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DaveB: trying to stop a roller coaster year


DaveB

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5 hours ago, bubble said:

 

I must say that this is unusual reasoning: if just 'waiting' for Lyrica is making your anxiety high can you imagine how high you anxiety will be if you altogether withdraw 600 mgs?

 

3 months is long enough and in you destabilised state anxiety will definitely not last for days, nor weeks but more likely months and it probably won't be only anxiety but host of other symptoms. The only things which is worse than alternating doses and fast tapering is no tapering at all or cold turkeying the drugs.

 

But you are of course free to be your own guinea pig. I can understand the suspicion of people around us but ultimately it is us and not them who will have to live with all the symptoms. And you have already had a glimpse of what that can look like. Unfortunately it can get a lot worse (just check some of the threads here).

 

It's an ugly situation but that's the nature of this game..

 

1 minute ago, scallywag said:

Have you been taking brand-name Lyrica?  If so, will your insurance cover generic pregabalin?

 

I know cold turkey is the worst thing I could do, what would you suggest? Lyrica is not available in a generic, and I can't continue to afford it. Will I continue to stabilize even with the rebound anxiety if I try to budget for the Lyrica for a few more months, or will this stop me from stabilizing? 

2008 - October 28th, 2016: Zoloft 50 - 150 mgs, settled on 50mgs from 2011 - 2016.
January 23rd - March 1st 2017: Zoloft 50mgs, direct switch to Lexapro.
March 1st - May 1st 2017: Lexapro 10 mgs, down to 5mgs for a week, then off.
June 1st - July 31st 2017: Paxil 20mgs, Lyrica 600mgs
August 1st - September 30th 2017: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
October 1st  - November 12th 2017: Paxil 60mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
November 12th, 2017 - September 4th 2018: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs 

September 4th - September 27th: Paxil 30mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

September 28th - November 7th: Paxil 20mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs (Also Testosterone Therapy started in June 2018 and ended in November 2018)

November 7th 2018 - February 22nd 2019: Paxil 10mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

February 22nd 2019 - April 17th: Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin 1mgs

April 17th - Now: Zoloft 25mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin .5mgs

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Stabilisation happens when we keep things stable.

 

If there was a way to avoid rebound anxiety I would take it. You will probably stabilise regardless but it will take longer.

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 Emeritus

Is there a medication your doctor is considering switching you to?

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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Just now, scallywag said:

Is there a medication your doctor is considering switching you to?

Yes, said I could switch to gabapentin. If I was going to stop cold turkey, I would rather not just start a new one. If I have to go through withdrawal due to lyrcia, I would rather just be done with it as opposed to start something else...right? Or is that flawed thinking?

2008 - October 28th, 2016: Zoloft 50 - 150 mgs, settled on 50mgs from 2011 - 2016.
January 23rd - March 1st 2017: Zoloft 50mgs, direct switch to Lexapro.
March 1st - May 1st 2017: Lexapro 10 mgs, down to 5mgs for a week, then off.
June 1st - July 31st 2017: Paxil 20mgs, Lyrica 600mgs
August 1st - September 30th 2017: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
October 1st  - November 12th 2017: Paxil 60mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
November 12th, 2017 - September 4th 2018: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs 

September 4th - September 27th: Paxil 30mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

September 28th - November 7th: Paxil 20mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs (Also Testosterone Therapy started in June 2018 and ended in November 2018)

November 7th 2018 - February 22nd 2019: Paxil 10mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

February 22nd 2019 - April 17th: Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin 1mgs

April 17th - Now: Zoloft 25mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin .5mgs

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Gabapentin is available as a generic. It was the drug that Lyrica was developed to "replace," i.e. the patent on Neurontin (gabapentin) was expiring so Parke-Davis/Pfizer invested in R&D for a new drug.

 

Another one to discuss with your doctor is lamotrigine (Lamictal). It's a drug with the same applications that has been on the market since 1994. Doctors are more familiar with gabapentin because of recent marketing to them. 

 

Our topics:

Tips for tapering off Neurontin (gabapentin)

Tips for tapering off Lamictal (lamotrigine)

 

You may want to check out a site such as patientslikeme.com to read others' experience with either medication. Also useful, drugs.com lists doses and side effects.

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
48 minutes ago, scallywag said:

Gabapentin is available as a generic. It was the drug that Lyrica was developed to "replace," i.e. the patent on Neurontin (gabapentin) was expiring so Parke-Davis/Pfizer invested in R&D for a new drug.

 

Another one to discuss with your doctor is lamotrigine (Lamictal). It's a drug with the same applications that has been on the market since 1994. Doctors are more familiar with gabapentin because of recent marketing to them. 

 

Our topics:

Tips for tapering off Neurontin (gabapentin)

Tips for tapering off Lamictal (lamotrigine)

 

You may want to check out a site such as patientslikeme.com to read others' experience with either medication. Also useful, drugs.com lists doses and side effects.

 

So you would suggest a switch from Lyrica to Lamictal or Gabapentin rather than just quitting the Lyrica?

2008 - October 28th, 2016: Zoloft 50 - 150 mgs, settled on 50mgs from 2011 - 2016.
January 23rd - March 1st 2017: Zoloft 50mgs, direct switch to Lexapro.
March 1st - May 1st 2017: Lexapro 10 mgs, down to 5mgs for a week, then off.
June 1st - July 31st 2017: Paxil 20mgs, Lyrica 600mgs
August 1st - September 30th 2017: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
October 1st  - November 12th 2017: Paxil 60mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
November 12th, 2017 - September 4th 2018: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs 

September 4th - September 27th: Paxil 30mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

September 28th - November 7th: Paxil 20mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs (Also Testosterone Therapy started in June 2018 and ended in November 2018)

November 7th 2018 - February 22nd 2019: Paxil 10mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

February 22nd 2019 - April 17th: Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin 1mgs

April 17th - Now: Zoloft 25mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin .5mgs

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  • Moderator Emeritus

You're concerned about withdrawal. The drugs act in a similar way.  You **may** be able to reduce your symptoms by doing a cross-over. Ask your doctor.  S/he may be willing to assist you with this. If not, then you have two options:

  1. Fast taper of Lyrica and hope you fall in the group of people who have light, few or no symptoms.
  2. Get Lyrica prescribed, pay for it out of pocket (yes I know it's $$$, that's why your insurer has dropped Lyrica from the list of drugs it covers), then taper it by 10% per month.

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
52 minutes ago, scallywag said:

You're concerned about withdrawal. The drugs act in a similar way.  You **may** be able to reduce your symptoms by doing a cross-over. Ask your doctor.  S/he may be willing to assist you with this. If not, then you have two options:

  1. Fast taper of Lyrica and hope you fall in the group of people who have light, few or no symptoms.
  2. Get Lyrica prescribed, pay for it out of pocket (yes I know it's $$$, that's why your insurer has dropped Lyrica from the list of drugs it covers), then taper it by 10% per month.

 

Unfortunately I think this is my only real option. Would I be better off taking one a day for the remainder of prescription, or just jumping off entirely today? I know both options are terrible, but I was going over my budget and finances yesterday and I simply cannot afford it. 

2008 - October 28th, 2016: Zoloft 50 - 150 mgs, settled on 50mgs from 2011 - 2016.
January 23rd - March 1st 2017: Zoloft 50mgs, direct switch to Lexapro.
March 1st - May 1st 2017: Lexapro 10 mgs, down to 5mgs for a week, then off.
June 1st - July 31st 2017: Paxil 20mgs, Lyrica 600mgs
August 1st - September 30th 2017: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
October 1st  - November 12th 2017: Paxil 60mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
November 12th, 2017 - September 4th 2018: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs 

September 4th - September 27th: Paxil 30mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

September 28th - November 7th: Paxil 20mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs (Also Testosterone Therapy started in June 2018 and ended in November 2018)

November 7th 2018 - February 22nd 2019: Paxil 10mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

February 22nd 2019 - April 17th: Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin 1mgs

April 17th - Now: Zoloft 25mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin .5mgs

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4 hours ago, bubble said:

Stabilisation happens when we keep things stable.

 

If there was a way to avoid rebound anxiety I would take it. You will probably stabilise regardless but it will take longer.

 

What would you suggest I do in my situation? I am really between a rock and a hard place here.

2008 - October 28th, 2016: Zoloft 50 - 150 mgs, settled on 50mgs from 2011 - 2016.
January 23rd - March 1st 2017: Zoloft 50mgs, direct switch to Lexapro.
March 1st - May 1st 2017: Lexapro 10 mgs, down to 5mgs for a week, then off.
June 1st - July 31st 2017: Paxil 20mgs, Lyrica 600mgs
August 1st - September 30th 2017: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
October 1st  - November 12th 2017: Paxil 60mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
November 12th, 2017 - September 4th 2018: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs 

September 4th - September 27th: Paxil 30mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

September 28th - November 7th: Paxil 20mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs (Also Testosterone Therapy started in June 2018 and ended in November 2018)

November 7th 2018 - February 22nd 2019: Paxil 10mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

February 22nd 2019 - April 17th: Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin 1mgs

April 17th - Now: Zoloft 25mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin .5mgs

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  • Moderator Emeritus

What Alto suggested: spread out Lyrica dosing to eliminate interdose withdrawal and keep the course.

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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56 minutes ago, bubble said:

What Alto suggested: spread out Lyrica dosing to eliminate interdose withdrawal and keep the course.

 

I cannot afford to pay for the Lyrica any longer, it is just too expensive with the insurance rejecting it. What do I do?

2008 - October 28th, 2016: Zoloft 50 - 150 mgs, settled on 50mgs from 2011 - 2016.
January 23rd - March 1st 2017: Zoloft 50mgs, direct switch to Lexapro.
March 1st - May 1st 2017: Lexapro 10 mgs, down to 5mgs for a week, then off.
June 1st - July 31st 2017: Paxil 20mgs, Lyrica 600mgs
August 1st - September 30th 2017: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
October 1st  - November 12th 2017: Paxil 60mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
November 12th, 2017 - September 4th 2018: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs 

September 4th - September 27th: Paxil 30mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

September 28th - November 7th: Paxil 20mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs (Also Testosterone Therapy started in June 2018 and ended in November 2018)

November 7th 2018 - February 22nd 2019: Paxil 10mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

February 22nd 2019 - April 17th: Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin 1mgs

April 17th - Now: Zoloft 25mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin .5mgs

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On 7/3/2017 at 10:16 PM, Altostrata said:
On 7/7/2017 at 6:12 PM, KarenB said:

A month is not long where w/d is concerned.  The stabilised sleep is a VERY good sign that further stabilisation will come.  As we have said

Have you tried this yet? 

Have you made a self-care plan yet? 

Pregabalin is benzo-like. You might do better by spacing out your dosage, perhaps take 200mg 3 times a day, with the last dose at 11 p.m., and after a while, 150mg 4 times a day.

 

What do you recommend? I cannot afford Lyrica without insurance and I only have about 15 days worth left? Should I just start taking 300mgs/day until it runs out?

2008 - October 28th, 2016: Zoloft 50 - 150 mgs, settled on 50mgs from 2011 - 2016.
January 23rd - March 1st 2017: Zoloft 50mgs, direct switch to Lexapro.
March 1st - May 1st 2017: Lexapro 10 mgs, down to 5mgs for a week, then off.
June 1st - July 31st 2017: Paxil 20mgs, Lyrica 600mgs
August 1st - September 30th 2017: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
October 1st  - November 12th 2017: Paxil 60mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
November 12th, 2017 - September 4th 2018: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs 

September 4th - September 27th: Paxil 30mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

September 28th - November 7th: Paxil 20mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs (Also Testosterone Therapy started in June 2018 and ended in November 2018)

November 7th 2018 - February 22nd 2019: Paxil 10mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

February 22nd 2019 - April 17th: Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin 1mgs

April 17th - Now: Zoloft 25mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin .5mgs

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  • Moderator Emeritus

They say the best things in life are free but I'm afraid this free consultation service has expired. I gave my opinion a few times and now I'm off to assist somebody else in distress.

 

Wishing you all the best with your tapering journey.

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. 

Link to comment
48 minutes ago, bubble said:

They say the best things in life are free but I'm afraid this free consultation service has expired. I gave my opinion a few times and now I'm off to assist somebody else in distress.

 

Wishing you all the best with your tapering journey.

 

Yikes, that wasn't very nice. I know in an ideal world where money was no object of course that would be the best option. Unfortunately, I don't have that option at thins point. I never should have got on a medication that was so expensive knowing this could be a result. If I had a time machine I would change a lot of things, but I don't and I am just trying to make the best decision I can for me and my family, without bankrupting my family in the process. I was hoping for some advice going forward, knowing renewing a prescription of Lyrica is not an option for me.

2008 - October 28th, 2016: Zoloft 50 - 150 mgs, settled on 50mgs from 2011 - 2016.
January 23rd - March 1st 2017: Zoloft 50mgs, direct switch to Lexapro.
March 1st - May 1st 2017: Lexapro 10 mgs, down to 5mgs for a week, then off.
June 1st - July 31st 2017: Paxil 20mgs, Lyrica 600mgs
August 1st - September 30th 2017: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
October 1st  - November 12th 2017: Paxil 60mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
November 12th, 2017 - September 4th 2018: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs 

September 4th - September 27th: Paxil 30mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

September 28th - November 7th: Paxil 20mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs (Also Testosterone Therapy started in June 2018 and ended in November 2018)

November 7th 2018 - February 22nd 2019: Paxil 10mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

February 22nd 2019 - April 17th: Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin 1mgs

April 17th - Now: Zoloft 25mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin .5mgs

Link to comment
2 hours ago, bubble said:

They say the best things in life are free but I'm afraid this free consultation service has expired. I gave my opinion a few times and now I'm off to assist somebody else in distress.

 

Wishing you all the best with your tapering journey.

 

That being said, Bubble you have been a great lifeline for me, and I am sorry if I have done something to offend you. Certainly was not my intention, I just simply don't know what to do at this point. I simply can't afford a $500/month medication that I still have really bad anxiety while taking. Maybe I should crosstaper to gabapentin/lamical/klonopin/clonodine? Or am I better off trying a fast taper of a drug I have not been on for that long, rather than intoducing yet another?

2008 - October 28th, 2016: Zoloft 50 - 150 mgs, settled on 50mgs from 2011 - 2016.
January 23rd - March 1st 2017: Zoloft 50mgs, direct switch to Lexapro.
March 1st - May 1st 2017: Lexapro 10 mgs, down to 5mgs for a week, then off.
June 1st - July 31st 2017: Paxil 20mgs, Lyrica 600mgs
August 1st - September 30th 2017: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
October 1st  - November 12th 2017: Paxil 60mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
November 12th, 2017 - September 4th 2018: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs 

September 4th - September 27th: Paxil 30mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

September 28th - November 7th: Paxil 20mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs (Also Testosterone Therapy started in June 2018 and ended in November 2018)

November 7th 2018 - February 22nd 2019: Paxil 10mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

February 22nd 2019 - April 17th: Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin 1mgs

April 17th - Now: Zoloft 25mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin .5mgs

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Anyone have any advice or encouragement for me given my current predicament?

2008 - October 28th, 2016: Zoloft 50 - 150 mgs, settled on 50mgs from 2011 - 2016.
January 23rd - March 1st 2017: Zoloft 50mgs, direct switch to Lexapro.
March 1st - May 1st 2017: Lexapro 10 mgs, down to 5mgs for a week, then off.
June 1st - July 31st 2017: Paxil 20mgs, Lyrica 600mgs
August 1st - September 30th 2017: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
October 1st  - November 12th 2017: Paxil 60mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
November 12th, 2017 - September 4th 2018: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs 

September 4th - September 27th: Paxil 30mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

September 28th - November 7th: Paxil 20mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs (Also Testosterone Therapy started in June 2018 and ended in November 2018)

November 7th 2018 - February 22nd 2019: Paxil 10mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

February 22nd 2019 - April 17th: Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin 1mgs

April 17th - Now: Zoloft 25mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin .5mgs

Link to comment
  • Administrator
On 7/7/2017 at 8:55 PM, Utah49er said:

 

I have not tried it simply because for the last week or so I am not getting any real anxiety relief from my 11AM 300mg dose, so I haven't seen the benefit it cutting into the capsules to make a less powerful dose spread throughout the day. 

 

Yes I have an exercise plan of 3-4 times a week, mostly resistance training and running or swimming. I also downloaded an app called calm for meditation, am cutting down on soda (my only source of caffeine and a main offender of sugar for me), and I have bought some epsom salt to give those baths a try. I am sure my wife will make fun of me taking salted baths haha, but we gotta do what we gotta do...right?

 

Again thanks for always replying and being here to help me through, it is SO much appreciated!

 

You are getting the rebound from the dose you took the prior evening. When the amount of Lyrica in your bloodstream drops due to metabolization (half-life), you get rebound anxiety.

 

You are stabilizing in the sense that you have a stable daily pattern of symptoms related to when you take Lyrica. Plus, you're sleeping, which is a good thing.

 

On 7/8/2017 at 10:17 PM, Utah49er said:

 

Question, would this "interdose withdrawal" cause me to not be able to stabilize? Or just increase my anxiety before the next dose? I really wish I was not on the Lyrica, but I am way too far down the path to quit taking it abruptly (even though long-term it is going to be too expensive anyway).

 

Interdose withdrawal can certainly make it seem you are not stabilizing. That kind of torture is what makes people drug addicts.

 

On 7/18/2017 at 6:02 PM, Utah49er said:

 

If I bite the bullet and keep paying out of pocket for the lyrica until I am stable, will I be unable to stabilize with this rebound anxiety effect happening, or will it eventually happen? My wife is VERY leery of me messing around with making my own liquid lyrica. 

 

It's very easy to make liquid Lyrica, I did it myself. It works very well.

 

Insurance companies like to think gabapentin (Neurontin), which is available as a generic, and pregabalin (Lyrica), which is not available as a generic, are equivalent, but they are not. Most insurance companies will cover a drug if the doctor writes up an appeal. Would your doctor write up an appeal on the basis of you're being sensitive to drug changes?

 

It's clear you are physiologically dependent on Lyrica (and probably Paxil, too). Tapering from Lyrica is preferable to switching to gabapentin. Sometimes those substitutions don't work, and then you're really in the soup.

 

The good news is that you won't need to increase your daily dose, just space it out. You can tell your doctor you intend to gradually reduce it (I would not go into a lot of detail about this, most doctors wouldn't understand), not to ask for higher dosages.

 

Any doctor can prescribe psychiatric drugs. If this doctor won't help, do you trust any of your other doctors?

 

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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10 hours ago, Altostrata said:

Insurance companies like to think gabapentin (Neurontin), which is available as a generic, and pregabalin (Lyrica), which is not available as a generic, are equivalent, but they are not. Most insurance companies will cover a drug if the doctor writes up an appeal. Would your doctor write up an appeal on the basis of you're being sensitive to drug changes?

 

It's clear you are physiologically dependent on Lyrica (and probably Paxil, too). Tapering from Lyrica is preferable to switching to gabapentin. Sometimes those substitutions don't work, and then you're really in the soup.

 

The good news is that you won't need to increase your daily dose, just space it out. You can tell your doctor you intend to gradually reduce it (I would not go into a lot of detail about this, most doctors wouldn't understand), not to ask for higher dosages.

 

Any doctor can prescribe psychiatric drugs. If this doctor won't help, do you trust any of your other doctors?

 

 

The insurance company said I needed to switch to gabapentin, my Doctor said he would write a note and it should be fine. Even with his note and a doctor's prior authorization, the insurance company rejected my petition. I guess I should have known this was a possibility and not gone up as high on the lyrica as I did. I just thought with the Doctor writing a letter, all would be fine, I guess I was wrong. Now I am faced with either a cross-taper or an essential cold-turkey. Is one preferable to the other? I still have about 15-20 pills left, should I use them to taper the best I can, or just cold turkey now as that is essentially what I will be doing anyway?

2008 - October 28th, 2016: Zoloft 50 - 150 mgs, settled on 50mgs from 2011 - 2016.
January 23rd - March 1st 2017: Zoloft 50mgs, direct switch to Lexapro.
March 1st - May 1st 2017: Lexapro 10 mgs, down to 5mgs for a week, then off.
June 1st - July 31st 2017: Paxil 20mgs, Lyrica 600mgs
August 1st - September 30th 2017: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
October 1st  - November 12th 2017: Paxil 60mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
November 12th, 2017 - September 4th 2018: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs 

September 4th - September 27th: Paxil 30mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

September 28th - November 7th: Paxil 20mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs (Also Testosterone Therapy started in June 2018 and ended in November 2018)

November 7th 2018 - February 22nd 2019: Paxil 10mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

February 22nd 2019 - April 17th: Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin 1mgs

April 17th - Now: Zoloft 25mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin .5mgs

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  • Administrator

Do not cold-turkey under any circumstances.

 

If I were you, I would not attempt cross-taper, I would directly taper from Lyrica.

 

You'll have to look into ways to pay out of pocket for your prescription, see Getting your prescription filled on a budget

 

As you've just returned from a vacation in Hawaii, perhaps for the next vacation, you could stay home?

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

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

All postings © copyrighted.

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1 hour ago, Altostrata said:

Do not cold-turkey under any circumstances.

 

If I were you, I would not attempt cross-taper, I would directly taper from Lyrica.

 

You'll have to look into ways to pay out of pocket for your prescription, see Getting your prescription filled on a budget

 

As you've just returned from a vacation in Hawaii, perhaps for the next vacation, you could stay home?

 

Yes, I have looked at that thread. I have been able to find a place that can do Lyrica for $400/month...still just too much. We were only able to do the Hawaii vacation using skymiles built up and my parents Disney Vacation Club points for the hotel, so it isn't as simple as just skipping our next big vacation. 

 

So going down to 300mgs for a few weeks and then off is preferable to a cold turkey? 

2008 - October 28th, 2016: Zoloft 50 - 150 mgs, settled on 50mgs from 2011 - 2016.
January 23rd - March 1st 2017: Zoloft 50mgs, direct switch to Lexapro.
March 1st - May 1st 2017: Lexapro 10 mgs, down to 5mgs for a week, then off.
June 1st - July 31st 2017: Paxil 20mgs, Lyrica 600mgs
August 1st - September 30th 2017: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
October 1st  - November 12th 2017: Paxil 60mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
November 12th, 2017 - September 4th 2018: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs 

September 4th - September 27th: Paxil 30mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

September 28th - November 7th: Paxil 20mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs (Also Testosterone Therapy started in June 2018 and ended in November 2018)

November 7th 2018 - February 22nd 2019: Paxil 10mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

February 22nd 2019 - April 17th: Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin 1mgs

April 17th - Now: Zoloft 25mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin .5mgs

Link to comment
2 hours ago, Altostrata said:

Do not cold-turkey under any circumstances.

 

If I were you, I would not attempt cross-taper, I would directly taper from Lyrica.

 

You'll have to look into ways to pay out of pocket for your prescription, see Getting your prescription filled on a budget

 

As you've just returned from a vacation in Hawaii, perhaps for the next vacation, you could stay home?

 

The only reason why I ask, is rather than taking the nightly dose every night, only to get rebound anxiety every morning for a few weeks, would it be better to just go off, deal with the anxiety and withdrawals, and begin the healing? 

2008 - October 28th, 2016: Zoloft 50 - 150 mgs, settled on 50mgs from 2011 - 2016.
January 23rd - March 1st 2017: Zoloft 50mgs, direct switch to Lexapro.
March 1st - May 1st 2017: Lexapro 10 mgs, down to 5mgs for a week, then off.
June 1st - July 31st 2017: Paxil 20mgs, Lyrica 600mgs
August 1st - September 30th 2017: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
October 1st  - November 12th 2017: Paxil 60mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
November 12th, 2017 - September 4th 2018: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs 

September 4th - September 27th: Paxil 30mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

September 28th - November 7th: Paxil 20mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs (Also Testosterone Therapy started in June 2018 and ended in November 2018)

November 7th 2018 - February 22nd 2019: Paxil 10mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

February 22nd 2019 - April 17th: Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin 1mgs

April 17th - Now: Zoloft 25mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin .5mgs

Link to comment
On 7/2/2017 at 11:51 PM, KarenB said:

I had to wrap myself in bubble-wrap - i.e. pull out all the stops concerning my self care.  I started meditating, had hot baths with Epsom salts, practiced gentle yoga - there are moves specifically for anxiety - and deep breathing.  I phoned good friends and got them to visit me.  I watched nice movies to distract myself.  I placed reminders of healing tools on my walls. I had to immerse myself in the thought that I would get through it.  There was no room for 'if.' 

 

I see a lot of people recommend the Epsom Salt baths and I am looking to try it. Is there a certain kind or brand you would recommend? 

2008 - October 28th, 2016: Zoloft 50 - 150 mgs, settled on 50mgs from 2011 - 2016.
January 23rd - March 1st 2017: Zoloft 50mgs, direct switch to Lexapro.
March 1st - May 1st 2017: Lexapro 10 mgs, down to 5mgs for a week, then off.
June 1st - July 31st 2017: Paxil 20mgs, Lyrica 600mgs
August 1st - September 30th 2017: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
October 1st  - November 12th 2017: Paxil 60mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
November 12th, 2017 - September 4th 2018: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs 

September 4th - September 27th: Paxil 30mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

September 28th - November 7th: Paxil 20mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs (Also Testosterone Therapy started in June 2018 and ended in November 2018)

November 7th 2018 - February 22nd 2019: Paxil 10mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

February 22nd 2019 - April 17th: Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin 1mgs

April 17th - Now: Zoloft 25mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin .5mgs

Link to comment
On 7/19/2017 at 8:16 AM, bubble said:

Stabilisation happens when we keep things stable.

 

If there was a way to avoid rebound anxiety I would take it. You will probably stabilise regardless but it will take longer.

 

16 hours ago, Altostrata said:

 

You are getting the rebound from the dose you took the prior evening. When the amount of Lyrica in your bloodstream drops due to metabolization (half-life), you get rebound anxiety.

 

You are stabilizing in the sense that you have a stable daily pattern of symptoms related to when you take Lyrica. Plus, you're sleeping, which is a good thing.

 

 

 

Also is rebound anxiety an issue I have to worry about with SSRIs? Or is the suggested once daily dosing for those good? 

2008 - October 28th, 2016: Zoloft 50 - 150 mgs, settled on 50mgs from 2011 - 2016.
January 23rd - March 1st 2017: Zoloft 50mgs, direct switch to Lexapro.
March 1st - May 1st 2017: Lexapro 10 mgs, down to 5mgs for a week, then off.
June 1st - July 31st 2017: Paxil 20mgs, Lyrica 600mgs
August 1st - September 30th 2017: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
October 1st  - November 12th 2017: Paxil 60mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
November 12th, 2017 - September 4th 2018: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs 

September 4th - September 27th: Paxil 30mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

September 28th - November 7th: Paxil 20mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs (Also Testosterone Therapy started in June 2018 and ended in November 2018)

November 7th 2018 - February 22nd 2019: Paxil 10mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

February 22nd 2019 - April 17th: Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin 1mgs

April 17th - Now: Zoloft 25mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin .5mgs

Link to comment
On 7/19/2017 at 8:16 AM, bubble said:

Stabilisation happens when we keep things stable.

 

If there was a way to avoid rebound anxiety I would take it. You will probably stabilise regardless but it will take longer.

 

6 hours ago, Altostrata said:

Do not cold-turkey under any circumstances.

 

If I were you, I would not attempt cross-taper, I would directly taper from Lyrica.

 

You'll have to look into ways to pay out of pocket for your prescription, see Getting your prescription filled on a budget

 

As you've just returned from a vacation in Hawaii, perhaps for the next vacation, you could stay home?

 

Also, is protracted withdrawal something I need to watch for with Lyrica, or with withdrawl symptoms hit quickly with this drug?

2008 - October 28th, 2016: Zoloft 50 - 150 mgs, settled on 50mgs from 2011 - 2016.
January 23rd - March 1st 2017: Zoloft 50mgs, direct switch to Lexapro.
March 1st - May 1st 2017: Lexapro 10 mgs, down to 5mgs for a week, then off.
June 1st - July 31st 2017: Paxil 20mgs, Lyrica 600mgs
August 1st - September 30th 2017: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
October 1st  - November 12th 2017: Paxil 60mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
November 12th, 2017 - September 4th 2018: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs 

September 4th - September 27th: Paxil 30mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

September 28th - November 7th: Paxil 20mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs (Also Testosterone Therapy started in June 2018 and ended in November 2018)

November 7th 2018 - February 22nd 2019: Paxil 10mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

February 22nd 2019 - April 17th: Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin 1mgs

April 17th - Now: Zoloft 25mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin .5mgs

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus

How any individual will respond to a psychoactive medication or to the reduction in dose of a psychoactive medication is unpredictable. There have been few if any studies about the factors that influence the duration and intensity of withdrawal symptoms. Sadly, each of us is running an n=1 experiment.

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
18 minutes ago, scallywag said:

How any individual will respond to a psychoactive medication or to the reduction in dose of a psychoactive medication is unpredictable. There have been few if any studies about the factors that influence the duration and intensity of withdrawal symptoms. Sadly, each of us is running an n=1 experiment.

 

Sorry, I don't think I worded my question correctly. Is Lyrica like an SSRI where people can feel good, maybe even better for a few months and then withdrawals hit, or do withdrawals hit more quickly?

2008 - October 28th, 2016: Zoloft 50 - 150 mgs, settled on 50mgs from 2011 - 2016.
January 23rd - March 1st 2017: Zoloft 50mgs, direct switch to Lexapro.
March 1st - May 1st 2017: Lexapro 10 mgs, down to 5mgs for a week, then off.
June 1st - July 31st 2017: Paxil 20mgs, Lyrica 600mgs
August 1st - September 30th 2017: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
October 1st  - November 12th 2017: Paxil 60mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
November 12th, 2017 - September 4th 2018: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs 

September 4th - September 27th: Paxil 30mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

September 28th - November 7th: Paxil 20mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs (Also Testosterone Therapy started in June 2018 and ended in November 2018)

November 7th 2018 - February 22nd 2019: Paxil 10mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

February 22nd 2019 - April 17th: Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin 1mgs

April 17th - Now: Zoloft 25mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin .5mgs

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus

Same answer, Utah49er. Responses to psychoactive medication are highly individual -- depends on individual neurology, medication history, etc. 

 

You seem to be looking either for a specific answer or for certainty.  We can only give the answers we have and certainty is not on the menu once you're taking psych meds.

Edited by scallywag

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
  • Administrator
10 hours ago, Utah49er said:

 

The only reason why I ask, is rather than taking the nightly dose every night, only to get rebound anxiety every morning for a few weeks, would it be better to just go off, deal with the anxiety and withdrawals, and begin the healing? 

 

When we talk about suffering from withdrawal syndrome, we are talking about symptoms beyond anything you've ever had or can imagine. No, do not simply go off. That is a very, very bad idea. Don't do it. It is high risk, and you could be literally disabled for a long time.

 

7 hours ago, Utah49er said:

 

 

Also is rebound anxiety an issue I have to worry about with SSRIs? Or is the suggested once daily dosing for those good? 

 

Rebound anxiety is unlikely with SSRIs. Rebound anxiety occurs when sedating drugs, such as Lyrica or benzos, wear off.

 

6 hours ago, Utah49er said:

 

 

Also, is protracted withdrawal something I need to watch for with Lyrica, or with withdrawl symptoms hit quickly with this drug?

 

You can have terrible withdrawal symptoms from going off Lyrica. They can start immediately or ramp up later. They can go away within a few weeks or months or leave you suffering for years.

 

What was the exact reason your health insurance company rejected your doctor's request for Lyrica? That happened to me once (with a different drug entirely) and I was able to reverse the denial with a well-argued letter.

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
9 hours ago, Altostrata said:

What was the exact reason your health insurance company rejected your doctor's request for Lyrica? That happened to me once (with a different drug entirely) and I was able to reverse the denial with a well-argued letter.

 

Their reasons were that I was prescribed it for a reason (anxiety) that is not FDA approved. The doctor tried to get it approved by saying it was for restless legs and fibromyalgia, they said I needed to switch to Gabapentin or Cymbalta. I wrote a letter to them and they still denied my request. I don't know what to do! I am really scared to get off of it, but I don't see another choice here. Doctor said I should take 300mgs for 10 days then get off, and we can evaluate where I am at and what I need to do after that. I started taking only 300mgs yesterday and to be honest...it was rough. I am trying to just focus on self-care and my family at this point, I so desperately want to get through this, and know this insanely quick lyrica taper is going to be a HUGE setback for me, but I don't see another option. 

2008 - October 28th, 2016: Zoloft 50 - 150 mgs, settled on 50mgs from 2011 - 2016.
January 23rd - March 1st 2017: Zoloft 50mgs, direct switch to Lexapro.
March 1st - May 1st 2017: Lexapro 10 mgs, down to 5mgs for a week, then off.
June 1st - July 31st 2017: Paxil 20mgs, Lyrica 600mgs
August 1st - September 30th 2017: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
October 1st  - November 12th 2017: Paxil 60mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
November 12th, 2017 - September 4th 2018: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs 

September 4th - September 27th: Paxil 30mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

September 28th - November 7th: Paxil 20mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs (Also Testosterone Therapy started in June 2018 and ended in November 2018)

November 7th 2018 - February 22nd 2019: Paxil 10mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

February 22nd 2019 - April 17th: Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin 1mgs

April 17th - Now: Zoloft 25mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin .5mgs

Link to comment
On 7/19/2017 at 3:23 PM, bubble said:

They say the best things in life are free but I'm afraid this free consultation service has expired. I gave my opinion a few times and now I'm off to assist somebody else in distress.

 

Wishing you all the best with your tapering journey.

 

16 hours ago, scallywag said:

Same answer, Utah49er. Responses to psychoactive medication are highly individual -- depends on individual neurology, medication history, etc. 

 

You seem to be looking either for a specific answer or for certainty.  We can only give the answers we have and certainty is not on the menu once you're taking psych meds.

 

11 hours ago, Altostrata said:

 

When we talk about suffering from withdrawal syndrome, we are talking about symptoms beyond anything you've ever had or can imagine. No, do not simply go off. That is a very, very bad idea. Don't do it. It is high risk, and you could be literally disabled for a long time.

 

Should I continue to post here? It seems like everyone is mad at me for the admittedly stupid taper I have to do. If this was a benzo or any other drug I could get for $10, I would take advice here like gospel (because this site is the 1st place I have found something that makes sense out of what has been happening with me), but when this medication is so expensive, I just can't budget it for the next 2-3 years it would take to properly taper without insurance. 

2008 - October 28th, 2016: Zoloft 50 - 150 mgs, settled on 50mgs from 2011 - 2016.
January 23rd - March 1st 2017: Zoloft 50mgs, direct switch to Lexapro.
March 1st - May 1st 2017: Lexapro 10 mgs, down to 5mgs for a week, then off.
June 1st - July 31st 2017: Paxil 20mgs, Lyrica 600mgs
August 1st - September 30th 2017: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
October 1st  - November 12th 2017: Paxil 60mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs
November 12th, 2017 - September 4th 2018: Paxil 40mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs 

September 4th - September 27th: Paxil 30mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

September 28th - November 7th: Paxil 20mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs (Also Testosterone Therapy started in June 2018 and ended in November 2018)

November 7th 2018 - February 22nd 2019: Paxil 10mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs

February 22nd 2019 - April 17th: Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin 1mgs

April 17th - Now: Zoloft 25mgs, Zyprexa 2.5mgs, Klonopin .5mgs

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  • Moderator Emeritus

I dunno Utah.  I think that there are people who are hungry and are trapped and dependant upon disability and government medicine, while you complain of an expensive drug.  You are obviously making a living of some kind, so it's hard for many of us - who are living hand to mouth - to sympathize.  It may be that your income statement and balance sheets are tight - but you have them.  In my opinion it may be quite worth $500 a month to prevent withdrawal, if you can possibly afford it. 

You can go off it as fast as you want - however, there will be consequences.  Read around the site to see what can possibly happen. Try this one:  http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/14260-chester-my-story-my-warning-my-hope

 

 

Read around the web:  http://www.medhelp.org/posts/Addiction-Substance-Abuse/In-Lyrica-hell---please-help-me-Im-desperate/show/2889042, or  http://www.medhelp.org/posts/Addiction-Substance-Abuse/HELP-Im-in-Hell-coming-off-Lyrica-Has-anyone-on-here-ever-got-off-it/show/1225679, and  http://www.medschat.com/topics/a-year-of-hell-from-lyrica/

 

and see if you can put a price on that kind of pain.

 

Most likely you will be setting yourself up for a potentially explosive set of symptoms that no money can fix.  A year of gabapentin is worth less than a car.  If you can possibly afford it, even if it's just for the next year - it might save you years of distress.

 

These drugs are not to be fooled with.

 

These moderators have experienced all kinds of withdrawals, and helped hundreds of others in all manner of distress.  We're just trying to spare you this grief and suffering.  

 

Please, feel free to continue posting.  You might consider visiting other people's threads.  It doesn't really matter that your drug is Lyrica and theirs is Paxil (oh yeah, you're on that one, too) - read, and post, and talk to others here.  Withdrawal of any drug is slightly different for everyone, and yet the same symptoms come up again & again.  If you continue with your fast taper, we'll still be here for you.  It happens all the time.

 

This website is filled with the cries of those who say, "I wish I'd tapered slower, I wish I'd held longer."

 

There is nobody on this site who wishes they'd tapered faster.

 

Spare yourself the grief, and find a place in your budget to prevent withdrawal.  You'll thank me.  

Edited by JanCarol

"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
22 hours ago, Utah49er said:

 

 

 

Should I continue to post here? It seems like everyone is mad at me for the admittedly stupid taper I have to do. If this was a benzo or any other drug I could get for $10, I would take advice here like gospel (because this site is the 1st place I have found something that makes sense out of what has been happening with me), but when this medication is so expensive, I just can't budget it for the next 2-3 years it would take to properly taper without insurance. 

Utah49er:

 

I was on gabepentn  for about 10 years, I think. I had a pretty good job when I started it, so I had insurance. But then I lost my insurance.

 

I contacted the manufacturer, filled out some paperwork. I had to show bank statements and bills. But they approved me for a years worth of the medication.

 

You also might ask your dr for samples. They always have samples of these types of meds. If he knows your situation, he could probably help you. 

 

Just need to research, it takes a little work, but it's worth it.

 

You might be able to do that, and at least you could taper off. It's worth a try. 

 

You don't want to stop taking a medication like that, let alone any of these horrid medications.

 

Good luck :)

 

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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  • Moderator Emeritus
On 7/21/2017 at 10:44 AM, Utah49er said:

 

 

 

Should I continue to post here? It seems like everyone is mad at me for the admittedly stupid taper I have to do. If this was a benzo or any other drug I could get for $10, I would take advice here like gospel (because this site is the 1st place I have found something that makes sense out of what has been happening with me), but when this medication is so expensive, I just can't budget it for the next 2-3 years it would take to properly taper without insurance. 

 

I don't think anyone is mad.......this is a site for tapering and support.  I personally don't get why you won't try dividing your daily dose of  300mg. or 600mg.(I'm a bit confused as to what you are taking) into more  than one or two throughout the day........not increasing the dose........but liquifying it(the medication) and just trying that for a week or so, to see if that helps.  It's suggested above.  You have enough on hand to try that.  You might be better equipped mentally to deal with the rest if you consider trying that.

 

Instead though you seem to prefer your Dr's ideas........understandable, kind of..........you are new to this whole thing.  Or your wife is uncomfortable with it?  And yah.......you might need to take some time here..........I mean now.......for you, just you.  Make some decisions.  Which it seems you have.........

 

People here are trying to help you not harm you.  There is a possible solution to your struggle and suffering("anxiety, panic").  You don't seem to hear that.

 

Sometimes we can't........when we first get here.......hear..........so I get it............  Withdrawal.......

 

I'm not buying the financial reasoning........your Dr. may help you get what you need later if you can present it in the right way.  Cheaply.  I am more concerned about the now......right now.......today, tomorrow.

 

Best,

 

mmt

Late 2023- gone to emeritus status, inactive, don't @ me, I can check who I've posted on, and I'm not really here like I used to be......thanks.

Started with psycho meds/psychiatric care circa 1988.  In retrospect, and on contemplation, situational overwhelm.

Rounding up to 30 years of medications(30 medication trials, poly-pharmacy maximum was 3 at one time).

5/28/2015-off Adderal salts 2.5mg. (I had been on that since hospital 10/2014)

12/2015---just holding, holding, holding, with trileptal/oxcarb at 75 mg. 1/2 tab at hs.  My last psycho med ever!  Tapered @ 10% every 4 weeks, sometimes 2 weeks to

2016 Dec 16 medication free!!

Longer signature post here, with current supplements.

Herb and alcohol free since 5/15/2016.  And.....I quit smoking 11/2021. Lapsed.  Redo of quit smoking 9/28/2022.  Can you say Hallelujah?(took me long enough)💜

None of my posts are intended as medical advice.  Please discuss any decisions about your medical care with a knowledgeable medical provider.  My success story:  Blue skies ahead, clear sailing

 

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  • Moderator Emeritus
On 7/20/2017 at 4:08 PM, Utah49er said:

 

I see a lot of people recommend the Epsom Salt baths and I am looking to try it. Is there a certain kind or brand you would recommend? 

 

I generally use Teals........available at Costco and I use less than the recommended amount in a warm tub.  I have also bought other brands too........  Sometimes it comes in cartons and can usually be found close to the pharmacy at just about any grocery store. 

 

I hope we haven't overwhelmed you with responses and you are doing okay today.  I also used to get needleless syringes to measure my liquified Trileptal at Costco as well.  I had to go to the pick-up counter and just ask.  They never even charged me.

 

Best,

mmt

Late 2023- gone to emeritus status, inactive, don't @ me, I can check who I've posted on, and I'm not really here like I used to be......thanks.

Started with psycho meds/psychiatric care circa 1988.  In retrospect, and on contemplation, situational overwhelm.

Rounding up to 30 years of medications(30 medication trials, poly-pharmacy maximum was 3 at one time).

5/28/2015-off Adderal salts 2.5mg. (I had been on that since hospital 10/2014)

12/2015---just holding, holding, holding, with trileptal/oxcarb at 75 mg. 1/2 tab at hs.  My last psycho med ever!  Tapered @ 10% every 4 weeks, sometimes 2 weeks to

2016 Dec 16 medication free!!

Longer signature post here, with current supplements.

Herb and alcohol free since 5/15/2016.  And.....I quit smoking 11/2021. Lapsed.  Redo of quit smoking 9/28/2022.  Can you say Hallelujah?(took me long enough)💜

None of my posts are intended as medical advice.  Please discuss any decisions about your medical care with a knowledgeable medical provider.  My success story:  Blue skies ahead, clear sailing

 

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  • Mentor

Hi Utah49,

I'm very sorry to read your story, it sounds like are currently going through a lot.   I have been through something similar and wanted to add my suggestions because I hate to see you suffer needlessly. Just remember though, they are only suggestions, and you have been getting a lot of different suggestions.  So perhaps mull them all over and come up with the best plan for you.

 

I went off an anti-depressant cold turkey, ouch! Then I reinstated, still ouch. At that time I was prescribed gabapentin which is similar to Pregabalin.  Here's where the similarities come in.  I tried to go off the gabapentin with my first drop being 30% of the dose.  Oh what a flippin' nightmare. I had to reinstate.  It felt somewhat like WD but with a heavy dose of the flu, and tremors. Ok, you get the idea, it was bad. I hear you about the cost of the Pregabalin. Is it possible to maybe afford it for another two or three months only and perhaps do a taper during that time? Or perhaps don't decide right away, just do a small taper with what you have left and see how you feel?  If you get a reaction then you know how difficult it will be for you, and at that time you may look at extending your prescription a little differently. I have learned that whatever I do, I must do it very slowly otherwise the symptoms are horrible. I do hear you though about the financial pressure, what an awful choice to have to make. Whatever you decide to do, please know we are rooting for you, no judgement, just support.

 

I am not a health professional in any way.  I do not give medical advice.   Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a professional medical practitioner.

 

NEW INFORMATION FOR GABAPENTIN TAPER

April 29, 2022 900 mg to 800 mg (11%), May 29, 2022 800 to 700 mg (12.5%), June 20, 2022 700 to 650mg (8%), July 20, 2022 650 to 575 (12%), August 20,  575 to 500 (13%),  Sept 20, 2020 500 to 475mg (5%) Nov 7, 2022 475 to 425 (11%), Nov 21, 2022 500mg

Medications: Gabapentin, Prednisone 1.5mg a day, Cortisol Inhaler daily. 

HISTORY FOR ZOLOFT TAPER

Feb. 2016 to June 2016  - Was on 150mg Zoloft.  Put on Gabapentin at 900mg a day in 2016 due to antidepressant withdrawal. 

Quit Zoloft (Sertraline) June  2016,  reinstated 50mg of Zoloft July 2016.  From July 2016  to October 2016 went from 50 mg down 2.3 mg. I up-dosed in November 2016 to 12.5 mg. Held there until January 2017 when I started a much slower taper.

STARTING SENSIBLE  ZOLOFT TAPERING USING GUIDELINES FROM THIS SITE

Dec. 10 2016  - switched to Liquid Zoloft (Sertraline) @ 12.5 mg.   Jan. 4, 2020 1.875 mg (6.3%). Jan. 25, 2020 1.75 mgFeb. 29, 2020 1.625mg (7.10%).  Apr. 4, 2020 1.5 mg.  May 9, 2020 1.375 mg.  June 6, 2020 1.25 mg. (9.10%).  July 4, 2020 1.125 mg. (10%).  August 15, 2020 1.0 mg.  Oct 24, 2020 .875 mg.  Nov. 28, 2020 .75mgJan 16, 2021 .685mg (8.7%).  Feb 13, 2021 .62mg. March 12, 2021 .56mg.  May 1, 2021 .375mg.  May 29, 2021 .25mg. June 26, 2021 .0125mg. July 25, 2021 .065mg. August 22, 2021 .048mg.  October 2, 2021 .043mg.  October 10, 2021 .038mg.  October 23, 2021 .035mg.  October 30, 2021 .032mg.  Nov. 13, 2021 .030 mg.  Dec 4, 2021 .0285 mg.  Dec 11, 2021 .0265 mg. Dec 18, 2021 .0246 mg. Dec 25, 2021 .023mg. Jan 1, 2022. 0 mg. OFF COMPLETELY

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Hey Utah - Found myself re-reading this and thought of you:

 

https://rxisk.org/kicking-lyrica/

 

 

"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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