John Posted February 13, 2014 Author Share Posted February 13, 2014 He didn't force any drugs on me. He did want to stabilize me first then re taper. Problem is is that he thinks opening capsules is a bad idea, and that I should be taking the whole pill. So his suggestion was to get me back to 75mgs then 37.5, then 75 a few more days, etc. Sounds like a bad idea to me. He only suggested something in the meantime to take off the edge of this nervousness or akathisia or whatever this is. I emailed him and asked for the prescription. I only took it for one day though. 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 February 13, 2014 Author Share Posted February 13, 2014 I just don't really hear many people who feel like me. I do know anxiety is common. But there is no anticipation. Nor do I have any panic attacks. The panic attacks came before all this, then disappear and then I get this. 3 years ago it lasted for 5 months, then I started getting better over 2 years, although I reinstated the effexor 2 months after it began. This time I feel the same way after tapering and for tapering after 2 years! The only difference this time is that I have less physical symptoms like eye twitching, and last night my appetite came back, I felt almost normal, and slept through the night! I noticed that I have more Windows more often sooner than when I went cold turkey too. Since I'm holding at 46 mgs, I'm afraid to start tapering when I get better. I can't take this a 3rd time! I read in Prozac: panacea or Pandora on pg 139 they talk about Benzo withdrawn that it's a sense of nervousness, jittery Ness, anxiety and sleeplessness, as if the nervous system is suddenly running in high gear. That's me, but I don't take Benzos. 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 February 13, 2014 Share Posted February 13, 2014 Could you please ask him to explain why these drugs should not be opened to taper off? If he says it is because they are extended release??? and he may just guessing. could you please ask him to explain this. Maybe he knows something we don't know. I would be curious to know the answer at least it may if nothing else point us to something new we should be researching or learning to make this easier. I am going to assume you told him you did not feel this was a great idea to go back up. Maybe you did maybe you didn't. Here is one more thing to ask him in an email if he responds to emails what does he think of tapering off with tablets that are not expended release? Has he tapered a a lot of poeple off antidepressant if so has he used this drug to help in the past did those people then find they had to taper off this drug. What exactly is it about withdrawal that this drug treats and why does it make sense to use it? These are just ideas to use if you want or to completely ignore if you want or maybe just for you to think about 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
btdt Posted February 13, 2014 Share Posted February 13, 2014 " He said that there is a genetic testing that can be done to see whats the best and worst meds to take according to my metabolism. He'd be able to see that if i'm metabolizing the Effexor too quickly giving me withdrawals" Did he do this testing if so what is it called... if Alto is around is this the same as the old p 450 testing to see if you a slow fast or medium metaboliser they talked to death at pp years ago... that was for Alto just ignore it John when you give me the name of the test I will search for it and see if Alto don't recall. I can't recall whatever became of the idea but could look it up. 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 February 13, 2014 Author Share Posted February 13, 2014 Yes he said because it's due to the time release of the pills. I don't know what the testing is called because I don't think any of this will be helpful in withdrawal. I think this really is only for when you begin an antidepressant to predict what will work and what won't. 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 February 13, 2014 Share Posted February 13, 2014 So he is doing the testing because he is going to start you on another antidepressant? I have read from other users with nothing to back it up that effexor changes how your liver works and that is why you have to go so very slowly at the end of tapering. I do not know if this is true. If the Effexor is affecting your liver it may makes some sense to do this test. If it in some way relates to how effexor is changing your liver. Could you please ask him the name of the test if you can. I know you have a lot more important things to do but it may well prove helpful to others. If he did the test already it may be on a list you gave to the lab they could tell you. I just did some reading on gabepentin One site I went to a student was using it to get high the more he used the more he wanted but found he was tolerant to it after 4 days it would not have the effect he was seeking so he would wait days between use. He called it a depressant and the only one he really wants now after having tried many. the other site was about addiction tolerance... Common and Rare Side Effects for Neurontin oral - WebMD www.webmd.com/.../mono-8217-gabapentin+-+oral.aspx?...neurontin... Depression, Severe. High Blood Pressure, Severe. Loss of Memory, Severe. Mental Impairment, Severe. Easily Angered or Annoyed, Severe. Mood Changes ... I have not taken this one and can't give any personal experience. 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
Administrator Altostrata Posted February 13, 2014 Administrator Share Posted February 13, 2014 John, your symptom pattern is extremely common and has been reported by many on this site. See the Symptoms and Self-care forum. The genetic testing indicates only what drugs might cause problems. It does not indicate what drugs will "work." It's just about useless if you're going off the drugs. I'm sorry Dr. Ahmed was misinformed about opening Effexor XR capsules. The "extended release" quality is in the beads, not in the gelatin capsule. I'll write him about that. I think his intention to stabilize you was a good one. I don't know if gabapentin would have helped, but it appears you asked for something and he responded. 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 February 13, 2014 Author Share Posted February 13, 2014 Thanks Alto. Please do write him. I agree it doesn't affect the pill as long as you don't crush the pellets. And what good would the genetic testing do coming off of the drug? I don't or ever need an antidepressant. I was put on this garbage because my pulse was high going to the Dr. As far as him stabilizing me, I tried it myself by adding almost 10 beads, but it did nothing. Taking the 75mgs again would be complete reinstatement, and 3 years ago did nothing as well. 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 February 13, 2014 Administrator Share Posted February 13, 2014 When did you add 10 beads, and for how long? Taking gabapentin is not the same as increasing Effexor XR. Gabapentin is a "brake." Some doctors use it as a benzo substitute. I'm not saying it was the answer for you, but it wasn't inappropriate, especially if you asked for a drug. 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 February 13, 2014 Author Share Posted February 13, 2014 I actually added first 5 beads 2 weeks ago, then a few days later 3 more, and another 5 on Tuesday. Each time I added, I felt no difference. No I never thought the gabapentin would replace effexor, I just took it yesterday, felt tires and won't take it again. 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 February 13, 2014 Administrator Share Posted February 13, 2014 You need to give any dosage change at least 4 days to register in your system. You seem to expect everything to happen very quickly for you, John. You're in a situation that requires patience. 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 February 13, 2014 Author Share Posted February 13, 2014 I know, but the last time I went through this 3 years ago I reinstated the whole 75mgs and it still took 5 months to even start feeling better. I don't think it did anything then, and I guess I'm anticipating it doing nothing now. 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 February 14, 2014 Administrator Share Posted February 14, 2014 That's a very illogical statement, considering you just said you felt better after 5 months. The nervous system thrives on stability. Going on and off drugs increases instability. Your impatience and negativity works against you. 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 February 14, 2014 Author Share Posted February 14, 2014 That's a very illogical statement, considering you just said you felt better after 5 months. Illogical? So you think by reinstating the 75mg made me recover 5 months later? 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 February 14, 2014 Administrator Share Posted February 14, 2014 Yes. Did you think it was random? Several people here have found it took some months for reinstatement to help. I have a feeling this has been explained to you before, several times. 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 February 14, 2014 Author Share Posted February 14, 2014 I actually thought even though I reinstated, it did nothing, and I recovered on my own. I was always under the impression from reading on here and Breggin's, Glenmullens, etc books that it usually clears up upon reinstating right away, like in a few days to weeks. 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 February 14, 2014 Administrator Share Posted February 14, 2014 That isn't always the case. 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 February 14, 2014 Author Share Posted February 14, 2014 Do you think I replaced enough pellets? 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 February 14, 2014 Administrator Share Posted February 14, 2014 What do you mean? Didn't you taper from 75mg to your present dosage? What pellets did you replace? 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 February 14, 2014 Author Share Posted February 14, 2014 3 years ago after I went cold turkey, I had a 2 month withdrawal delay. After 2 more months with no relief, I reinstated the 75mg. 5 months later I started to recover, 2 years later I began tapering. 2 years after, I got to about 41mg, and wound up like this. I replaced 5 pellets 2 weeks ago, then a week later added 3 more, and 2 days ago added another 5, which brought me back up to what I was taking last July, when I felt ok. 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 February 14, 2014 Administrator Share Posted February 14, 2014 I don't know, John. You have to give the dosage increase some time. This is why people say going off Effexor is difficult. 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 February 14, 2014 Author Share Posted February 14, 2014 God I wish I was never so stupid to take those pills. 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 February 14, 2014 Share Posted February 14, 2014 I just don't really hear many people who feel like me. I do know anxiety is common. But there is no anticipation. Nor do I have any panic attacks. The panic attacks came before all this, then disappear and then I get this. 3 years ago it lasted for 5 months, then I started getting better over 2 years, although I reinstated the effexor 2 months after it began. This time I feel the same way after tapering and for tapering after 2 years! The only difference this time is that I have less physical symptoms like eye twitching, and last night my appetite came back, I felt almost normal, and slept through the night! I noticed that I have more Windows more often sooner than when I went cold turkey too. Since I'm holding at 46 mgs, I'm afraid to start tapering when I get better. I can't take this a 3rd time! I read in Prozac: panacea or Pandora on pg 139 they talk about Benzo withdrawn that it's a sense of nervousness, jittery Ness, anxiety and sleeplessness, as if the nervous system is suddenly running in high gear. That's me, but I don't take Benzos. There was once a site called topix effexor withdrawal where I went into the similarities of effexor withdrawal and benzo withdrawal it was quite extensive however the powers that be have shut it down. I used the site to keep track of important things I came across. If you look I am sure you can find it some place it is not uncommon. Or if it was once it was because nobody was joining the dots but that is behind us now the dots to these two withdrawals have been joined the information is out there. I did not taker but went cold turkey but the amount of information on this subject has grown extensively in the last 6 years seek and you may actually find it. I don't think what your going thru - (should reread it actually my memory is so bad) Your still functional to me that means no matter how distressed you may feeling being functional you still winning... sorry but I was completely NOT functional... I know you want more from you life we all did and do. Pushing it is not how this works fast answers from what I have seen do not exist. If you find any I would be more than happy to hear about it. Slow and steady and for those things you find too much to put up with try some of the suggestions here. What is it that most bothers you pick one I will try to help you out if I can no pick three... as often they come in groups. I am curious as to how you felt all new and ate and slept - do you think this is from the drug he gave you. Again he may know things we don't I just would want it his reasoning explained if I were in your shoes. Even if I did not understand it all up front... I tape what doctors tell me sometimes if it is important and then look it all up. I will tell you now they don't like it when I pull out the tape recorder. At the end of the day it is your call. If I were you I would be looking up how benzo and effexor or antidepressant withdrawal is the same if I can find it once by chance it is out there some place or it was... often when things disappear the links to them are tidied up too. I have not taken this drug you were given last so don't know first hand about it but if I were you I would be looking to talk to those going thru withdrawal from it now... E withdrawal is bad ct is bad ... how bad is the withdrawal from the drug you use to get out of withdrawal. Somehow I just don't see Effexor withdrawal going away when you take another drug. I tried a few early on it made a mess but I was already a mess it made a worse mess. But not the drug your on I tried Lyrica an mirapex and a few others could not tolerate them... most were just a day or so. I did not have panic attacks in withdrawal either but had too much stuff to mention.. truly the list would have me up all night typing and I don't have the energy for it. 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
Administrator Altostrata Posted February 14, 2014 Administrator Share Posted February 14, 2014 I've corresponded with Dr. Ahmad and he's now up to speed on Effexor tapering. 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 February 14, 2014 Author Share Posted February 14, 2014 Thank you. 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 February 15, 2014 Author Share Posted February 15, 2014 I've been giving some of this a think since going to the endocrinologist. My cortisol is very high and my testosterone is extremely low (195 which normal range is 350-1000). It seems the endo suspects something is going on with my pituitary, because my prolactin levels as well as my acth, t4, tsh and 24hr free cortisol is being tested. I doubt there's a pituitary tumor, but can Ssris in withdrawal effect the pituitary? I do know that high cortisol, low testosterone, and high prolactin can cause depression and anxiety. Wouldn't high cortisol and low T alone cause my symptoms? Also can the withdrawal cause the anxiety and depression which raised my cortisol and lowered my T? It's almost like the chicken and the egg. The very odd thing is that before I crashed almost 3 weeks ago I was getting unstable gait, limited panic attacks, zaps and brain wobble, Hypoglycemia, headaches and just an unwell feeling. This all disappeared after I crashed, and I know they're typical withdrawal symptoms, but how can they disappear so quickly and move on to this? It's also funny how my appetite disappeared like last time, but I can get very hungry, and when I eat, if I think of this all, it disappears right in the midst of eating. 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 February 15, 2014 Administrator Share Posted February 15, 2014 Let the endocrinologist rule out whatever condition. It's a very long shot. Very few of these investigations pan out. Don't be surprised if those test results add up to nothing the endocrinologist recognizes as a endocrinological condition and he or she tells you there's nothing to treat. I strongly suggest you think several times before any hormonal treatment for an undiagnosable condition. Your symptoms match withdrawal syndrome, which makes sense since you've been changing your Effexor dosage. 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 February 15, 2014 Author Share Posted February 15, 2014 Let the endocrinologist rule out whatever condition. It's a very long shot. Very few of these investigations pan out. Don't be surprised if those test results add up to nothing the endocrinologist recognizes as a endocrinological condition and he or she tells you there's nothing to treat. I strongly suggest you think several times before any hormonal treatment for an undiagnosable condition. Your symptoms match withdrawal syndrome, which makes sense since you've been changing your Effexor dosage. True, I'm sure it's a long shot, but even now in the state I'm in feels very "hormonal" because as bad as I am, after 8-9 every night the Symptoms become limiting, and my appetite returns, and calmness comes over me. I also fall asleep very quickly, and stay asleep till 5 am where I wake, but do fall back asleep yet not as soundly as if I go to sleep from 11pm till 5. Seems like a cortisol thing. Now even if it is withdrawal syndrome, isn't it dangerous to leave the testosterone levels so low? I know it's bad for the cardiovascular system, cancer, fertility, and can also cause depression and anxiety. 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 February 15, 2014 Administrator Share Posted February 15, 2014 I would not play with hormone levels while you have withdrawal symptoms. Your hormones are deranged enough. 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
mattinsmom Posted February 18, 2014 Share Posted February 18, 2014 I just stumbled across your post. I have no words of wisdom to offer but I hope you found answers to your questions. Current: Lorazapam: 2mg: 4/9/15: 2mg - 1.5mg: already sick/nothing noticed. No changes in sleep noted after illness. Lamictal: 7/27/13 - 8/6/13: 400mg - 500mg(dr order) mouth sores, headache, cognitive/balance, heart palp...8/7/13 - 8/23/13: 500mg - 400mg; symptoms↓...10/10/13: 350mg; fever/flu-like <2-weeks...12/30/13: 325mg; fever/flu-like symptoms <1-week...2/10/17: 300mg; no significant changes noted. Discontinued: Omeprazole: 09/2103 40mg...5/1/14: 20mg... 8/21/14 = 0 Wellbutrin: 11/22/13: 300mg – 225mg...12/6/13 delayed reaction- mood swings, weight↓, heart palp/chest pain, alerting...12/14/13: 187mg; physical symptoms↓, neuro emotions ↑, weight stable...12/20/13: 225mg; physical symptoms return, emotions stable <1-week, weight↓...4/21/14: 187mg; weight↑...5/17/14 (neurologist ordered discontinue asap):168mg; headache, mood swings, ↑weight, sleep flux...5/24/14: 150mg; headache, mood swings, ↓cognitive/balance...6/2/14: 112mg; see above, weight stable, <3-weeks... 6/28/14: 100mg; moody...7/25/14: 87.5mg; family troubles... 8/4/14: 75mg; headaches; moody... 8/9/14: 50mg headaches... 8/12/14: 37.5mg; 8/17/14: 25mg...8/26/14 = 0 Hydroxyzine; 10mg: 5/20/15 *prn 4/5 times then dc'd. Mood changes/rage Buspirone: 7.5mg: 5/20/15 *prn 4/5 times then dc'd. No changes. Link to comment
John Posted February 18, 2014 Author Share Posted February 18, 2014 I just stumbled across your post. I have no words of wisdom to offer but I hope you found answers to your questions. No, i'm still suffering the same amount. I used to think this is anxiety, but it doesnt seem to match any of the anxiety symptoms. I thinks its tardive akathisia. I got this 3 years ago, and reinstated, but it took about 4 months to begin to feel better. This time I tapered, and stopped at half my dosage, so only God knows what'll happen now. 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
mattinsmom Posted February 18, 2014 Share Posted February 18, 2014 My brain is not working at the moment. It's too late for me to concentrate. I'm sorry that things have not gotten better for you. I'll check back soon when my thinking has cleared a little. Keep hanging in there. Have you done an introduction (there's a forum). If not you should start there. That is how we find people and connect with their stories. You'll get more feedback with an introduction page. Best to you. Current: Lorazapam: 2mg: 4/9/15: 2mg - 1.5mg: already sick/nothing noticed. No changes in sleep noted after illness. Lamictal: 7/27/13 - 8/6/13: 400mg - 500mg(dr order) mouth sores, headache, cognitive/balance, heart palp...8/7/13 - 8/23/13: 500mg - 400mg; symptoms↓...10/10/13: 350mg; fever/flu-like <2-weeks...12/30/13: 325mg; fever/flu-like symptoms <1-week...2/10/17: 300mg; no significant changes noted. Discontinued: Omeprazole: 09/2103 40mg...5/1/14: 20mg... 8/21/14 = 0 Wellbutrin: 11/22/13: 300mg – 225mg...12/6/13 delayed reaction- mood swings, weight↓, heart palp/chest pain, alerting...12/14/13: 187mg; physical symptoms↓, neuro emotions ↑, weight stable...12/20/13: 225mg; physical symptoms return, emotions stable <1-week, weight↓...4/21/14: 187mg; weight↑...5/17/14 (neurologist ordered discontinue asap):168mg; headache, mood swings, ↑weight, sleep flux...5/24/14: 150mg; headache, mood swings, ↓cognitive/balance...6/2/14: 112mg; see above, weight stable, <3-weeks... 6/28/14: 100mg; moody...7/25/14: 87.5mg; family troubles... 8/4/14: 75mg; headaches; moody... 8/9/14: 50mg headaches... 8/12/14: 37.5mg; 8/17/14: 25mg...8/26/14 = 0 Hydroxyzine; 10mg: 5/20/15 *prn 4/5 times then dc'd. Mood changes/rage Buspirone: 7.5mg: 5/20/15 *prn 4/5 times then dc'd. No changes. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus mammaP Posted February 18, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted February 18, 2014 Hi John, I've merged your topic in symptoms and self care into your introduction, it will get more views here and is specifically about you. Hopefully you will be feeling a little better by now. I'm sorry you are going through this, effexor is a nightmare drug to get off and should be banned along with the rest of them! **I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge. Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem) 1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat 2002 effexor. Tapered March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads. Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013 Restarted taper Nov 2013 OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015 Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014 Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg July 2017 30mg. May 15 2018 25mg Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33 Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible Link to comment
John Posted February 18, 2014 Author Share Posted February 18, 2014 Hi MammaP. No relief at all yet. Last time it took About 4 months for the beginnings of some kind of relief, but last time I reinstated 2 months into it. This time I didn't, a day stopped tapering at half my dose, but went up slightly in dose about 5 mgs. Did nothing so far, and it's been a few weeks. 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 mammaP Posted February 18, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted February 18, 2014 It will get better John, I was holding for 7 months after reinstating, just waiting to stabilise.. I had some great windows but some horrible nightmare waves too. I've been holding almost 4 months since my last drop and still having waves. It will get better. I hang on to that and refuse to believe any different! **I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge. Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem) 1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat 2002 effexor. Tapered March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads. Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013 Restarted taper Nov 2013 OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015 Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014 Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg July 2017 30mg. May 15 2018 25mg Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33 Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible Link to comment
John Posted February 18, 2014 Author Share Posted February 18, 2014 It will get better John, I was holding for 7 months after reinstating, just waiting to stabilise.. I had some great windows but some horrible nightmare waves too. I've been holding almost 4 months since my last drop and still having waves. It will get better. I hang on to that and refuse to believe any different! I hope so, MamaP. Im worried that when this happened when I went cold turkey last time, I fully reinstated, and then took 4 months to start to get better. This time I stopped at half my dose, so I hope it'll get better again, and not keep me in limbo. I wonder if my very low testosterone levels have something to do with this? Mines 195, and an 85 year old man should be about 350-400, and i'm 41, which should be about 600! 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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