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Frogie: how to taper off Lexapro and Xanax?


Frogie

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  • Administrator

If I were you, I would stabilize on 10mg Lexapro until you can resolve your digestive issues.

 

Your liver x-rays do not tell a gastroenterologist that you are nauseous every day.

 

You need to see a gastroenterologist, list ALL your health problems, and explain ALL your symptoms.

 

October 15 was the first time you mentioned you had your gallbladder out, after posting here about daily nausea for a month and a half.

 

You say you take "something" for your gallbladder, which you haven't mentioned before. Maybe this is making you sick. You didn't answer my question about whether you were on the gallbladder diet.

 

Nausea, indigestion, gallbladder, liver, stomach -- didn't it occur to you they were all connected?

 

I cannot solve your difficulty finding an appropriate health care provider. If you can't get to one, you need to research your health problems yourself. Dr. Google is a great resource.

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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  • Moderator

If I were you, I would stabilize on 10mg Lexapro until you can resolve your digestive issues.

 

Your liver x-rays do not tell a gastroenterologist that you are nauseous every day.

 

You need to see a gastroenterologist, list ALL your health problems, and explain ALL your symptoms.

 

October 15 was the first time you mentioned you had your gallbladder out, after posting here about daily nausea for a month and a half.

 

You say you take "something" for your gallbladder, which you haven't mentioned before. Maybe this is making you sick. You didn't answer my question about whether you were on the gallbladder diet.

 

Nausea, indigestion, gallbladder, liver, stomach -- didn't it occur to you they were all connected?

 

I cannot solve your difficulty finding an appropriate health care provider. If you can't get to one, you need to research your health problems yourself. Dr. Google is a great resource.

I am on a very bland diet. Chicken, fruits and veggies. I don't know if that is a gallbladder diet or not. Nothing spicy or greasy. That's what they told me to eat after I had it out. I will try to find a gastroenterologist. I take colestipol for bile since I don't have a gallbladder. It could be making me sick. If I can't find a dr I will google what I can. I did Google vitamin e this morning. The dr told me to take 800iu a day for my liver. I found out that it can cause nausea, diarrhea, fatigue and other symptoms. I am taking milk thistle. Can you help me?

 

I just read Skeeters page (I think that was the name). Makes perfect sence. I can't do dairy without being sick and generic Lexapro has dairy in it!

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Administrator

I don't do gastroenterology.

 

Read this and stop asking me questions about your digestive problems:

 

https://www.drugs.com/sfx/colestipol-side-effects.html

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
  • Moderator

I don't do gastroenterology.

 

Read this and stop asking me questions about your digestive problems:

 

https://www.drugs.com/sfx/colestipol-side-effects.html

I'm going to call my dr tomorrow about this med and the generic Lexapro having dairy in it. Thank you. I wasn't asking you about my digestive problems, I was asking if you will help me get off my meds?

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Administrator

Generic Lexapro having dairy in it is a non-issue.

 

We offer tapering advice. I will not continue to answer your every question. I have too much else to do.

 

You will have to learn to read carefully and figure things out.

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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  • Moderator

Generic Lexapro having dairy in it is a non-issue.

 

We offer tapering advice. I will not continue to answer your every question. I have too much else to do.

 

You will have to learn to read carefully and figure things out.

Ok, I just made a statement about all of this.

Now will you be able to offer me tapering advise after I speak to my dr and a gastroenterologist?

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Hello Frogie.

 

I would suggest you read through your thread from the beginning including the links you have been provided. The tapering advice is there.

 

As I understood it at the moment you need to sort out your gastro issues with adequate specialists. Once you have sorted that we will support you in your tapering process just as we support all other members. This involves quite a bit of involvement on their part and reading through the information they have been provided for.

 

Maybe at first it was all a bit too much for you and now things would make more sense.

Current: 9/2022 Xanax 0.08, Lexapro 2

2020 Xanax 0.26 (down from 2 mg in 2013), Lexapro 2.85 mg (down from 5 mg 2013)

Amitriptyline (tricyclic AD) and clonazepam for 3 months to treat headache in 1996 
1999. - present Xanax prn up to 3 mg.
2000-2005 Prozac CT twice, 2005-2010 Zoloft CT 3 times, 2010-2013 Escitalopram 10 mg
went from 2.5 to zero on 7 Aug 2013, bad crash 40 days after
reinstated to 5 mg Escitalopram 4Oct 2013 and holding liquid Xanax every 5 hours
28 Jan 2014 Xanax 1.9, 18 Apr  2015 1 mg,  25 June 2015 Lex 4.8, 6 Aug Lexapro 4.6, 1 Jan 2016 0.64  Xanax     9 month hold

24 Sept 2016 4.5 Lex, 17 Oct 4.4 Lex (Nov 0.63 Xanax, Dec 0.625 Xanax), 1 Jan 2017 4.3 Lex, 24 Jan 4.2, 5 Feb 4.1, 24 Mar 4 mg, 10 Apr 3.9 mg, May 3.85, June 3.8, July 3.75, 22 July 3.7, 15 Aug 3.65, 17 Sept 3.6, 1 Jan 2018 3.55, 19 Jan 3.5, 16 Mar 3.4, 14 Apr 3.3, 23 May 3.2, 16 June 3.15, 15 Jul 3.1, 31 Jul 3, 21 Aug 2.9 26 Sept 2.85, 14 Nov Xan 0.61, 1 Dec 0.59, 19 Dec 0.58, 4 Jan 0.565, 6 Feb 0.55, 20 Feb 0.535, 1 Mar 0.505, 10 Mar 0.475, 14 Mar 0.45, 4 Apr 0.415, 13 Apr 0.37, 21 Apr 0.33, 29 Apr 0.29, 10 May 0.27, 17 May 0.25, 28 May 0.22, 19 June 0.22, 21 Jun updose to 0.24, 24 Jun updose to 0.26

Supplements: Omega 3 + Vit E, Vit C, D, magnesium, Taurine, probiotic 

I'm not a medical professional. Any advice I give is based on my own experience and reading. 

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  • Moderator

Hello Frogie.

I would suggest you read through your thread from the beginning including the links you have been provided. The tapering advice is there.

As I understood it at the moment you need to sort out your gastro issues with adequate specialists. Once you have sorted that we will support you in your tapering process just as we support all other members. This involves quite a bit of involvement on their part and reading through the information they have been provided for.

Maybe at first it was all a bit too much for you and now things would make more sense.

I have been reading my thread from the beginning today.

 

As I told Altostrata, I live a minimum of 175 miles away from any specialists. I'm going to call my dr tomorrow (which is 175 miles away) and talk to him. I have a dr here where I live but he is not familiar with all of my ailments. He is an "idiot ". My dr has a gastroenterologist right across the hall from him that he consults with all the time. I might be able to do it by skype or through my dr since he has all my medical records. I've done that before with my dr.

 

I try to answer questions the best I can but sometimes I guess I mess up. I'm not that smart I suppose.

 

I will let you know what I find out after I talk to my dr.

 

I just want off my meds the best and safest way possible, and be treated like a human being.

 

Thank you.

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Moderator

Probably all normal withdrawal symptoms.

 

Right now, we can't really sort out - how much the big 20mg to 10 mg Lexapro drop is still affecting you (believe me, you are still under its influence) and how much the Prilosec 25% drop is affecting you.

 

I know that the unknown is what is contributing to your anxiety.

 

There's a story about the unknown - a study was done at a prison, measuring health and stress levels of inmates.

 

The ones who were up for parole were more anxious and stressed than the ones who were there for life. The unknown is more stressful than bad news.

 

But those techniques that Alto gave you:

 

 

Can become your lifeline, if you pursue them. We can't answer all your questions - and neither can your doctor. You are going to have to tough some things out, and live through them. You're halfway through the dark forest, you may as well keep going (with plenty of rest, and holds, in between).

 

To check various symptoms, see: Dr. Joseph Glenmullen's Most Common symptoms of Withdrawal

 

These are the most common symptoms of withdrawal, though the list is not every possible symptom that happens in withdrawal.

 

When you get a new symptom - like diarrhea - check it against the list. Yup. Gastric disturbances are there. Relax. It's just withdrawal.

 

For others who have suffered gut trouble, visit here:

http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/3413-digestive-problems-nausea-diarrhea-bloating-gerd/

 

I thought of you today as I was filling my supplement trays. At some point (not right away) you may benefit from Marshmallow and /or Slippery elm. Both help produce mucous to protect the lining of the stomach and digestive tract. They each work in a slightly different way. I normally recommend slippery elm, first.

 

Will my herbs and lifestyle heal my liver? I don't know. I lost major organs (thyroid & ovaries), and do not know if I can get the balance back. I'm WAY better than I was when I started this journey, so I have every reason to believe it will get better still - but I'm also fighting against aging, too. I don't think I will ever get my 45 year old liver back. But - I can always get better than I am now.

 

Just keep saying it: It can get better. It will get better. It does get better. You can do this!

I was thinking about you today. How gave you been?

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Moderator

Altostrata,

 

I have spoken with my dr 175 miles away and explained everything that is going on. He has a GI dr across the hall from him. He sent my records over to him this morning. My dr is going to get a conference call this afternoon with him, me and the GI dr.

But for now, my dr thinks that I got off Prilosec too quickly and I have rebound acid. That's why I'm sick before I get out of bed. He suggested that I take a 20mg before bed and 10-15mg in the morning to get my nausea under control so I can taper Lexapro. He said because I was on all of this so many years, I have to take it very slowly, even though we want my liver to heal. He also told me to stop the Vitamin E right now, that could be contributing to my nausea and GI problems. He said only take the carafate, Zantac and zofran if I absolutely have too. But he wants me to wait for the GI dr to confirm all of this before I do it. I saw him last month and he said my liver was fine to go slow. He said at that time the hemangioma could be laying on my stomach making me nauseous also. He also said to stop the bile medication Colestipol.

I just wanted you to know that I am making efforts to resolve this. I do want to get better.

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Moderator

Hello Frogie.

I would suggest you read through your thread from the beginning including the links you have been provided. The tapering advice is there.

As I understood it at the moment you need to sort out your gastro issues with adequate specialists. Once you have sorted that we will support you in your tapering process just as we support all other members. This involves quite a bit of involvement on their part and reading through the information they have been provided for.

Maybe at first it was all a bit too much for you and now things would make more sense.

I hope you read what I wrote earlier today.

I had a conference call with my dr, me and the GI dr just a few minutes ago. I told the GI dr what has been going on. My dr already knew. The GI dr had my records, so he talked to me. He confirmed what my dr said this morning. To get back on 20mg Prilosec before bed and then 10-15mg in the morning until I don't have the nausea anymore. Then I can taper very slowly off the Lexapro. The GI dr also agreed with my dr to not take the Zantac, carafate or zofran unless it's unbearable. I'm to also stop the Vitamin E and Colestipol because he feels I'm taking too much medicine. After my nausea or reflux (he thinks) is gone, I can take the carafate if I feel better on it, but it really makes me bloat. If my nausea doesn't clear up in a month, or gets worse, then he wants me to see my dr. He was very nice and explained everything so I understood it just like my dr. But he looked at my ct scan and read all the reports on the other tests, and said he felt he didn't need to see me. So now, will someone please help me?

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Alto said:  "If I were you, I would stabilize on 10mg Lexapro until you can resolve your digestive issues."

 

bubble said:  "As I understood it at the moment you need to sort out your gastro issues with adequate specialists."

 

You have received the advice of the doctors:  "To get back on 20mg Prilosec before bed and then 10-15mg in the morning until I don't have the nausea anymore."

 

Keep Notes on Paper

 

The doctors said:  "Then I can taper very slowly off the Lexapro."

 

As bubble said:  "Once you have sorted that (your gastro issues) we will support you in your tapering process just as we support all other members."

 

You asked:  "So now, will someone please help me?"

 

SA supports members tapering and withdrawing from antidepressants.  Once your gastro issues are sorted out, we can then support you tapering Lexapro.

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED:  (6 year taper)      0mg Pristiq  on 13th November 2021

ADs since ~1992:  25+ years - 1 unknown, Prozac (muscle weakness), Zoloft; citalopram (pooped out) CTed (very sick for 2.5 wks a few months after); Pristiq:  50mg 2012, 100mg beg 2013 (Serotonin Toxicity)  Tapering from Oct 2015 - 13 Nov 2021   LAST DOSE 0.0025mg

Post 0 updates start here    My tapering program     My Intro (goes to tapering graph)

 VIDEO:   Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome and its Management

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  • Moderator

Alto said:  "If I were you, I would stabilize on 10mg Lexapro until you can resolve your digestive issues."

 

bubble said:  "As I understood it at the moment you need to sort out your gastro issues with adequate specialists."

 

You have received the advice of the doctors:  "To get back on 20mg Prilosec before bed and then 10-15mg in the morning until I don't have the nausea anymore."

 

Keep Notes on Paper

 

The doctors said:  "Then I can taper very slowly off the Lexapro."

 

As bubble said:  "Once you have sorted that (your gastro issues) we will support you in your tapering process just as we support all other members."

 

You asked:  "So now, will someone please help me?"

 

SA supports members tapering and withdrawing from antidepressants.  Once your gastro issues are sorted out, we can then support you tapering Lexapro.

ChessieCat:

 

I did exactly what was asked of me. I've made as much progress as I can today.

Do you know how long it takes a PPI to fully work? I've been on them a little over 10 years I think and I can't remember?

I still am very nauseous today, but hopefully it will get better now that I have my dr and a GI's advice.

Thanks for answering me. I really appreciate it :)

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Frogie, you may not get to perfect on your prilosec.  You've been on it for so long, and I know that psych drugs kindle, and I know that other drugs kindle (become less effective or paradoxical with long term use) - so it may be that the prilosec may not cover the symptoms.

 

Did it ever cover the symptoms?  Or were you always nauseous?  I remember you saying that you were doing okay until you cut your Lexapro in half - and then the nausea became unbearable.  Is that an accurate memory?

 

I think you need to get to a point where things are bearable.  Then, after you've made no changes for 3 months - consider whether your doctor's strategy is working or not.  I think your doctor's strategy is better than any other doctor's strategy you've gotten.

 

Breathe, you can get through this.  Here at SA, we're waiting for you to hold for awhile before considering what's next.  That is likely to be in the new year.

 

I hope you see the sun today.

"Easy, easy - just go easy and you'll finish." - Hawaiian Kapuna

 

Holding is hard work, holding is a blessing. Give your brain time to heal before you try again.

 

My suggestions are not medical advice, you are in charge of your own medical choices.

 

A lifetime of being prescribed antidepressants that caused problems (30 years in total). At age 35 flipped to "bipolar," but was not diagnosed for 5 years. Started my journey in Midwest United States. Crossed the Pacific for love and hope; currently living in Australia.   CT Seroquel 25 mg some time in 2013.   Tapered Reboxetine 4 mg Oct 2013 to Sept 2014 = GONE (3 years on Reboxetine).     Tapered Lithium 900 to 475 MG (alternating with the SNRI) Jan 2014 - Nov 2014, tapered Lithium 475 mg Jan 2015 -  Feb 2016 = GONE (10 years  on Lithium).  Many mistakes in dry cutting dosages were made.


The tedious thread (my intro):  JanCarol ☼ Reboxetine first, then Lithium

The happy thread (my success story):  JanCarol - Undiagnosed  Off all bipolar drugs

My own blog:  https://shamanexplorations.com/shamans-blog/

 

 

I have been psych drug FREE since 1 Feb 2016!

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  • Moderator

When I was on 40mg of Prilosec and Zantac when needed I was fine. But that's when I was on 20mg Lexapro.

 

When I did the cut on Lexapro, that's when I started getting nauseous.

 

At least my dr and a GI dr agreed to try this. It can't hurt to try.

 

I'm just tired of the nausea.

 

Thanks for the encouragement, I'm desperate!

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus

This is in response to your PM.

 

We are all volunteers here who are going through our own withdrawal and managing things as best as we can. In your particular situation it seems that we all feel we gave you all the answers we could and can't do better than this. Sometimes we have to put an effort into looking for particular answers ourselves by googling etc. Also people don't reply when they don't know an answer to a particular question which is the case with your gastro situation.

 

We provide suggestions and share experiences only on the thread. We don't have the capacity for any other type of support.

 

I hope this clarifies our position better. The support we provide has its limitations and its not perfect. I find reading the experiences of other members very helpful and I often read threads of other people where I find many answers to my own questions and see that many people are in the same boat. That gives me a lot of comfort and ideas on how to manage my situation. Despite our individual differences withdrawal affects us all in the same way. Also, the people that offer support and suggestions for me are the ones I 'made friends with' by visiting their threads and offering support in their situations. We all here mutually support each other and that is how the site works.

 

Stabilising from changes in the drug you made in September will take time. The only thing you can do is not to change the dose. You have been advised that several times. You will have to work with your doctors to sort out the situation with other meds. I'm afraid there really isn't much we can add at this point.

 

The waiting time will be best utilised by looking into Non-drug techniques for managing symptoms and applying as many of them as possible.http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1112-non-drug-techniques-to-cope-with-emotional-symptoms/

 

I really hope things get better for you soon and you are able to feel some improvements which will encourage you.

Current: 9/2022 Xanax 0.08, Lexapro 2

2020 Xanax 0.26 (down from 2 mg in 2013), Lexapro 2.85 mg (down from 5 mg 2013)

Amitriptyline (tricyclic AD) and clonazepam for 3 months to treat headache in 1996 
1999. - present Xanax prn up to 3 mg.
2000-2005 Prozac CT twice, 2005-2010 Zoloft CT 3 times, 2010-2013 Escitalopram 10 mg
went from 2.5 to zero on 7 Aug 2013, bad crash 40 days after
reinstated to 5 mg Escitalopram 4Oct 2013 and holding liquid Xanax every 5 hours
28 Jan 2014 Xanax 1.9, 18 Apr  2015 1 mg,  25 June 2015 Lex 4.8, 6 Aug Lexapro 4.6, 1 Jan 2016 0.64  Xanax     9 month hold

24 Sept 2016 4.5 Lex, 17 Oct 4.4 Lex (Nov 0.63 Xanax, Dec 0.625 Xanax), 1 Jan 2017 4.3 Lex, 24 Jan 4.2, 5 Feb 4.1, 24 Mar 4 mg, 10 Apr 3.9 mg, May 3.85, June 3.8, July 3.75, 22 July 3.7, 15 Aug 3.65, 17 Sept 3.6, 1 Jan 2018 3.55, 19 Jan 3.5, 16 Mar 3.4, 14 Apr 3.3, 23 May 3.2, 16 June 3.15, 15 Jul 3.1, 31 Jul 3, 21 Aug 2.9 26 Sept 2.85, 14 Nov Xan 0.61, 1 Dec 0.59, 19 Dec 0.58, 4 Jan 0.565, 6 Feb 0.55, 20 Feb 0.535, 1 Mar 0.505, 10 Mar 0.475, 14 Mar 0.45, 4 Apr 0.415, 13 Apr 0.37, 21 Apr 0.33, 29 Apr 0.29, 10 May 0.27, 17 May 0.25, 28 May 0.22, 19 June 0.22, 21 Jun updose to 0.24, 24 Jun updose to 0.26

Supplements: Omega 3 + Vit E, Vit C, D, magnesium, Taurine, probiotic 

I'm not a medical professional. Any advice I give is based on my own experience and reading. 

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  • Administrator

 

Hello Frogie.

I would suggest you read through your thread from the beginning including the links you have been provided. The tapering advice is there.

As I understood it at the moment you need to sort out your gastro issues with adequate specialists. Once you have sorted that we will support you in your tapering process just as we support all other members. This involves quite a bit of involvement on their part and reading through the information they have been provided for.

Maybe at first it was all a bit too much for you and now things would make more sense.

I hope you read what I wrote earlier today.

I had a conference call with my dr, me and the GI dr just a few minutes ago. I told the GI dr what has been going on. My dr already knew. The GI dr had my records, so he talked to me. He confirmed what my dr said this morning. To get back on 20mg Prilosec before bed and then 10-15mg in the morning until I don't have the nausea anymore. Then I can taper very slowly off the Lexapro. The GI dr also agreed with my dr to not take the Zantac, carafate or zofran unless it's unbearable. I'm to also stop the Vitamin E and Colestipol because he feels I'm taking too much medicine. After my nausea or reflux (he thinks) is gone, I can take the carafate if I feel better on it, but it really makes me bloat. If my nausea doesn't clear up in a month, or gets worse, then he wants me to see my dr. He was very nice and explained everything so I understood it just like my dr. But he looked at my ct scan and read all the reports on the other tests, and said he felt he didn't need to see me. So now, will someone please help me?

 

 

This is reasonable.

 

As you need to get stable on your gastro treatment and drugs, it will be a while before you taper Lexapro, probably at least a month. Until then, there's nothing we can do to help. You have the information you need to taper Lexapro when the time comes.

 

We can't solve your nausea problem. You may recall it being related to going off Lexapro, but you have so many other things going on, it's more likely related to your gastro problems. Please search for a forum site (not this one) dealing with gastrointestinal issues to discuss your gastro issues.

 

As far as help is concerned, all we do here is give information. We have given you information. The rest is up to you.

 

When you are ready to taper the Lexapro, please let us know.

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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  • Moderator

 

 

Hello Frogie.

I would suggest you read through your thread from the beginning including the links you have been provided. The tapering advice is there.

As I understood it at the moment you need to sort out your gastro issues with adequate specialists. Once you have sorted that we will support you in your tapering process just as we support all other members. This involves quite a bit of involvement on their part and reading through the information they have been provided for.

Maybe at first it was all a bit too much for you and now things would make more sense.

 

I hope you read what I wrote earlier today.

I had a conference call with my dr, me and the GI dr just a few minutes ago. I told the GI dr what has been going on. My dr already knew. The GI dr had my records, so he talked to me. He confirmed what my dr said this morning. To get back on 20mg Prilosec before bed and then 10-15mg in the morning until I don't have the nausea anymore. Then I can taper very slowly off the Lexapro. The GI dr also agreed with my dr to not take the Zantac, carafate or zofran unless it's unbearable. I'm to also stop the Vitamin E and Colestipol because he feels I'm taking too much medicine. After my nausea or reflux (he thinks) is gone, I can take the carafate if I feel better on it, but it really makes me bloat. If my nausea doesn't clear up in a month, or gets worse, then he wants me to see my dr. He was very nice and explained everything so I understood it just like my dr. But he looked at my ct scan and read all the reports on the other tests, and said he felt he didn't need to see me. So now, will someone please help me?

This is reasonable.

 

As you need to get stable on your gastro treatment and drugs, it will be a while before you taper Lexapro, probably at least a month. Until then, there's nothing we can do to help. You have the information you need to taper Lexapro when the time comes.

 

We can't solve your nausea problem. You may recall it being related to going off Lexapro, but you have so many other things going on, it's more likely related to your gastro problems. Please search for a forum site (not this one) dealing with gastrointestinal issues to discuss your gastro issues.

 

As far as help is concerned, all we do here is give information. We have given you information. The rest is up to you.

 

When you are ready to taper the Lexapro, please let us know.

I'm waiting AT LEAST 3 months before I think about doing anything, probably longer. I have to stabilize on the dosages I'm on now and not touching them. I'm listening to the GI dr. He was good enough to do a conference call with me and my dr so I didn't have to drive 175 miles to get the same response. I was thinking though. MY DR DID NOT take me off the meds last year. It was a psychiatrist that I'm no longer seeing that did this to me. My dr is now prescribing my meds. I'm still going to stay on this site so I read the information and maybe meet people that are going through what I'm going through on Lexapro. Thank you...

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Frogie, the cause of your nausea is different from most members here. They are dealing with nausea as a psych drug withdrawal symptom, for which the most effective and least convenient remedy is time. We usually provide a link to our topic on nausea and/or suggest ginger and mint as teas/infusions.  Your nausea is the result of a GI condition and the subsequent treatments. Because your situation is unique on SA, it's highly probable that another site will be able to provide much more help to you. 

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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  • Moderator

Frogie, the cause of your nausea is different from most members here. They are dealing with nausea as a psych drug withdrawal symptom, for which the most effective and least convenient remedy is time. We usually provide a link to our topic on nausea and/or suggest ginger and mint as teas/infusions.  Your nausea is the result of a GI condition and the subsequent treatments. Because your situation is unique on SA, it's highly probable that another site will be able to provide much more help to you.

 

If you read Alto's comment, I am looking at other sites. I am reading articles here. Alto said when my GI is healed and I'm ready to taper the Lexapro she would be able to help.

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Moderator

Frogie, you may not get to perfect on your prilosec. You've been on it for so long, and I know that psych drugs kindle, and I know that other drugs kindle (become less effective or paradoxical with long term use) - so it may be that the prilosec may not cover the symptoms.

 

Did it ever cover the symptoms? Or were you always nauseous? I remember you saying that you were doing okay until you cut your Lexapro in half - and then the nausea became unbearable. Is that an accurate memory?

 

I think you need to get to a point where things are bearable. Then, after you've made no changes for 3 months - consider whether your doctor's strategy is working or not. I think your doctor's strategy is better than any other doctor's strategy you've gotten.

 

Breathe, you can get through this. Here at SA, we're waiting for you to hold for awhile before considering what's next. That is likely to be in the new year.

 

I hope you see the sun today.

I am breathing now. I'm not touching my med dosage until January 2017. I have made too many changes/mistakes in the last month and have made myself sick because of it. I got straightened out with my dr and a GI dr, hopefully it will work and I will be on my way to recovery instead of going backwards. I want to get well. And I'm going too! Thanks for caring and I'll be waiting for January to come so I can start the New Year out right! In the meantime, I got The Antidepressant Solution from Glennmullen to read, and lot of good info in SA, and Google. And of course you to answer questions I might have, or at least lead me in the right direction. Thank you for helping me and believing in me. I really appreciate it. :)

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • 2 weeks later...
  • Moderator

 

 

Hello Frogie.

I would suggest you read through your thread from the beginning including the links you have been provided. The tapering advice is there.

As I understood it at the moment you need to sort out your gastro issues with adequate specialists. Once you have sorted that we will support you in your tapering process just as we support all other members. This involves quite a bit of involvement on their part and reading through the information they have been provided for.

Maybe at first it was all a bit too much for you and now things would make more sense.

 

I hope you read what I wrote earlier today.

I had a conference call with my dr, me and the GI dr just a few minutes ago. I told the GI dr what has been going on. My dr already knew. The GI dr had my records, so he talked to me. He confirmed what my dr said this morning. To get back on 20mg Prilosec before bed and then 10-15mg in the morning until I don't have the nausea anymore. Then I can taper very slowly off the Lexapro. The GI dr also agreed with my dr to not take the Zantac, carafate or zofran unless it's unbearable. I'm to also stop the Vitamin E and Colestipol because he feels I'm taking too much medicine. After my nausea or reflux (he thinks) is gone, I can take the carafate if I feel better on it, but it really makes me bloat. If my nausea doesn't clear up in a month, or gets worse, then he wants me to see my dr. He was very nice and explained everything so I understood it just like my dr. But he looked at my ct scan and read all the reports on the other tests, and said he felt he didn't need to see me. So now, will someone please help me?

This is reasonable.

 

As you need to get stable on your gastro treatment and drugs, it will be a while before you taper Lexapro, probably at least a month. Until then, there's nothing we can do to help. You have the information you need to taper Lexapro when the time comes.

 

We can't solve your nausea problem. You may recall it being related to going off Lexapro, but you have so many other things going on, it's more likely related to your gastro problems. Please search for a forum site (not this one) dealing with gastrointestinal issues to discuss your gastro issues.

 

As far as help is concerned, all we do here is give information. We have given you information. The rest is up to you.

 

When you are ready to taper the Lexapro, please let us know.

I was at the dr for blood work today, 11-7-16. My liver panel was right in the normal range since taking milk thistle.

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

Link to comment
  • Moderator

 

 

Hello Frogie.

I would suggest you read through your thread from the beginning including the links you have been provided. The tapering advice is there.

As I understood it at the moment you need to sort out your gastro issues with adequate specialists. Once you have sorted that we will support you in your tapering process just as we support all other members. This involves quite a bit of involvement on their part and reading through the information they have been provided for.

Maybe at first it was all a bit too much for you and now things would make more sense.

 

I hope you read what I wrote earlier today.

I had a conference call with my dr, me and the GI dr just a few minutes ago. I told the GI dr what has been going on. My dr already knew. The GI dr had my records, so he talked to me. He confirmed what my dr said this morning. To get back on 20mg Prilosec before bed and then 10-15mg in the morning until I don't have the nausea anymore. Then I can taper very slowly off the Lexapro. The GI dr also agreed with my dr to not take the Zantac, carafate or zofran unless it's unbearable. I'm to also stop the Vitamin E and Colestipol because he feels I'm taking too much medicine. After my nausea or reflux (he thinks) is gone, I can take the carafate if I feel better on it, but it really makes me bloat. If my nausea doesn't clear up in a month, or gets worse, then he wants me to see my dr. He was very nice and explained everything so I understood it just like my dr. But he looked at my ct scan and read all the reports on the other tests, and said he felt he didn't need to see me. So now, will someone please help me?

 

This is reasonable.

 

As you need to get stable on your gastro treatment and drugs, it will be a while before you taper Lexapro, probably at least a month. Until then, there's nothing we can do to help. You have the information you need to taper Lexapro when the time comes.

 

We can't solve your nausea problem. You may recall it being related to going off Lexapro, but you have so many other things going on, it's more likely related to your gastro problems. Please search for a forum site (not this one) dealing with gastrointestinal issues to discuss your gastro issues.

 

As far as help is concerned, all we do here is give information. We have given you information. The rest is up to you.

 

When you are ready to taper the Lexapro, please let us know.

I just wanted to let you know, I went to the dr 11-7-16, and my liver panel was all normal. I'm staying on the milk thistle, the dr thinks that is working. But I'm still nauseous every morning. The dr said that could be the rapid taper of Lexapro still making me sick. He said I could try to go back up to 20mg, but I really don't want to touch my meds until the 1st of the year.

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

Link to comment
  • Moderator

Frogie, you may not get to perfect on your prilosec.  You've been on it for so long, and I know that psych drugs kindle, and I know that other drugs kindle (become less effective or paradoxical with long term use) - so it may be that the prilosec may not cover the symptoms.

 

Did it ever cover the symptoms?  Or were you always nauseous?  I remember you saying that you were doing okay until you cut your Lexapro in half - and then the nausea became unbearable.  Is that an accurate memory?

 

I think you need to get to a point where things are bearable.  Then, after you've made no changes for 3 months - consider whether your doctor's strategy is working or not.  I think your doctor's strategy is better than any other doctor's strategy you've gotten.

 

Breathe, you can get through this.  Here at SA, we're waiting for you to hold for awhile before considering what's next.  That is likely to be in the new year.

 

I hope you see the sun today.

Hi:

Wanted you to know I went for blood work Monday, 11-7-16, and all my liver panel was within normal limits! The dr said to keep taking the milk thistle though to keep it there. He also said my nausea is still from my rapid taper of the Lexapro. He suggested I go back up to 20mg for a few months and then see if that helps? I told him I didn't want to touch my meds until the 1st of the year. Can the Lexapro still be doing this to me? Have an awesome day :)

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Moderator

Altostrata:

 

I don't know if you have read my posts, but on 11-7-16, I had blood work done. All my liver panels came back within the normal range! I was so happy. The dr wants me to continue the milk thistle. He thinks that is helping a lot. And my liver does not hurt right now.

He said my nausea is from the rapid taper of Lexapro. Can it still be causing me problems? That was in June it started. He suggested I go back to 20mg and start over on my taper. I told him I didn't want to touch my meds until the 1st of the year. What is your opinion on this?

The last 2 days, I have been extremely nauseous and had GI problems. It's worse than it's ever been. Any ideas you could give me?

I haven't changed anything.

I appreciate your input on this.

 

Thanks...

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

Link to comment
  • Moderator

Frogie, the cause of your nausea is different from most members here. They are dealing with nausea as a psych drug withdrawal symptom, for which the most effective and least convenient remedy is time. We usually provide a link to our topic on nausea and/or suggest ginger and mint as teas/infusions. Your nausea is the result of a GI condition and the subsequent treatments. Because your situation is unique on SA, it's highly probable that another site will be able to provide much more help to you.

 

I went to the dr on the 7th. All my liver panels came back perfect! The dr was very pleased. They still want me to take milk thistle, but they think that helped a lot.

I wanted to ask you something if you don't mind. Because I got really sick after I did the fast taper and am still nauseous, do you think it would help if I reinstated a small amount of Lexapro? In my signature it shows how fast I went from 20mg to 10mg. I see where it helps some people. Just curious.

Thanks for answering my question.

Frogie xx

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

Link to comment
  • Moderator

I've been keeping notes for the last week and I think I figured something out.

If you have read my signature, you would have seen I have a hemangioma on my liver, and my liver panel was out of wack!

Went to the dr on the 7th, and my liver is perfect! :) I'm still taking milk thistle, but the dr is very happy it healed.

Now, to what I would like someone's opinion on:

In the morning I take, Prilosec, Zantac, Xanax, and 10mg Lexapro. I wait about 1/2 after taking Lexapro before anything else. In about 10-20 minutes, I'm very nauseous.

At lunch I take a Xanax, and milk thistle. No nausea.

At dinner, I take Prilosec and Zantac. No nausea.

Bedtime, a Xanax. No nausea.

I think the Lexapro is making me nauseous.

Can someone help me or give me their opinion?

Thanks!

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

The Lexapro drug leaflet says that it can be taken with or without food.

 

Do you take it before food, on an empty stomach?  You might want to try taking it with food, or maybe 1/2 hour after food.

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED:  (6 year taper)      0mg Pristiq  on 13th November 2021

ADs since ~1992:  25+ years - 1 unknown, Prozac (muscle weakness), Zoloft; citalopram (pooped out) CTed (very sick for 2.5 wks a few months after); Pristiq:  50mg 2012, 100mg beg 2013 (Serotonin Toxicity)  Tapering from Oct 2015 - 13 Nov 2021   LAST DOSE 0.0025mg

Post 0 updates start here    My tapering program     My Intro (goes to tapering graph)

 VIDEO:   Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome and its Management

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  • Moderator

The Lexapro drug leaflet says that it can be taken with or without food.

 

Do you take it before food, on an empty stomach?  You might want to try taking it with food, or maybe 1/2 hour after food.

I take it on an empty stomach. But I have been on it 10+ years and it's never bothered me before.

I can try it with food and see.

Thanks :)

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Moderator

Frogie and O2bhappy,

Thank you for your advice! I am sorry that you are dealing/have dealt with nausea too. I've not taken the zofran yet, but will try if it gets to the point where I am retching again. I did try this bracelet thing that has an electrical pulse and it was TERRIBLY uncomfortable, felt like fire going through my hand nerves, so I wouldn't recommend that. I've been working from home the past week and this has been the most helpful so far- i'm distracted a bit by my work AND close to my kitchen so I just eat every hour which has made a big difference overall. Of course the foods I'm eating are very bland (potatoes, fruit) and can't do raw veggies. I'll look into Nauzene, thanks for that recommendation. I also ordered the China Oel but haven't tried it since I had so much peppermint tea lately that my stomach felt sort of burned out on it. I have been smelling it and that seems to help (only for a second, but if I have it near me, it does take the edge off). I noticed that when the insomnia is bad, the nausea matches that- ugh! Thanks again for the recommendations and support!

Hi Anja:

Hopefully your nausea will let up soon.

I tried a bracelet that had a plastic circle on it. You put it on the pressure point on your wrist. Women that are pregnant use them. It didn't help me at all, but I'm sure it would help other people. Ginger makes me sicker. That Nauzene does help. And it's cheap.

Right now it's a guessing game for me.

Have another dr appt Tuesday. Hopefully they can help me.

I think I'm a lost cause lol...

Get to feeling better :)

Take care,

Frogie xx

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus

You may discover a pattern by keeping a symptoms and dose diary. Please keep notes on paper of your symptoms and the times of your dose(s). This post has a useful format for a daily log:
Take notes of doses and symptoms

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

Link to comment
  • Moderator

You may discover a pattern by keeping a symptoms and dose diary. Please keep notes on paper of your symptoms and the times of your dose(s). This post has a useful format for a daily log:Take notes of doses and symptoms

I have been doing that since we last talked about it.

It comes back to the morning 20 min or so after taking my Lexapro, I become very nauseous until around lunchtime.

Thanks for your helping!

Frogie xx

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus

Have you posted your log here in your introduction topic?

 

It's unlikely I'll be able to help you. I have little experience with Lexapro and its adverse effects.

 

Nausea does occur as an adverse effect while on medication, as a withdrawal symptom after decreasing dose or discontinuing a medication, and for other reasons.

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

Link to comment
  • Moderator

Have you posted your log here in your introduction topic?

 

It's unlikely I'll be able to help you. I have little experience with Lexapro and its adverse effects.

 

Nausea does occur as an adverse effect while on medication, as a withdrawal symptom after decreasing dose or discontinuing a medication, and for other reasons.

I did once. I jumped off of 1/2 from March-May and started getting nauseous in June.

Will the W/D last that long?

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus

Symptoms change over time as well as changing when your medications change. Your previous posts are unlikely to be relevant to your current question. Please keep notes for several days and post them here in your introduction.

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

Link to comment
  • Moderator

Symptoms change over time as well as changing when your medications change. Your previous posts are unlikely to be relevant to your current question. Please keep notes for several days and post them here in your introduction.

Ok I'll start tomorrow, that will be a new week. I'll post them on Wednesday, that will give you an idea wouldn't it?

You have no idea how much you are helping me by having me do these things.

I do have a dr appt Tuesday. What if they want to change my meds, what do I do?

Thanks for your help :)

Take care,

Frogie xx

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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