Centime Posted September 11, 2018 Author Share Posted September 11, 2018 I’m sinking fast, now down to 30 mg. of Paxil and nearly paralyzed. I sleep for 12 hours a day and am still exhausted all the time. Can’t concentrate, no appetite, no interest in anything. My fear is that this is depression, not withdrawal, and that I may need to be on drugs forever. About a week ago I asked if this could be a manifestation of withdrawal, but no one answered. I’d really appreciate hearing from anyone with experience like this. Thank you! Long history with many psych drugs beginning in 1987. Went through two too-fast Paxil withdrawals in the past. Ended up in ER both times. I successfully got off Wellbutrin, and (occasional only) Seroquel, Concerta, and Klonopin over six months. Current supplements: multivitamin, probiotic, D3, magnesium, CBD. Current drugs: Ranitidine 300 mg. for acid reflux, Paxil (tapering off). Paxil Taper History, 2018/2019 Jan.1: 60 mg. May 1: 55 mg. May 13: 50 mg. June 3: 47.5 mg. June 14: 45 mg. June 21: 42.5 mg. July 5: 40 mg. Switched to figuring by weight. 40 mg. = .704 July 22: .686. July 29: .669. August 5: .652. August 12: .635. September 2: 30 mg. October 2: 25 mg. November 2: 22 mg. December 1: 20 mg. January 6: 18 mg. Now using a digital scale and an emery board to taper. January 16: I decided to go back on the drugs after a year of tapering. I’m more depressed than ever, and do not believe it’s withdrawal. Thank you, everyone, for your support, advice, and kindness. Centime. Link to comment
Centime Posted September 12, 2018 Author Share Posted September 12, 2018 I know I’m supposed to post in my thread but I’ve left two messages that have gone unanswered. I’ve been tapering off Paxil since January, now down to 30 mg. I’m sinking—more depressed by the day. But it does seem like depression, from which I’ve suffered all my life, and not withdrawal. I’m sleeping 12–14 hours a day, have zero energy, appetite, or interest in anything. I’m VERY reluctant to go back on the drug, but feel like my life is passing without me. Is there any chance that this could be withdrawal? If so, I’m willing to continue tapering. But I don’t want to waste this precious time if I’m just inflicting depression on myself. Any thoughts would be much appreciated. Long history with many psych drugs beginning in 1987. Went through two too-fast Paxil withdrawals in the past. Ended up in ER both times. I successfully got off Wellbutrin, and (occasional only) Seroquel, Concerta, and Klonopin over six months. Current supplements: multivitamin, probiotic, D3, magnesium, CBD. Current drugs: Ranitidine 300 mg. for acid reflux, Paxil (tapering off). Paxil Taper History, 2018/2019 Jan.1: 60 mg. May 1: 55 mg. May 13: 50 mg. June 3: 47.5 mg. June 14: 45 mg. June 21: 42.5 mg. July 5: 40 mg. Switched to figuring by weight. 40 mg. = .704 July 22: .686. July 29: .669. August 5: .652. August 12: .635. September 2: 30 mg. October 2: 25 mg. November 2: 22 mg. December 1: 20 mg. January 6: 18 mg. Now using a digital scale and an emery board to taper. January 16: I decided to go back on the drugs after a year of tapering. I’m more depressed than ever, and do not believe it’s withdrawal. Thank you, everyone, for your support, advice, and kindness. Centime. Link to comment
Cheeky Posted September 12, 2018 Share Posted September 12, 2018 Hey Centime, I too am tapering from Paxil and it is the worst experience of my life. I just wont to let you know your not alone in this and the only way to get off is to go very very slow, or it will catch up to you. unfortunately we cant go faster.What your feeling is withdrawal completely, let your brain catch up to the changes and then when your feeling better start tapering again. I wish you all the best xx 1995 started Paxil 20mg slowly increasing to 50mg 2014 I decided to tapper myself not knowing how too and crashed , DR added 50mg of Seroquel Through the years made many mistakes tapering Started Tapering Both drugs at the same time 7.5% per month Paxil 9% Seroquel doing daily micro-taper Guided by Mark Horowitz 31/3/24 Paxil 10.31mg 31/3/24 Seroquel 9.9mg Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus ChessieCat Posted September 12, 2018 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted September 12, 2018 Q: Have your symptoms worsened in the last few months? If yes, then you might be tapering too quickly. Your signature shows 5 July 40mg and 2 Sept 30mg. Tapering by 10% of the current dose every 4 weeks would have meant 36mg at the start of August and 32.4mg at the start of September. * 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 Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus ChessieCat Posted September 12, 2018 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted September 12, 2018 Is it withdrawal or relapse? Or something else? How do I know it's withdrawal and not relapse? * 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 Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus manymoretodays Posted September 13, 2018 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted September 13, 2018 (edited) 1 hour ago, Centime said: I know I’m supposed to post in my thread but I’ve left two messages that have gone unanswered. I’ve been tapering off Paxil since January, now down to 30 mg. I’m sinking—more depressed by the day. But it does seem like depression, from which I’ve suffered all my life, and not withdrawal. I’m sleeping 12–14 hours a day, have zero energy, appetite, or interest in anything. I’m VERY reluctant to go back on the drug, but feel like my life is passing without me. Is there any chance that this could be withdrawal? If so, I’m willing to continue tapering. But I don’t want to waste this precious time if I’m just inflicting depression on myself. Any thoughts would be much appreciated. Hi Centime, Yes, I think this could be W/D. You also came off the Wellbutrin back in May. I think if I were you I would HOLD for a bit now. My experience with rushing tapers was not good. Loads of symptoms. The CNS really, truly likes some stability. And time. Brain remodeling What is happening in your brain Here's what I see in your signature: I successfully got off Wellbutrin, and (occasional only) Seroquel, Concerta, and Klonopin over the last six months. I'm assuming this was written when you arrived here April 28, 2018 ? So that 6 months started around November 2017? Even with only occasional use of some medications, the CNS has to alter itself as you go on and off again. So I don't think you would be inflicting depression on yourself to be holding until you feel more stable. In that W/D stable way. Are We there Yet? How long is withdrawal going to take? I know it can feel like post traumatic stress, to be having symptoms that previously landed you in the ER, or on more and different medications. What have you got going for support and/or coping skills that you could use now? More links from Gridley on page 1 that may help now too. I hope that helps. Love, peace, healing, and growth, mmt Edited September 13, 2018 by ChessieCat another comment/CC moved links comment 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 Link to comment
Centime Posted September 13, 2018 Author Share Posted September 13, 2018 Thank you, Manymoretodays. I'm going to take your advice and stop tapering for a while. Very helpful links, too, esp. the one on brain remodeling. Much appreciated. Long history with many psych drugs beginning in 1987. Went through two too-fast Paxil withdrawals in the past. Ended up in ER both times. I successfully got off Wellbutrin, and (occasional only) Seroquel, Concerta, and Klonopin over six months. Current supplements: multivitamin, probiotic, D3, magnesium, CBD. Current drugs: Ranitidine 300 mg. for acid reflux, Paxil (tapering off). Paxil Taper History, 2018/2019 Jan.1: 60 mg. May 1: 55 mg. May 13: 50 mg. June 3: 47.5 mg. June 14: 45 mg. June 21: 42.5 mg. July 5: 40 mg. Switched to figuring by weight. 40 mg. = .704 July 22: .686. July 29: .669. August 5: .652. August 12: .635. September 2: 30 mg. October 2: 25 mg. November 2: 22 mg. December 1: 20 mg. January 6: 18 mg. Now using a digital scale and an emery board to taper. January 16: I decided to go back on the drugs after a year of tapering. I’m more depressed than ever, and do not believe it’s withdrawal. Thank you, everyone, for your support, advice, and kindness. Centime. Link to comment
Centime Posted September 15, 2018 Author Share Posted September 15, 2018 Thank you all. You’re right, Chessiecat, I made a mistake in calculating the dose because I was switching back and forth between weight and milligrams. Confusing! But I didn’t exceed 10% in 4—6 weeks. Thanks for noticing! Long history with many psych drugs beginning in 1987. Went through two too-fast Paxil withdrawals in the past. Ended up in ER both times. I successfully got off Wellbutrin, and (occasional only) Seroquel, Concerta, and Klonopin over six months. Current supplements: multivitamin, probiotic, D3, magnesium, CBD. Current drugs: Ranitidine 300 mg. for acid reflux, Paxil (tapering off). Paxil Taper History, 2018/2019 Jan.1: 60 mg. May 1: 55 mg. May 13: 50 mg. June 3: 47.5 mg. June 14: 45 mg. June 21: 42.5 mg. July 5: 40 mg. Switched to figuring by weight. 40 mg. = .704 July 22: .686. July 29: .669. August 5: .652. August 12: .635. September 2: 30 mg. October 2: 25 mg. November 2: 22 mg. December 1: 20 mg. January 6: 18 mg. Now using a digital scale and an emery board to taper. January 16: I decided to go back on the drugs after a year of tapering. I’m more depressed than ever, and do not believe it’s withdrawal. Thank you, everyone, for your support, advice, and kindness. Centime. Link to comment
Centime Posted October 1, 2018 Author Share Posted October 1, 2018 I reinstated to 40 mg. of Paxil (from 30) two weeks ago because I was miserable. I’ve always had a very quick response to drugs. This time, nothing. So I’m going to start tapering again, very slowly, and hope I have better luck this time. I’d appreciate hearing from people who reinstated and what used to work no longer does. What did you do? Thanks! Long history with many psych drugs beginning in 1987. Went through two too-fast Paxil withdrawals in the past. Ended up in ER both times. I successfully got off Wellbutrin, and (occasional only) Seroquel, Concerta, and Klonopin over six months. Current supplements: multivitamin, probiotic, D3, magnesium, CBD. Current drugs: Ranitidine 300 mg. for acid reflux, Paxil (tapering off). Paxil Taper History, 2018/2019 Jan.1: 60 mg. May 1: 55 mg. May 13: 50 mg. June 3: 47.5 mg. June 14: 45 mg. June 21: 42.5 mg. July 5: 40 mg. Switched to figuring by weight. 40 mg. = .704 July 22: .686. July 29: .669. August 5: .652. August 12: .635. September 2: 30 mg. October 2: 25 mg. November 2: 22 mg. December 1: 20 mg. January 6: 18 mg. Now using a digital scale and an emery board to taper. January 16: I decided to go back on the drugs after a year of tapering. I’m more depressed than ever, and do not believe it’s withdrawal. Thank you, everyone, for your support, advice, and kindness. Centime. Link to comment
wantrelief Posted October 1, 2018 Share Posted October 1, 2018 I am sorry you are feeling miserable, Centime. I have gone through many unsuccessful tapers where I would updose to get relief. In the beginning I would stabilize fairly quickly but with the last couple of attempts, it would take several months (4-5) for me to feel better. However, the last time I updosed I did not experience stability at all and after waiting 5 months, started a very slow taper down (I think I may be in tolerance to the drug at this point but don't know for sure). So, it might take several months for you to reach stability....I am hoping it happens for you sooner than that but it might take awhile longer. -1/06 - 3/07 Cymbalta. Fast taper (essentially CT); withdrawal symptoms after 4 mos (didn't realize was WD) -10/07: 100 mg Zoloft; 1 mg Klonopin - tapered off Klonopin after 4 mos. Several unsuccessful slow tapers of Zoloft; went up and down in dose a lot -Spring 2013 back on 1 mg Klonopin to counter WD symptoms; switched over 5-6 mos from Zoloft to 35 mg citalopram -Two attempts at slow tapering citalopram, always increased dose due to WD; also increased Klonopin to 1.25 mg in 2014, then to 1.5 mg in 2015 -8/17-9/17: After holding one year at 20 mg, feeling withdrawal symptoms due to stress - slowly increased to 25 mg. No change in symptoms after 6 months (? tolerance ?) - decided to start citalopram taper February 2018 (still on Klonopin 1.5 mg). Supplements: fish oil; magnesium; vitamin D3; curcumin Citalopram taper: 2/2018 - 12/2019: 25 mg - 11.03 mg I 2020: 10.89 mg - 7.9 mg I 2021: 7.8 mg - 5.26 mg I 2022: 5.2 mg - 3.36 mg I 2023: 3.3 mg - 1.47 mg 2024: 1/5/24: 1.44 mg; 1/19/24: 1.40 mg; 1/26/24: 1.37 mg; 2/2/24: 1.34 mg; 2/9/24: 1.31 mg; 2/23/24: 1.28 mg; 3/1/24: 1.25 mg; 3/8/24: 1.22 mg; 3/15/24: 1.19 mg; 3/29/24: 1.17 mg; 4/5/24: 1.14 mg; 4/13/24: 1.11 mg; 4/20/24: 1.09 mg Link to comment
Centime Posted October 1, 2018 Author Share Posted October 1, 2018 Thanks for this response. It’s encouraging to know I’m not alone. Long history with many psych drugs beginning in 1987. Went through two too-fast Paxil withdrawals in the past. Ended up in ER both times. I successfully got off Wellbutrin, and (occasional only) Seroquel, Concerta, and Klonopin over six months. Current supplements: multivitamin, probiotic, D3, magnesium, CBD. Current drugs: Ranitidine 300 mg. for acid reflux, Paxil (tapering off). Paxil Taper History, 2018/2019 Jan.1: 60 mg. May 1: 55 mg. May 13: 50 mg. June 3: 47.5 mg. June 14: 45 mg. June 21: 42.5 mg. July 5: 40 mg. Switched to figuring by weight. 40 mg. = .704 July 22: .686. July 29: .669. August 5: .652. August 12: .635. September 2: 30 mg. October 2: 25 mg. November 2: 22 mg. December 1: 20 mg. January 6: 18 mg. Now using a digital scale and an emery board to taper. January 16: I decided to go back on the drugs after a year of tapering. I’m more depressed than ever, and do not believe it’s withdrawal. Thank you, everyone, for your support, advice, and kindness. Centime. Link to comment
Centime Posted October 22, 2018 Author Share Posted October 22, 2018 Still holding at 30 mg.s (Paxil) for more than a month, down from a long-ago high of 60. It’s like having the flu—no energy, appetite, concentration, either can’t sleep or want to sleep all the time. This is how I felt before I took any psych drugs, so I feel confused about what’s depression and what’s withdrawal. Does anyone on this site believe that some people need antidepressants, or is the consensus that they’re always damaging and everyone should try to get off them? I’m determined to get off Paxil (it stopped working anyway) but would really like to get my life back! Comments, please, and thank you all for being here. Long history with many psych drugs beginning in 1987. Went through two too-fast Paxil withdrawals in the past. Ended up in ER both times. I successfully got off Wellbutrin, and (occasional only) Seroquel, Concerta, and Klonopin over six months. Current supplements: multivitamin, probiotic, D3, magnesium, CBD. Current drugs: Ranitidine 300 mg. for acid reflux, Paxil (tapering off). Paxil Taper History, 2018/2019 Jan.1: 60 mg. May 1: 55 mg. May 13: 50 mg. June 3: 47.5 mg. June 14: 45 mg. June 21: 42.5 mg. July 5: 40 mg. Switched to figuring by weight. 40 mg. = .704 July 22: .686. July 29: .669. August 5: .652. August 12: .635. September 2: 30 mg. October 2: 25 mg. November 2: 22 mg. December 1: 20 mg. January 6: 18 mg. Now using a digital scale and an emery board to taper. January 16: I decided to go back on the drugs after a year of tapering. I’m more depressed than ever, and do not believe it’s withdrawal. Thank you, everyone, for your support, advice, and kindness. Centime. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Gridley Posted October 22, 2018 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted October 22, 2018 Centime, You might be interested in reading Brassmonkey's thread. He successfully tapered from 40mg Paxil (which had pooped out) using a modification of the 10% every 4 weeks method that can be a bit easier on the system. It's four weeks of 2 1/2% drops from current dose followed by a 2-week hold to let your system catch up to the changes. The Brassmonkey Slide Meth… These posts will help you distinguish between withdrawal and relapse. This post and Is it withdrawal or relapse? 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 April 1: 6.8mg Taper is 91% complete. Supplements: multiple, quercetin, omega-3, vitamins C, E and D3, magnesium glycinate, probiotics, zinc, melatonin .3mg, 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. Link to comment
Centime Posted November 3, 2018 Author Share Posted November 3, 2018 I’m looking for a new doctor. Does anyone know of a reliable referral service for psychiatrists? I can’t find anyone knowledgeable about withdrawal where I am (upstate NY). I’d travel for the right doc. Long history with many psych drugs beginning in 1987. Went through two too-fast Paxil withdrawals in the past. Ended up in ER both times. I successfully got off Wellbutrin, and (occasional only) Seroquel, Concerta, and Klonopin over six months. Current supplements: multivitamin, probiotic, D3, magnesium, CBD. Current drugs: Ranitidine 300 mg. for acid reflux, Paxil (tapering off). Paxil Taper History, 2018/2019 Jan.1: 60 mg. May 1: 55 mg. May 13: 50 mg. June 3: 47.5 mg. June 14: 45 mg. June 21: 42.5 mg. July 5: 40 mg. Switched to figuring by weight. 40 mg. = .704 July 22: .686. July 29: .669. August 5: .652. August 12: .635. September 2: 30 mg. October 2: 25 mg. November 2: 22 mg. December 1: 20 mg. January 6: 18 mg. Now using a digital scale and an emery board to taper. January 16: I decided to go back on the drugs after a year of tapering. I’m more depressed than ever, and do not believe it’s withdrawal. Thank you, everyone, for your support, advice, and kindness. Centime. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus manymoretodays Posted November 4, 2018 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted November 4, 2018 Hi Centime, Recommended doctors, therapists, and clinics This is our topic and some discussion on that. Love, peace, healing, and growth, 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 Link to comment
Centime Posted November 4, 2018 Author Share Posted November 4, 2018 Thank you! Long history with many psych drugs beginning in 1987. Went through two too-fast Paxil withdrawals in the past. Ended up in ER both times. I successfully got off Wellbutrin, and (occasional only) Seroquel, Concerta, and Klonopin over six months. Current supplements: multivitamin, probiotic, D3, magnesium, CBD. Current drugs: Ranitidine 300 mg. for acid reflux, Paxil (tapering off). Paxil Taper History, 2018/2019 Jan.1: 60 mg. May 1: 55 mg. May 13: 50 mg. June 3: 47.5 mg. June 14: 45 mg. June 21: 42.5 mg. July 5: 40 mg. Switched to figuring by weight. 40 mg. = .704 July 22: .686. July 29: .669. August 5: .652. August 12: .635. September 2: 30 mg. October 2: 25 mg. November 2: 22 mg. December 1: 20 mg. January 6: 18 mg. Now using a digital scale and an emery board to taper. January 16: I decided to go back on the drugs after a year of tapering. I’m more depressed than ever, and do not believe it’s withdrawal. Thank you, everyone, for your support, advice, and kindness. Centime. Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted November 5, 2018 Administrator Share Posted November 5, 2018 Hi, Centime. How has your taper been going? 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
Centime Posted November 5, 2018 Author Share Posted November 5, 2018 Hi Alto, Thanks for asking. I'm still feeling majorly depressed, the way I did before taking any meds (no energy, appetite, imagination—the lights are just out.) That's what makes me wonder whether my symptoms are withdrawal or the original illness. Depression runs in the family. I'm tapering very slowly by 10% of previous dose about every 6 weeks. Down to 27 mg. Paxil. I'm looking for a new doctor. I need fresh eyes on my whole history. And life goes on . . . I hope you're well. Are you? I'm grateful for this site. Best, Centime Long history with many psych drugs beginning in 1987. Went through two too-fast Paxil withdrawals in the past. Ended up in ER both times. I successfully got off Wellbutrin, and (occasional only) Seroquel, Concerta, and Klonopin over six months. Current supplements: multivitamin, probiotic, D3, magnesium, CBD. Current drugs: Ranitidine 300 mg. for acid reflux, Paxil (tapering off). Paxil Taper History, 2018/2019 Jan.1: 60 mg. May 1: 55 mg. May 13: 50 mg. June 3: 47.5 mg. June 14: 45 mg. June 21: 42.5 mg. July 5: 40 mg. Switched to figuring by weight. 40 mg. = .704 July 22: .686. July 29: .669. August 5: .652. August 12: .635. September 2: 30 mg. October 2: 25 mg. November 2: 22 mg. December 1: 20 mg. January 6: 18 mg. Now using a digital scale and an emery board to taper. January 16: I decided to go back on the drugs after a year of tapering. I’m more depressed than ever, and do not believe it’s withdrawal. Thank you, everyone, for your support, advice, and kindness. Centime. Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted November 5, 2018 Administrator Share Posted November 5, 2018 Centime, these drugs "work" by dulling emotions. A lot of people feel this as apathy and demotivation. It's going to take a while for you to recover from this. Do what you can to "fake it while you make it," enjoy what you can, stay active, get some exercise each day. How do you feel after a dosage decrease? 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
Centime Posted January 16, 2019 Author Share Posted January 16, 2019 I’ve made the hard decision to go back on antidepressants. I want to thank everyone here for their support and information, which have been invaluable. Also your kindness. I’ve been tapering off Paxil for almost a year, and have felt steadily worse. Each reduction in dose has resulted in my having less energy, less concentration, and feeling more and more tired. I’ve spent the last month barely able to function. My doctor has been supportive, and interested in the problems of withdrawal, but agrees with me that this experiment has gone on long enough—what I’m feeling is depression, not withdrawal. It’s exactly how I felt before I took any drugs, 30 years ago. So I’m switching from Paxil to Celexa, which also works on serotonin. I’ve done this before without a problem, so I hope this time will be as simple. Depression (serious, with suicides) runs on both sides of my family. My mother and one sibling were/are permanently on ADs, as were/are many aunts, uncles, and cousins. When I’ve tried to get off the drugs (many, many times over the years), I’ve been through withdrawal (Paxil, dramatic symptoms) and it’s very different from what I’m feeling now. I have no doubt that this is depression and that I need the drugs. I guess some people just do. I don’t feel that I failed; rather that I did a necessary experiment. The result is not what I hoped, but that’s life. Because of this site I feel confident that I tried to get off the drugs the right way, so I’m no longer agonizing about it. I wish everyone here the best—I so admire your courage and persistence! And thank you moderators most of all. For those of you in my boat, those who do need ADs, I hope you find peace and wellbeing whatever you decide. I’m relieved at my decision, and feeling hopeful. My very best to all. Long history with many psych drugs beginning in 1987. Went through two too-fast Paxil withdrawals in the past. Ended up in ER both times. I successfully got off Wellbutrin, and (occasional only) Seroquel, Concerta, and Klonopin over six months. Current supplements: multivitamin, probiotic, D3, magnesium, CBD. Current drugs: Ranitidine 300 mg. for acid reflux, Paxil (tapering off). Paxil Taper History, 2018/2019 Jan.1: 60 mg. May 1: 55 mg. May 13: 50 mg. June 3: 47.5 mg. June 14: 45 mg. June 21: 42.5 mg. July 5: 40 mg. Switched to figuring by weight. 40 mg. = .704 July 22: .686. July 29: .669. August 5: .652. August 12: .635. September 2: 30 mg. October 2: 25 mg. November 2: 22 mg. December 1: 20 mg. January 6: 18 mg. Now using a digital scale and an emery board to taper. January 16: I decided to go back on the drugs after a year of tapering. I’m more depressed than ever, and do not believe it’s withdrawal. Thank you, everyone, for your support, advice, and kindness. Centime. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus ChessieCat Posted January 17, 2019 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted January 17, 2019 3 hours ago, Centime said: So I’m switching from Paxil to Celexa, which also works on serotonin. I’ve done this before without a problem, so I hope this time will be as simple. Previous experience is not a guide to what might happen in the future. I suggest that you start with a low dose, because your system has been sensitised by withdrawal. Also keep notes on paper. * 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 Link to comment
Centime Posted January 17, 2019 Author Share Posted January 17, 2019 Thanks, ChessieCat. I am starting very slowly. My doc agrees with you! Best, Centime Long history with many psych drugs beginning in 1987. Went through two too-fast Paxil withdrawals in the past. Ended up in ER both times. I successfully got off Wellbutrin, and (occasional only) Seroquel, Concerta, and Klonopin over six months. Current supplements: multivitamin, probiotic, D3, magnesium, CBD. Current drugs: Ranitidine 300 mg. for acid reflux, Paxil (tapering off). Paxil Taper History, 2018/2019 Jan.1: 60 mg. May 1: 55 mg. May 13: 50 mg. June 3: 47.5 mg. June 14: 45 mg. June 21: 42.5 mg. July 5: 40 mg. Switched to figuring by weight. 40 mg. = .704 July 22: .686. July 29: .669. August 5: .652. August 12: .635. September 2: 30 mg. October 2: 25 mg. November 2: 22 mg. December 1: 20 mg. January 6: 18 mg. Now using a digital scale and an emery board to taper. January 16: I decided to go back on the drugs after a year of tapering. I’m more depressed than ever, and do not believe it’s withdrawal. Thank you, everyone, for your support, advice, and kindness. Centime. Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted January 17, 2019 Administrator Share Posted January 17, 2019 Centime, Paxil is very, very difficult to go off. Don't blame yourself. Since you were down to about 20mg Paxil, I would not start with any more than 20mg Celexa. A cross-taper is the gentlest way to switch. It could be that after you get stabilized on Celexa, you could very gradually reduce it. 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
Centime Posted January 17, 2019 Author Share Posted January 17, 2019 Thanks for this advice, Alto. Much appreciated. Long history with many psych drugs beginning in 1987. Went through two too-fast Paxil withdrawals in the past. Ended up in ER both times. I successfully got off Wellbutrin, and (occasional only) Seroquel, Concerta, and Klonopin over six months. Current supplements: multivitamin, probiotic, D3, magnesium, CBD. Current drugs: Ranitidine 300 mg. for acid reflux, Paxil (tapering off). Paxil Taper History, 2018/2019 Jan.1: 60 mg. May 1: 55 mg. May 13: 50 mg. June 3: 47.5 mg. June 14: 45 mg. June 21: 42.5 mg. July 5: 40 mg. Switched to figuring by weight. 40 mg. = .704 July 22: .686. July 29: .669. August 5: .652. August 12: .635. September 2: 30 mg. October 2: 25 mg. November 2: 22 mg. December 1: 20 mg. January 6: 18 mg. Now using a digital scale and an emery board to taper. January 16: I decided to go back on the drugs after a year of tapering. I’m more depressed than ever, and do not believe it’s withdrawal. Thank you, everyone, for your support, advice, and kindness. Centime. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Carmie Posted April 3, 2019 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted April 3, 2019 Hi Centime, How have you been doing?💚 Seroquel. 2019:➡️ From 7.25mg to 5.80mg✔️ 2020➡️From 5.60 to 4.80✔️ 2021➡️From 4.60 to 4.0✔️ 2022➡️From 3.95 to 3.55✔️2023➡️ Jan 26=3.50✔️March 17=3.45✔️ June12=3.40✔️ July30=3.35✔️ Sep14=3.30✔️ Oct31=3.25✔️ 2024➡️Jan15=3.20✔️ Feb19=3.15✔️ March26=3.10✔️This is NOT medical advice.Consult your doctor. Link to comment
Centime Posted April 3, 2019 Author Share Posted April 3, 2019 Hi Carmie, I successfully switched from Paxil to Celexa, and for now am staying on it. It took me a very long time to reach the conclusion that I am severely depressed, and need the drug. It turns out I also have chronic fatigue syndrome, which is what was causing the exhaustion. I now have an excellent naturopath, and we’re working on that with diet, supplements, and gentle exercise. Thank you for asking! I hope you’re doing well too. Best, Centime. Long history with many psych drugs beginning in 1987. Went through two too-fast Paxil withdrawals in the past. Ended up in ER both times. I successfully got off Wellbutrin, and (occasional only) Seroquel, Concerta, and Klonopin over six months. Current supplements: multivitamin, probiotic, D3, magnesium, CBD. Current drugs: Ranitidine 300 mg. for acid reflux, Paxil (tapering off). Paxil Taper History, 2018/2019 Jan.1: 60 mg. May 1: 55 mg. May 13: 50 mg. June 3: 47.5 mg. June 14: 45 mg. June 21: 42.5 mg. July 5: 40 mg. Switched to figuring by weight. 40 mg. = .704 July 22: .686. July 29: .669. August 5: .652. August 12: .635. September 2: 30 mg. October 2: 25 mg. November 2: 22 mg. December 1: 20 mg. January 6: 18 mg. Now using a digital scale and an emery board to taper. January 16: I decided to go back on the drugs after a year of tapering. I’m more depressed than ever, and do not believe it’s withdrawal. Thank you, everyone, for your support, advice, and kindness. Centime. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Carmie Posted April 3, 2019 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted April 3, 2019 8 hours ago, Centime said: Hi Carmie, I successfully switched from Paxil to Celexa, and for now am staying on it. It took me a very long time to reach the conclusion that I am severely depressed, and need the drug. It turns out I also have chronic fatigue syndrome, which is what was causing the exhaustion. I now have an excellent naturopath, and we’re working on that with diet, supplements, and gentle exercise. Thank you for asking! I hope you’re doing well too. Best, Centime. Hi Centime, I’m glad to hear that your switch went well. I’m sorry you have CFS too. It’s pretty much a CNS illness, so it affects everything. I only learnt that in the last couple of years. I’ve had it for nearly 25 years, but I’ve read lots of success stories recently. I don’t have a hope of getting over it until I’m fully off these meds and stable. The withdrawals affect the CNS badly. These meds are bad news for CFS. Diet is important, but it’s not a cure, I’ve been on the strictest diets, such as the Autoimmune Protocol. I’ve been on a million different supplements too, they didn’t do a thing. Overcoming CFS is pretty much about dampening down your CNS, plus off course taking care of your body wth diet etc. Intothewoods also has CFS, hers was actually caused by the medication. Take care, sending hugs🤗 Seroquel. 2019:➡️ From 7.25mg to 5.80mg✔️ 2020➡️From 5.60 to 4.80✔️ 2021➡️From 4.60 to 4.0✔️ 2022➡️From 3.95 to 3.55✔️2023➡️ Jan 26=3.50✔️March 17=3.45✔️ June12=3.40✔️ July30=3.35✔️ Sep14=3.30✔️ Oct31=3.25✔️ 2024➡️Jan15=3.20✔️ Feb19=3.15✔️ March26=3.10✔️This is NOT medical advice.Consult your doctor. Link to comment
Centime Posted April 3, 2019 Author Share Posted April 3, 2019 Wow. How does Intothe woods know her CFS was caused by AD’s? Long history with many psych drugs beginning in 1987. Went through two too-fast Paxil withdrawals in the past. Ended up in ER both times. I successfully got off Wellbutrin, and (occasional only) Seroquel, Concerta, and Klonopin over six months. Current supplements: multivitamin, probiotic, D3, magnesium, CBD. Current drugs: Ranitidine 300 mg. for acid reflux, Paxil (tapering off). Paxil Taper History, 2018/2019 Jan.1: 60 mg. May 1: 55 mg. May 13: 50 mg. June 3: 47.5 mg. June 14: 45 mg. June 21: 42.5 mg. July 5: 40 mg. Switched to figuring by weight. 40 mg. = .704 July 22: .686. July 29: .669. August 5: .652. August 12: .635. September 2: 30 mg. October 2: 25 mg. November 2: 22 mg. December 1: 20 mg. January 6: 18 mg. Now using a digital scale and an emery board to taper. January 16: I decided to go back on the drugs after a year of tapering. I’m more depressed than ever, and do not believe it’s withdrawal. Thank you, everyone, for your support, advice, and kindness. Centime. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Carmie Posted April 4, 2019 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted April 4, 2019 (edited) 3 hours ago, Centime said: Wow. How does Intothe woods know her CFS was caused by AD’s? Hi Centime, I was just chatting to Catherine, from intothewoods, and this is what she said about the subject, and I quote with her permission: “ Once my CNS was sufficiently destabilised by too many meds, and them being switched around, in and out - the symptoms were exactly the onset of CFS after 9 - 10 months on the Prozac. It has made me weaker and upset the CNS but I couldn’t fully discern it until I had more iatrogenic harm. As we know, CFS is very specific so it’s different from normal withdrawal, but for me it was my trigger amid other stresses. It was just way too much for my CNS. Ever!” Take care💚 Edited April 4, 2019 by Carmie Seroquel. 2019:➡️ From 7.25mg to 5.80mg✔️ 2020➡️From 5.60 to 4.80✔️ 2021➡️From 4.60 to 4.0✔️ 2022➡️From 3.95 to 3.55✔️2023➡️ Jan 26=3.50✔️March 17=3.45✔️ June12=3.40✔️ July30=3.35✔️ Sep14=3.30✔️ Oct31=3.25✔️ 2024➡️Jan15=3.20✔️ Feb19=3.15✔️ March26=3.10✔️This is NOT medical advice.Consult your doctor. Link to comment
Centime Posted April 4, 2019 Author Share Posted April 4, 2019 Thank you! I wonder if my CFS was triggered by my Paxil withdrawal? I never thought of that! Long history with many psych drugs beginning in 1987. Went through two too-fast Paxil withdrawals in the past. Ended up in ER both times. I successfully got off Wellbutrin, and (occasional only) Seroquel, Concerta, and Klonopin over six months. Current supplements: multivitamin, probiotic, D3, magnesium, CBD. Current drugs: Ranitidine 300 mg. for acid reflux, Paxil (tapering off). Paxil Taper History, 2018/2019 Jan.1: 60 mg. May 1: 55 mg. May 13: 50 mg. June 3: 47.5 mg. June 14: 45 mg. June 21: 42.5 mg. July 5: 40 mg. Switched to figuring by weight. 40 mg. = .704 July 22: .686. July 29: .669. August 5: .652. August 12: .635. September 2: 30 mg. October 2: 25 mg. November 2: 22 mg. December 1: 20 mg. January 6: 18 mg. Now using a digital scale and an emery board to taper. January 16: I decided to go back on the drugs after a year of tapering. I’m more depressed than ever, and do not believe it’s withdrawal. Thank you, everyone, for your support, advice, and kindness. Centime. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Carmie Posted April 4, 2019 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted April 4, 2019 (edited) 3 minutes ago, Centime said: Thank you! I wonder if my CFS was triggered by my Paxil withdrawal? I never thought of that! No one can say for sure Centime, but there is a great likelihood. I’m really sorry you’ve ended up with CFS.💚 Edited April 4, 2019 by Carmie Mistakes. Brain fog Seroquel. 2019:➡️ From 7.25mg to 5.80mg✔️ 2020➡️From 5.60 to 4.80✔️ 2021➡️From 4.60 to 4.0✔️ 2022➡️From 3.95 to 3.55✔️2023➡️ Jan 26=3.50✔️March 17=3.45✔️ June12=3.40✔️ July30=3.35✔️ Sep14=3.30✔️ Oct31=3.25✔️ 2024➡️Jan15=3.20✔️ Feb19=3.15✔️ March26=3.10✔️This is NOT medical advice.Consult your doctor. Link to comment
direstraits Posted April 4, 2019 Share Posted April 4, 2019 13 hours ago, Centime said: Thank you! I wonder if my CFS was triggered by my Paxil withdrawal? I never thought of that! geez,now I'm gonna worry I might have CFS, too.😩 just feel like giving up. How is it diagnosed? went on Prozac 1994-99,60mg.poopout ct back on 2001-2002,prozac weekly 2002,not working,Effexor 75 mg.?2003-mar.2004 gaining weight 8wk. taper,wellbutrin 150 mg.mar. -may 2004 ctmedfree til july 2005 back to Prozac gaining weight again,back on wellbutrin jan.2006150-300 mg.bad constipation.also was taking aygestin(hormone)perimenopausal irregular bleeding.back on Prozac around sept,?2006,hysterectomy jan30.2007(adenomyosis)off&on Prozac til 2009,citalopram about 1 mo, April 2010 no effect,Effexor again may -mar, 2011.ct,Prozac aug,-dec, 2011 &sept-nov 2012,paroxetine oct,23 2013-may 4 2014 20 mgs.tapered 6 wks.-failed RI in Oct.2014-in protracted WD.started 10 mgs. Fluoxetine May 25 2021 .Stopped fluoxetine May 2022 at 5 mgs. Link to comment
Centime Posted April 8, 2019 Author Share Posted April 8, 2019 Hi Direstraights, The diagnosis of CFS is one of ruling out other things. You want to be sure it’s not Lyme, Sjogren’s syndrome, Lupus, and so forth, which have some of the same symptoms. There are blood tests for all of these, but nothing definitive for CFS. Here are some of the symptoms. If you have only one or two, it’s probably not CFS. I have all of them! exterme tiredness (not caused by exertion) that lasts for at least 6 months worse tiredness or flulike feeling after exercise, especially in the following 48 hours orthostatic hypotension (feeling faint when standing up after sitting or lying down) joint pain insomnia and sleep that’s not restful depression and/or anxiety Cognitive problems, especially short term memory, language problems, thinking clearly Good luck, and I hope you don’t have it. Centime Long history with many psych drugs beginning in 1987. Went through two too-fast Paxil withdrawals in the past. Ended up in ER both times. I successfully got off Wellbutrin, and (occasional only) Seroquel, Concerta, and Klonopin over six months. Current supplements: multivitamin, probiotic, D3, magnesium, CBD. Current drugs: Ranitidine 300 mg. for acid reflux, Paxil (tapering off). Paxil Taper History, 2018/2019 Jan.1: 60 mg. May 1: 55 mg. May 13: 50 mg. June 3: 47.5 mg. June 14: 45 mg. June 21: 42.5 mg. July 5: 40 mg. Switched to figuring by weight. 40 mg. = .704 July 22: .686. July 29: .669. August 5: .652. August 12: .635. September 2: 30 mg. October 2: 25 mg. November 2: 22 mg. December 1: 20 mg. January 6: 18 mg. Now using a digital scale and an emery board to taper. January 16: I decided to go back on the drugs after a year of tapering. I’m more depressed than ever, and do not believe it’s withdrawal. Thank you, everyone, for your support, advice, and kindness. Centime. Link to comment
direstraits Posted April 8, 2019 Share Posted April 8, 2019 hey Centime thanks for your response! I really appreciate it...I probably don't have CFS, "just" WD.😩 I hope you'll feel better someday.🙏 take care,ds 💙 went on Prozac 1994-99,60mg.poopout ct back on 2001-2002,prozac weekly 2002,not working,Effexor 75 mg.?2003-mar.2004 gaining weight 8wk. taper,wellbutrin 150 mg.mar. -may 2004 ctmedfree til july 2005 back to Prozac gaining weight again,back on wellbutrin jan.2006150-300 mg.bad constipation.also was taking aygestin(hormone)perimenopausal irregular bleeding.back on Prozac around sept,?2006,hysterectomy jan30.2007(adenomyosis)off&on Prozac til 2009,citalopram about 1 mo, April 2010 no effect,Effexor again may -mar, 2011.ct,Prozac aug,-dec, 2011 &sept-nov 2012,paroxetine oct,23 2013-may 4 2014 20 mgs.tapered 6 wks.-failed RI in Oct.2014-in protracted WD.started 10 mgs. Fluoxetine May 25 2021 .Stopped fluoxetine May 2022 at 5 mgs. Link to comment
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