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Cortisol testing


Francis

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The place that did my 24-hour test for urine says the NIH uses them. Apparently they think urine is the way to go.

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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  • 3 weeks later...

Ive also just found out my testosterone levels are low.  The total and free T is low, and my Dr didnt even mention it!  Instead, he gives me a lecture of my high cholesterol, which lowered since the last time since I did a few drops in the Effexor since then.  I think high cortisol lowers testosterone, doesnt it?  Anyone knows what this all means, and how this can effect me psychologically?  I asked my MD (who thinks i need to go back up on my med or switch it) that since he thinks I have an "anxiety disorder", explain to me 2 things;

 

1. How is it that my "underlying condition" manifested as symptoms that I never had before this Effexor  when I went cold turkey, and now that I tapered?  

 

2. Why is it that when I reinstated the Effexor, it took at least 5 months or maybe more to BEGIN to feel normal, when an SSRI takes UP TO 8 weeks to treat an organic condition?

 

He looked at me was about to say something, and then said "I have no f*****g idea."  I laughed and then he suggested that I might of reached a point where the med became "inefective".  He then suggested that my 3% taper over a year was unorthodox, and said I should go back up to 75mg, then reduce much quicker by 25% over a few weeks.  I even went to a psychologist, and he seemed bewildered and diagnosed me with anxiety NOS.

 

Because I cant seem to put my finger on what exactly i'm suffering, I think that it most closely resembles withdrawal akathisia.  I'm very jittery, move around a lot, to try to find relief, nervous, and am afraid to be alone, dread to go out, I obsessively think about this, and when I do, it gets much worse, and I sometimes sweat, and I have no appetite at all.  Lately i've been waking up the last 2 days with a completely dry mouth.  I also recently have been waking earlier than I used to though, yet I have no issues falling asleep or staying asleep.  At times I have to keep reminding myself that this whole condition is drug related, but I subconsciously forget, and feel like it'll be this way forever, and I bring upon real bad spells, and make myself many times worse.  

 

I guess the fact that 3 years ago I got better, I can 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.

 
 
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Sorry to bump a weeks old thread. I am getting a urine cortisol 24 hr test. I had a saliva test many months ago but I don't think it picked up my cortisol patterns, and I figure this would be a better way. So this is more accurate? I think it would be a better way of detecting the spiky cortisol I think I have. But then it takes an average of the whole day basically doesn't it? I have no idea how it works.

 

Thanks if anyone reads this...

Lexapro & Wellbutrin ~2003-2012

Switched from Lexapro to Prozac early 2012

CT all meds mid 2012, manic episode; put on every bipolar med known to man June-Aug 2012

Stopped meds CT Aug 2012

50 mg Lamictal Nov 2012

Ativan 0.5mg/PRN Dec 2012 (up to 2mg by May 2013)

Lunesta Jan-June 2013, CTed

Trazodone 100mg June 2013

[non-psych: Nature-Throid/Cytomel Dec 2012-June 2013; progesterone cream Nov 2013-pres]

current:75mg Lamictal (raised to help with benzo withdrawal)

1.6mg Ativan (very slowly tapering)

30mg Trazodone (holding)

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It gives you the total cortisol secreted (then excreted) by your body in 24 hours.

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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It is more accurate than saliva I guess?

Lexapro & Wellbutrin ~2003-2012

Switched from Lexapro to Prozac early 2012

CT all meds mid 2012, manic episode; put on every bipolar med known to man June-Aug 2012

Stopped meds CT Aug 2012

50 mg Lamictal Nov 2012

Ativan 0.5mg/PRN Dec 2012 (up to 2mg by May 2013)

Lunesta Jan-June 2013, CTed

Trazodone 100mg June 2013

[non-psych: Nature-Throid/Cytomel Dec 2012-June 2013; progesterone cream Nov 2013-pres]

current:75mg Lamictal (raised to help with benzo withdrawal)

1.6mg Ativan (very slowly tapering)

30mg Trazodone (holding)

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I was told it was...but you hear so many things. There are two issues, some drs. Don't believe saliva values correspond exactly to blood values. And blood values change all the time. If you are having spikes, it should make your total urine output elevated. Mine was elevated, but then the question is what to do with that information. Virtually anyone with withdrawal has too much cortisol.

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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Yes what to do? Do things like seriphos help or do they just help temporarily?

Lexapro & Wellbutrin ~2003-2012

Switched from Lexapro to Prozac early 2012

CT all meds mid 2012, manic episode; put on every bipolar med known to man June-Aug 2012

Stopped meds CT Aug 2012

50 mg Lamictal Nov 2012

Ativan 0.5mg/PRN Dec 2012 (up to 2mg by May 2013)

Lunesta Jan-June 2013, CTed

Trazodone 100mg June 2013

[non-psych: Nature-Throid/Cytomel Dec 2012-June 2013; progesterone cream Nov 2013-pres]

current:75mg Lamictal (raised to help with benzo withdrawal)

1.6mg Ativan (very slowly tapering)

30mg Trazodone (holding)

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I haven't looked into Seriphos seriously. I think people have mixed results. But that's what CFS Unravelled is about...I don't think you have CFS, it's just that the book is mostly about lifestyle reduction of cortisol. But much of it in withdrawal is just patience with the process. Anything you can do to reduce stress is helpful.

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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I've struggled with this one myself. Finally have ended up on a low dose of thyroid hormone because my low thyroid symptoms had just become so disabling for me (fatigue to where I could hardly walk or even stand, brain fog, completely unable to concentrate). But it's quite tricky because the thyroid substitution is activating and seems to interact with the rest of whatever's going on in withdrawal. Plus it's tricky getting just the right amount and not too much, and getting it at the right time of day. I haven't quite got it balanced out yet. I would agree, if you're not feeling disabled by fatigue, I wouldn't rock the boat!

 

Oh, and, by the way, my labs show that the low thyroid is due to suppression at the level of the pituitary or hypothalamus, not from the thyroid gland itself. This makes sense to me. I strongly suspect that it's disruption at the level of the pituitary, due to the use of and withdrawal from psych meds, that is at the root of this problem for me.

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.

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Rhi what do you mean by suppression by the pituitary? How can you tell this is the case? Withdrawal definitely has messed with my thyroid but I was also on thyroid med and it did nothing good for me, can't go down that route again...

Lexapro & Wellbutrin ~2003-2012

Switched from Lexapro to Prozac early 2012

CT all meds mid 2012, manic episode; put on every bipolar med known to man June-Aug 2012

Stopped meds CT Aug 2012

50 mg Lamictal Nov 2012

Ativan 0.5mg/PRN Dec 2012 (up to 2mg by May 2013)

Lunesta Jan-June 2013, CTed

Trazodone 100mg June 2013

[non-psych: Nature-Throid/Cytomel Dec 2012-June 2013; progesterone cream Nov 2013-pres]

current:75mg Lamictal (raised to help with benzo withdrawal)

1.6mg Ativan (very slowly tapering)

30mg Trazodone (holding)

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  • 10 months later...

Hello fellow traveller,

 

I have just posted a question about Cortisol but forgot to ask how you have Cortisol levels tested. Is it a simple blood test?

 

Also confused as to where to post. Do I "start a new topic" at page 1, or at the last page? Sorry, I'm trying to wrap my head around all of this and my head is not in a good place.

 

Hope everyone is travelling well. Three cheers for us. Carry on. Never say die. I am so tired.

 

steeley

Prescribed 30mg Mirtazapine approximately 10 years ago.  PTSD 

 

C/T 50% of dose - dreadful, hellish

Begin to reduce by 10% every 3-6 weeks

now:

5.11.14 4.50mg - going to wait a bit longer

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It can be tested via urine, blood, and saliva, but I think there are pros and cons with all. I don't know if you are up to book reading, but I have gotten some good ideas from the book The Adrenal Reset Diet. It's about much more than diet and it discusses testing in some detail.

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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Thank you so much Meimeiquest, I find it hard to concentrate but will give the book you suggest a go. I used to be an avid reader, so disappointing.

 

I hope you get this message as I am new to this site and don't know how you would receive this reply without being alerted to it. I'll go to "asking a question" and try to figure it all out.

 

Again, I thank you so much for your reply and hope that you are travelling well.

 

Kind regards

steeley

Prescribed 30mg Mirtazapine approximately 10 years ago.  PTSD 

 

C/T 50% of dose - dreadful, hellish

Begin to reduce by 10% every 3-6 weeks

now:

5.11.14 4.50mg - going to wait a bit longer

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Got it! Also, most everyone in withdrawal has disrupted cortisol function

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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  • Administrator

Merged related topics.

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.

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  • 1 year later...

I'm sorry if this topic has already been covered in another thread, I couldn't find it.

 

Raven has a fairly well established daily cycle of feeling pretty good when he gets up most days, and then starts to crash about an hour later. That's when he gets hit with depression, crying, emotionally rawness, inability to concentrate, sensory hypersensitivity, etc. that last until about 7 pm. Then most days, he actually feels fairly good again until he goes to sleep. Well, not "good", but you know.

 

He had an Adrenal Stress Index saliva test in Jan. 2015 that showed his cortisol to be well below the Reference Ranges for every time frame except Midnight.

 

The other posts I've read on SA seem to refer more to people in WD having spikes of cortisol in the morning, causing panic and anxiety early in the day, and the advice seems to be to NOT use any kind of adrenal support supplements. This doesn't quite fit Raven's profile.

 

He has an appt scheduled with a Functional Medicine doc on Monday, and I'm not sure what we should do if he recommends some kind of supplement to help boost Raven's cortisol. Suggestions?

Siskin

 

Raven's med history:

2001-2006 Paxil 40g

5/06 - 7/06 off meds

7/06 - 10/13 Prozac

4/12 - 11/12 Abilify

11/12 - 12/12 Risperdal

12/12 - 3/13 Geodon

7/13 - 10/13 tapered off Prozac

10/13 - present: med free

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Siskin I'll move your cortisol question to one of the other Cortisol threads in symptoms. Need to figure out where it fits first.

 

If the doc this week makes recommendations, you don't have to implement a single one immediately. I don't know if functional medicos sell supplements.  If this one does and he suggests ones that he sells, remember that vendors will exchange their goods for your cash most days of the week and year. ;)

 

Ask for all recommendations in writing, and tell him you want to learn more about them. Then, ask if he'll answer questions by phone or email. If yes, that's golden. After deciding on which recommendations to, I'd ask about how to phase the recommendations, i.e. which to start first,  add first, etc.

This is not medical advice. Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a knowledgeable medical practitioner.
1997-1999 Effexor; 2002-2005 Effexor XR 37.5 mg linear taper, dropping same #beads/week with bad results

Cymbalta 60 mg 2012 - 2015; 2016: 20 mg to 7 mg exact doses and dates in this post; 2017: 6.3 mg to  0.0 mg  Aug. 12; details here


scallywag's Introduction
Online spreadsheet for dose taper calculations and nz11's THE WORKS spreadsheet

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Those are wonderful suggestions so I can take time to learn more. Thank you!

Siskin

 

Raven's med history:

2001-2006 Paxil 40g

5/06 - 7/06 off meds

7/06 - 10/13 Prozac

4/12 - 11/12 Abilify

11/12 - 12/12 Risperdal

12/12 - 3/13 Geodon

7/13 - 10/13 tapered off Prozac

10/13 - present: med free

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  • 1 year later...

I have a cortisol question if anyone is following this particular topic.  I had my hormone levels tested (Dutch Hormone Test) and my morning cortisol levels are low.  I keep doing research on this and on the forum I only came across spikes in cortisol and high cortisol levels and nothing is mentioned about low cortisol levels.  Did anyone encounter this issue and how was this resolved and was this WD related for you? 

 

Ty!

 

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
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  • 3 years later...

Hi all i have learned that for us older males on the recovery path that excess cortisol peak that's tied in with anxiety us sufferers experience in the early mornings has a detrimental effect on  prostate health there is a strong correlation with cortisol  elevated PSA levels that invariably can lead to prostate cancer not good news as i fall in this category and am effected with this, it now has prompted me to search for ways to minimise this predisposition,  here is a clinical link for those that may need to know https://www.researchgate.net/publication/49717938_Life_events_cortisol_and_levels_of_prostate_specific_antigen_A_story_of_synergism 

hoping you all a shorten  journey to your recovery 

 

 

I've been medication free for 65 months and a half months as posted of May 30th 2021 , stopped   med's December 14th 2015,  history  20 years on  Prozac 80mg & Moclobemide 150 mg  per day,  stopped  Moclobemide sometime in 2012 then about a year later lowered Prozac  dose to 20mg  per day, then changed to Paroxetine, then change to a Mirtazapine,  then change to Lexapro,  then changed to Brintellix,  then changed to Edronax  all at 10mgs or less  over a period of about  year,   Edronax tapered 4mg to 2mg over  10 weeks, 2 mg for 8 weeks 1 mg for 10 weeks  stopped all meds completely 14 December 2015  3 months later all HELL broke loose 

18 Jan 2019 reinstated Prozac  .25 mg then ceased 8/8/20

 

 

 

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On 6/11/2021 at 1:04 AM, mickde1 said:

Hi all i have learned that for us older males on the recovery path that excess cortisol peak that's tied in with anxiety us sufferers experience in the early mornings has a detrimental effect on  prostate health there is a strong correlation with cortisol  elevated PSA levels that invariably can lead to prostate cancer not good news as i fall in this category and am effected with this, it now has prompted me to search for ways to minimise this predisposition,  here is a clinical link for those that may need to know https://www.researchgate.net/publication/49717938_Life_events_cortisol_and_levels_of_prostate_specific_antigen_A_story_of_synergism 

hoping you all a shorten  journey to your recovery 

Hi Mickde1,

This study examined the relationship between stressful life events, PSA levels and cortisol. They refer to Holmes and Rahe questionnaire about stressful life events during the past 1-5 years. I don't know if what you mention is listed in this questionnaire as a stressful life event.

Moreover cortisol levels are changing naturally. Did you get your cortisol levels checked? Are you sure that there is excess cortisol?

Furthermore this study states only that there might be a possible cancer risk, where the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis may moderate stress-cancer risk associations.

Besides the sample size used in this study is very small. And it says nothing about the medical relevance of it's results. 

Evidence is something else. ;)

When you worry about your cancer risk I guess it would be best to speak to your healthcare provider first.

Ven

 

2014 – 2020: Venlafaxine (extended release) in doses from 37,5 – 300 mg

2017: Venlafaxine - started tapering off after discontinuation had failed

12-15-2019: Venlafaxine 2,64 mg (8 beads) = 4 weeks

01-15-2020: Venlafaxine 1,32 mg (4 beads)] = 6 weeks || 02-29: 1,98 mg (6 beads) = 6 weeks || 04-15: 1,65 mg (5 beads) ≈ 14 weeks = 3,5 month || 07-25: 1,98 mg (6 beads) = 1 day || 07-26: 1,65 mg (5 beads) ≈ 2 weeks || 08-10: 1,98 mg (6 beads) = 4 days || 08-14: 1,65 mg (5 beads) = 4 days || 08-18: 0,99 mg (3 beads) = 6 days || 08-24: (0 mg)

08-2020 – 03-2021: Diazepam occasionally in doses from 2,5 – 5 mg

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Hi Ven

Its a known fact that this condition exist with sufferers of WD symptoms ( elevated cortisol leveis ) you'll find evidence of cases on this site  and inforamtion on ways to try to manage cortisol spikes  i disagree with your view that you seem to dispel that sufferes of WD symptoms don't live a stressful existence for me, personally my 5 and a half year journey in sufferance has been the most stressful on going existence  encountered its been epic to say the least and yes professioal people i consult with have diagnosed this state.

It's not a myth 

 

 

I've been medication free for 65 months and a half months as posted of May 30th 2021 , stopped   med's December 14th 2015,  history  20 years on  Prozac 80mg & Moclobemide 150 mg  per day,  stopped  Moclobemide sometime in 2012 then about a year later lowered Prozac  dose to 20mg  per day, then changed to Paroxetine, then change to a Mirtazapine,  then change to Lexapro,  then changed to Brintellix,  then changed to Edronax  all at 10mgs or less  over a period of about  year,   Edronax tapered 4mg to 2mg over  10 weeks, 2 mg for 8 weeks 1 mg for 10 weeks  stopped all meds completely 14 December 2015  3 months later all HELL broke loose 

18 Jan 2019 reinstated Prozac  .25 mg then ceased 8/8/20

 

 

 

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Furthermore its only one of many studies that conclude this finding 

 

 

I've been medication free for 65 months and a half months as posted of May 30th 2021 , stopped   med's December 14th 2015,  history  20 years on  Prozac 80mg & Moclobemide 150 mg  per day,  stopped  Moclobemide sometime in 2012 then about a year later lowered Prozac  dose to 20mg  per day, then changed to Paroxetine, then change to a Mirtazapine,  then change to Lexapro,  then changed to Brintellix,  then changed to Edronax  all at 10mgs or less  over a period of about  year,   Edronax tapered 4mg to 2mg over  10 weeks, 2 mg for 8 weeks 1 mg for 10 weeks  stopped all meds completely 14 December 2015  3 months later all HELL broke loose 

18 Jan 2019 reinstated Prozac  .25 mg then ceased 8/8/20

 

 

 

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10 minutes ago, mickde1 said:

Hi Ven

Its a known fact that this condition exist with sufferers of WD symptoms ( elevated cortisol leveis ) you'll find evidence of cases on this site  and inforamtion on ways to try to manage cortisol spikes  i disagree with your view that you seem to dispel that sufferes of WD symptoms don't live a stressful existence for me, personally my 5 and a half year journey in sufferance has been the most stressful on going existence  encountered its been epic to say the least and yes professioal people i consult with have diagnosed this state.

It's not a myth 

Hi Mickde1,

 

I don't doubt your suffering by any means. The study that you mention is most likely not suitable for laymen to join dots that are simply not there as what they might see as a critcal factor simply was not part of the study. The clincal relevance of the results of such studies also needs to be proven seperately before jumping to conclusions that might not exist.
When you need interpretation of the study results in respect to your symptoms, it's probably best when you speak to your healthcare provider about it.

Ven 

 

2014 – 2020: Venlafaxine (extended release) in doses from 37,5 – 300 mg

2017: Venlafaxine - started tapering off after discontinuation had failed

12-15-2019: Venlafaxine 2,64 mg (8 beads) = 4 weeks

01-15-2020: Venlafaxine 1,32 mg (4 beads)] = 6 weeks || 02-29: 1,98 mg (6 beads) = 6 weeks || 04-15: 1,65 mg (5 beads) ≈ 14 weeks = 3,5 month || 07-25: 1,98 mg (6 beads) = 1 day || 07-26: 1,65 mg (5 beads) ≈ 2 weeks || 08-10: 1,98 mg (6 beads) = 4 days || 08-14: 1,65 mg (5 beads) = 4 days || 08-18: 0,99 mg (3 beads) = 6 days || 08-24: (0 mg)

08-2020 – 03-2021: Diazepam occasionally in doses from 2,5 – 5 mg

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With all due respect Ven i have drawn plenty of validity  in several studies and findings that conclude the same result chemicals hormones and pathways and interactions im not going to spell out the process it's relent and  exist, all the lovely people that are the constituent of this great resourceful site that that look out for each other have express their short comings after being on antidepressants they know to well of the morning cortisol spike and yes Dr Micheal Woodbridge of Nutritional & Environmental Medicine Queensland ...FACEM FRACGP MB CHB DIP MSM DIP B SC

acknowledging this condition in myself this is the case and may well be for others as i first stated in my first post so be it end of story

have great day Ven

 

 

I've been medication free for 65 months and a half months as posted of May 30th 2021 , stopped   med's December 14th 2015,  history  20 years on  Prozac 80mg & Moclobemide 150 mg  per day,  stopped  Moclobemide sometime in 2012 then about a year later lowered Prozac  dose to 20mg  per day, then changed to Paroxetine, then change to a Mirtazapine,  then change to Lexapro,  then changed to Brintellix,  then changed to Edronax  all at 10mgs or less  over a period of about  year,   Edronax tapered 4mg to 2mg over  10 weeks, 2 mg for 8 weeks 1 mg for 10 weeks  stopped all meds completely 14 December 2015  3 months later all HELL broke loose 

18 Jan 2019 reinstated Prozac  .25 mg then ceased 8/8/20

 

 

 

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Hi Mickde1,

 

Again - please don't get me wrong - I don't doubt any of your conditions. When you have high cortisol or abnormal cortisol levels you have them. No doubt. What I say is that one has to be careful about the conclusions one draws from a study like this. The reasons why I say this pls see my other posts on this issue. If you want to believe something else you're free to do so. There is no need to argue that.

The cirtical factors in respect to cancer of this study are: "age, body mass index and the ratio of triglycerides to HDL cholesterol". If you want to lower your risk to cancer you may want to address these parameters first. This means: healthy, anti inflamatory and plant based nutrition, no alcohol, no smoking, no refined sugars, suitable expercise, etc. But these are all things that one should discuss with his healthcare provider.

To your health!
Ven



 

 

2014 – 2020: Venlafaxine (extended release) in doses from 37,5 – 300 mg

2017: Venlafaxine - started tapering off after discontinuation had failed

12-15-2019: Venlafaxine 2,64 mg (8 beads) = 4 weeks

01-15-2020: Venlafaxine 1,32 mg (4 beads)] = 6 weeks || 02-29: 1,98 mg (6 beads) = 6 weeks || 04-15: 1,65 mg (5 beads) ≈ 14 weeks = 3,5 month || 07-25: 1,98 mg (6 beads) = 1 day || 07-26: 1,65 mg (5 beads) ≈ 2 weeks || 08-10: 1,98 mg (6 beads) = 4 days || 08-14: 1,65 mg (5 beads) = 4 days || 08-18: 0,99 mg (3 beads) = 6 days || 08-24: (0 mg)

08-2020 – 03-2021: Diazepam occasionally in doses from 2,5 – 5 mg

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  • 3 months later...

Ven After all this time i have come across your last post  your depiction of the above  criteria you 've stated above you have described me to a T. Age body mass index and the ratio of triglycerides to HDL cholesterol all within the healthy parameters and health cholesterol score that's my health status,  and yes my  nutrition no Alcohol no smoking no refined sugars and i  exercise 6 day's a week And yes as in my  i first posted clinical studies summary Excess Cortisol  elevates PSA that can lead to prostate cancer. This where i sit Elevating PSA over the past few years and lets just say i have super charged cortisol spikes in the morning what more is need to said ?

 

 

I've been medication free for 65 months and a half months as posted of May 30th 2021 , stopped   med's December 14th 2015,  history  20 years on  Prozac 80mg & Moclobemide 150 mg  per day,  stopped  Moclobemide sometime in 2012 then about a year later lowered Prozac  dose to 20mg  per day, then changed to Paroxetine, then change to a Mirtazapine,  then change to Lexapro,  then changed to Brintellix,  then changed to Edronax  all at 10mgs or less  over a period of about  year,   Edronax tapered 4mg to 2mg over  10 weeks, 2 mg for 8 weeks 1 mg for 10 weeks  stopped all meds completely 14 December 2015  3 months later all HELL broke loose 

18 Jan 2019 reinstated Prozac  .25 mg then ceased 8/8/20

 

 

 

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I'm merging this here because any theory depending on serum cortisol or saliva cortisol testing is bogus. Cortisol levels measured by these test vary throughout the day.

 

A 24-hour urine test, measuring total daily cortisol, is used to identify an adrenal or pituitary tumor. Obviously, if you have such a tumor, you'll probably be quite ill and possibly subject to other ailments, as these tumors release a lot of cortisol.

 

The ordinary stress cortisol does not contribute to this level of health risk, though psychiatry would very much like to demonstrate its supposedly cortisol-reducing treatments are essential to actual physical health.

 

(And nothing gets attention like scaring men about their sexual functioning.)

 

I'd beware of any theory about major health risk based on cortisol released by stress. There is no question that being under extreme stress, such as being in a refugee camp for years, is bad for one's general health, but there are many other conditions that contribute to the erosion of health in these situations, not just elevated cortisol. That is sheer biological psychiatry nonsense, as is this study referencing prostate health, which ignores every other aspect of stressful life events, such as nutrition and poverty. 

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

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