ConcernedMama: My daughter insists on weaning off fluoxetine by taking a pill once/week

[ConcernedMama]

Thank you so much for all of the information, research, and stories you all have shared. I have been lurking here since early August in an attempt to help my daughter. I just decided to join because I am looking for advice that is specific to her situation and I don't know where else to turn.

 

She is currently 23 year old and has been on fluoxetine since February 2021 for PTSD as prescribed by a psychiatrist. Her initial daily dosage was 20mg, which was increased to 40mg by her PCP in April 2023 due to complaints of having difficulties at college (emotional outbursts).

 

She decided on her own to wean herself off over a month ago. I tried to get her to taper slowly, but she refused and is doing this all by herself. So far she is doing ok. No signs of withdrawal. But I am concerned what will happen when she depletes all of her pills.

 

She currently has two 40mg and thirteen 20mg pills left. Her plan is just to take one each Sunday until she is done. I am trying to encourage her to at least start dividing the pills. Although I know this is not ideal, I thought she might be more compliant as long as she is taking only one pill each week. I would appreciate any advice someone might have for me on how best to guide her. Thank you!

Edited September 26 by FireflyFyte
updated title

[FireflyFyte]

Hi ConcernedMama,

 

We would encourage you to talk to your daughter and have her create an account here and open an introductory thread.

 

In the meantime, you can share with her our thread NEVER SKIP DOSES TO TAPER.

 

6 minutes ago, ConcernedMama said:

So far she is doing ok. No signs of withdrawal. But I am concerned what will happen when she depletes all of her pills.

 

Given its' long half-life, withdrawal symptoms for Fluoxetine can take time to surface. I hope she does not experience any but it is a possibility.

 

Thanks,

 

Firefly