Link to comment
Farm24 Posted August 11 Author Share Posted August 11 Has anyone recovered from numb skin? Anyone Sertaline- tried 50 mg beginning of June 2023. Caused hyperreflexia. So stopped after one dose. Tried several smaller doses that month. Had burning and twitching so just stopped. Lexapro June of 2023' 2.5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 7.5 mg for 2 weeks August to mid September 10 mg Mid September reduced to 7.5 October to October 15 reduced to 5 October 15 to October 30 reduced to 2.5 October 30-off Link to comment
Farm24 Posted August 18 Author Share Posted August 18 My numbness has been coming and going now. So I feel like that is progress. My major issue right now is the muscles. They tense up and I have to try and relax them. I can't in my head all the time. It makes it hard tonsleep. Sertaline- tried 50 mg beginning of June 2023. Caused hyperreflexia. So stopped after one dose. Tried several smaller doses that month. Had burning and twitching so just stopped. Lexapro June of 2023' 2.5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 7.5 mg for 2 weeks August to mid September 10 mg Mid September reduced to 7.5 October to October 15 reduced to 5 October 15 to October 30 reduced to 2.5 October 30-off Link to comment
Celeste1990 Posted August 18 Share Posted August 18 3 minutes ago, Farm24 said: My numbness has been coming and going now. So I feel like that is progress. My major issue right now is the muscles. They tense up and I have to try and relax them. I can't in my head all the time. It makes it hard tonsleep. Do you still get hypnic jerks? Mine have started to be intermittent and I’ll go a couple of weeks where they’ll be nonexistent but then I’ll get them again for a few days 2012-2013 - 5mg Lexapro 2015-2016 - 5mg Lexapro (the above are approximate dates but each time i was taking it for at least 6 months) April 6, 2024 - one 10mg dose Lexapro and immediate adverse reaction Link to comment
Farm24 Posted August 18 Author Share Posted August 18 Just now, Celeste1990 said: Do you still get hypnic jerks? Mine have started to be intermittent and I’ll go a couple of weeks where they’ll be nonexistent but then I’ll get them again for a few days I haven't had them in maybe 2 weeks? Hopefully on their way out. Never to be seen again Sertaline- tried 50 mg beginning of June 2023. Caused hyperreflexia. So stopped after one dose. Tried several smaller doses that month. Had burning and twitching so just stopped. Lexapro June of 2023' 2.5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 7.5 mg for 2 weeks August to mid September 10 mg Mid September reduced to 7.5 October to October 15 reduced to 5 October 15 to October 30 reduced to 2.5 October 30-off Link to comment
Celeste1990 Posted August 18 Share Posted August 18 That’s great! For me when they do come back I’ll just get them for a few nights and they’ll go away. Where before it was the opposite, I would just get the occasional night without them 2012-2013 - 5mg Lexapro 2015-2016 - 5mg Lexapro (the above are approximate dates but each time i was taking it for at least 6 months) April 6, 2024 - one 10mg dose Lexapro and immediate adverse reaction Link to comment
Farm24 Posted August 18 Author Share Posted August 18 12 minutes ago, Celeste1990 said: That’s great! For me when they do come back I’ll just get them for a few nights and they’ll go away. Where before it was the opposite, I would just get the occasional night without them The last major issue I have is muscle issues. Contracting, tension, lax. It stops me from working Sertaline- tried 50 mg beginning of June 2023. Caused hyperreflexia. So stopped after one dose. Tried several smaller doses that month. Had burning and twitching so just stopped. Lexapro June of 2023' 2.5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 7.5 mg for 2 weeks August to mid September 10 mg Mid September reduced to 7.5 October to October 15 reduced to 5 October 15 to October 30 reduced to 2.5 October 30-off Link to comment
Celeste1990 Posted August 19 Share Posted August 19 35 minutes ago, Farm24 said: The last major issue I have is muscle issues. Contracting, tension, lax. It stops me from working Have you seen improvement with that at all? 2012-2013 - 5mg Lexapro 2015-2016 - 5mg Lexapro (the above are approximate dates but each time i was taking it for at least 6 months) April 6, 2024 - one 10mg dose Lexapro and immediate adverse reaction Link to comment
Farm24 Posted August 19 Author Share Posted August 19 Just now, Celeste1990 said: Have you seen improvement with that at all? The tension and chest tightness is way worse. But the lax muscles I think are getting better. I get that less often. These muscles just get so tight it is almost hard to breath Sertaline- tried 50 mg beginning of June 2023. Caused hyperreflexia. So stopped after one dose. Tried several smaller doses that month. Had burning and twitching so just stopped. Lexapro June of 2023' 2.5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 7.5 mg for 2 weeks August to mid September 10 mg Mid September reduced to 7.5 October to October 15 reduced to 5 October 15 to October 30 reduced to 2.5 October 30-off Link to comment
Farm24 Posted September 11 Author Share Posted September 11 I reduced my dose of zyrtec by 10 percent for just two days. It has caused me to only get 1.5 hours of sleep. My brain won't shut down. I feel like screaming and crying. I have burning and tightness along spine and chest. Why?! Sertaline- tried 50 mg beginning of June 2023. Caused hyperreflexia. So stopped after one dose. Tried several smaller doses that month. Had burning and twitching so just stopped. Lexapro June of 2023' 2.5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 7.5 mg for 2 weeks August to mid September 10 mg Mid September reduced to 7.5 October to October 15 reduced to 5 October 15 to October 30 reduced to 2.5 October 30-off Link to comment
Farm24 Posted September 11 Author Share Posted September 11 Please. Someone has to have experience with this. Sertaline- tried 50 mg beginning of June 2023. Caused hyperreflexia. So stopped after one dose. Tried several smaller doses that month. Had burning and twitching so just stopped. Lexapro June of 2023' 2.5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 7.5 mg for 2 weeks August to mid September 10 mg Mid September reduced to 7.5 October to October 15 reduced to 5 October 15 to October 30 reduced to 2.5 October 30-off Link to comment
Mentor FindRest Posted September 13 Mentor Share Posted September 13 (edited) On 9/11/2024 at 4:23 AM, Farm24 said: I reduced my dose of zyrtec by 10 percent for just two days. It has caused me to only get 1.5 hours of sleep. My brain won't shut down. I feel like screaming and crying. I have burning and tightness along spine and chest. Why?! On 9/11/2024 at 6:54 AM, Farm24 said: Please. Someone has to have experience with this. I suggest you join one of the Zyrtec withdrawal sites to read up on the withdrawal symptoms others are having with it. I know there is a good one on FB. SA focuses on tapering psych drugs. I also take Zyrtec. It’s known to cause some intense WD symptoms, including itching, burning, and lack of sleep. It’s no surprise that you would be having issues with these symptoms, especially since you are still suffering from your AD withdrawals … which can cause the same issues as well. Edited September 13 by FindRest 1988-1996 Various AD’s, all classifications. 1996-2019 Effexor XR 37.5mg to 150mg. Jan 2017 onward, 37.5 mg. 2019 Apr 11 - July 24: Trials of Latuda then Rexulti. CT'd off per dr. Jul 24: CT Effexor (per dr) Sep 9-19: Viibryd, CT (per dr). Sep 23-27: Trintellix. CT (per dr). Sep 28 - Oct 24: Prozac 10mg. Oct 24: Stop Prozac, began Pristiq 25mg->50->25mg. 2020 Feb 1: CT Pristiq. Feb 1: Reinstated Effexor XR (10 large beads) gradually increasing to 22 beads (15L+7M) or 9.072mgai on Mar, 2020. 2021 Started Jan w 21 beads (13L+8M) or 8.47mgai ended Dec: 17 beads (7L+9M+1S) or 6.19mgai. Severe COVID + TIA. 2022 Ended yr w 14 beads (3L+5M+5S+1XS) or 4.5mgai. Major jaw injury during year + family tragedy. 2023 Jan: 13 beads (2L+5M+5S+1XS) or 4.2mgai; Feb: 12 beads (2L+4M+5S+1XS) or 3.9mgai; Mar: 11 beads (2L+4M+4S+1XS) or 3.6mgai, Apr: 10 beads (2L+3M+4S+1XS) or 3.3mgai; Jun: 9 beads (2L+3M+3S+1XS) or 3mgai, Current: July, 2023: Effexor XR - 9 beads (2L+3M+3S+1XS) or 2.7 mgai Other current meds: Ambien 10mg 3.935mg , clonazepam .125mg .107mg, omeprazole, Synthroid, Premarin. Supplements: D3, C, probiotic, K2-MK7, Mg Glycinate Link to comment
Farm24 Posted September 13 Author Share Posted September 13 2 minutes ago, FindRest said: I suggest you join one of the Zyrtec withdrawal sites to read up on the withdrawal symptoms others are having with it. I know there is a good one on FB. SA focuses on tapering psych drugs. I also take Zyrtec. It’s known to cause some intense WD symptoms, including itching, burning, and lack of sleep. It’s no surprise that you would be having issues with these symptoms, especially since you are still suffering from your AD withdrawals … which can cause the same issues as well. It really has nothing to do with zyrtec specifically. It is any changes in meds or even supplements cause akathisia for me. I can't stop my birth control. I would assume others who have dealt with psych med damage have had to deal with this type of thing. I just wonder at what point is it safe to taper these meds. Does our cns ever become strong enough again? Or are we stuck like this forever. I watched Dr Healys most recent video and he does say some of these effects are permanent, he used dizzyness as an example. Sertaline- tried 50 mg beginning of June 2023. Caused hyperreflexia. So stopped after one dose. Tried several smaller doses that month. Had burning and twitching so just stopped. Lexapro June of 2023' 2.5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 7.5 mg for 2 weeks August to mid September 10 mg Mid September reduced to 7.5 October to October 15 reduced to 5 October 15 to October 30 reduced to 2.5 October 30-off Link to comment
Mentor FindRest Posted September 13 Mentor Share Posted September 13 2 minutes ago, Farm24 said: It is any changes in meds or even supplements cause akathisia for me. I can't stop my birth control. I would assume others who have dealt with psych med damage have had to deal with this type of thing. This is not unusual for those of us who were tapered too fast or CT’d, me included. It does get better. I wasn’t able to taper another drug for at least a year, and then only at about 3% (or less) every 3 months. 5 years later and I’m still not able to taper any drug at 10%. But, I am slowly getting off of several medications and every little bit counts. I do it at a rate where I feel little to no increase in symptoms. It’s not worth upsetting the cart and I will do anything it takes to never go back to the terrible symptoms in the beginning. Important to note, however, is the fact that the more years that go by, the easier it is for me to taper more. 12 minutes ago, Farm24 said: Does our cns ever become strong enough again? Yes, but it could take years. I just went through 3 surgeries in 3 weeks involving my heart and was on a ton of powerful emergency medications, including a dopamine drip. The last surgery was a month ago, and my CNS is fine. I’m kind of shocked, but I will take this miracle! 15 minutes ago, Farm24 said: I watched Dr Healys most recent video and he does say some of these effects are permanent, he used dizzyness as an example. I expect to have some lingering symptoms for many years. I don’t know how long it will take, nor can anyone predict it (including Dr. Healy) as we are all different and have different histories. I do know that I notice healing taking place even though I’m not even through tapering yet. 1988-1996 Various AD’s, all classifications. 1996-2019 Effexor XR 37.5mg to 150mg. Jan 2017 onward, 37.5 mg. 2019 Apr 11 - July 24: Trials of Latuda then Rexulti. CT'd off per dr. Jul 24: CT Effexor (per dr) Sep 9-19: Viibryd, CT (per dr). Sep 23-27: Trintellix. CT (per dr). Sep 28 - Oct 24: Prozac 10mg. Oct 24: Stop Prozac, began Pristiq 25mg->50->25mg. 2020 Feb 1: CT Pristiq. Feb 1: Reinstated Effexor XR (10 large beads) gradually increasing to 22 beads (15L+7M) or 9.072mgai on Mar, 2020. 2021 Started Jan w 21 beads (13L+8M) or 8.47mgai ended Dec: 17 beads (7L+9M+1S) or 6.19mgai. Severe COVID + TIA. 2022 Ended yr w 14 beads (3L+5M+5S+1XS) or 4.5mgai. Major jaw injury during year + family tragedy. 2023 Jan: 13 beads (2L+5M+5S+1XS) or 4.2mgai; Feb: 12 beads (2L+4M+5S+1XS) or 3.9mgai; Mar: 11 beads (2L+4M+4S+1XS) or 3.6mgai, Apr: 10 beads (2L+3M+4S+1XS) or 3.3mgai; Jun: 9 beads (2L+3M+3S+1XS) or 3mgai, Current: July, 2023: Effexor XR - 9 beads (2L+3M+3S+1XS) or 2.7 mgai Other current meds: Ambien 10mg 3.935mg , clonazepam .125mg .107mg, omeprazole, Synthroid, Premarin. Supplements: D3, C, probiotic, K2-MK7, Mg Glycinate Link to comment
Farm24 Posted September 13 Author Share Posted September 13 1 minute ago, FindRest said: This is not unusual for those of us who were tapered too fast or CT’d, me included. It does get better. I wasn’t able to taper another drug for at least a year, and then only at about 3% (or less) every 3 months. 5 years later and I’m still not able to taper any drug at 10%. But, I am slowly getting off of several medications and every little bit counts. I do it at a rate where I feel little to no increase in symptoms. It’s not worth upsetting the cart and I will do anything it takes to never go back to the terrible symptoms in the beginning. Important to note, however, is the fact that the more years that go by, the easier it is for me to taper more. Yes, but it could take years. I just went through 3 surgeries in 3 weeks involving my heart and was on a ton of powerful emergency medications, including a dopamine drip. The last surgery was a month ago, and my CNS is fine. I’m kind of shocked, but I will take this miracle! I expect to have some lingering symptoms for many years. I don’t know how long it will take, nor can anyone predict it (including Dr. Healy) as we are all different and have different histories. I do know that I notice healing taking place even though I’m not even through tapering yet. Thanks. Wow that is a good sign that you were able to handle the meds of surgery. I will stay on zyrtec for years. My main concern is the bc. There is no way to taper that unfortunately. I only took these meds for a few months but it rocked my body really badly. Sertaline- tried 50 mg beginning of June 2023. Caused hyperreflexia. So stopped after one dose. Tried several smaller doses that month. Had burning and twitching so just stopped. Lexapro June of 2023' 2.5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 7.5 mg for 2 weeks August to mid September 10 mg Mid September reduced to 7.5 October to October 15 reduced to 5 October 15 to October 30 reduced to 2.5 October 30-off Link to comment
Mentor FindRest Posted September 13 Mentor Share Posted September 13 2 minutes ago, Farm24 said: My main concern is the bc. There is no way to taper that unfortunately. I too worry about that. I’m 63. Dr wants me off by 65. I figure if that time comes, then I can always make an informed decision of whether or not to take my chances and continue on it, or whether to take my chances of coming off. Right now, I know my body and mind could not go through that. The one I’m on has one dose lower than I currently take, as well as a cream. I know some on the patch reduce their size of patches. My best advice is to find a well-informed gynecologist who understands the harm ADs have caused and who would be willing to help you find a way. 1988-1996 Various AD’s, all classifications. 1996-2019 Effexor XR 37.5mg to 150mg. Jan 2017 onward, 37.5 mg. 2019 Apr 11 - July 24: Trials of Latuda then Rexulti. CT'd off per dr. Jul 24: CT Effexor (per dr) Sep 9-19: Viibryd, CT (per dr). Sep 23-27: Trintellix. CT (per dr). Sep 28 - Oct 24: Prozac 10mg. Oct 24: Stop Prozac, began Pristiq 25mg->50->25mg. 2020 Feb 1: CT Pristiq. Feb 1: Reinstated Effexor XR (10 large beads) gradually increasing to 22 beads (15L+7M) or 9.072mgai on Mar, 2020. 2021 Started Jan w 21 beads (13L+8M) or 8.47mgai ended Dec: 17 beads (7L+9M+1S) or 6.19mgai. Severe COVID + TIA. 2022 Ended yr w 14 beads (3L+5M+5S+1XS) or 4.5mgai. Major jaw injury during year + family tragedy. 2023 Jan: 13 beads (2L+5M+5S+1XS) or 4.2mgai; Feb: 12 beads (2L+4M+5S+1XS) or 3.9mgai; Mar: 11 beads (2L+4M+4S+1XS) or 3.6mgai, Apr: 10 beads (2L+3M+4S+1XS) or 3.3mgai; Jun: 9 beads (2L+3M+3S+1XS) or 3mgai, Current: July, 2023: Effexor XR - 9 beads (2L+3M+3S+1XS) or 2.7 mgai Other current meds: Ambien 10mg 3.935mg , clonazepam .125mg .107mg, omeprazole, Synthroid, Premarin. Supplements: D3, C, probiotic, K2-MK7, Mg Glycinate Link to comment
Farm24 Posted September 13 Author Share Posted September 13 5 minutes ago, FindRest said: I too worry about that. I’m 63. Dr wants me off by 65. I figure if that time comes, then I can always make an informed decision of whether or not to take my chances and continue on it, or whether to take my chances of coming off. Right now, I know my body and mind could not go through that. The one I’m on has one dose lower than I currently take, as well as a cream. I know some on the patch reduce their size of patches. My best advice is to find a well-informed gynecologist who understands the harm ADs have caused and who would be willing to help you find a way. That is good advice. I am on a low dose, but maybe there is even one lower. I couldn't even switch to the generic. It caused my joints and muscles to become so heavy and I was barely able to hold up myself. It was absolutely insane. 1 Sertaline- tried 50 mg beginning of June 2023. Caused hyperreflexia. So stopped after one dose. Tried several smaller doses that month. Had burning and twitching so just stopped. Lexapro June of 2023' 2.5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 7.5 mg for 2 weeks August to mid September 10 mg Mid September reduced to 7.5 October to October 15 reduced to 5 October 15 to October 30 reduced to 2.5 October 30-off Link to comment
Celeste1990 Posted September 13 Share Posted September 13 59 minutes ago, Farm24 said: I watched Dr Healys most recent video and he does say some of these effects are permanent, he used dizzyness as an example. He said dizziness is permanent?? That’s my worst symptom and I’m so scared it won’t go away. Did he say why it’s permanent? Is that always the case? 1 2012-2013 - 5mg Lexapro 2015-2016 - 5mg Lexapro (the above are approximate dates but each time i was taking it for at least 6 months) April 6, 2024 - one 10mg dose Lexapro and immediate adverse reaction Link to comment
Farm24 Posted September 13 Author Share Posted September 13 Just now, Celeste1990 said: He said dizziness is permanent?? That’s my worst symptom and I’m so scared it won’t go away. Did he say why it’s permanent? Is that always the case? No, he said it can be. I've not seen anyone on these boards or on benzobuddies post about having dizzyness for years. That is one symptom I see always resolving. 2 Sertaline- tried 50 mg beginning of June 2023. Caused hyperreflexia. So stopped after one dose. Tried several smaller doses that month. Had burning and twitching so just stopped. Lexapro June of 2023' 2.5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 7.5 mg for 2 weeks August to mid September 10 mg Mid September reduced to 7.5 October to October 15 reduced to 5 October 15 to October 30 reduced to 2.5 October 30-off Link to comment
Celeste1990 Posted September 13 Share Posted September 13 1 minute ago, Farm24 said: 2 minutes ago, Celeste1990 said: No, he said it can be. I've not seen anyone on these boards or on benzobuddies post about having dizzyness for years. That is one symptom I see always resolving. Thank you for responding. if this is permanent there’s no way I could go on 😢 1 2012-2013 - 5mg Lexapro 2015-2016 - 5mg Lexapro (the above are approximate dates but each time i was taking it for at least 6 months) April 6, 2024 - one 10mg dose Lexapro and immediate adverse reaction Link to comment
Mentor FindRest Posted September 13 Mentor Share Posted September 13 1 hour ago, Farm24 said: That is good advice. I am on a low dose, but maybe there is even one lower. I couldn't even switch to the generic. It caused my joints and muscles to become so heavy and I was barely able to hold up myself. It was absolutely insane. As I’m tapering down so low on the Effexor, muscle and joint pain has been really bad with each taper. Many others below 5mg have had the same experience. After my initial CT before reinstatement, muscle and joint pain was one of my worst symptoms. I guess what I’m saying is if your pain came during or after your taper, it could also be from that, not necessarily the BC. 1 1988-1996 Various AD’s, all classifications. 1996-2019 Effexor XR 37.5mg to 150mg. Jan 2017 onward, 37.5 mg. 2019 Apr 11 - July 24: Trials of Latuda then Rexulti. CT'd off per dr. Jul 24: CT Effexor (per dr) Sep 9-19: Viibryd, CT (per dr). Sep 23-27: Trintellix. CT (per dr). Sep 28 - Oct 24: Prozac 10mg. Oct 24: Stop Prozac, began Pristiq 25mg->50->25mg. 2020 Feb 1: CT Pristiq. Feb 1: Reinstated Effexor XR (10 large beads) gradually increasing to 22 beads (15L+7M) or 9.072mgai on Mar, 2020. 2021 Started Jan w 21 beads (13L+8M) or 8.47mgai ended Dec: 17 beads (7L+9M+1S) or 6.19mgai. Severe COVID + TIA. 2022 Ended yr w 14 beads (3L+5M+5S+1XS) or 4.5mgai. Major jaw injury during year + family tragedy. 2023 Jan: 13 beads (2L+5M+5S+1XS) or 4.2mgai; Feb: 12 beads (2L+4M+5S+1XS) or 3.9mgai; Mar: 11 beads (2L+4M+4S+1XS) or 3.6mgai, Apr: 10 beads (2L+3M+4S+1XS) or 3.3mgai; Jun: 9 beads (2L+3M+3S+1XS) or 3mgai, Current: July, 2023: Effexor XR - 9 beads (2L+3M+3S+1XS) or 2.7 mgai Other current meds: Ambien 10mg 3.935mg , clonazepam .125mg .107mg, omeprazole, Synthroid, Premarin. Supplements: D3, C, probiotic, K2-MK7, Mg Glycinate Link to comment
Mentor FindRest Posted September 13 Mentor Share Posted September 13 1 hour ago, Celeste1990 said: Thank you for responding. if this is permanent there’s no way I could go on 😢 I agree with Farm24. I don’t know of anyone who had dizziness that didn’t go away. I too suffered with that in the beginning. I don’t have it any longer. 1 1988-1996 Various AD’s, all classifications. 1996-2019 Effexor XR 37.5mg to 150mg. Jan 2017 onward, 37.5 mg. 2019 Apr 11 - July 24: Trials of Latuda then Rexulti. CT'd off per dr. Jul 24: CT Effexor (per dr) Sep 9-19: Viibryd, CT (per dr). Sep 23-27: Trintellix. CT (per dr). Sep 28 - Oct 24: Prozac 10mg. Oct 24: Stop Prozac, began Pristiq 25mg->50->25mg. 2020 Feb 1: CT Pristiq. Feb 1: Reinstated Effexor XR (10 large beads) gradually increasing to 22 beads (15L+7M) or 9.072mgai on Mar, 2020. 2021 Started Jan w 21 beads (13L+8M) or 8.47mgai ended Dec: 17 beads (7L+9M+1S) or 6.19mgai. Severe COVID + TIA. 2022 Ended yr w 14 beads (3L+5M+5S+1XS) or 4.5mgai. Major jaw injury during year + family tragedy. 2023 Jan: 13 beads (2L+5M+5S+1XS) or 4.2mgai; Feb: 12 beads (2L+4M+5S+1XS) or 3.9mgai; Mar: 11 beads (2L+4M+4S+1XS) or 3.6mgai, Apr: 10 beads (2L+3M+4S+1XS) or 3.3mgai; Jun: 9 beads (2L+3M+3S+1XS) or 3mgai, Current: July, 2023: Effexor XR - 9 beads (2L+3M+3S+1XS) or 2.7 mgai Other current meds: Ambien 10mg 3.935mg , clonazepam .125mg .107mg, omeprazole, Synthroid, Premarin. Supplements: D3, C, probiotic, K2-MK7, Mg Glycinate Link to comment
LukeUK Posted September 13 Share Posted September 13 6 hours ago, Celeste1990 said: He said dizziness is permanent?? That’s my worst symptom and I’m so scared it won’t go away. Did he say why it’s permanent? Is that always the case? Anyone who provides you with concrete predictions on the trajectory of a brain injury is making unsubstantiated claims. 1 15mg Remeron/Mirtazapine November starting 2022 (severe physical side effects) Attempted to taper off January 2023, ended up having a major breakdown and going up to 30mg, took weeks to stabilise 1 month taper to 0mg Last dose April 2023 Severe withdrawal syndrome with many physical symptoms Summary: 5 months using Mirtazapine, including 1 month taper ending late April 2023. Severe withdrawal since. Link to comment
Celeste1990 Posted September 13 Share Posted September 13 7 hours ago, FindRest said: 8 hours ago, Celeste1990 said: I agree with Farm24. I don’t know of anyone who had dizziness that didn’t go away. I too suffered with that in the beginning. I don’t have it any longer. Thank you so much for responding 1 2012-2013 - 5mg Lexapro 2015-2016 - 5mg Lexapro (the above are approximate dates but each time i was taking it for at least 6 months) April 6, 2024 - one 10mg dose Lexapro and immediate adverse reaction Link to comment
Farm24 Posted September 13 Author Share Posted September 13 9 hours ago, Celeste1990 said: Thank you for responding. if this is permanent there’s no way I could go on 😢 I have oddly never seen someone complain about that symptom years later and I read the boards a lot. 7 hours ago, FindRest said: As I’m tapering down so low on the Effexor, muscle and joint pain has been really bad with each taper. Many others below 5mg have had the same experience. After my initial CT before reinstatement, muscle and joint pain was one of my worst symptoms. I guess what I’m saying is if your pain came during or after your taper, it could also be from that, not necessarily the BC. It is definitely originally from the ssri. But some medications or changing meds makes it worse, or changes the symptoms. 1 Sertaline- tried 50 mg beginning of June 2023. Caused hyperreflexia. So stopped after one dose. Tried several smaller doses that month. Had burning and twitching so just stopped. Lexapro June of 2023' 2.5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 5 mg for two weeks July of 2023 7.5 mg for 2 weeks August to mid September 10 mg Mid September reduced to 7.5 October to October 15 reduced to 5 October 15 to October 30 reduced to 2.5 October 30-off Link to comment
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