Administrator Altostrata Posted March 4, 2014 Administrator Share Posted March 4, 2014 Google pseudo-Cushings and you'll see why. This is not medical advice. Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a knowledgeable medical practitioner. "It has become appallingly obvious that our technology has surpassed our humanity." -- Albert Einstein All postings © copyrighted. Link to comment
John Posted March 4, 2014 Author Share Posted March 4, 2014 It's interesting; according to this link, http://www.parkhurstexchange.com/endocrinology/2002-12-14?zid= cortisol serum levels are raised in depressed patients, and a loss of their diurnal variation. In my withdrawal, my serum levels are normal, and I do have a diurnal variation, although its overall higher than normal. Funny how withdrawal is like it's own monster. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
John Posted March 5, 2014 Author Share Posted March 5, 2014 Alto, 2 days ago I took Rhodiola in the morning then night, then yesterday morning. Yesterday morning I took it with coffee and I regularly use an electronic cigarette. Within a half hour I began to get adrenalin rushes in my legs and arms, and felt angry and then heightened anxiety and ruined the rest of my day. I scrapped any herbs and supplements and this morning I woke up with more adrenaline rushes from a disturbing dream, which I rarely have both, and am continuing to have the rushes, although slightly. How bad is this Rhodiola? My mouth is also very dry. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Member cymbaltawithdrawal5600 Posted March 5, 2014 Member Share Posted March 5, 2014 Hi John, It is suggested that 'supplements' be used very cautiously, if at all, while you are in withdrawal. I think Alto recommends starting with 1/6 of recommended dose. The only supplements that seem to be OK for nearly everyone are magnesium and fish oil. If you want to try something you may want to ask in your thread first or do a Google search using 'survivingantidepressants.org rhodiola' for example, to see if others have tried it. It may stimulate 'fight/flight' and be activating as you found. I don't think you want to keep on it. When I became severely destabilized after I CT meds the year before, I quit caffeine and have never had any since. I use an ecig with only 3 mg nic. Don't want to affect the limited sleep I get, I have cortisol awakening in the early hours. I also take 200 mg mag glycinate tabs with every meal and before bed. This helps immensely with calming. No supplement seems to be innocuous for those of us in WD. You'll be better off if you leave off the caffeine and supplements, I am sure. What happened and how I arrived here: http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4243-cymbaltawithdrawal5600-introduction/#entry50878 July 2016 I have decided to leave my story here at SA unfinished. I have left my contact information in my profile for anyone who wishes to talk to me. I have a posting history spanning nearly 4 years and 3000+ posts all over the site. Thank you to all who participated in my recovery. I'll miss talking to you but know that I'll be cheering you on from the sidelines, suffering and rejoicing with you in spirit, as you go on in your journey. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Skyler Posted March 5, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted March 5, 2014 John, I could not tolerate caffeine when I was having WD symptoms that effected cortisol. Coffee caused a big spike in my anxiety Sx from the time I drank it in the AM until it started to subside at 2 PM, gone by 4 PM every day. The anxiety improved at the same time the caffeine fix would wear off... Reluctantly I tried cutting way back.. the Sx were better but still there. Then I stopped all together (no tea either) and peace returned. As always, LISTEN TO YOUR BODY! A proud supporter of the 10% (or slower) rule. Requip - 3/16 ZERO Total time on 25 years. Lyrica: 8/15 ZERO Total time on 7 or 8 yrs.BENZO FREE 10/13 (started tapering 7/10) Total time on 25 years. Read my intro thread here, and check the about me section. "No matter how cynical you get, it's almost impossible to keep up." Lily Tomlin Link to comment
John Posted March 5, 2014 Author Share Posted March 5, 2014 I've Always drank coffee with no issues. It wasn't until yesterday morning when I took the Rhodiola where I began having these surges in my legs. Even now I just had a spell where I started Sweating and felt painful surges in my legs and arms. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Skyler Posted March 5, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted March 5, 2014 Hmmm, guess I don't think of adrenalin rushes as as causing sweating and painful surges in your arms and legs. Just be careful with coffee if you notice a cortisol related spike in daytime anxiety that corresponds with your daily cuppa. As always, LISTEN TO YOUR BODY! A proud supporter of the 10% (or slower) rule. Requip - 3/16 ZERO Total time on 25 years. Lyrica: 8/15 ZERO Total time on 7 or 8 yrs.BENZO FREE 10/13 (started tapering 7/10) Total time on 25 years. Read my intro thread here, and check the about me section. "No matter how cynical you get, it's almost impossible to keep up." Lily Tomlin Link to comment
John Posted March 5, 2014 Author Share Posted March 5, 2014 Did anybody notice a pattern to these withdrawals? 3 years ago when I went cold turkey, I first had panic attacks, Hypoglycemia a day zaps, then it all disappeared and then just dread and fear until I recovered, and this time it was panic attacks, Hypoglycemia, zaps, now it the same fear and dread, but now I'm starting to get Hypoglycemia, heart skipping, and zaps mixed in with the fear and dread. And like the last time, the first thing to improve is the sleep; the first week or so after withdrawals begin I no longer wake up at night, and I fall and stay asleep. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
John Posted March 5, 2014 Author Share Posted March 5, 2014 Actually I think I figured out my withdrawal pattern. As the day progresses, I noticed that most of the "doom" feelings are gone, but now am left with pure anxiety. I think when I get withdrawals I start out with Zaps, panic attacks, then depression. After awhile I think the depression goes, and am left with anxiety which I think caused the bad dreams adrenaline surges and fear. Anyone else notice how theirs morphs? On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
btdt Posted March 6, 2014 Share Posted March 6, 2014 For me things would stay stable in a pattern for awhile then it would switch up the old Rubik cube way. Quite variable in symptoms how they come and go in groups. Disappear and then come back.. wild little dance indeed. WARNING THIS WILL BE LONG Had a car accident in 85 Codeine was the pain med when I was release from hosp continuous use till 89 Given PROZAC by a specialist to help with nerve pain in my leg 89-90 not sure which year Was not told a thing about it being a psych med thought it was a pain killer no info about psych side effects I went nuts had hallucinations. As I had a head injury and was diagnosed with a concussion in 85 I was sent to a head injury clinic in 1990 five years after the accident. I don't think they knew I had been on prozac I did not think it a big deal and never did finish the bottle of pills. I had tests of course lots of them. Was put into a pain clinic and given amitriptyline which stopped the withdrawal but had many side effects. But I could sleep something I had not done in a very long time the pain lessened. My mother got cancer in 94 they switched my meds to Zoloft to help deal with this pressure as I was her main care giver she died in 96. I stopped zoloft in 96 had withdrawal was put on paxil went nutty quit it ct put on resperidol quit it ct had withdrawal was put on Effexor... 2years later celexa was added 20mg then increased to 40mg huge personality change went wild. Did too fast taper off Celexa 05 as I felt unwell for a long time prior... quit Effexor 150mg ct 07 found ****** 8 months into withdrawal learned some things was banned from there in 08 have kept learning since. there is really not enough room here to put my history but I have a lot of opinions about a lot of things especially any of the drugs mentioned above. One thing I would like to add here is this tidbit ALL OPIATES INCREASE SEROTONIN it is not a huge jump to being in chronic pain to being put on an ssri/snri and opiates will affect your antidepressants and your thinking. As I do not update much I will put my quit date Nov. 17 2007 I quit Effexor cold turkey. http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1096-introducing-myself-btdt/ There is a crack in everything ..That's how the light gets in Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Narcissus Posted March 6, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted March 6, 2014 Sorry to hear about your symptoms John, though I'm glad to hear you've noticed a pattern. Makes me want to track some of my symptoms...trouble is, they always me in the present moment in the worst way possible, making it very hard to see things from a distance. 3 Years 150 mgs Effexor 2 month taper down to zero 3 terrible weeks at zero Back up to 75 mgs 2 months at 75 6 or so months back to regular dose of 150 - was able to restabilize fine. 3 month taper back to zero 1 HORRENDOUS week at zero 2 days back up to 37.5 3 days back up to 75 One week at 150 - unable to stabilize. Back down to 75 mgs At 75 mgs (half original dose) and suffering withdrawal symptoms since October 2012. "It is a radical cure for all pessimism to become ill, to remain ill for a good while, and then grow well for a still longer period." - Nietzsche Link to comment
John Posted March 7, 2014 Author Share Posted March 7, 2014 Can someone tell me about tolerance withdrawal? I know there's a disagreement on whether or not this exists, but I just read about it, and people are saying if you taper and stay too long at certain dose, withdrawals will continue until you increase the dosage or continue tapering. The reason I ask this is because after over a month of hell now my symptoms are morphing from low mood and anxiety to pure anxiety, and now it's hitting me earlier now ruining my sleep. I fall asleep fine, but for the past 2 nights I'm waking up at about 5 am with odd dreams and when I awake, I feel the nervousness. This only happened in the very beginning of withdrawal for me, but now it's coming back, and all around symptoms of anxiety seems to be getting worse. I am holding at 50 mgs since September, so that's why I ask about tolerance withdrawal. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted March 7, 2014 Administrator Share Posted March 7, 2014 Please use search on this site for our discussions about tolerance withdrawal. You might have saved yourself a bad experience with rhodiola if you had used site search for that. This is not medical advice. Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a knowledgeable medical practitioner. "It has become appallingly obvious that our technology has surpassed our humanity." -- Albert Einstein All postings © copyrighted. Link to comment
John Posted March 7, 2014 Author Share Posted March 7, 2014 Please use search on this site for our discussions about tolerance withdrawal. You might have saved yourself a bad experience with rhodiola if you had used site search for that. Well i'm not saying this is tolerance withdrawal, but my symptoms have been getting worse, and am confused since 3 years ago was a different pattern. This time I thought I was getting better, and now it's as bad as it's ever been. Its so odd how since this isn't a cold turkey it's so bad. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Rhiannon Posted March 7, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted March 7, 2014 John, I haven't read your whole thread, but if you're still drinking coffee AND having feelings of doom and anxiety, I would highly recommend getting caffeine out of the picture. This seems to be something that everyone has to do during withdrawal. Caffeine stimulates the same hormones and neurotransmitters that cause the withdrawal symptoms. The thread on "tolerance withdrawal" is under the benzo area. There are other threads on ways to help soothe and calm the autonomic nervous system under Symptoms and Self Care; you may want to page back a ways, 5-8 pages or so. On Gia's website Beyond Meds and also on her Facebook page of the same name, there's extensive information on these helpful ways to soothe and heal the CNS. There's a small encyclopedia's worth of information in this forum since it was started in 2011. Highly recommend taking advantage of it, there's nothing comparable anywhere else that I know of. Started on Prozac and Xanax in 1992 for PTSD after an assault. One drug led to more, the usual story. Got sicker and sicker, but believed I needed the drugs for my "underlying disease". Long story...lost everything. Life savings, home, physical and mental health, relationships, friendships, ability to work, everything. Amitryptiline, Prozac, bupropion, buspirone, flurazepam, diazepam, alprazolam, Paxil, citalopram, lamotrigine, gabapentin...probably more I've forgotten. Started multidrug taper in Feb 2010. Doing a very slow microtaper, down to low doses now and feeling SO much better, getting my old personality and my brain back! Able to work full time, have a full social life, and cope with stress better than ever. Not perfect, but much better. After 23 lost years. Big Pharma has a lot to answer for. And "medicine for profit" is just not a great idea. Feb 15 2010: 300 mg Neurontin 200 Lamictal 10 Celexa 0.65 Xanax and 5 mg Ambien Feb 10 2014: 62 Lamictal 1.1 Celexa 0.135 Xanax 1.8 Valium Feb 10 2015: 50 Lamictal 0.875 Celexa 0.11 Xanax 1.5 Valium Feb 15 2016: 47.5 Lamictal 0.75 Celexa 0.0875 Xanax 1.42 Valium 2/12/20 12 0.045 0.007 1 May 2021 7 0.01 0.0037 1 Feb 2022 6 0!!! 0.00167 0.98 2.5 mg Ambien Oct 2022 4.5 mg Lamictal (off Celexa, off Xanax) 0.95 Valium Ambien, 1/4 to 1/2 of a 5 mg tablet I'm not a doctor. Any advice I give is just my civilian opinion. Link to comment
John Posted March 7, 2014 Author Share Posted March 7, 2014 John, I haven't read your whole thread, but if you're still drinking coffee AND having feelings of doom and anxiety, I would highly recommend getting caffeine out of the picture. This seems to be something that everyone has to do during withdrawal. Caffeine stimulates the same hormones and neurotransmitters that cause the withdrawal symptoms. The thread on "tolerance withdrawal" is under the benzo area. There are other threads on ways to help soothe and calm the autonomic nervous system under Symptoms and Self Care; you may want to page back a ways, 5-8 pages or so. On Gia's website Beyond Meds and also on her Facebook page of the same name, there's extensive information on these helpful ways to soothe and heal the CNS. There's a small encyclopedia's worth of information in this forum since it was started in 2011. Highly recommend taking advantage of it, there's nothing comparable anywhere else that I know of. Thanks, RHI. I havent drank coffee today, yet I feel worse than ever. Im sweating, pacing, have fear and terror for no reason; like I did 3 years ago when I went cold turkey. I dont know what to do with myself. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Rhiannon Posted March 7, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted March 7, 2014 I'm so sorry. Withdrawal sucks. Hopefully you will move through this wave quickly. In the meantime I can only suggest what has worked for me when I'm at my worst, which is gentle walking in a quiet place, and getting gentle, calm social support when possible (hanging out at a friend's house where things are fairly quiet, watching a movie or something. Hugs and cuddling are great for calming the CNS too if you have a situation where you can get that). Calming music can be good, anything that seems the least bit soothing or settling. Of course, it's very difficult to get out of the house when one is in bad shape, I understand that. Just take it an hour, a half hour, five minutes, one minute at a time. It is not unusual for people to have intense waves like this intermittently, sometimes without being able to point to any cause at all, and still go on over time to successfully heal and recover. I think it happens to everyone at least once or twice, and often fairly regularly. It WILL pass. You will feel better. Life will get better. It's hard to believe that right now, but it's true. Started on Prozac and Xanax in 1992 for PTSD after an assault. One drug led to more, the usual story. Got sicker and sicker, but believed I needed the drugs for my "underlying disease". Long story...lost everything. Life savings, home, physical and mental health, relationships, friendships, ability to work, everything. Amitryptiline, Prozac, bupropion, buspirone, flurazepam, diazepam, alprazolam, Paxil, citalopram, lamotrigine, gabapentin...probably more I've forgotten. Started multidrug taper in Feb 2010. Doing a very slow microtaper, down to low doses now and feeling SO much better, getting my old personality and my brain back! Able to work full time, have a full social life, and cope with stress better than ever. Not perfect, but much better. After 23 lost years. Big Pharma has a lot to answer for. And "medicine for profit" is just not a great idea. Feb 15 2010: 300 mg Neurontin 200 Lamictal 10 Celexa 0.65 Xanax and 5 mg Ambien Feb 10 2014: 62 Lamictal 1.1 Celexa 0.135 Xanax 1.8 Valium Feb 10 2015: 50 Lamictal 0.875 Celexa 0.11 Xanax 1.5 Valium Feb 15 2016: 47.5 Lamictal 0.75 Celexa 0.0875 Xanax 1.42 Valium 2/12/20 12 0.045 0.007 1 May 2021 7 0.01 0.0037 1 Feb 2022 6 0!!! 0.00167 0.98 2.5 mg Ambien Oct 2022 4.5 mg Lamictal (off Celexa, off Xanax) 0.95 Valium Ambien, 1/4 to 1/2 of a 5 mg tablet I'm not a doctor. Any advice I give is just my civilian opinion. Link to comment
John Posted March 7, 2014 Author Share Posted March 7, 2014 I'm so sorry. Withdrawal sucks. Hopefully you will move through this wave quickly. In the meantime I can only suggest what has worked for me when I'm at my worst, which is gentle walking in a quiet place, and getting gentle, calm social support when possible (hanging out at a friend's house where things are fairly quiet, watching a movie or something. Hugs and cuddling are great for calming the CNS too if you have a situation where you can get that). Calming music can be good, anything that seems the least bit soothing or settling. Of course, it's very difficult to get out of the house when one is in bad shape, I understand that. Just take it an hour, a half hour, five minutes, one minute at a time. It is not unusual for people to have intense waves like this intermittently, sometimes without being able to point to any cause at all, and still go on over time to successfully heal and recover. I think it happens to everyone at least once or twice, and often fairly regularly. It WILL pass. You will feel better. Life will get better. It's hard to believe that right now, but it's true. Thanks so much RHI for your advice. I'm really scared, because I had these same symptoms 3 years ago when I went cold turkey off of the Effexor, and they just stood with me for months on end with no let up. This time though seems a bit different, since I tapered for 2 years, and stopped tapering when I began to get symptoms last September. But even so, as October, November, December went on, I began having panic attacks and then last month it morphed into low mood/anxiety, now as of yesterday, its pure anxiety. Since i'm still taking 50mgs of Effexor, I hope it doesnt last as long as the cold turkey. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Skyler Posted March 7, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted March 7, 2014 I havent drank coffee today, yet I feel worse than ever. Im sweating, pacing, have fear and terror for no reason; like I did 3 years ago when I went cold turkey. I dont know what to do with myself.John, you can't just stop drinking coffee.. wean off over a week or two depending on how much you usually drink. You may be having WD from your cuppa, and you DON'T need that! Coffee is a cake walk compared to what we are used to, but don't try to stop on a dime, you can get a bad headache. As always, LISTEN TO YOUR BODY! A proud supporter of the 10% (or slower) rule. Requip - 3/16 ZERO Total time on 25 years. Lyrica: 8/15 ZERO Total time on 7 or 8 yrs.BENZO FREE 10/13 (started tapering 7/10) Total time on 25 years. Read my intro thread here, and check the about me section. "No matter how cynical you get, it's almost impossible to keep up." Lily Tomlin Link to comment
John Posted March 7, 2014 Author Share Posted March 7, 2014 I havent drank coffee today, yet I feel worse than ever. Im sweating, pacing, have fear and terror for no reason; like I did 3 years ago when I went cold turkey. I dont know what to do with myself.John, you can't just stop drinking coffee.. wean off over a week or two depending on how much you usually drink. You may be having WD from your cuppa, and you DON'T need that! Coffee is a cake walk compared to what we are used to, but don't try to stop on a dime, you can get a bad headache. I feel ok; I have no headache, but tomorrow I'll have only 1 cup. I usually have about 3. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Skyler Posted March 7, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted March 7, 2014 I havent drank coffee today, yet I feel worse than ever. Im sweating, pacing, have fear and terror for no reason; like I did 3 years ago when I went cold turkey. I dont know what to do with myself.John, you can't just stop drinking coffee.. wean off over a week or two depending on how much you usually drink. You may be having WD from your cuppa, and you DON'T need that! Coffee is a cake walk compared to what we are used to, but don't try to stop on a dime, you can get a bad headache. I feel ok; I have no headache, but tomorrow I'll have only 1 cup. I usually have about 3. Okay, but ease off the last cup.. 1 and 1 and .5 and .5. I had a good friend who periodically quit her heavy diet coke habit.. she always got a wicked migraine 2 to 3 days out. Really miserable.. does not have to happen if you wean off over a few days. As always, LISTEN TO YOUR BODY! A proud supporter of the 10% (or slower) rule. Requip - 3/16 ZERO Total time on 25 years. Lyrica: 8/15 ZERO Total time on 7 or 8 yrs.BENZO FREE 10/13 (started tapering 7/10) Total time on 25 years. Read my intro thread here, and check the about me section. "No matter how cynical you get, it's almost impossible to keep up." Lily Tomlin Link to comment
John Posted March 7, 2014 Author Share Posted March 7, 2014 I havent drank coffee today, yet I feel worse than ever. Im sweating, pacing, have fear and terror for no reason; like I did 3 years ago when I went cold turkey. I dont know what to do with myself.John, you can't just stop drinking coffee.. wean off over a week or two depending on how much you usually drink. You may be having WD from your cuppa, and you DON'T need that! Coffee is a cake walk compared to what we are used to, but don't try to stop on a dime, you can get a bad headache. I feel ok; I have no headache, but tomorrow I'll have only 1 cup. I usually have about 3. Okay, but ease off the last cup.. 1 and 1 and .5 and .5. I had a good friend who periodically quit her heavy diet coke habit.. she always got a wicked migraine 2 to 3 days out. Really miserable.. does not have to happen if you wean off over a few days. Thanks, Skyler will do. By the way, is this a protracted withdrawal? On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Skyler Posted March 7, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted March 7, 2014 Generally the term 'protracted WD' is used when when the symptoms last for months or even years after the last dose. Maybe it would be better to read the plentiful info on this site? I'm sorry you are having so many Symptoms, and I know this is most difficult, but the type of reading you are doing seems to be needlessly worrying. BTW..one of the reasons we taper so carefully is to avoid protracted WD, and most who do are not so affected. You should be okay John, try to be patient with yourself. I think you jumped on this in time to avoid the type of major league issues you seem bent on reading about. As always, LISTEN TO YOUR BODY! A proud supporter of the 10% (or slower) rule. Requip - 3/16 ZERO Total time on 25 years. Lyrica: 8/15 ZERO Total time on 7 or 8 yrs.BENZO FREE 10/13 (started tapering 7/10) Total time on 25 years. Read my intro thread here, and check the about me section. "No matter how cynical you get, it's almost impossible to keep up." Lily Tomlin Link to comment
John Posted March 7, 2014 Author Share Posted March 7, 2014 Generally the term 'protracted WD' is used when when the symptoms last for months or even years after the last dose. Maybe it would be better to read the plentiful info on this site? I'm sorry you are having so many Symptoms, and I know this is most difficult, but the type of reading you are doing seems to be needlessly worrying. I totally agree with you; i'm my own worst enemy. I'm all over the place, before ssris I wasnt like this, but the feeling is so "urgent", so emergency-like, that I (Like everyone else) want it gone YESTERDAY. I know i'll never get a definitive answer, and I know since I tried Magnesium, Omega 3s, etc and everything else on the planet, that there's nothing left for me to do, but hold at 50mgs, and let time heal it. But I think because the severe anxiety is so prominent, it seems like survival instinct kicks in, and am subconsiously looking for a way out. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
btdt Posted March 8, 2014 Share Posted March 8, 2014 I think this is common and the reason many of us get dx as having PTSD all along it is just withdrawal. Sad to say that was just one more reason to be medicated for me... it was all getting old so they switch up the dx to keep a person on pills if you look at ptsd it tends to be a title or label that included almost every psych disorder there is you then can have it all and a new title to boot. Anxiety depression blah blah blah.. I recall telling my loved ones they have finally figured it out lol what a dolt I was... first it was pain in my leg after prozac it became chronic fatigue and fibro that stuck but soon more labels followed... depression anxiety disorder ... could not leave the house forget the name for that one... they have a million of them... what they do not say as hey funny how you got all this AFTER taking a ssri. I see a pattern here... not trying to shove it down you throat or anything but am trying to encourage you to get off and stay off the dx merrigoround as it goes no place but in circle wasting all those lives before we clued in is bad enough... enough already ...hold tight do your taper from then on just say no. WARNING THIS WILL BE LONG Had a car accident in 85 Codeine was the pain med when I was release from hosp continuous use till 89 Given PROZAC by a specialist to help with nerve pain in my leg 89-90 not sure which year Was not told a thing about it being a psych med thought it was a pain killer no info about psych side effects I went nuts had hallucinations. As I had a head injury and was diagnosed with a concussion in 85 I was sent to a head injury clinic in 1990 five years after the accident. I don't think they knew I had been on prozac I did not think it a big deal and never did finish the bottle of pills. I had tests of course lots of them. Was put into a pain clinic and given amitriptyline which stopped the withdrawal but had many side effects. But I could sleep something I had not done in a very long time the pain lessened. My mother got cancer in 94 they switched my meds to Zoloft to help deal with this pressure as I was her main care giver she died in 96. I stopped zoloft in 96 had withdrawal was put on paxil went nutty quit it ct put on resperidol quit it ct had withdrawal was put on Effexor... 2years later celexa was added 20mg then increased to 40mg huge personality change went wild. Did too fast taper off Celexa 05 as I felt unwell for a long time prior... quit Effexor 150mg ct 07 found ****** 8 months into withdrawal learned some things was banned from there in 08 have kept learning since. there is really not enough room here to put my history but I have a lot of opinions about a lot of things especially any of the drugs mentioned above. One thing I would like to add here is this tidbit ALL OPIATES INCREASE SEROTONIN it is not a huge jump to being in chronic pain to being put on an ssri/snri and opiates will affect your antidepressants and your thinking. As I do not update much I will put my quit date Nov. 17 2007 I quit Effexor cold turkey. http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1096-introducing-myself-btdt/ There is a crack in everything ..That's how the light gets in Link to comment
Lexy Posted March 8, 2014 Share Posted March 8, 2014 I totally agree... When I started up dosing in the beginning of this hell I was having social anxiety/agoraphobia, depersonalization, etc. I couldnt even go to the grocery store, i would start feeling panic and fear. The following day that I had cut my dose in half all that went away. I went shopping, ate out. I felt good for ONE day. Then came the Wds. Of course I did not know anything about wds at the time. Went back to the doctor who said I now had depression along with GAD, PTSD, OCD, and an eating disorder. (I originally had experienced a trauma that I did not want to acknowledge as soon as I started writing about it in my school newspaper everything came flooding back.) My mother adamantly told him, "She wasn't depressed before coming here. How can she stop being agoraphobic from one day to the next?" He just stared at us blankly and changed the subject. He tried to convince me to change meds. I may be young and naive but somehow I knew I shouldn't do this. As far as OCD I feel that's a symptom of a trauma. I had compulsive thoughts of fear which in turn gave me anxiety. The eating disorder thing I was never underweight. I have always felt i need to lose 10 lbs however, I never starved myself or have Tried to vomit or binge eating. Now I only see the drug pusher to pick up my scrip to try to get off this crap. Started Effexor August 2012 Sept'12-150mg=extreme anxiety Oct'12 cut half-75mg severe wds Feb 2013 68.5mg. Mar'13- 65mg. Apr'13-59mg. May'13-57mg. June '13-52mg Aug'13 49.75mg. Sep'13-48.75. Nov'13-47mg Dec'13-45..5mg May 2014 42mg. Jun'14 40mg (depressive mood started). Aug'14 -40mg/ started brintellix 2.5mg Oct '14 -39 Nov'14 36.89 Dec'14 34.45 Jan 2015- 31 Feb'15 29mg. Mar'15 26.72. Apr'15 24.48. May'15 22.31mg. Jun'15 20.30mg Aug'15-18.89. Oct'15 16.96. Nov/16- 16.10. Dec/15- 15mg Jan 2016-14.22. May'16 11.45. Aug'16-9.60. Sep/16- 8.88mg. Oct/16- 8.39mg. Nov/16- 8.13. Dec/16- 7.89 Link to comment
btdt Posted March 8, 2014 Share Posted March 8, 2014 GAD, PTSD, OCD, and an eating disorder social anxiety/agoraphobia, depersonalization derealization.... ALL of them if you look at the symptoms of withdrawal you will find them ALL! Even the ocd and dissociation it is a long long list... and just keeps coming. If I were to advice a person in withdrawal regarding dx I would say you will have everything in the book... it is all possible. So when it comes ignore it and know it is just your brain and body trying to heal once it gets beyond this it will stop showing you all the tricks it can do. Like a drug performing monkey it is showing off but this is not what monkeys were meant to do they are were meant to sit in trees with other monkeys and eat bananas and whatever else monkeys do. Once sober and free a monkey would choose to do what he was designed to do and be what he was meant to be ignore his drunken ways till he is sober and learns to behave. All that said a monkey treated in such a way will remember how he got there this is a good lesson for monkey to learn. WARNING THIS WILL BE LONG Had a car accident in 85 Codeine was the pain med when I was release from hosp continuous use till 89 Given PROZAC by a specialist to help with nerve pain in my leg 89-90 not sure which year Was not told a thing about it being a psych med thought it was a pain killer no info about psych side effects I went nuts had hallucinations. As I had a head injury and was diagnosed with a concussion in 85 I was sent to a head injury clinic in 1990 five years after the accident. I don't think they knew I had been on prozac I did not think it a big deal and never did finish the bottle of pills. I had tests of course lots of them. Was put into a pain clinic and given amitriptyline which stopped the withdrawal but had many side effects. But I could sleep something I had not done in a very long time the pain lessened. My mother got cancer in 94 they switched my meds to Zoloft to help deal with this pressure as I was her main care giver she died in 96. I stopped zoloft in 96 had withdrawal was put on paxil went nutty quit it ct put on resperidol quit it ct had withdrawal was put on Effexor... 2years later celexa was added 20mg then increased to 40mg huge personality change went wild. Did too fast taper off Celexa 05 as I felt unwell for a long time prior... quit Effexor 150mg ct 07 found ****** 8 months into withdrawal learned some things was banned from there in 08 have kept learning since. there is really not enough room here to put my history but I have a lot of opinions about a lot of things especially any of the drugs mentioned above. One thing I would like to add here is this tidbit ALL OPIATES INCREASE SEROTONIN it is not a huge jump to being in chronic pain to being put on an ssri/snri and opiates will affect your antidepressants and your thinking. As I do not update much I will put my quit date Nov. 17 2007 I quit Effexor cold turkey. http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1096-introducing-myself-btdt/ There is a crack in everything ..That's how the light gets in Link to comment
John Posted March 9, 2014 Author Share Posted March 9, 2014 You all know what i'm going through. I've been thinking I might be one of those people who simply can't get off this drug without getting really sick. I've tapered really slow for almost 2 years at 5%, then at 3%, and I still got to this point. If I stick it out and wait to stabilize, then continue to taper, I can't go through this a 3rd time. What if I start dropping again, and get like this again? It's not like I get some simple symptoms like only brain zaps, or fatigue. I'd be fine to stick it out if that's all I got. Instead, I'm in a constant emergency mode, where it seems impossible to get through the day. Time goes by real slow, I cant eat, being at work day after day is like torture. I now sweat from the terror, I have no interest in anything but this condition, and it's all seriously ruining my life. Since there's no way in hell i'd be willing to go through this a 3rd time, should I just continue tapering? This second time around I got new symptoms that I never got 3 years ago like ringing in the ears, headaches, fatigue, and occasional zaps in addition to the fear and terror which is for no reason. When I think back, I remember this slowly coming on this past September on and off. They slowly progressed until the beginning of last month, where it's been hell, and i'm no longer able to function normally. Maybe it's because i'm strong minded, but yesterday was my fiancee's shower, and all the men stood at the restaurant. I dreaded going, but once I did, I was able to put it all behind me, and socialize and no one had any idea whatsoever that I was living a life of hell. When the shower was coming to an end, I felt it starting to break though again, and returned. Even my fiancee thinks its the weirdest thing; she's all worried about me (she has organic GAD), asking people if i'm eating and if i'm ok, and then she sees me laughing it up and socializing and feels like she was worried for nothing. She even says it's crazy because 3 years ago when I was recovering, I was able to go to the Jersey shore and I was calmer than her when we had to evacuate the area at 1 am because of a major hurricane on it's way, and was able to get on a plane (I'm afraid of flying) and go to Key West, and we had to get out of there because of another hurricane headed right for us. I'm not suicidal, because like the last time this happened 3 years ago, when it first began, I welcomed death as an alternative to living like this. As a few weeks went on, that just went away, like now, even though i'm suffering just as much. Again, I don't want to go through this again, and was wondering if continuing the taper while i'm feeling like hell anyway would remove the chance of getting like this again in a future taper. Are there actually people who just simply cant get of this poison no matter how slow they go? On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Lexy Posted March 10, 2014 Share Posted March 10, 2014 So sorry to hear you are having to go through this. I'm going very slow; I don't want to even think when this will be over. I'm dropping by .25 of one mg and I still have trouble. Haven't had one day off of wds for more than a year and a half since I started taking this drug. When you talking about being at your fiancée's shower socializing where you actually having a good time? Did you not feel the WDs? Did you forget about them during the shower? Started Effexor August 2012 Sept'12-150mg=extreme anxiety Oct'12 cut half-75mg severe wds Feb 2013 68.5mg. Mar'13- 65mg. Apr'13-59mg. May'13-57mg. June '13-52mg Aug'13 49.75mg. Sep'13-48.75. Nov'13-47mg Dec'13-45..5mg May 2014 42mg. Jun'14 40mg (depressive mood started). Aug'14 -40mg/ started brintellix 2.5mg Oct '14 -39 Nov'14 36.89 Dec'14 34.45 Jan 2015- 31 Feb'15 29mg. Mar'15 26.72. Apr'15 24.48. May'15 22.31mg. Jun'15 20.30mg Aug'15-18.89. Oct'15 16.96. Nov/16- 16.10. Dec/15- 15mg Jan 2016-14.22. May'16 11.45. Aug'16-9.60. Sep/16- 8.88mg. Oct/16- 8.39mg. Nov/16- 8.13. Dec/16- 7.89 Link to comment
John Posted March 10, 2014 Author Share Posted March 10, 2014 So sorry to hear you are having to go through this. I'm going very slow; I don't want to even think when this will be over. I'm dropping by .25 of one mg and I still have trouble. Haven't had one day off of wds for more than a year and a half since I started taking this drug. When you talking about being at your fiancée's shower socializing where you actually having a good time? Did you not feel the WDs? Did you forget about them during the shower? I did have a good time, and at times did forget all about the WDs, but I still wasnt hungry, and towards the end of the shower felt it breaking through. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Petunia Posted March 10, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted March 10, 2014 Maybe it's because i'm strong minded, but yesterday was my fiancee's shower, and all the men stood at the restaurant. I dreaded going, but once I did, I was able to put it all behind me, and socialize and no one had any idea whatsoever that I was living a life of hell. When the shower was coming to an end, I felt it starting to break though again, and returned. ... ....Are there actually people who just simply cant get of this poison no matter how slow they go? This is very weird, I go through the same kind of thing. I dread going out and doing things, but once I get there, its like withdrawal doesn't even exist, almost as if someone else takes over my body, enjoys them self, acts fine, better than fine really, but then towards the end, starts to fade somewhat and the old withdrawal feelings start to creep back in. I had this happen to me a few months ago at a family dinner at a restaurant. That last question, about some people not being able to get off these drugs, seems to me like the 'wrong' question. Maybe it should be, do some people get a destabilized nervous system whenever they try to come off these drugs, no matter how slow they go? My answer to that question would be maybe, but it would probably depend on other factors like how long they had been on the drug/s, how many drugs they had been on, how many changes, previous stops and starts, in other words, someone with an already 'weakened' nervous system from previous 'punishment' would probably have a more difficult time than someone who had taken one medication for maybe 6 months. Some people, for genetic reasons, just don't do well with some kinds of medications, and can have an adverse reaction to one dose and then suffer for months. Some people do seem to have a harder time than others even when they haven't been on the drug for a long time, there are always other factors which play a part, stress and the way we naturally deal with it is a big variable. I'm having the same symptoms as you John, but I'm completely off all meds and have been for 10 montths, so its not always about being able to get off the meds, once your NS becomes destabilized, it becomes more about how to function while it repairs itself. If this happens while someone is still in the process of tapering, it stops being about the current taper and becomes protracted withdrawal from previous tapering. This is just my theory, and I don't know if I'm explaining it very well either. When someone gets to this point, sometimes an updose and a long hold can help to stabilize the nervous system again, but sometimes nothing works apart from time. I'm confident you will get off effexor eventually and recover and put it all behind you and have a nice future, its just going to take longer than you would like. I'm not a doctor. My comments are not medical advise. These are my opinions based on my own experience and what I've learned. Please discuss your situation with a medical practitioner who has knowledge of tapering and withdrawal...if you are lucky enough to find one. My Introduction Thread Full Drug and Withdrawal History Brief Summary Several SSRIs for 13 years starting 1997 (for mild to moderate partly situational anxiety) Xanax PRN ~ Various other drugs over the years for side effects 2 month 'taper' off Lexapro 2010 Short acute withdrawal, followed by 2 -3 months of improvement then delayed protracted withdrawal DX ADHD followed by several years of stimulants and other drugs trying to manage increasing symptoms Failed reinstatement of Lexapro and trial of Prozac (became suicidal) May 2013 Found SA, learned about withdrawal, stopped taking drugs...healing begins. Protracted withdrawal, with a very sensitized nervous system, slowly recovering as time passes Supplements which have helped: Vitamin C, Magnesium, Taurine Bad reactions: Many supplements but mostly fish oil and Vitamin D June 2016 - Started daily juicing, mostly vegetables and lots of greens. Aug 2016 - Oct 2016 Best window ever, felt almost completely recovered Oct 2016 -Symptoms returned - bad days and less bad days. April 2018 - No windows, but significant improvement, it feels like permanent full recovery is close. VIDEO: Where did the chemical imbalance theory come from? VIDEO: How are psychiatric diagnoses made? VIDEO: Why do psychiatric drugs have withdrawal syndromes? VIDEO: Can psychiatric drugs cause long-lasting negative effects? VIDEO: Dr. Claire Weekes Link to comment
John Posted March 10, 2014 Author Share Posted March 10, 2014 Thanks Petu. What scares me the most is that Dr Healys site, RxRisk States that some people can never get off these antidepressants. I'm petrified I might be one of them. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Lexy Posted March 10, 2014 Share Posted March 10, 2014 Just a little piece if advice try to stay in the moment when you are being social and try to carry those good feelings with you as long as you can. Make yourself do more things like that. I should take my own advice as I am dealing with so much fatigue and body aches. I try not to give in but I do know how you feel. Started Effexor August 2012 Sept'12-150mg=extreme anxiety Oct'12 cut half-75mg severe wds Feb 2013 68.5mg. Mar'13- 65mg. Apr'13-59mg. May'13-57mg. June '13-52mg Aug'13 49.75mg. Sep'13-48.75. Nov'13-47mg Dec'13-45..5mg May 2014 42mg. Jun'14 40mg (depressive mood started). Aug'14 -40mg/ started brintellix 2.5mg Oct '14 -39 Nov'14 36.89 Dec'14 34.45 Jan 2015- 31 Feb'15 29mg. Mar'15 26.72. Apr'15 24.48. May'15 22.31mg. Jun'15 20.30mg Aug'15-18.89. Oct'15 16.96. Nov/16- 16.10. Dec/15- 15mg Jan 2016-14.22. May'16 11.45. Aug'16-9.60. Sep/16- 8.88mg. Oct/16- 8.39mg. Nov/16- 8.13. Dec/16- 7.89 Link to comment
John Posted March 10, 2014 Author Share Posted March 10, 2014 The oddest thing is that when I feel ok because i'm distracted, it's almost like rebound anxiety that breaks through when it comes back. Usually for awhile it's worse when it returns. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
btdt Posted March 11, 2014 Share Posted March 11, 2014 Thanks Petu. What scares me the most is that Dr Healys site, RxRisk States that some people can never get off these antidepressants. I'm petrified I might be one of them. Then stop believing him... what petrifies you is not helping you. When you find the anxiety comes back worse after you had been well while distracted it is your "noticing" it coming back that can kick it up... if you get what I mean... try to take things in stride. If it gets kicked up when you notice try to take some steps to sooth your system then... deep breathing or relaxation thought process. The things we live train our system... so when it overshoots calm it as quickly as you can. So it does not get use to feeding on the noticing strain. Once you notice you have noticing stress... do a relaxation. WARNING THIS WILL BE LONG Had a car accident in 85 Codeine was the pain med when I was release from hosp continuous use till 89 Given PROZAC by a specialist to help with nerve pain in my leg 89-90 not sure which year Was not told a thing about it being a psych med thought it was a pain killer no info about psych side effects I went nuts had hallucinations. As I had a head injury and was diagnosed with a concussion in 85 I was sent to a head injury clinic in 1990 five years after the accident. I don't think they knew I had been on prozac I did not think it a big deal and never did finish the bottle of pills. I had tests of course lots of them. Was put into a pain clinic and given amitriptyline which stopped the withdrawal but had many side effects. But I could sleep something I had not done in a very long time the pain lessened. My mother got cancer in 94 they switched my meds to Zoloft to help deal with this pressure as I was her main care giver she died in 96. I stopped zoloft in 96 had withdrawal was put on paxil went nutty quit it ct put on resperidol quit it ct had withdrawal was put on Effexor... 2years later celexa was added 20mg then increased to 40mg huge personality change went wild. Did too fast taper off Celexa 05 as I felt unwell for a long time prior... quit Effexor 150mg ct 07 found ****** 8 months into withdrawal learned some things was banned from there in 08 have kept learning since. there is really not enough room here to put my history but I have a lot of opinions about a lot of things especially any of the drugs mentioned above. One thing I would like to add here is this tidbit ALL OPIATES INCREASE SEROTONIN it is not a huge jump to being in chronic pain to being put on an ssri/snri and opiates will affect your antidepressants and your thinking. As I do not update much I will put my quit date Nov. 17 2007 I quit Effexor cold turkey. http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1096-introducing-myself-btdt/ There is a crack in everything ..That's how the light gets in Link to comment
John Posted March 11, 2014 Author Share Posted March 11, 2014 Thanks Petu. What scares me the most is that Dr Healys site, RxRisk States that some people can never get off these antidepressants. I'm petrified I might be one of them. Then stop believing him... what petrifies you is not helping you. When you find the anxiety comes back worse after you had been well while distracted it is your "noticing" it coming back that can kick it up... if you get what I mean... try to take things in stride. If it gets kicked up when you notice try to take some steps to sooth your system then... deep breathing or relaxation thought process. The things we live train our system... so when it overshoots calm it as quickly as you can. So it does not get use to feeding on the noticing strain. Once you notice you have noticing stress... do a relaxation. But thats part of my problem; chemical induced anxiety doesnt respond well to psychotherapy or relaxation techniques. Ive tried breathing, does nothing. My heart doesnt really beat fast, nor is my breathing impaired like as in a panic attack. It's a horrified, terrified and depressive feeling. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
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