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☼ Divegrl: Wellbutrin 150 XL taper


divegrl

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Hello!!!

 

Just posting a quick update! Still doing well at this dose.... 37.5. I'm giving myself a bit of time here to stabilize as my taper has been so fast up until this point. 

 

I'm experiencing food cravings! Trying to eat as healthy as I can. A ton of vegetables, healthy fats and proteins!!!

 

My next cut will be to 28.75, but that won't be for a while. Probably not for at least another 30 days. 

 

Take care everyone!!

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Hey divegrl, remind us of your thinking about making a larger than SA-suggested decrease.  10% from 37.5 would take you to 33.57; 28.75 is a decrease of almost 25% from your current dose.

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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  • 2 weeks later...

Hello!!!

 

Thank you for your response! Well I'm currently on 1/2 a 75 mg Wellbutrin IR pill. My plan is to cut by eighths and hold for a very long time. So the next cut will be to 3/8 which is 28.125. 

 

Yes! I know this is a big cut and thank you so much for your advice! The small cuts and measuring them have caused me stress. I would rather make big cuts and hold them longer. I know this is not recommended!

 

Im still holding at 37.5. My plan was to stay here for 60 days. 

 

Thank you moderators for your continued support!!!!  

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Cool.  Thanks for explaining that you're making larger decreases while holding for longer.  Good to read that it's working for 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

Link to comment
  • 1 month later...

Hi!

 

I just thought I would stop by with a quick update.  I am still at 37.5, waiting a couple more weeks to make the cut as I've been traveling for the summer.  

 

I've been doing a lot of research, and came upon an article about the devastating effects birth control has on women. I then started researching the effects of the copper iud, as this was the method I used.  For years I have been exhausted, I mean completely dead tired, for about 7-10 before my menstrual cycle.  The doctors all thought it was depression or pmdd.  They all wanted to put me on a stronger antidepressant.  I'm so glad I declined!

 

I've read story after story of the incapacitating effects of the copper iud in women.  Women describing symptoms just like me! I went back to look at my personal history.  I was prescribed Wellbutrin 4 months after my copper iud was placed!  It's been many years, but I am pretty confident that my symptoms of depression were due to my copper iud.  

 

My iud has now been removed and I am already feeling substantially better! I am more confident now then ever, that tapering off this medication is the right choice. It has given me a renewed energy to continue to taper.  

 

Thank you again everyone for your continued support.  :)

 

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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Hi!!

 

Today I make the cut to 28.125.  Taking a 75mg IR pill, cutting into eighths. Then taking 1/8 pill 3 times per day. 

 

After my long hold, I am experiencing no withdrawal symptoms.  I plan to hold here for at least 30 days.  

 

Ummmm, ok, nothing else to write!  Have a beautiful day!! :P

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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Hi!!

 

I have an actual question...I am going to have a filling done in 2 weeks.  I told the dentist I was nervous about drills.  She prescribed me Valium for the procedure.  I am very unsure about taking it. 

 

Although I am nervous about the dental procedure, I am even more nervous about taking Valium during my taper.  I am afraid it will throw my CNS out of line. Has anyone had any experience with this? Will this one time Valium does be ok?  I hate to be set back.  

 

Thanks so much!!!!

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

I think it's six of one, half a dozen of the other.  Being stressed about the procedure can knock the CNS around as can taking the valium.

 

You say she has prescribed.  Does that mean that she wants you to take it leading up to the procedure or only for the procedure?  If it were me I wouldn't be taking more than 1 dose just for the procedure and I would consider taking less than what she has suggested.

* 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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Hi!!

 

Thank you for your reply.  The prescription is for a one time dose to be taken right before the procedure.  

 

At this point I am hoping not to get the prescription filled and use other coping techniques.  :D

 

For journal purposes: This cut I experienced the following symptoms: anxiety, irritability, fatigue, indifference, tummy upset and food cravings.  Oh and vivid dreams.  All symptoms I've had before.  I've now been at this dose a full week and feel much improved.  Don't worry, I will be holding here for longer! 

 

Coping that has helped: Yoga, healthy eating (bone broth and green juice, yay!), chanting, meditation, mindful awareness and pranayama.  Oh and Epson salt baths! 

 

Have a beautiful day!!!!

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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  • 2 weeks later...

Hi!

 

I can no longer make accurate cuts with a pill cutter alone.  I tried a liquid solution and that did not work for me.

 

I would like to purchase a scale to measure the smaller doses.  Is there a scale that this forum recommends?

 

Thank you so much for your help. 

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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I've come to the conclusion that in order to successfully complete this taper, I will need to focus on my nutrition.  Thru trial and error, I have found that my diet directly impacts the severity and length of my withdrawal symptoms.  If I am having a particularly tough day, I can go back and look at what I ate, and see how panic attacks, anxiety, anger and frustration are first preceded by ice cream, toast, crumbles and basically anything or everything with sugar or gluten.  

 

And days where I feel calm, grounded, supported and healed.... are preceded by bone broth, grass fed butter, coconut oils, omega 3s, grass fed eggs, proteins, green juice and vegetables.  

 

I need to take full responsibility.  This is my body, my health, my healing process. 

 

Peace to you my friends!!!

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

It could actually be the opposite and the sugar intake is caused by an increase in cortisol.

 

I read this a couple of days ago.

 

From  www.enkiverywell.com/high-cortisol-levels.html

 

High cortisol levels are closely linked to excessive eating, a high craving for sugary and fatty foods

 

From:  www.healthdirect.gov.au/the-role-of-cortisol-in-the-body

 

When released into the bloodstream, cortisol can act on many different parts of the body and can:

  • increase your body’s metabolism of glucose

* 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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Hi!!!

 

Our bodies have the amazing ability to tell us exactly what they need! I listen to what my body is telling me and trust my body and mind know exactly how to heal.  This is not based on any study, large data set, clinical trial.  Its based on my own personal human experience that is unique to me!!!!

 

I have been eating an extremely high fat diet.  Avocados, bone both, grass fed butter.  And I feel a million times better.  

 

I got my scale yesterday!!!  The scale verified what I already knew..... my doses had an extreme amount of variability.  I am so thankful I now have a scale so I can get more accurate measurements.  It is so hard to weigh the medicine down to a milligram!!!  But I'm doing the best I can!! I have taken 2 doses now that are measured with the scale, and just feel much more confident!

 

Very thankful for this community.  :wub:

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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On 9/9/2017 at 10:17 AM, divegrl said:

Hi!!!

 

Our bodies have the amazing ability to tell us exactly what they need! I listen to what my body is telling me and trust my body and mind know exactly how to heal.  This is not based on any study, large data set, clinical trial.  Its based on my own personal human experience that is unique to me!!!!

 

I have been eating an extremely high fat diet.  Avocados, bone both, grass fed butter.  And I feel a million times better.  

 

I got my scale yesterday!!!  The scale verified what I already knew..... my doses had an extreme amount of variability.  I am so thankful I now have a scale so I can get more accurate measurements.  It is so hard to weigh the medicine down to a milligram!!!  But I'm doing the best I can!! I have taken 2 doses now that are measured with the scale, and just feel much more confident!

 

Very thankful for this community.  :wub:

Hi Divgrl,

 

I read all the way through your intro forum and I was so encouraged that I'm not alone in what I've experienced from withdrawal from Wellbutrin. I started my taper in July and I ended it in August by skipping doses (a terrible way to taper), but my doctor had prescribed me to sustained release after I had an awful experience the first time I tried quitting. I've been totally off of Wellbutrin for 5 and half weeks and I'm still struggling pretty bad with memory/concentration issues and insomnia. Are you having difficulties with brain fog and being able to concentrate? I'm also taking fish oil and vitamin B-12 as well as a daily probiotic. Hopefully I will start seeing some improvement soon. I feel like 5 weeks is a long time to go without seeing some sort of improvement in concentration/memory. But I know that the taper that I did was WAY too fast, and I kind of put myself in this situation. I just want to know if you had memory/concentrations in the beginning of your taper, and if so have you seen any improvements in your symptoms?

  1. Started Wellbutrin 75 mg IR the end of 2015.
  2. Tried quitting cold turkey in June 30th- July 3rd 2017.
  3. Had severe withdrawals.
  4. Was placed on Wellbutrin 100mg SR so I could taper without withdrawal.
  5. Stabilized on 100mg SR for most of the month of July.
  6. Started tapering on July 17th,  2017.
  7. Completed taper on August 8th, 2017.
  8. Currently experiencing severe withdrawal.
  • Symptoms- Currently experiencing anhedonia, depersonalization/derealization, concentration/memory issues, chronic congestion, chronic dry eyes, dry skin, dislocated TMJ joint from teeth grinding during C/T withdrawal, waves of depression, anxiety, nausea, morning cortisol spikes, insomnia, agitation, food sensitivities, no tolerance for caffeine and chronic fatigue, burning muscle pain in upper and lower back and occasional tinninitus.
  • Supplements- Omega-3 fish oil supplement twice daily, 100 mg of magnesium once daily. 
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Hi

 

Thanks for stopping by! My main withdrawal symptom is anxiety.  Some brain fog, but not much.  

 

Cleaning up my diet has made a HUGE difference in my withdrawal symptoms.  I am basically following the Whole30 plan for nutrition, and I have seen a huge improvement.  As Hippocrates says, "Let thy food be thy medicine, and thy medicine be thy food".

 

Good luck!

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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Hello!

 

A bit of bouncing around this week.  Change is challenging... but just another way to learn to let things go!

 

So as I am cutting into smaller doses... I realize I should just be removing the outside coating of the pill.  I was taking this before, but I think its messing up my weights.  I've started taking the medication 4 times per day.  So trying to get an accurate dose.  

 

I've been referred to a medical provider who supposedly uses nutrition and lifestyle methods to help people off of meds.  I have not met with him... but I have promise that this doctor might understand what I'm going thru.  

 

I just ordered some hydrolyzed collagen... its supposed to calm the nervous system... We will see!  

 

I am very thankful for this community.... and each one of the members.  I feel very validated in my experience.  Many blessings my friends.  

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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Having a tough time.  Vivid dreams and neuro emotions.  

 

My body is healing..................... slowly.

 

 

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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Better days.  Starting taking turmeric and I feel much better.  Not sure if its because of the  turmeric.... but Ive now added this to my daily routine.  

 

So thankful for the good days..... I am healed. 

 

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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Feeling good.  A bit of neuro emotions.  

 

Made a cut today to 22.4mg.  

 

Started hypnosis.  Feel like its working? 

 

Today I am thankful for the air that fills my lungs.  I am thankful for my beautiful girls and their laugh.  I am thankful for smiles and happiness.  I can be still and know that God has healed me, He is providing protection and guidance.  

 

Peace to you my friends.  

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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Lots of neuro emotions.....

 

I upped my nutritional fat content like crazy.  Drinking straight avocado oil.  Eating duck eggs.  A high fat diet is really helping me.  :)

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

divegrl, dropped in to say hello and couldn't help but notice that you are tapering quite a bit faster than is recommended by Surviving Antidepressants and am a little concerned that if you continue to decrease every four days, you are going to run into trouble.  It takes approximately four days for the central nervous system to register a change, and changes so close together can have a cumulative effect.  It's possible for even very small reductions to have a cumulative effect over time and to get ahead of our brain's ability to heal. It's hard to gauge; we have to listen carefully to our bodies.  If I were you, I would hold for a while just to be on the safe side.  

Current Prescription Drugs for Hypothyroidism:  Synthroid 100mcg / Cytomel 5mcg (15 years Pristiq/Effexor)

Tapering Schedule
September 15, 2016 - switched from Pristiq 50mg to Effexor XR 75mg; November 10, 2016 - reduced to 67.5 Effexor XR
December 9, 2016 - reduced 60.75
January 5, 2017 - reduced 54.67
January 30, 2017 - reduced to 49.0
February 20, 2017 - reduced to 44.0 
May 20, 2017 - reduced to 40.25 (holding for additional month due to late onset of withdrawal symptoms after this taper)
July 17, 2017 - reduced to 38.24
August 15, 2017 - reduced to 37.5 (50% of my original dose)

October 15, 2017 - reduced to 35.6

November 12, 2017 - reduced to 33.8
December 15, 2017 - up-dose to 35.6
December 28, 2017 - up-dose to 37.5

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Thank you for your response.  

 

I'm very thankful for this forum.  Everyone in my life, my doctors, therapists, counselors, and family think I should have been able to be off this medication by now.  They say my symptoms are due to the depression... which is why I need the meds.  

 

This forum has made me feel validated in all the symptoms I am going thru due to withdrawal.  Yes, I am holding here a bit longer.  Its very hard to have the patience to taper slowly... but I'm doing my best.  

 

Again forever thankful for this forum.  

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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  • 2 weeks later...

Hi!!!!

 

Just some thoughts..... I have been working on my "triggers".  People or situations that lead to emotional spirals. I've identified the following triggers for myself:

 

1. There is someone in my life, who although they are an amazing person, does not treat me with respect.  I've invested so much energy into this person... only to get hurt over and over.  I have finally had the courage to let them go.  I feel lighter, more free.  I feel like I can breathe.  

2. I have a strict bedtime of 9pm.  I will not be asleep by 9, but I need to protect this space for meditation and self reflection.  Time just for me to do energy healing, body scans or yoga nidra. 

3. Being in a rush.  I schedule my days so I have plenty of time to get from one activity to the next.  Taking my time, allowing myself to be in the present moment during the day.  

 

I feel much more grounded, calmer and at peace.  Peace to you my friends.  

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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  • 2 weeks later...

I had my appointment with my doctor who specializes in tapering psych drugs.  My doctor's words......

 

"In the 9 years I've been practicing, I have never had a patient have an issue coming off Wellbutrin.  All my patients have been fine doing a CT or an 8 week tapering schedule.  At 20mg, you should be able to quit now. The dose that you're on is not a therapeutic dose."

 

This doctors acknowledged that certain medications like Paxil and Ativan were extremely difficult to come of off.  But Wellbutrin is not one of those medications.  

 

I am experiencing cognitive dissonance; trying to understand what my Doctor is telling me versus what I've read here on SA.  

 

Thank you very much for reading. 

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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  • Administrator

Everybody is wrong sometimes. This is a blind spot for your doctor.

 

In short, your doctor is wrong.  The "therapeutic dose" concept is invalid when applied to tapering; a dose doesn't have to be "therapeutic" (theoretically effective for "depression") to forestall withdrawal. This makes me wonder about "specializes in tapering psych drugs"?

 

Next time you see your doctor, you can tell him or her "now you know, people can have difficulty coming off Wellbutrin."

 

Go off at the rate that's comfortable for you.

This is not medical advice. Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a knowledgeable medical practitioner.

"It has become appallingly obvious that our technology has surpassed our humanity." -- Albert Einstein

All postings © copyrighted.

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2 hours ago, Altostrata said:

Everybody is wrong sometimes. This is a blind spot for your doctor.

 

In short, your doctor is wrong.  The "therapeutic dose" concept is invalid when applied to tapering; a dose doesn't have to be "therapeutic" (theoretically effective for "depression") to forestall withdrawal. This makes me wonder about "specializes in tapering psych drugs"?

 

Next time you see your doctor, you can tell him or her "now you know, people can have difficulty coming off Wellbutrin."

 

Go off at the rate that's comfortable for you.

 

Hi Altostrata

 

Thank you so much for your reply.  I was feeling a bit upset after the appointment... but your words have comforted me a great deal.  I will continue to listen to my body, and taper at a rate that is appropriate for me.  

 

Thank you so much my friend.  

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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Hey Divegirl, thanks for stopping by my page. Its comforting to know that I'm not the only one struggling with the anxiety of coming off wellbutrin. I'm glad youve found that diet helps you, I should really clean up mine and start taking omega 3s again. Also, I was very nervous about switching to liquid doses, but it actually isnt too bad. It took me a long time to wrap my head around it, but it was worth it, for me.

 

I wish you well with your taper.

-jan14 2016- off effexor!!-

wellbutrin:Jan 25/17;Start to split 100mg in half

-Feb 12/17;100-50mg -Apr 30/17;50-30mg liquid. -June 6/ 17;30-20mg -July6/17;updose to 26mg -Oct 18/17;13 to 12mg -Nov 24/17;12 to 11mg -Feb 21/18;22 to 20mg -Apr 2/18;20 to 18mg -Apr 30/18;18 to 16mg -May 22/18;16 to 14mg -June 18/18;14 to 12.4mg -July 15 /18;12.4 to 11.6mg -Nov5/18;11.2 to 10mg -Dec14/18;10 to 10.4mg

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  • 3 weeks later...

Waves of pain washing over me today.  I've had this pain for as long as I can remember.  The fear, isolation, feeling of being alone.  

 

I know these waves and this grief is not me.  I am whole and complete.  I am love and I am loved.  

 

And so I sit.... I sit with the pain.  I do not give an identity to it or make a story out of the emotions.  I just sit and feel.  And breathe.  

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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  • 4 weeks later...

Hey Divegrl,

 

How have you been since that last post? It sounds like you have built up a great set of feel-good tools. I hope they helped.

 

I've figured out too, in a long and windy way, that eating more fat, and cutting out sugar and processed foods also makes my life better. I read your experience with the IR preparation of Wellbutrin causing side effects when you made the switch. Did that get better over time?

 

Cheers,

Marmot

 

 

 

2004: Clonazepam and Celexa. 2005 - 2006: Effexor, then increased to high dose, then switched to Valproate and Seroquel. 2007: Wellbutrin + Strattera + Celexa. 2007 - 2008: Wellbutrin + Adderall + Paxil. 2008 - 2012: Wellbutrin + occasional SSRIs when I had worsened "depression", which happened around 4 times, usually after CT of WB. 2012 - 2014: WB + Sertraline, then WB + Pristiq (awful W/D) then WB + rTMS, then ketamine. 2014 - 2016: Wellbutrin 200 mg + Abilify 4 mg + Adderall 20-40 mg + Cipralex 20 mg. Oct 2016: "Tapered" Cipralex, felt outrageously anxious, irritable. Dec 2016: "Tapered" Adderall, then felt depressed, hopeless, fatigued.  Feb 6 2017: reinstated 20 mg Adderall. Mar 2017: switched to Vyvanse, upped to 30 mg. May - Aug 2017: "Tapered" Vyvanse + Abilify to zero. Oct 25, 2017: Wellbutrin from 200 to 100 mg. Sep 10, 2018:  Wellbutrin from 90 to 60 mg. Oct 29, 2018: WB from 60 to 50 mg. Dec 19, 2018: WB from 50 to 45 mg. Apr 15, 2019: WB 41 mg. May 14, 2019: WB 37 mg. Jun 8, 2019: WB 33 mg. Jul 22: WB 30 mg, then down by around 10% per month. Aug 2020: 0

 

Working hard to take my life back. Anything I say here is as a friend or peer supporter; it is not medical advice.

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  • 3 months later...

Hi!

 

Yes a lots of fats in our nutrition definitely does help.  I've seen it written so many times before, but bone broth has been wonderful.  Reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.  

 

I gave up on making the IR liquid solution.  I bought a scale and just made cuts and weighed the amounts on the scale.  

 

I hope everyone is doing well today.  Many blessings. 

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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  • 4 months later...
On 8/11/2017 at 2:30 PM, divegrl said:

Hi!

 

I just thought I would stop by with a quick update.  I am still at 37.5, waiting a couple more weeks to make the cut as I've been traveling for the summer.  

 

I've been doing a lot of research, and came upon an article about the devastating effects birth control has on women. I then started researching the effects of the copper iud, as this was the method I used.  For years I have been exhausted, I mean completely dead tired, for about 7-10 before my menstrual cycle.  The doctors all thought it was depression or pmdd.  They all wanted to put me on a stronger antidepressant.  I'm so glad I declined!

 

I've read story after story of the incapacitating effects of the copper iud in women.  Women describing symptoms just like me! I went back to look at my personal history.  I was prescribed Wellbutrin 4 months after my copper iud was placed!  It's been many years, but I am pretty confident that my symptoms of depression were due to my copper iud.  

 

My iud has now been removed and I am already feeling substantially better! I am more confident now then ever, that tapering off this medication is the right choice. It has given me a renewed energy to continue to taper.  

 

Thank you again everyone for your continued support.  :)

 

Hi Divegrl,

 

I hope you are doing well since completing your taper!

 

I was curious about how it went when you had your IUD removed. You mentioned that you though that it might have been causing some feelings of exhaustion and that it might have been responsible for the depression that caused you to take Wellbutrin in the first place, and I'm suspicious that mine might be doing the same. I'm going to have it removed in a couple of weeks, but I wanted to ask you if you experienced a wave after taking it out. I C/T Wellbutrin a year ago, and I've been having depression, insomnia and anxiety since then, so I'm hoping that my waves will get less intense after I take out my IUD. 

  1. Started Wellbutrin 75 mg IR the end of 2015.
  2. Tried quitting cold turkey in June 30th- July 3rd 2017.
  3. Had severe withdrawals.
  4. Was placed on Wellbutrin 100mg SR so I could taper without withdrawal.
  5. Stabilized on 100mg SR for most of the month of July.
  6. Started tapering on July 17th,  2017.
  7. Completed taper on August 8th, 2017.
  8. Currently experiencing severe withdrawal.
  • Symptoms- Currently experiencing anhedonia, depersonalization/derealization, concentration/memory issues, chronic congestion, chronic dry eyes, dry skin, dislocated TMJ joint from teeth grinding during C/T withdrawal, waves of depression, anxiety, nausea, morning cortisol spikes, insomnia, agitation, food sensitivities, no tolerance for caffeine and chronic fatigue, burning muscle pain in upper and lower back and occasional tinninitus.
  • Supplements- Omega-3 fish oil supplement twice daily, 100 mg of magnesium once daily. 
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  • 4 weeks later...

How are you doing off of the wellbutrin divegrl?

2004: Clonazepam and Celexa. 2005 - 2006: Effexor, then increased to high dose, then switched to Valproate and Seroquel. 2007: Wellbutrin + Strattera + Celexa. 2007 - 2008: Wellbutrin + Adderall + Paxil. 2008 - 2012: Wellbutrin + occasional SSRIs when I had worsened "depression", which happened around 4 times, usually after CT of WB. 2012 - 2014: WB + Sertraline, then WB + Pristiq (awful W/D) then WB + rTMS, then ketamine. 2014 - 2016: Wellbutrin 200 mg + Abilify 4 mg + Adderall 20-40 mg + Cipralex 20 mg. Oct 2016: "Tapered" Cipralex, felt outrageously anxious, irritable. Dec 2016: "Tapered" Adderall, then felt depressed, hopeless, fatigued.  Feb 6 2017: reinstated 20 mg Adderall. Mar 2017: switched to Vyvanse, upped to 30 mg. May - Aug 2017: "Tapered" Vyvanse + Abilify to zero. Oct 25, 2017: Wellbutrin from 200 to 100 mg. Sep 10, 2018:  Wellbutrin from 90 to 60 mg. Oct 29, 2018: WB from 60 to 50 mg. Dec 19, 2018: WB from 50 to 45 mg. Apr 15, 2019: WB 41 mg. May 14, 2019: WB 37 mg. Jun 8, 2019: WB 33 mg. Jul 22: WB 30 mg, then down by around 10% per month. Aug 2020: 0

 

Working hard to take my life back. Anything I say here is as a friend or peer supporter; it is not medical advice.

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  • 3 months later...
On 7/17/2018 at 2:01 PM, Hellbutrin said:

Hi Divegrl,

 

I hope you are doing well since completing your taper!

 

I was curious about how it went when you had your IUD removed. You mentioned that you though that it might have been causing some feelings of exhaustion and that it might have been responsible for the depression that caused you to take Wellbutrin in the first place, and I'm suspicious that mine might be doing the same. I'm going to have it removed in a couple of weeks, but I wanted to ask you if you experienced a wave after taking it out. I C/T Wellbutrin a year ago, and I've been having depression, insomnia and anxiety since then, so I'm hoping that my waves will get less intense after I take out my IUD. 

Hi my friend,

 

Yes looking back at my history I saw that I started having feelings of depression shortly after my IUD was placed. I had the Paragaurd, copper IUD. Having it removed was a bit painful. 

 

I have since found much online support regarding IUD awareness. Many women report having symptoms of exhaustion, fatigue, anxiety, etc after having an IUD. 

 

Were you able to have yours removed? Have you experienced a reduction in symptoms?

 

Sending peace to you my friend. 

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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On 8/12/2018 at 4:45 PM, Marmot said:

How are you doing off of the wellbutrin divegrl?

 

Hi Marmot,

 

i am doing lovely. Thank you so much for asking. My life has been very busy and plan on doing an update post soon. 

 

How are you doing today my friend?

 

Sending healing energy. 

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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1 hour ago, divegrl said:

Hi my friend,

 

Yes looking back at my history I saw that I started having feelings of depression shortly after my IUD was placed. I had the Paragaurd, copper IUD. Having it removed was a bit painful. 

 

I have since found much online support regarding IUD awareness. Many women report having symptoms of exhaustion, fatigue, anxiety, etc after having an IUD. 

 

Were you able to have yours removed? Have you experienced a reduction in symptoms?

 

Sending peace to you my friend. 

Hi Divegrl,

 

I had mine removed on July 30th, but it's hard to say whether it was the cause of the depression from the start. I haven't seen a reduction in my symptoms, but I'm hopeful that I will start seeing some improvements eventually. I've given up my desperate attempt to try to find a cause for why I feel the way that I do. Have you seen improvements since having yours out? How long has it been since you've had it taken out? 

 

There was one strange thing that happened to me when I had mine taken out. I was told that it was unlikely that my IUD had any impact on my withdrawal because the progestin in my IUD was likely diminished over the three years that I had it in. But for some reason my periods had stopped completely during the last 6 months that I had the IUD in. 2 days after the removal of my IUD (sorry if this is TMI), I had a menstrual cycle that was unlike any I've ever experienced. I've never really had all that heavy of a period, but this period was extreme. I was genuinely concerned with how much I was bleeding. I'm convinced that with that extreme of a reaction to having the IUD out, the IUD must have been doing some underlying damage to my body. Even if the damage was unrelated to withdrawal. So I'm glad I had it taken out. Even though my PMS has been monstrous since then. 

  1. Started Wellbutrin 75 mg IR the end of 2015.
  2. Tried quitting cold turkey in June 30th- July 3rd 2017.
  3. Had severe withdrawals.
  4. Was placed on Wellbutrin 100mg SR so I could taper without withdrawal.
  5. Stabilized on 100mg SR for most of the month of July.
  6. Started tapering on July 17th,  2017.
  7. Completed taper on August 8th, 2017.
  8. Currently experiencing severe withdrawal.
  • Symptoms- Currently experiencing anhedonia, depersonalization/derealization, concentration/memory issues, chronic congestion, chronic dry eyes, dry skin, dislocated TMJ joint from teeth grinding during C/T withdrawal, waves of depression, anxiety, nausea, morning cortisol spikes, insomnia, agitation, food sensitivities, no tolerance for caffeine and chronic fatigue, burning muscle pain in upper and lower back and occasional tinninitus.
  • Supplements- Omega-3 fish oil supplement twice daily, 100 mg of magnesium once daily. 
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On 11/25/2018 at 6:25 PM, Hellbutrin said:

Hi Divegrl,

 

I had mine removed on July 30th, but it's hard to say whether it was the cause of the depression from the start. I haven't seen a reduction in my symptoms, but I'm hopeful that I will start seeing some improvements eventually. I've given up my desperate attempt to try to find a cause for why I feel the way that I do. Have you seen improvements since having yours out? How long has it been since you've had it taken out? 

 

There was one strange thing that happened to me when I had mine taken out. I was told that it was unlikely that my IUD had any impact on my withdrawal because the progestin in my IUD was likely diminished over the three years that I had it in. But for some reason my periods had stopped completely during the last 6 months that I had the IUD in. 2 days after the removal of my IUD (sorry if this is TMI), I had a menstrual cycle that was unlike any I've ever experienced. I've never really had all that heavy of a period, but this period was extreme. I was genuinely concerned with how much I was bleeding. I'm convinced that with that extreme of a reaction to having the IUD out, the IUD must have been doing some underlying damage to my body. Even if the damage was unrelated to withdrawal. So I'm glad I had it taken out. Even though my PMS has been monstrous since then. 

Hi my friend!

 

I am so sorry for what you are going through. I had my IUD taken out over a year ago. The copper was causing a calcium deficit in my body. I noticed the difference almost immediately. 

 

From your writing, you must have had the IUD that releases hormones into your body. Please give yourself time. A hormonal imbalance can take months to heal. Be gentle with yourself. 

 

You must believe your body is healing. You can heal from this. I had the daily mantra of “I am healed”. 

 

Also, please look into nutrition. When I changed the foods I was eating i noticed a profound impact on my mental health. Eat foods that heal and give energy. 

 

You are doing so amazing my friend. 

 

Sending love

Early 2000s: 4 years Paxil (CT).    Mid 2000s: 4 years Lexapro (CT).  6 years on Wellbutrin XL 150. 2012-2017.

Mar 26 2017. Began Wellbutrin XL 150 taper : Mar 31 2017. Wellbutrin IR 75mg : Apr 7 2017. Wellbutrin IR 65mg

Apr 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 56mg : May 30 2017. Wellbutrin IR 37.5mg : Aug 14 2017. Wellbutrin IR 28.125mg : Sep 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 26.5mg  Sep 13 2017. Wellbutrin IR 25.4mg : Sep 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 24mg : Sep 20 2017. Wellbutrin IR 23.2mg : Sep 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 22.4mg 

Oct 3 2017. Wellbutrin IR 21.6mg : Oct 9 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20.8mg : Oct 17 2017. Wellbutrin IR 20mg : Oct 25 2017. Wellbutrin IR 19.2mg

Oct 27 2017. Wellbutrin IR 18.4mg : Nov 2 2017. Wellbutrin IR 17.6mg : Nov 11 2017. Wellbutrin IR 15mg : Nov 16 2017. Wellbutrin IR 12mg

Nov 19 2017. Wellbutrin IR 9mg : Nov 23 2017. Wellbutrin IR 6mg : Nov 24 2017. Wellbutrin IR 4mg 

Nov 27 2017. 0mg.  Stopped Wellbutrin 

 

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