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Terry: withdrawing from Xanax and Zoloft


Terry

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  • Moderator Emeritus

 

2 hours ago, Terry said:

I noticed that quite often you tapered, or proposed to taper, with a 3 (rather than 4) week hold.  Did it work OK for you?  That could shorten total taper time by a fair amount, which is very appealing.

 

The goal is to get off our drug with the minimal discomfort and with the ability to live our lives as normally as possible.  Yes, the thought of shortening the taper time is appealing but the alternative of trying to go quicker and ending up destabilising ourselves is not.  I've been tapering for just over 5 years now and still have almost 1 year to go and many times I've tried to "fiddle the numbers" to try and cut off some time but each time I end up realising that in the scheme of things getting off 2 or even 3 months sooner when I've been tapering for so long with minimal issues and at the expense of the compounding, that in the end I'd rather go slower than to risk upsetting the apple cart.  There have been many times over the last few years that I've just wanted to stop taking the drug and see what happens but sanity prevails when I remember that I know of too many members here at SA who have tried to go faster and have come unstuck.  Some members have ended up taking longer to get off than if they had continued doing a careful taper and some have ended up on an additional drug which then has to be tapered, and some have ended up worse with the additional drug or a different drug.  Some manage to stabilise, but it can take a long time, but there are others never get back to their previous stability.  Some have had to leave work, some have become bedridden, some have had their relationship breakdown, some have had to move in with relatives.

 

REMEMBER:  Every reduction, however small, is getting us closer to being off the drug.  We will get there eventually.

 

My tapering has been done using compounded Pristiq.  The lowest dose the pharmacist could make at a reasonable cost was 0.125mg.  Because of this I adapted my taper around my doses so if a taper cycle was a fair bit less than 10% I might have only held for 3 weeks instead of 4.  There have been at least 2 times that I have held for extended periods to allow my brain a chance to catch up if it needed it, one was for 3 months at 50mg (a standard tablet), and I think at 20mg for 7 weeks because I had extra capsules. 

 

Recently I discovered that I can dissolve the contents of a capsule in water (the tablet has to be crushed up very finely otherwise it goes gluggy) so I can now get my doses very close to 10%.  It would have been good to have realised this earlier but I managed okay and I'm very thankful to be able to do that now otherwise I would have had to make increasingly larger reductions with longer holds.

* 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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  • 2 months later...
  • Moderator

@Terry

 

I just wondered how you were doing?

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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Thanks for asking Frogie.  It's funny, but I've been wondering the same thing about you lately.  As far as WD I'm doing reasonably well.  Physically, not as well as I would like.  I still have leg pain in my surgical leg (THR) and am seeing a physical therapist regularly.  I keep hoping for some progress, but so far I see very little improvement.  I keep hoping that with time and exercise, the pain will get better.

 

How are you doing post-taper off xanax?  I hope things are smoothing out for you, and getting back to a better place.  I'm planning to be off sertraline in about 6 months if all goes well.  Then, after a rest, I'll tackle my xanax taper.

 

Warm wishes,

Terry

2007 - 2008          Paxil and Klonopin

2008 - 2012           Mirtazapine following CT from Klonopin and Paxil.  

2012                       Unsuccessful taper of mirtazapine; reinstated.     

7/2013 - 1/2014   Successfully tapered mirtazapine from 7.5 mg to 0.00.

 

Sertraline (Zoloft) Taper  Aug 4, 2017 - July 18, 2021 - Current dose 0.00

Alprazolam (Xanax)  July 19, 2017 - Nov 15, 2021 0.25 mg.

Began 10% taper  Nov 16, 2021 - 0.25  Jan 11, 2022 - 0.203;  Jan 13, 2023 - 0.0499;  Jan 21, 2024 - 0.0137;  Mar 17, 2024 - 0.0099;  Taper is 96% complete.

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I'm beginning the end game taper today, though I'm rather nervous about making a 25% cut.  My WD has been fairly manageable, except for a few bumps in the road, so I'm hoping this change will go well.  If not, I'm unsure what to do, go back to my previous dose or tough it out.  I may need the sage advice of some of the mods at that point.  I truly appreciate the help and encouragement I've received here from everyone.

2007 - 2008          Paxil and Klonopin

2008 - 2012           Mirtazapine following CT from Klonopin and Paxil.  

2012                       Unsuccessful taper of mirtazapine; reinstated.     

7/2013 - 1/2014   Successfully tapered mirtazapine from 7.5 mg to 0.00.

 

Sertraline (Zoloft) Taper  Aug 4, 2017 - July 18, 2021 - Current dose 0.00

Alprazolam (Xanax)  July 19, 2017 - Nov 15, 2021 0.25 mg.

Began 10% taper  Nov 16, 2021 - 0.25  Jan 11, 2022 - 0.203;  Jan 13, 2023 - 0.0499;  Jan 21, 2024 - 0.0137;  Mar 17, 2024 - 0.0099;  Taper is 96% complete.

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@Frogie

Thanks for asking Frogie.  It's funny, but I've been wondering the same thing about you lately.  As far as WD I'm doing reasonably well.  Physically, not as well as I would like.  I still have leg pain in my surgical leg (THR) and am seeing a physical therapist regularly.  I keep hoping for some progress, but so far I see very little improvement.  I keep hoping that with time and exercise, the pain will get better.

 

How are you doing post-taper off xanax?  I hope things are smoothing out for you, and getting back to a better place.  I'm planning to be off sertraline in about 6 months if all goes well.  Then, after a rest, I'll tackle my xanax taper.

 

Warm wishes,

Terry

2007 - 2008          Paxil and Klonopin

2008 - 2012           Mirtazapine following CT from Klonopin and Paxil.  

2012                       Unsuccessful taper of mirtazapine; reinstated.     

7/2013 - 1/2014   Successfully tapered mirtazapine from 7.5 mg to 0.00.

 

Sertraline (Zoloft) Taper  Aug 4, 2017 - July 18, 2021 - Current dose 0.00

Alprazolam (Xanax)  July 19, 2017 - Nov 15, 2021 0.25 mg.

Began 10% taper  Nov 16, 2021 - 0.25  Jan 11, 2022 - 0.203;  Jan 13, 2023 - 0.0499;  Jan 21, 2024 - 0.0137;  Mar 17, 2024 - 0.0099;  Taper is 96% complete.

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  • Moderator

@Terry

 

Hi!

 

 I’m so sorry to hear you are still having the leg pain. I was so hoping it would have eased up by now. Hopefully with physical therapy it will become less and less with time. At least you don’t have something requiring more surgery. 
 

You are nearly at the end. That is fantastic news! You did so well with minimal symptoms. That’s a fantastic taper.

 

Im sure, after a rest your Xanax taper will go just as well for you.

 

 I’m holding my own. Still have symptoms, but I will heal one day and this will all just be a bad dream.

 

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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  • 3 months later...

UPDATE:  I am down to the last level of tapering sertraline.  I started the end game taper in March and my last cut of 50% was on June 1st.  Theoretically, I should be jumping to zero in three weeks.  But I'm wondering if it's the right thing to do.  I'm experiencing such fatigue, but am unable to sleep more than 5-6 hours a night.  In mid-afternoon I get very sleepy and sometimes nap a bit.  If I try to do anything significant around our house i just get zapped.  My energy level and ambition are so low.  I'm concerned that if I jump to zero I may be even worse off.  Am I being pessimistic?  I really want to be free of this drug.

2007 - 2008          Paxil and Klonopin

2008 - 2012           Mirtazapine following CT from Klonopin and Paxil.  

2012                       Unsuccessful taper of mirtazapine; reinstated.     

7/2013 - 1/2014   Successfully tapered mirtazapine from 7.5 mg to 0.00.

 

Sertraline (Zoloft) Taper  Aug 4, 2017 - July 18, 2021 - Current dose 0.00

Alprazolam (Xanax)  July 19, 2017 - Nov 15, 2021 0.25 mg.

Began 10% taper  Nov 16, 2021 - 0.25  Jan 11, 2022 - 0.203;  Jan 13, 2023 - 0.0499;  Jan 21, 2024 - 0.0137;  Mar 17, 2024 - 0.0099;  Taper is 96% complete.

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  • Moderator

The Endgame Taper is all about listening to your body ad letting it call the shots. You have made it down to a good level, now it is just the timing of the jump. I wouldn't pay attention to a set schedule but rather continue to take this dose until your body says "that's enough". No second guessing, no thinking about it, your body will know when the time is right.

20 years on Paxil starting at 20mg and working up to 40mg. Sept 2011 started 10% every 6 weeks taper (2.5% every week for 4 weeks then hold for 2 additional weeks), currently at 7.9mg. Oct 2011 CTed 15oz vodka a night, to only drinking 2 beers most nights, totally sober Feb 2013.

Since I wrote this I have continued to decrease my dose by 10% every 6 weeks (2.5% every week for 4 weeks and then hold for an additional 2 weeks). I added in an extra 6 week hold when I hit 10mg to let things settle out even more. When I hit 3mgpw it became hard to split the drop into 4 parts so I switched to dropping 1mgpw (pill weight) every week for 3 weeks and then holding for another 3 weeks.  The 3 + 3 schedule turned out to be too harsh so I cut back to dropping 1mgpw every 4 weeks which is working better.

Final Dose 0.016mg.     Current dose 0.000mg 04-15-2017

 

"It's also important not to become angry, no matter how difficult life is, because you can loose all hope if you can't laugh at yourself and at life in general."  Stephen Hawking

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  • 2 weeks later...
  • Moderator

@Terry

 

Just like Brassmonkey said, follow your body. There is no rush to get off of it like there was for me with the Xanax. And you won’t have the side effects like I am (hopefully). Nice and slow wins the race.

 

I think you’re doing wonderful! Keep me posted 😊

 

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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  • 2 weeks later...

Update:  On July 17 I took my last dose of sertraline.  That evening I began having abdominal pain and went to the ER where I was diagnosed with appendicitis.  Early the next morning I had an appendectomy under general anesthesia, and was given an antibiotic and pain killers.  I don't know if what I'm experiencing now is from ending the sertraline or from all the drugs I was given. 

2007 - 2008          Paxil and Klonopin

2008 - 2012           Mirtazapine following CT from Klonopin and Paxil.  

2012                       Unsuccessful taper of mirtazapine; reinstated.     

7/2013 - 1/2014   Successfully tapered mirtazapine from 7.5 mg to 0.00.

 

Sertraline (Zoloft) Taper  Aug 4, 2017 - July 18, 2021 - Current dose 0.00

Alprazolam (Xanax)  July 19, 2017 - Nov 15, 2021 0.25 mg.

Began 10% taper  Nov 16, 2021 - 0.25  Jan 11, 2022 - 0.203;  Jan 13, 2023 - 0.0499;  Jan 21, 2024 - 0.0137;  Mar 17, 2024 - 0.0099;  Taper is 96% complete.

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  • Administrator

So sorry you're going through this! Terrible coincidence, but appendicitis has to be treated. It must have been very painful.

 

Are you still taking pain killers? What did they tell you about the recovery process?

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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I've taken 1 1/2 pain pills, but think I can get along without them now.  If need be, I can use Tylenol or ibuprophen. 

 

Appendectomy is now considered to be an outpatient procedure.  I was discharged from the hospital's surgery recovery area about 3 hours after my surgery, along with printed aftercare instructions.  I don't remember any specific verbal instructions.

2007 - 2008          Paxil and Klonopin

2008 - 2012           Mirtazapine following CT from Klonopin and Paxil.  

2012                       Unsuccessful taper of mirtazapine; reinstated.     

7/2013 - 1/2014   Successfully tapered mirtazapine from 7.5 mg to 0.00.

 

Sertraline (Zoloft) Taper  Aug 4, 2017 - July 18, 2021 - Current dose 0.00

Alprazolam (Xanax)  July 19, 2017 - Nov 15, 2021 0.25 mg.

Began 10% taper  Nov 16, 2021 - 0.25  Jan 11, 2022 - 0.203;  Jan 13, 2023 - 0.0499;  Jan 21, 2024 - 0.0137;  Mar 17, 2024 - 0.0099;  Taper is 96% complete.

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  • Moderator

@Terry

 

I’m so sorry to hear about your appendicitis.

 

 I truly hope you have a speedy recovery.

 

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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@FrogieThanks, Frogie.  I'm on the mend.  Now that I'm off sertraline I can look ahead to my xanax taper.  I'm guessing I should wait a while before starting that.

2007 - 2008          Paxil and Klonopin

2008 - 2012           Mirtazapine following CT from Klonopin and Paxil.  

2012                       Unsuccessful taper of mirtazapine; reinstated.     

7/2013 - 1/2014   Successfully tapered mirtazapine from 7.5 mg to 0.00.

 

Sertraline (Zoloft) Taper  Aug 4, 2017 - July 18, 2021 - Current dose 0.00

Alprazolam (Xanax)  July 19, 2017 - Nov 15, 2021 0.25 mg.

Began 10% taper  Nov 16, 2021 - 0.25  Jan 11, 2022 - 0.203;  Jan 13, 2023 - 0.0499;  Jan 21, 2024 - 0.0137;  Mar 17, 2024 - 0.0099;  Taper is 96% complete.

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  • Moderator

I would wait until you are fully mended and feeling really well.

 

But great news you’re on the way!

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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  • 1 month later...
  • Moderator

@Terry

 

Just wanted to stop by and check in on you.

 

Hope you’re doing well😊

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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@Frogie Thanks for checking on me.  It's now nearly 2 months that I'm off sertraline.  I continue to have anxiety pretty much daily, and I wonder if it's still withdrawal, or if it's connected to taking xanax.  I'd like to start my xanax taper, but don't know how "normal" I need to feel before starting.  I'm beginning to wonder if "normal" is even achievable anymore.

 

Hope you're doing OK post-xanax.  Because you had a rather rushed taper, I expect things can be unpleasant at times.  I hope those times are very few.

 

Best regards,

Terry

2007 - 2008          Paxil and Klonopin

2008 - 2012           Mirtazapine following CT from Klonopin and Paxil.  

2012                       Unsuccessful taper of mirtazapine; reinstated.     

7/2013 - 1/2014   Successfully tapered mirtazapine from 7.5 mg to 0.00.

 

Sertraline (Zoloft) Taper  Aug 4, 2017 - July 18, 2021 - Current dose 0.00

Alprazolam (Xanax)  July 19, 2017 - Nov 15, 2021 0.25 mg.

Began 10% taper  Nov 16, 2021 - 0.25  Jan 11, 2022 - 0.203;  Jan 13, 2023 - 0.0499;  Jan 21, 2024 - 0.0137;  Mar 17, 2024 - 0.0099;  Taper is 96% complete.

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  • Moderator

@Terry

 

I don’t think your anxiety is related to the Xanax. That’s a very common wd symptom when you come off an antidepressant. I’d give it time and patience, unfortunately and I bet it will clear up before you know it.

 

Have you tried some magnesium? That tends to help me

 

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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  • 2 weeks later...

@Shep You advised me when I was helping my husband, Raphael, to taper from valium.  That taper was successful, and he is doing well. 

 

I've been off sertraline since mid-July, and am now planning my alprazolam (xanax) taper.  I'd like to make a dilution using my 0.25 mg tablets, but need a little guidance on how best to do it.  I plan to use vodka to dissolve the tablets, but need to know what volume is necessary.  I currently split my dose, taking 0.0625 in the morning and  0.1875 at bedtime.

 

Thanks, and best regards,

Terry

 

 

 

2007 - 2008          Paxil and Klonopin

2008 - 2012           Mirtazapine following CT from Klonopin and Paxil.  

2012                       Unsuccessful taper of mirtazapine; reinstated.     

7/2013 - 1/2014   Successfully tapered mirtazapine from 7.5 mg to 0.00.

 

Sertraline (Zoloft) Taper  Aug 4, 2017 - July 18, 2021 - Current dose 0.00

Alprazolam (Xanax)  July 19, 2017 - Nov 15, 2021 0.25 mg.

Began 10% taper  Nov 16, 2021 - 0.25  Jan 11, 2022 - 0.203;  Jan 13, 2023 - 0.0499;  Jan 21, 2024 - 0.0137;  Mar 17, 2024 - 0.0099;  Taper is 96% complete.

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  • Moderator

For ease of calculating your dose volume it would be easiest to use 2.5mL of vodka. That would give you a dilution ration of 10:1 with 10mL of liquid containing 0.25mg of active ingredient, or 1mL of liquid containing 0.025mg. From that you should be able to calculate the necessary volume for the doses you are taking.

20 years on Paxil starting at 20mg and working up to 40mg. Sept 2011 started 10% every 6 weeks taper (2.5% every week for 4 weeks then hold for 2 additional weeks), currently at 7.9mg. Oct 2011 CTed 15oz vodka a night, to only drinking 2 beers most nights, totally sober Feb 2013.

Since I wrote this I have continued to decrease my dose by 10% every 6 weeks (2.5% every week for 4 weeks and then hold for an additional 2 weeks). I added in an extra 6 week hold when I hit 10mg to let things settle out even more. When I hit 3mgpw it became hard to split the drop into 4 parts so I switched to dropping 1mgpw (pill weight) every week for 3 weeks and then holding for another 3 weeks.  The 3 + 3 schedule turned out to be too harsh so I cut back to dropping 1mgpw every 4 weeks which is working better.

Final Dose 0.016mg.     Current dose 0.000mg 04-15-2017

 

"It's also important not to become angry, no matter how difficult life is, because you can loose all hope if you can't laugh at yourself and at life in general."  Stephen Hawking

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So that would be dissolving a 0.25 mg tablet in 2.5 ml vodka, then adding 7.5 ml water, for a final volume of 10 ml.  My morning dose, typically 1/4 of a tablet, would now be 2.5 ml from that 10 ml.  I would plan to taper my bedtime dose first until it's equal to the morning dose, then taper both together evenly.

2007 - 2008          Paxil and Klonopin

2008 - 2012           Mirtazapine following CT from Klonopin and Paxil.  

2012                       Unsuccessful taper of mirtazapine; reinstated.     

7/2013 - 1/2014   Successfully tapered mirtazapine from 7.5 mg to 0.00.

 

Sertraline (Zoloft) Taper  Aug 4, 2017 - July 18, 2021 - Current dose 0.00

Alprazolam (Xanax)  July 19, 2017 - Nov 15, 2021 0.25 mg.

Began 10% taper  Nov 16, 2021 - 0.25  Jan 11, 2022 - 0.203;  Jan 13, 2023 - 0.0499;  Jan 21, 2024 - 0.0137;  Mar 17, 2024 - 0.0099;  Taper is 96% complete.

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  • 1 month later...

@GridleyHello Gridley, I see that you switched from Ativan to Valium and I'm wondering how that went for you.  I've been thinking of crossing over from Xanax to Valium, but wondering if that might cause me more trouble.  A xanax taper can be done, but it seems like it would be tedious having to take timed doses every day.

 

It's been 3 months since I finished my sertraline taper, but I'm not sure I'm ready to start the xanax taper yet.  I don't know how "normal" I should feel in order to start another taper.

 

Thanks,

Terry

2007 - 2008          Paxil and Klonopin

2008 - 2012           Mirtazapine following CT from Klonopin and Paxil.  

2012                       Unsuccessful taper of mirtazapine; reinstated.     

7/2013 - 1/2014   Successfully tapered mirtazapine from 7.5 mg to 0.00.

 

Sertraline (Zoloft) Taper  Aug 4, 2017 - July 18, 2021 - Current dose 0.00

Alprazolam (Xanax)  July 19, 2017 - Nov 15, 2021 0.25 mg.

Began 10% taper  Nov 16, 2021 - 0.25  Jan 11, 2022 - 0.203;  Jan 13, 2023 - 0.0499;  Jan 21, 2024 - 0.0137;  Mar 17, 2024 - 0.0099;  Taper is 96% complete.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

I'm taking a break from moderating but I'm happy to answer your question.

 

I switched from Ativan to Valium because of supply problems--I wasn't able to get Ativan in Ecuador and was able to get Valium.  I'm not a big believe in drug switches but others (such as of course Heather Ashton) strongly favor switching to Valium.  The saying is that Valium is the best of the worst. The Ativan agreed with me better than the Valium, but I'm doing okay now tapering with the Valium.  You never know how well you'll do on a drug switch.  

 

There are two big advantages that I see for tapering with Valium. (1) Instead of having to take three doses, I now just take the one dose of Valium before bed, which helps with sleep.  That's a big plus.  Also, it's much less hassle to take just one dose.

(2) It's a lot easier to measure my doses, since 10mg Valium = 1mg Ativan (and 0.5mg of Xanax).  I can't get liquid here in Ecuador so I'm having to dry cut, which would have been much more difficult if I'd tapered Ativan or if I had tapered Xanax.  With a liquid it would be easier.  If you stick with Xanax and switch to a liquid, do a gradual crossover from tablet to liquid. 

 

Another factor to consider is whether you'll be able to get a sufficient supply of Xanax to do your taper.  You might write Frogie on this site and take a look at her thread.  She tapered Xanax a while back but had to do it faster than she would've liked because her doctor limited her supply.  She tapered by dry cutting.

 

So the advantage of tapering with Xanax is that it's a known quantity.  The advantages of switching to Valium are above.  

 

As you see from my signature, I did a 7-week crossover.  Ashton recommends either a 3-week crossover or a 6 or 7-week crossover.  The 7-week seemed more conservative to me, so that's what I went with.

 

Regarding the timing of starting your taper, three months is a pretty good amount of time between tapers, in my opinion.  Of course, it depends on how you're feeling and, as you said, it's hard to say how normal you should be feeling before starting another taper.  I was feeling what we call WDnormal after my Lexapro tapering, which means you feel the same level of so-so every day without big swings in symptoms.

 

 

Gridley Introduction

 

Lexapro 20 mg since 2004.  Begin Brassmonkey Slide Taper Jan. 2017.   

End 2017 year 1 of taper at 9.25mg 

End 2018 year 2 of taper at 4.1mg

End 2019 year 3 of taper at 1.0mg  

Oct. 30, 2020  Jump to zero from 0.025mg.  Current dose: 0.000mg

3 year, 10 month taper is 100% complete.

 

Ativan 1 mg to 1.875mg 1986-2020, two CT's and reinstatements

Nov. 2020, 7-week Ativan-Valium crossover to 18.75mg Valium

Feb. 2021, begin 10%/4 week taper of 18.75mg Valium 

End 2021  year 1 of Valium taper at 6mg

End 2022 year 2 of Valium taper at 2.75mg 

End 2023 year 3 of Valium taper at 1mg

Jan. 24, 2024: Hold at 1mg and shift to Imipramine taper.

Taper is 95% complete.

 

Imipramine 75 mg daily since 1986.  Jan.-Sept. 2016 tapered to 14.4mg  

March 22, 2022: Begin 10%/4 week taper

Aug. 5, 2022: hold at 9.5mg and shift to Valium taper

Jan. 24, 2024: Resume Imipramine taper.  Current dose as of Feb. 22: 7.6mg

Taper is 90% complete.  

  

Supplements: multiple, quercetin, omega-3, vitamins C, E and D3, magnesium glycinate, probiotics, zinc, melatonin .3mg, anti-candida, iron, serrapeptase, nattokinase


I am not a medical professional and this is not medical advice but simply information based on my own experience, as well as other members who have survived these drugs.

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@GridleyI'm sorry to have interrupted your break from moderating.  I appreciate your answering.  I helped my husband successfully taper from valium, making my own solution using vodka.  For me it was so much easier than weighing pills, since I was already doing a liquid taper of my sertraline at the same time.

 

Which moderator here could I ask for help to plan doing the crossover from xanax to valium?

 

Best regards,

Terry

2007 - 2008          Paxil and Klonopin

2008 - 2012           Mirtazapine following CT from Klonopin and Paxil.  

2012                       Unsuccessful taper of mirtazapine; reinstated.     

7/2013 - 1/2014   Successfully tapered mirtazapine from 7.5 mg to 0.00.

 

Sertraline (Zoloft) Taper  Aug 4, 2017 - July 18, 2021 - Current dose 0.00

Alprazolam (Xanax)  July 19, 2017 - Nov 15, 2021 0.25 mg.

Began 10% taper  Nov 16, 2021 - 0.25  Jan 11, 2022 - 0.203;  Jan 13, 2023 - 0.0499;  Jan 21, 2024 - 0.0137;  Mar 17, 2024 - 0.0099;  Taper is 96% complete.

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  • Moderator Emeritus
28 minutes ago, Terry said:

For me it was so much easier than weighing pills, since I was already doing a liquid taper of my sertraline at the same time.

 

Which moderator here could I ask for help to plan doing the crossover from xanax to valium?

 

Q:  Is it your husband who is going to start Xanax?

 

If yes, then I suggest that you ask your husband to join as a member and start an Introduction topic and create his drug signature.  This way staff can work directly with him and ask him the questions that will need to be asked and get the answers directly from him.  It also gives the member a feeling of having more control over their situation.   It is difficult  for SA staff to work through third party.

 

 

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *

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

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

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

 VIDEO:   Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome and its Management

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  • Moderator Emeritus

I've just read back through your earlier posts and it a seems that it is you that wants to do the crossover from xanax to valium.

 

On 9/16/2021 at 1:25 AM, Terry said:

It's now nearly 2 months that I'm off sertraline.  I continue to have anxiety pretty much daily, and I wonder if it's still withdrawal, or if it's connected to taking xanax.

 

There is no mention of Xanax in your drug signature.  Please update it.  Your signature should be updated whenever you make a change so that it remains current.  It means that staff do not have to spend time reading back through your posts to get the information.  Thank you.

 

Account Settings – Create or Edit a signature

 

 

* 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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  • Administrator

@Frogie would you be so kind as to assist Terry? Thank 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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  • Moderator

Sure @Terry

 

Would you like some help getting your taper set up so when you’re ready to go you’ll know what to do?

 

I’d be happy to help you😊

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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@Frogie Hi Frogie,

 

I'd like to know how to do a crossover from alprazolam (xanax) to valium.  I haven't asked my doctor yet if she'll prescribe valium, but I know she's in favor of my getting off the benzo. 

 

Hope you're doing OK after your xanax taper.  I imagine it's not been easy because of the shortened time frame.

 

Best regards,

Terry

2007 - 2008          Paxil and Klonopin

2008 - 2012           Mirtazapine following CT from Klonopin and Paxil.  

2012                       Unsuccessful taper of mirtazapine; reinstated.     

7/2013 - 1/2014   Successfully tapered mirtazapine from 7.5 mg to 0.00.

 

Sertraline (Zoloft) Taper  Aug 4, 2017 - July 18, 2021 - Current dose 0.00

Alprazolam (Xanax)  July 19, 2017 - Nov 15, 2021 0.25 mg.

Began 10% taper  Nov 16, 2021 - 0.25  Jan 11, 2022 - 0.203;  Jan 13, 2023 - 0.0499;  Jan 21, 2024 - 0.0137;  Mar 17, 2024 - 0.0099;  Taper is 96% complete.

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  • Moderator

Do you only take .25 mg a day? Once I know that I’ll be happy to help you out.

 

 I’m holding my own. Thanks for asking.

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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Yes, my dose is 0.25 mg/day.

2007 - 2008          Paxil and Klonopin

2008 - 2012           Mirtazapine following CT from Klonopin and Paxil.  

2012                       Unsuccessful taper of mirtazapine; reinstated.     

7/2013 - 1/2014   Successfully tapered mirtazapine from 7.5 mg to 0.00.

 

Sertraline (Zoloft) Taper  Aug 4, 2017 - July 18, 2021 - Current dose 0.00

Alprazolam (Xanax)  July 19, 2017 - Nov 15, 2021 0.25 mg.

Began 10% taper  Nov 16, 2021 - 0.25  Jan 11, 2022 - 0.203;  Jan 13, 2023 - 0.0499;  Jan 21, 2024 - 0.0137;  Mar 17, 2024 - 0.0099;  Taper is 96% complete.

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4 hours ago, ChessieCat said:

Is it your husband who is going to start Xanax?

No, I'm the one who's going to taper alprazolam (xanax). 

2007 - 2008          Paxil and Klonopin

2008 - 2012           Mirtazapine following CT from Klonopin and Paxil.  

2012                       Unsuccessful taper of mirtazapine; reinstated.     

7/2013 - 1/2014   Successfully tapered mirtazapine from 7.5 mg to 0.00.

 

Sertraline (Zoloft) Taper  Aug 4, 2017 - July 18, 2021 - Current dose 0.00

Alprazolam (Xanax)  July 19, 2017 - Nov 15, 2021 0.25 mg.

Began 10% taper  Nov 16, 2021 - 0.25  Jan 11, 2022 - 0.203;  Jan 13, 2023 - 0.0499;  Jan 21, 2024 - 0.0137;  Mar 17, 2024 - 0.0099;  Taper is 96% complete.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Okay, thank you.  Please do the following.  It helps the staff so they can help you.

 

4 hours ago, ChessieCat said:

There is no mention of Xanax in your drug signature.  Please update it.  Your signature should be updated whenever you make a change so that it remains current.  It means that staff do not have to spend time reading back through your posts to get the information.  Thank you.

 

Account Settings – Create or Edit a signature

 

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *

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

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

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

 VIDEO:   Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome and its Management

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  • Moderator

@Terry

 

You could take 4 mg of diazepam to replace the 0.25 mg Xanax. You want to convert over 3-4 weeks. So you would just take tiny amounts of the diazepam and cut back the Xanax over the 3-4 weeks until you’re no longer taking the Xanax.

 

Xanax dissolves in alcohol the same as diazepam so you could make your own solution as you did with your husbands diazepam.

 

Diazepam affects everyone different. It does sometimes tend to cause some depression. But it also helps some sleep much better also.

 

Hope that helps😊

 

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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11 hours ago, ChessieCat said:

There is no mention of Xanax in your drug signature

Actually, I take alprazolam, which is generic xanax.

2007 - 2008          Paxil and Klonopin

2008 - 2012           Mirtazapine following CT from Klonopin and Paxil.  

2012                       Unsuccessful taper of mirtazapine; reinstated.     

7/2013 - 1/2014   Successfully tapered mirtazapine from 7.5 mg to 0.00.

 

Sertraline (Zoloft) Taper  Aug 4, 2017 - July 18, 2021 - Current dose 0.00

Alprazolam (Xanax)  July 19, 2017 - Nov 15, 2021 0.25 mg.

Began 10% taper  Nov 16, 2021 - 0.25  Jan 11, 2022 - 0.203;  Jan 13, 2023 - 0.0499;  Jan 21, 2024 - 0.0137;  Mar 17, 2024 - 0.0099;  Taper is 96% complete.

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11 hours ago, ChessieCat said:

There is no mention of Xanax in your drug signature.

It's alprazolam, listed at the bottom of my drug signature.

2007 - 2008          Paxil and Klonopin

2008 - 2012           Mirtazapine following CT from Klonopin and Paxil.  

2012                       Unsuccessful taper of mirtazapine; reinstated.     

7/2013 - 1/2014   Successfully tapered mirtazapine from 7.5 mg to 0.00.

 

Sertraline (Zoloft) Taper  Aug 4, 2017 - July 18, 2021 - Current dose 0.00

Alprazolam (Xanax)  July 19, 2017 - Nov 15, 2021 0.25 mg.

Began 10% taper  Nov 16, 2021 - 0.25  Jan 11, 2022 - 0.203;  Jan 13, 2023 - 0.0499;  Jan 21, 2024 - 0.0137;  Mar 17, 2024 - 0.0099;  Taper is 96% complete.

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