Administrator Altostrata Posted April 7, 2012 Administrator Share Posted April 7, 2012 What an ingenious strategy! Good for you for taking care of yourself! 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
Administrator Karma Posted April 7, 2012 Administrator Share Posted April 7, 2012 Yay! so proud of you for setting limits, but being flexible. This is really a good step and it is very positive behavior. Karma 2007 @ 375 mg Effexor - 11/29/2011 - 43.75 mg Effexor (regular) & .625 mg Xanax 200 mg Gabapentin 2/27/21 - 194.5 mg, 5/28/21 - 183 mg, 8/2/21 - 170 mg, 11/28/21 - 150 mg, 4/19/22 - 122 mg; 8//7/22 - 100 mg; 12/17 - 75mg; 8/17 - 45 mg; 10/16 40 mg Xanax taper: 3/11/12 - 0.9375 mg, 3/25/12 - 0.875 mg, 4/6/12 - 0.8125 mg, 4/18/12 - 0.75 ; 10/16 40mg; 1/16 0.6875 mg; at some point 0.625 mg Effexor taper: 1/29/12 - 40.625 mg, 4/29/12 - 39.875 mg, 5/11/12 - Switched to liquid Effexor, 5/25/12 - 38 mg, 7/6/12 - 35 mg, 8/17/12 - 32 mg, 9/14/12 - 30 mg, 10/19/12 - 28 mg, 11/9/12 - 26 mg, 11/30/12 - 24 mg, 01/14/13 - 22 mg. 02/25/13 - 20.8 mg, 03/18/13 - 19.2 mg, 4/15/13 - 17.6 mg, 8/10/13 - 16.4 mg, 9/7/13 - 15.2 mg, 10/19/13 - 14 mg, 1/15/14 - 13.2 mg, 3/1/2014 - 12.6 mg, 5/4/14 - 12 mg, 8/1/14 - 11.4 mg, 8/29/14 - 10.8 mg; 10/14/14 - 10.2 mg; 12/15/14 - 10 mg, 1/11/15 - 9.5 mg, 2/8/15 - 9 mg, 3/21/15 - 8.5 mg, 5/1/15 - 8 mg, 6/9/15 - 7.5 mg, 7/8/15 - 7 mg, 8/22/15 - 6.5 mg, 10/4/15 - 6 mg; 1/1/16 - 5.6 mg; 2/6/16 - 5.2 mg; 4/9 - 4.8 mg; 7/7 4.5 mg; 10/7 4.25 mg; 11/4 4.0 mg; 11/25 3.8 mg; 4/24 3.6 mg; 5/27 3.4 mg; 7/8 3.2 mg ... 10/18 2.8 mg; 1/18 2.6 mg; 4/7 2.4 mg; 5/26 2.15mg; 8/18 1.85 mg; 10/7 1.7 mg; 12/1 1.45 mg; 3/2 1.2 mg; 5/4 0.90 mg; 6/1 0.80 mg; 6/22 0.65 mg; 08/03 0.50 mg, 08/10 0.45 mg, 10/05 0.325 mg, 11/23 0.2 mg, 12/14 0.15 mg, 12/21 0.125 mg, 02/28 0.03125 mg, 2/15 0.015625 mg, 2/29/20 0.00 mg - OFF Effexor I am not a medical professional - this is not medical advice. My suggestions are based on personal experience, reading, observation and anecdotal information posted by other sufferers Link to comment
Daisy Posted April 8, 2012 Author Share Posted April 8, 2012 Thank you so much for the positive feedback. I really need it. I am having a bad day...easily brought to tears and feeling down. Today marks an event in my life that was both good and bad. It ended in divorce. I have not been the same since. I believed in happy endings until then. I have spent years trying to get my life back together. I left him due to his drug and alcohol use. Ii was either him or me. I choose me-if I had stayed, I would have died inside. What made going through with the divorce harder, was he had a stroke due to a blood vessel leaking in his brain. For a long time i blamed myself. I had taken him to the ER because of symptoms that to me indicated brain injury. He had a severe headache, double vision, nausea and vomiting. The doctor sent him home with a script for an NSAID for his severe headache.I knew in my gut that something more serious was wrong. When I gave his history to intake, I told them he was an alcoholic. Alcoholics have more health problems. Instead of the doctor viewing him as a higher risk patient, I think instead, they saw him as drug seeking. I wish I had never said anything. A few days later , he had a stroke that left his right side flaccid and he could not speak. The stroke could have been prevented had they done a CT of his head. They could have repaired the vessel before it did the damage. He was only 39 y/o. His life was changed forever. Bottom line is I blamed myself for a long time. But then it dawned on me that it was the doctor's fault, not mine. The doctor made the mistake, not me. Bottom line is when this day comes around, it brings back memories, and I feel sad. Effexor XL 2009-2012. CT 150mg Effexor XR 2012, Effexor XR 75mg 2012 then rapid taper to 0, Reinstated Effexor XR 13mg then updosed to 20mg, Tapered to 18mg Effexor XR 4/9/12, Off Effexor XL ?Reinstated Effexor XL 150 mgs August 2012, Crashed in November 2012, Prozac 40 mgs 2012 to Feb 2018, Buspar 60 mgs 2012-stopped 2015, Remeron 7.5 mgs as needed for sleep-stopped Feb 2017, Prozac 50 mgs Feb 2018 to March 2018, Lexapro 5 mgs March 18 2018 to May 17th 2018, Lexapro 2.5 mgs May 18th to May 26th 2018, Prozac 10 mgs May 15th 2018, Prozac 5 mgs May 19th 2018 to current day May 28th 2018, Xanax 0.25 mgs to 0.5 mgs daily for over 15 years. Increased Xanax to 1.5 mgs Sept 2012, Tapered Xanax to 0 mgs May 2013.Reinstated Xanax Feb 2017 at 0.125 mgs as needed, Gradual increase of Xanax to 1.5 mgs daily till May 22nd 2018, Xanax 1.25 mgs daily. Holding Link to comment
Barbarannamated Posted April 8, 2012 Share Posted April 8, 2012 {{{HUGS}}} Pristiq tapered over 8 months ending Spring 2011 after 18 years of polydrugging that began w/Zoloft for fatigue/general malaise (not mood). CURRENT: 1mg Klonopin qhs (SSRI bruxism), 75mg trazodone qhs, various hormonesLitigation for 11 years for Work-related injury, settled 2004. Involuntary medical retirement in 2001 (age 39). 2012 - brain MRI showing diffuse, chronic cerebrovascular damage/demyelination possibly vasculitis/cerebritis. Dx w/autoimmune polyendocrine failure.<p>2013 - Dx w/CNS Sjogren's Lupus (FANA antibodies first appeared in 1997 but missed by doc). Link to comment
meistersinger Posted April 8, 2012 Share Posted April 8, 2012 Thank you so much for the positive feedback. I really need it. I am having a bad day...easily brought to tears and feeling down. Today marks an event in my life that was both good and bad. It ended in divorce. I have not been the same since. I believed in happy endings until then. I have spent years trying to get my life back together. I know how you feel. My mother died this past November, 3 months after I lost my job. I've been blaming myself for her death. Yes, I Know it was inevitable, as she has been in poor health for years. However, she got sick about a month after I lost my job, and the stress got to her, thereby making it my fault. (like I said, I always blamed myself for everything that went wrong in my life. Now you know why I considered myself damaged goods almost all my life.). Maybe a few sessions with a psychologist would help. I left him due to his drug and alcohol use. Ii was either him or me. I choose me-if I had stayed, I would have died inside. What made going through with the divorce harder, was he had a stroke due to a blood vessel leaking in his brain. For a long time i blamed myself. I had taken him to the ER because of symptoms that to me indicated brain injury. He had a severe headache, double vision, nausea and vomiting. The doctor sent him home with a script for an NSAID for his severe headache.I knew in my gut that something more serious was wrong. When I gave his history to intake, I told them he was an alcoholic. Alcoholics have more health problems. Instead of the doctor viewing him as a higher risk patient, I think instead, they saw him as drug seeking. I wish I had never said anything. A few days later , he had a stroke that left his right side flaccid and he could not speak. The stroke could have been prevented had they done a CT of his head. They could have repaired the vessel before it did the damage. He was only 39 y/o. His life was changed forever. Bottom line is I blamed myself for a long time. But then it dawned on me that it was the doctor's fault, not mine. The doctor made the mistake, not me. Bottom line is when this day comes around, it brings back memories, and I feel sad. History: 1995--Prozac--Quit CT by GP 1995--Effexor--Quit per my GP 1996--Amitriphene--Quit CT when changed GP 2005--Citalopram and BusPar. Prescribed when I decompensated in my GP's office. GP referred me to behavior health. Psychiatrist prescibed these drugs. Taken off citalopram in 2011 due to FDA warning. Quit Buspar during transition to viibryd. Viibryd--2011 to present. Had a severe reaction in March 2012. Advised both GP and Psychiatrist I was trying to get off these drugs. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Skyler Posted April 8, 2012 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted April 8, 2012 Bottom line is when this day comes around, it brings back memories, and I feel sad. Hi EF.. anniversaries are very difficult. What a harrowing time that had to have been. Life scripts are trying to undermine the right choice you made. Try to remember this is a day of celebration, as well as one of pain, and give yourself much deserved credit. Schuyler As always, LISTEN TO YOUR BODY! A proud supporter of the 10% (or slower) rule. Requip - 3/16 ZERO Total time on 25 years. Lyrica: 8/15 ZERO Total time on 7 or 8 yrs.BENZO FREE 10/13 (started tapering 7/10) Total time on 25 years. Read my intro thread here, and check the about me section. "No matter how cynical you get, it's almost impossible to keep up." Lily Tomlin Link to comment
Daisy Posted April 8, 2012 Author Share Posted April 8, 2012 Barbarannamated, What an uplifting HUG!!! My feet almost left the ground Schuyler, Though it was a very tramautic time, it also was a time of personal growth...I do celebrate that!!! I am now independant, have an education, etc. My natural born instinct to survive kicked in, and I had no choice but to not give up. The down side is I do not fully trust myself to have a healthy romantic relasionship. I am still attracted to the "bad boys". It is so hard to break the cycle. But at least I recognize the RED FLAGS and stay away from "them". CHanging SUbjects: I have noticed that if I have an emotionally taxing day, I will have a few "head bounces" in the evening. It is as if my body is trying to help me, but depletes itself too quickly of a brain chemical. Or perhaps it is just the opposite. Maybe it is giving me too much. Forgive me if I am not using the correct terminology. I would rather use a general term vs giving a name to what chemical, if any, is envolved. Take care. Peace and Love to all Effexor XL 2009-2012. CT 150mg Effexor XR 2012, Effexor XR 75mg 2012 then rapid taper to 0, Reinstated Effexor XR 13mg then updosed to 20mg, Tapered to 18mg Effexor XR 4/9/12, Off Effexor XL ?Reinstated Effexor XL 150 mgs August 2012, Crashed in November 2012, Prozac 40 mgs 2012 to Feb 2018, Buspar 60 mgs 2012-stopped 2015, Remeron 7.5 mgs as needed for sleep-stopped Feb 2017, Prozac 50 mgs Feb 2018 to March 2018, Lexapro 5 mgs March 18 2018 to May 17th 2018, Lexapro 2.5 mgs May 18th to May 26th 2018, Prozac 10 mgs May 15th 2018, Prozac 5 mgs May 19th 2018 to current day May 28th 2018, Xanax 0.25 mgs to 0.5 mgs daily for over 15 years. Increased Xanax to 1.5 mgs Sept 2012, Tapered Xanax to 0 mgs May 2013.Reinstated Xanax Feb 2017 at 0.125 mgs as needed, Gradual increase of Xanax to 1.5 mgs daily till May 22nd 2018, Xanax 1.25 mgs daily. Holding Link to comment
Daisy Posted April 11, 2012 Author Share Posted April 11, 2012 Formerly EWforever I requested a new name!!! I now go by Daisy Effexor XL 2009-2012. CT 150mg Effexor XR 2012, Effexor XR 75mg 2012 then rapid taper to 0, Reinstated Effexor XR 13mg then updosed to 20mg, Tapered to 18mg Effexor XR 4/9/12, Off Effexor XL ?Reinstated Effexor XL 150 mgs August 2012, Crashed in November 2012, Prozac 40 mgs 2012 to Feb 2018, Buspar 60 mgs 2012-stopped 2015, Remeron 7.5 mgs as needed for sleep-stopped Feb 2017, Prozac 50 mgs Feb 2018 to March 2018, Lexapro 5 mgs March 18 2018 to May 17th 2018, Lexapro 2.5 mgs May 18th to May 26th 2018, Prozac 10 mgs May 15th 2018, Prozac 5 mgs May 19th 2018 to current day May 28th 2018, Xanax 0.25 mgs to 0.5 mgs daily for over 15 years. Increased Xanax to 1.5 mgs Sept 2012, Tapered Xanax to 0 mgs May 2013.Reinstated Xanax Feb 2017 at 0.125 mgs as needed, Gradual increase of Xanax to 1.5 mgs daily till May 22nd 2018, Xanax 1.25 mgs daily. Holding Link to comment
Barbarannamated Posted April 11, 2012 Share Posted April 11, 2012 Aaah - much brighter perspective Pristiq tapered over 8 months ending Spring 2011 after 18 years of polydrugging that began w/Zoloft for fatigue/general malaise (not mood). CURRENT: 1mg Klonopin qhs (SSRI bruxism), 75mg trazodone qhs, various hormonesLitigation for 11 years for Work-related injury, settled 2004. Involuntary medical retirement in 2001 (age 39). 2012 - brain MRI showing diffuse, chronic cerebrovascular damage/demyelination possibly vasculitis/cerebritis. Dx w/autoimmune polyendocrine failure.<p>2013 - Dx w/CNS Sjogren's Lupus (FANA antibodies first appeared in 1997 but missed by doc). Link to comment
Daisy Posted April 11, 2012 Author Share Posted April 11, 2012 Hi all, I went to my PCP yesterday. I told her about the W/D symptoms I experienced when my Rx was not refilled for 7 days. I even told her how angry I was about it. She was not even aware it had happened. The PA in the office was the one that eventually ended up faxing in the refill authoization. I must have made an impression. When I called this morning to ask if their office had recieved a request for refill of Xanax, the girl actually checked. They had recieved it, but it was still pending. Then she ask me if I had enough till the doctor came into the office tomorrow Reguarding my tapering off Effexor XR-my PCP was not against it. Her facial expression though, did tell me that she was surprised I could not taper from 150mg to 0mg in 1 month without experiencing W/D symptoms. I cannot depend on my PCP for tapering instruction...duh-what's new about that? I have to listen to what my body is telling me and, of course, the cumlative knowledge of the fantastic people I have met here. Effexor XL 2009-2012. CT 150mg Effexor XR 2012, Effexor XR 75mg 2012 then rapid taper to 0, Reinstated Effexor XR 13mg then updosed to 20mg, Tapered to 18mg Effexor XR 4/9/12, Off Effexor XL ?Reinstated Effexor XL 150 mgs August 2012, Crashed in November 2012, Prozac 40 mgs 2012 to Feb 2018, Buspar 60 mgs 2012-stopped 2015, Remeron 7.5 mgs as needed for sleep-stopped Feb 2017, Prozac 50 mgs Feb 2018 to March 2018, Lexapro 5 mgs March 18 2018 to May 17th 2018, Lexapro 2.5 mgs May 18th to May 26th 2018, Prozac 10 mgs May 15th 2018, Prozac 5 mgs May 19th 2018 to current day May 28th 2018, Xanax 0.25 mgs to 0.5 mgs daily for over 15 years. Increased Xanax to 1.5 mgs Sept 2012, Tapered Xanax to 0 mgs May 2013.Reinstated Xanax Feb 2017 at 0.125 mgs as needed, Gradual increase of Xanax to 1.5 mgs daily till May 22nd 2018, Xanax 1.25 mgs daily. Holding Link to comment
Daisy Posted April 14, 2012 Author Share Posted April 14, 2012 I have a portable milligram scale now so I can weigh Effexor XR beads. When I get the hang of how to use it, I am told it is a more accurate method because the beads are different sizes. 1 bead can be < or > 1mg due to whatever Teva coats them with. I have a few of what I think are W/D symptoms: 1) Loud noises irritate and distract me more than usual when what I am doing requires a lot of concentration. 2) My ears ring. 3) Memory problems None of the above are intolerable. What W/D symptoms I could not tolerate were the "brain zaps", irritability, dizziness, vivid dreams, poor equilibrium,feeling like I could not control my emotions and impaired concentration. Anyway, I feel like I am making progress getting off Effexor XR. My next goal is to get off of Xanax. Effexor XL 2009-2012. CT 150mg Effexor XR 2012, Effexor XR 75mg 2012 then rapid taper to 0, Reinstated Effexor XR 13mg then updosed to 20mg, Tapered to 18mg Effexor XR 4/9/12, Off Effexor XL ?Reinstated Effexor XL 150 mgs August 2012, Crashed in November 2012, Prozac 40 mgs 2012 to Feb 2018, Buspar 60 mgs 2012-stopped 2015, Remeron 7.5 mgs as needed for sleep-stopped Feb 2017, Prozac 50 mgs Feb 2018 to March 2018, Lexapro 5 mgs March 18 2018 to May 17th 2018, Lexapro 2.5 mgs May 18th to May 26th 2018, Prozac 10 mgs May 15th 2018, Prozac 5 mgs May 19th 2018 to current day May 28th 2018, Xanax 0.25 mgs to 0.5 mgs daily for over 15 years. Increased Xanax to 1.5 mgs Sept 2012, Tapered Xanax to 0 mgs May 2013.Reinstated Xanax Feb 2017 at 0.125 mgs as needed, Gradual increase of Xanax to 1.5 mgs daily till May 22nd 2018, Xanax 1.25 mgs daily. Holding Link to comment
Administrator Karma Posted April 15, 2012 Administrator Share Posted April 15, 2012 Hi Daisy, Don't worry about getting off the Xanax right now. I took a break from coming off of Effexor and decided to see what would happen when I tried to taper down on Xanax and it has not been difficult so far. I am dry cutting 0.0625 mg every two weeks and the withdrawal symptoms have not been significant and they don't last that long. There is lots of help on the Benzo board when you are successfully off of Effexor and ready for your Xanax taper. Since you are still have some withdrawal symptoms you might consider holding your current dosage until these symptoms pass. Love and light Karma 2007 @ 375 mg Effexor - 11/29/2011 - 43.75 mg Effexor (regular) & .625 mg Xanax 200 mg Gabapentin 2/27/21 - 194.5 mg, 5/28/21 - 183 mg, 8/2/21 - 170 mg, 11/28/21 - 150 mg, 4/19/22 - 122 mg; 8//7/22 - 100 mg; 12/17 - 75mg; 8/17 - 45 mg; 10/16 40 mg Xanax taper: 3/11/12 - 0.9375 mg, 3/25/12 - 0.875 mg, 4/6/12 - 0.8125 mg, 4/18/12 - 0.75 ; 10/16 40mg; 1/16 0.6875 mg; at some point 0.625 mg Effexor taper: 1/29/12 - 40.625 mg, 4/29/12 - 39.875 mg, 5/11/12 - Switched to liquid Effexor, 5/25/12 - 38 mg, 7/6/12 - 35 mg, 8/17/12 - 32 mg, 9/14/12 - 30 mg, 10/19/12 - 28 mg, 11/9/12 - 26 mg, 11/30/12 - 24 mg, 01/14/13 - 22 mg. 02/25/13 - 20.8 mg, 03/18/13 - 19.2 mg, 4/15/13 - 17.6 mg, 8/10/13 - 16.4 mg, 9/7/13 - 15.2 mg, 10/19/13 - 14 mg, 1/15/14 - 13.2 mg, 3/1/2014 - 12.6 mg, 5/4/14 - 12 mg, 8/1/14 - 11.4 mg, 8/29/14 - 10.8 mg; 10/14/14 - 10.2 mg; 12/15/14 - 10 mg, 1/11/15 - 9.5 mg, 2/8/15 - 9 mg, 3/21/15 - 8.5 mg, 5/1/15 - 8 mg, 6/9/15 - 7.5 mg, 7/8/15 - 7 mg, 8/22/15 - 6.5 mg, 10/4/15 - 6 mg; 1/1/16 - 5.6 mg; 2/6/16 - 5.2 mg; 4/9 - 4.8 mg; 7/7 4.5 mg; 10/7 4.25 mg; 11/4 4.0 mg; 11/25 3.8 mg; 4/24 3.6 mg; 5/27 3.4 mg; 7/8 3.2 mg ... 10/18 2.8 mg; 1/18 2.6 mg; 4/7 2.4 mg; 5/26 2.15mg; 8/18 1.85 mg; 10/7 1.7 mg; 12/1 1.45 mg; 3/2 1.2 mg; 5/4 0.90 mg; 6/1 0.80 mg; 6/22 0.65 mg; 08/03 0.50 mg, 08/10 0.45 mg, 10/05 0.325 mg, 11/23 0.2 mg, 12/14 0.15 mg, 12/21 0.125 mg, 02/28 0.03125 mg, 2/15 0.015625 mg, 2/29/20 0.00 mg - OFF Effexor I am not a medical professional - this is not medical advice. My suggestions are based on personal experience, reading, observation and anecdotal information posted by other sufferers Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted April 15, 2012 Administrator Share Posted April 15, 2012 I agree with Karma! The noise sensitivity in particular concerns me. Where are you in your taper, Daisy? 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
Daisy Posted April 16, 2012 Author Share Posted April 16, 2012 Alto, I decreased from 20 beads to 18 beads Monday April 9th. The noise sensitivity is 4/10 on a 0 to 10 scale. I admit that I wanted to try going down another bead tonight... but then I read your posts Effexor XL 2009-2012. CT 150mg Effexor XR 2012, Effexor XR 75mg 2012 then rapid taper to 0, Reinstated Effexor XR 13mg then updosed to 20mg, Tapered to 18mg Effexor XR 4/9/12, Off Effexor XL ?Reinstated Effexor XL 150 mgs August 2012, Crashed in November 2012, Prozac 40 mgs 2012 to Feb 2018, Buspar 60 mgs 2012-stopped 2015, Remeron 7.5 mgs as needed for sleep-stopped Feb 2017, Prozac 50 mgs Feb 2018 to March 2018, Lexapro 5 mgs March 18 2018 to May 17th 2018, Lexapro 2.5 mgs May 18th to May 26th 2018, Prozac 10 mgs May 15th 2018, Prozac 5 mgs May 19th 2018 to current day May 28th 2018, Xanax 0.25 mgs to 0.5 mgs daily for over 15 years. Increased Xanax to 1.5 mgs Sept 2012, Tapered Xanax to 0 mgs May 2013.Reinstated Xanax Feb 2017 at 0.125 mgs as needed, Gradual increase of Xanax to 1.5 mgs daily till May 22nd 2018, Xanax 1.25 mgs daily. Holding Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted April 17, 2012 Administrator Share Posted April 17, 2012 Daisy, hatepristiq has a note of encouragement for you in http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1952-hatepristiq-successful-weaning-off-pristiq/page__view__findpost__p__20439 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
Daisy Posted April 17, 2012 Author Share Posted April 17, 2012 Alto, Thank you for passing that along to me. I did something the other day that I think will help my Effexor XR W/D journey....I got rid of my Tramadol. I believe I read that its chemical composition is closely related to Effexor XR. Effexor XL 2009-2012. CT 150mg Effexor XR 2012, Effexor XR 75mg 2012 then rapid taper to 0, Reinstated Effexor XR 13mg then updosed to 20mg, Tapered to 18mg Effexor XR 4/9/12, Off Effexor XL ?Reinstated Effexor XL 150 mgs August 2012, Crashed in November 2012, Prozac 40 mgs 2012 to Feb 2018, Buspar 60 mgs 2012-stopped 2015, Remeron 7.5 mgs as needed for sleep-stopped Feb 2017, Prozac 50 mgs Feb 2018 to March 2018, Lexapro 5 mgs March 18 2018 to May 17th 2018, Lexapro 2.5 mgs May 18th to May 26th 2018, Prozac 10 mgs May 15th 2018, Prozac 5 mgs May 19th 2018 to current day May 28th 2018, Xanax 0.25 mgs to 0.5 mgs daily for over 15 years. Increased Xanax to 1.5 mgs Sept 2012, Tapered Xanax to 0 mgs May 2013.Reinstated Xanax Feb 2017 at 0.125 mgs as needed, Gradual increase of Xanax to 1.5 mgs daily till May 22nd 2018, Xanax 1.25 mgs daily. Holding Link to comment
Barbarannamated Posted April 18, 2012 Share Posted April 18, 2012 I did something the other day that I think will help my Effexor XR W/D journey....I got rid of my Tramadol. I believe I read that its chemical composition is closely related to Effexor XR. Daisy, Tramadol has had the most confusing history and reputation. When it first came out (Ultram), it was said to be a non-addictive alternative to opiates for pain. Then, they said it IS an opiate. A few years later, word was that it's structurally similar to SNRIs as you mentioned. Yesterday, a good friend told me her pain doc would not refill her tramadol because it is similar to Norco (hydrocodone), an opiate. Apparently, confusion still exists. Nucynta is in that same category the last I heard. Did you taper off of it? Tramadol - Wikipedia - confusing! I know Wikipedia isn't the best resource for scientific info, but this demonstrates the confusion surrounding the drug. Opiate, SNRI, and may also induce withdrawal in people taking opiates. I'm not certain of that mechanism or if it applies to SNRIs also. I will try to find clarification. Pristiq tapered over 8 months ending Spring 2011 after 18 years of polydrugging that began w/Zoloft for fatigue/general malaise (not mood). CURRENT: 1mg Klonopin qhs (SSRI bruxism), 75mg trazodone qhs, various hormonesLitigation for 11 years for Work-related injury, settled 2004. Involuntary medical retirement in 2001 (age 39). 2012 - brain MRI showing diffuse, chronic cerebrovascular damage/demyelination possibly vasculitis/cerebritis. Dx w/autoimmune polyendocrine failure.<p>2013 - Dx w/CNS Sjogren's Lupus (FANA antibodies first appeared in 1997 but missed by doc). Link to comment
Daisy Posted April 18, 2012 Author Share Posted April 18, 2012 Hi Barb, No. I did not have to taper off the Tramadol. I took it only once and awhile and was not physically addicted. But I did notice that lately I wanted to take one just to take the edge off. I threw away the temptation. It takes me so long to post. I am not a good typist and have to make many corrections. And even when I do not say much, I do alot of editing. Effexor XL 2009-2012. CT 150mg Effexor XR 2012, Effexor XR 75mg 2012 then rapid taper to 0, Reinstated Effexor XR 13mg then updosed to 20mg, Tapered to 18mg Effexor XR 4/9/12, Off Effexor XL ?Reinstated Effexor XL 150 mgs August 2012, Crashed in November 2012, Prozac 40 mgs 2012 to Feb 2018, Buspar 60 mgs 2012-stopped 2015, Remeron 7.5 mgs as needed for sleep-stopped Feb 2017, Prozac 50 mgs Feb 2018 to March 2018, Lexapro 5 mgs March 18 2018 to May 17th 2018, Lexapro 2.5 mgs May 18th to May 26th 2018, Prozac 10 mgs May 15th 2018, Prozac 5 mgs May 19th 2018 to current day May 28th 2018, Xanax 0.25 mgs to 0.5 mgs daily for over 15 years. Increased Xanax to 1.5 mgs Sept 2012, Tapered Xanax to 0 mgs May 2013.Reinstated Xanax Feb 2017 at 0.125 mgs as needed, Gradual increase of Xanax to 1.5 mgs daily till May 22nd 2018, Xanax 1.25 mgs daily. Holding Link to comment
Daisy Posted April 19, 2012 Author Share Posted April 19, 2012 I went down 1 more bead of Effexor XR 3 days ago and I am doing okay. I went out to dinner last night with a friend and all went well. I feel blessed that I have not been hit with depression as one of my W/D symptoms. I had a couple of days when I was overly sensitive, but nothing long lasting. Though it is not recommended, I have started to taper Xanax. I have 1/8th off my nightly dose and 1/8th off my AM dose. I slept well last night and am grateful for that. I am listening to what my body is telling me and my rate of withdrawal will be determined by what W/D symptoms crop up. I have benefited physically by reducing Effexor XR 1) I have much more saliva in my mouth and do not have to chew gum all the time. 2) I no longer feel like I am shaking inside and out when I first get out of bed in the morning 3) My blood pressure is lower 110/72 vs 130/80 4) My heart rate is in the 70's vs 80's Things are good right now. OH, one more thing...I have been taking Advil and sometimes Tramadol for back and leg pain. I decided to give BenGay a try...what could it hurt? I got the type that can be put in the freezer. Well it worked for me!!! I am now a part of the BenGay generation. Thank goodness it does not smell as bad as it used too. Anyway, this is my update Daisy Effexor XL 2009-2012. CT 150mg Effexor XR 2012, Effexor XR 75mg 2012 then rapid taper to 0, Reinstated Effexor XR 13mg then updosed to 20mg, Tapered to 18mg Effexor XR 4/9/12, Off Effexor XL ?Reinstated Effexor XL 150 mgs August 2012, Crashed in November 2012, Prozac 40 mgs 2012 to Feb 2018, Buspar 60 mgs 2012-stopped 2015, Remeron 7.5 mgs as needed for sleep-stopped Feb 2017, Prozac 50 mgs Feb 2018 to March 2018, Lexapro 5 mgs March 18 2018 to May 17th 2018, Lexapro 2.5 mgs May 18th to May 26th 2018, Prozac 10 mgs May 15th 2018, Prozac 5 mgs May 19th 2018 to current day May 28th 2018, Xanax 0.25 mgs to 0.5 mgs daily for over 15 years. Increased Xanax to 1.5 mgs Sept 2012, Tapered Xanax to 0 mgs May 2013.Reinstated Xanax Feb 2017 at 0.125 mgs as needed, Gradual increase of Xanax to 1.5 mgs daily till May 22nd 2018, Xanax 1.25 mgs daily. Holding Link to comment
Barbarannamated Posted April 19, 2012 Share Posted April 19, 2012 I use Salon Pas patches because it sounds so much 'younger' than BenGay Glad you found something to help - Pristiq tapered over 8 months ending Spring 2011 after 18 years of polydrugging that began w/Zoloft for fatigue/general malaise (not mood). CURRENT: 1mg Klonopin qhs (SSRI bruxism), 75mg trazodone qhs, various hormonesLitigation for 11 years for Work-related injury, settled 2004. Involuntary medical retirement in 2001 (age 39). 2012 - brain MRI showing diffuse, chronic cerebrovascular damage/demyelination possibly vasculitis/cerebritis. Dx w/autoimmune polyendocrine failure.<p>2013 - Dx w/CNS Sjogren's Lupus (FANA antibodies first appeared in 1997 but missed by doc). Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus tezza Posted April 19, 2012 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted April 19, 2012 Hi Daisy, I use Salon Pas patches too. They do help my pain to an extent and don't smell very much. I'm glad you're not having too bad a time coming down off the Effexor. Be careful because tapers are cumulative, I've learned the hard way. Love, T http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1644-tezza-risperdal-withdrawal/ Seroquel and Mirtazipine Link to comment
hatepristiq Posted April 19, 2012 Share Posted April 19, 2012 Hi Daisy, It is wonderful to hear that you are doing well. Just give your body time to adjust to the reduced dosage, especially since you are decreasing zanax as well. Personally, though ALTO might not agree, I would give your body a couple of weeks inbetween lowering doses. I only say that because that is what worked for me. On another note, glad to hear I wasn't the only one with raised heart rate, blood pressure, and also cholesterol. I am not sure about my blood pressure since coming off of Pristiq, but I can say that my heart rate has gone down from being in the 110-120's to back down to normal in the 80's. Hope to have a complete physical in a month or two just to check out the difference. Until reading the posts on this site, I never ever thought to even consider that the cholesterol, elevated blood pressure, heartrate, and weight gain were due to the Pristiq. Now I know!!!! Anyway, great to hear you're doing well...and like I always say...listen to YOUR body. Keep us posted. Hugs and God Bless all of you. Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted April 19, 2012 Administrator Share Posted April 19, 2012 Such good news, Daisy. Clearly, Effexor and your nervous system do not get along. Try not to take the Tramadol, it could exacerbate symptoms. 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
Daisy Posted April 20, 2012 Author Share Posted April 20, 2012 Still okay today and holding. I like BenGay because I can put it on different spots on my leg and cover a larger area. Salon Pas did not work for me...maybe I am too old for it? FYI-Tramadol is gone, destroyed, nada, no more, trashed, bye bye. BAD STUFF Effexor XL 2009-2012. CT 150mg Effexor XR 2012, Effexor XR 75mg 2012 then rapid taper to 0, Reinstated Effexor XR 13mg then updosed to 20mg, Tapered to 18mg Effexor XR 4/9/12, Off Effexor XL ?Reinstated Effexor XL 150 mgs August 2012, Crashed in November 2012, Prozac 40 mgs 2012 to Feb 2018, Buspar 60 mgs 2012-stopped 2015, Remeron 7.5 mgs as needed for sleep-stopped Feb 2017, Prozac 50 mgs Feb 2018 to March 2018, Lexapro 5 mgs March 18 2018 to May 17th 2018, Lexapro 2.5 mgs May 18th to May 26th 2018, Prozac 10 mgs May 15th 2018, Prozac 5 mgs May 19th 2018 to current day May 28th 2018, Xanax 0.25 mgs to 0.5 mgs daily for over 15 years. Increased Xanax to 1.5 mgs Sept 2012, Tapered Xanax to 0 mgs May 2013.Reinstated Xanax Feb 2017 at 0.125 mgs as needed, Gradual increase of Xanax to 1.5 mgs daily till May 22nd 2018, Xanax 1.25 mgs daily. Holding Link to comment
Daisy Posted April 29, 2012 Author Share Posted April 29, 2012 I am down to 12 beads of Effexor XR now. What is working for me is dropping another bead once the ringing and noise sensitivity subsides. This usually takes 2-3 days. Good things are happening. The lower I go, the better I am sleeping. I also seem to have to take less Xanax for it to be effective. So, even though it is not recommended, I am slowly tapering the Xanax along with the Effexor XR. I have had some anxiety off and on, but nothing long lasting or severe. I have had NO prolonged depression. I hope things continue on like this for me. I am so encouraged Daisy Effexor XL 2009-2012. CT 150mg Effexor XR 2012, Effexor XR 75mg 2012 then rapid taper to 0, Reinstated Effexor XR 13mg then updosed to 20mg, Tapered to 18mg Effexor XR 4/9/12, Off Effexor XL ?Reinstated Effexor XL 150 mgs August 2012, Crashed in November 2012, Prozac 40 mgs 2012 to Feb 2018, Buspar 60 mgs 2012-stopped 2015, Remeron 7.5 mgs as needed for sleep-stopped Feb 2017, Prozac 50 mgs Feb 2018 to March 2018, Lexapro 5 mgs March 18 2018 to May 17th 2018, Lexapro 2.5 mgs May 18th to May 26th 2018, Prozac 10 mgs May 15th 2018, Prozac 5 mgs May 19th 2018 to current day May 28th 2018, Xanax 0.25 mgs to 0.5 mgs daily for over 15 years. Increased Xanax to 1.5 mgs Sept 2012, Tapered Xanax to 0 mgs May 2013.Reinstated Xanax Feb 2017 at 0.125 mgs as needed, Gradual increase of Xanax to 1.5 mgs daily till May 22nd 2018, Xanax 1.25 mgs daily. Holding Link to comment
Nikki Posted April 29, 2012 Share Posted April 29, 2012 It's so good to hear that. 12 beads...WOW you are almost there. Hugs Intro: http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1902-nikki-hi-my-rundown-with-ads/ Paxil 1997-2004 Crossed over to Lexapro Paxil not available at Pharmacies GSK halted deliveries Lexapro 40mgs Lexapro taper (2years) Imipramine Imipramine and Celexa Now Nefazadone/Imipramine 50mgs. each 45mgs. Serzone 50mgs. Imipramine Link to comment
Daisy Posted April 30, 2012 Author Share Posted April 30, 2012 It's so good to hear that. 12 beads...WOW you are almost there. Hugs Yes. I just hope it does not come back to bite me. But if it does, I hope I am still welcome here without any "I told you so's". Effexor XL 2009-2012. CT 150mg Effexor XR 2012, Effexor XR 75mg 2012 then rapid taper to 0, Reinstated Effexor XR 13mg then updosed to 20mg, Tapered to 18mg Effexor XR 4/9/12, Off Effexor XL ?Reinstated Effexor XL 150 mgs August 2012, Crashed in November 2012, Prozac 40 mgs 2012 to Feb 2018, Buspar 60 mgs 2012-stopped 2015, Remeron 7.5 mgs as needed for sleep-stopped Feb 2017, Prozac 50 mgs Feb 2018 to March 2018, Lexapro 5 mgs March 18 2018 to May 17th 2018, Lexapro 2.5 mgs May 18th to May 26th 2018, Prozac 10 mgs May 15th 2018, Prozac 5 mgs May 19th 2018 to current day May 28th 2018, Xanax 0.25 mgs to 0.5 mgs daily for over 15 years. Increased Xanax to 1.5 mgs Sept 2012, Tapered Xanax to 0 mgs May 2013.Reinstated Xanax Feb 2017 at 0.125 mgs as needed, Gradual increase of Xanax to 1.5 mgs daily till May 22nd 2018, Xanax 1.25 mgs daily. Holding Link to comment
Daisy Posted April 30, 2012 Author Share Posted April 30, 2012 I just re read my post. It sounded negative...Sorry Daisy Effexor XL 2009-2012. CT 150mg Effexor XR 2012, Effexor XR 75mg 2012 then rapid taper to 0, Reinstated Effexor XR 13mg then updosed to 20mg, Tapered to 18mg Effexor XR 4/9/12, Off Effexor XL ?Reinstated Effexor XL 150 mgs August 2012, Crashed in November 2012, Prozac 40 mgs 2012 to Feb 2018, Buspar 60 mgs 2012-stopped 2015, Remeron 7.5 mgs as needed for sleep-stopped Feb 2017, Prozac 50 mgs Feb 2018 to March 2018, Lexapro 5 mgs March 18 2018 to May 17th 2018, Lexapro 2.5 mgs May 18th to May 26th 2018, Prozac 10 mgs May 15th 2018, Prozac 5 mgs May 19th 2018 to current day May 28th 2018, Xanax 0.25 mgs to 0.5 mgs daily for over 15 years. Increased Xanax to 1.5 mgs Sept 2012, Tapered Xanax to 0 mgs May 2013.Reinstated Xanax Feb 2017 at 0.125 mgs as needed, Gradual increase of Xanax to 1.5 mgs daily till May 22nd 2018, Xanax 1.25 mgs daily. Holding Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Skyler Posted April 30, 2012 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted April 30, 2012 Yes. I just hope it does not come back to bite me. But if it does, I hope I am still welcome here without any "I told you so's". Daisy, more importantly, if this comes "back to bite you", will you be telling yourself I told me so? As always, LISTEN TO YOUR BODY! A proud supporter of the 10% (or slower) rule. Requip - 3/16 ZERO Total time on 25 years. Lyrica: 8/15 ZERO Total time on 7 or 8 yrs.BENZO FREE 10/13 (started tapering 7/10) Total time on 25 years. Read my intro thread here, and check the about me section. "No matter how cynical you get, it's almost impossible to keep up." Lily Tomlin Link to comment
Daisy Posted April 30, 2012 Author Share Posted April 30, 2012 Schuyler I do tend to be hard on myself, but I am working on it. I am still learning to extend the same kindness to myself that I extend to others. Effexor XL 2009-2012. CT 150mg Effexor XR 2012, Effexor XR 75mg 2012 then rapid taper to 0, Reinstated Effexor XR 13mg then updosed to 20mg, Tapered to 18mg Effexor XR 4/9/12, Off Effexor XL ?Reinstated Effexor XL 150 mgs August 2012, Crashed in November 2012, Prozac 40 mgs 2012 to Feb 2018, Buspar 60 mgs 2012-stopped 2015, Remeron 7.5 mgs as needed for sleep-stopped Feb 2017, Prozac 50 mgs Feb 2018 to March 2018, Lexapro 5 mgs March 18 2018 to May 17th 2018, Lexapro 2.5 mgs May 18th to May 26th 2018, Prozac 10 mgs May 15th 2018, Prozac 5 mgs May 19th 2018 to current day May 28th 2018, Xanax 0.25 mgs to 0.5 mgs daily for over 15 years. Increased Xanax to 1.5 mgs Sept 2012, Tapered Xanax to 0 mgs May 2013.Reinstated Xanax Feb 2017 at 0.125 mgs as needed, Gradual increase of Xanax to 1.5 mgs daily till May 22nd 2018, Xanax 1.25 mgs daily. Holding Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Skyler Posted April 30, 2012 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted April 30, 2012 Hi Daisy, thing is, you can change this. And you are not so good to others when you trap them into dumping on you, something you picked up on in your previous post. When you apologized and said you were being to negative. You have a lot of pluses, including a generous nature, but watch for hurtful patterns. Have you ever done insight work, connected the dots. Sounds like you see them regarding the way you respond to yourself, but not as you project them into the world at large. The latter is what keeps everything in motion. As always, LISTEN TO YOUR BODY! A proud supporter of the 10% (or slower) rule. Requip - 3/16 ZERO Total time on 25 years. Lyrica: 8/15 ZERO Total time on 7 or 8 yrs.BENZO FREE 10/13 (started tapering 7/10) Total time on 25 years. Read my intro thread here, and check the about me section. "No matter how cynical you get, it's almost impossible to keep up." Lily Tomlin Link to comment
Daisy Posted April 30, 2012 Author Share Posted April 30, 2012 I will not open myself up anymore on this forum. What you said hurt. I will do this myself without a help or support on this forum. I do not fit in. Effexor XL 2009-2012. CT 150mg Effexor XR 2012, Effexor XR 75mg 2012 then rapid taper to 0, Reinstated Effexor XR 13mg then updosed to 20mg, Tapered to 18mg Effexor XR 4/9/12, Off Effexor XL ?Reinstated Effexor XL 150 mgs August 2012, Crashed in November 2012, Prozac 40 mgs 2012 to Feb 2018, Buspar 60 mgs 2012-stopped 2015, Remeron 7.5 mgs as needed for sleep-stopped Feb 2017, Prozac 50 mgs Feb 2018 to March 2018, Lexapro 5 mgs March 18 2018 to May 17th 2018, Lexapro 2.5 mgs May 18th to May 26th 2018, Prozac 10 mgs May 15th 2018, Prozac 5 mgs May 19th 2018 to current day May 28th 2018, Xanax 0.25 mgs to 0.5 mgs daily for over 15 years. Increased Xanax to 1.5 mgs Sept 2012, Tapered Xanax to 0 mgs May 2013.Reinstated Xanax Feb 2017 at 0.125 mgs as needed, Gradual increase of Xanax to 1.5 mgs daily till May 22nd 2018, Xanax 1.25 mgs daily. Holding Link to comment
Daisy Posted April 30, 2012 Author Share Posted April 30, 2012 Schuyler, You are the one that wants to dump on me. Your perception of my apology is wrong. I like myself the way I am. I am not a victum and I will not be yours. Daisy Effexor XL 2009-2012. CT 150mg Effexor XR 2012, Effexor XR 75mg 2012 then rapid taper to 0, Reinstated Effexor XR 13mg then updosed to 20mg, Tapered to 18mg Effexor XR 4/9/12, Off Effexor XL ?Reinstated Effexor XL 150 mgs August 2012, Crashed in November 2012, Prozac 40 mgs 2012 to Feb 2018, Buspar 60 mgs 2012-stopped 2015, Remeron 7.5 mgs as needed for sleep-stopped Feb 2017, Prozac 50 mgs Feb 2018 to March 2018, Lexapro 5 mgs March 18 2018 to May 17th 2018, Lexapro 2.5 mgs May 18th to May 26th 2018, Prozac 10 mgs May 15th 2018, Prozac 5 mgs May 19th 2018 to current day May 28th 2018, Xanax 0.25 mgs to 0.5 mgs daily for over 15 years. Increased Xanax to 1.5 mgs Sept 2012, Tapered Xanax to 0 mgs May 2013.Reinstated Xanax Feb 2017 at 0.125 mgs as needed, Gradual increase of Xanax to 1.5 mgs daily till May 22nd 2018, Xanax 1.25 mgs daily. Holding Link to comment
Nikki Posted April 30, 2012 Share Posted April 30, 2012 Daisy there really hasn't been that much time in the last few years that I haven't wondered a bizillion times a day if I have done the right for myself with these meds. It's been a continuous state of; is this the right med, did I take too much, did I decrease too much. We don't really know unless we try. And that was what you did....you are trying out 12 beads. God Bless you for trying. If it's too much...it's back up in dose. I've had to do this sooo many times during my various tapers Please don't leave the site. I enjoy reading your posts. You have done amazingly well and it provides me with a sense of encouragement. Hugs Intro: http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1902-nikki-hi-my-rundown-with-ads/ Paxil 1997-2004 Crossed over to Lexapro Paxil not available at Pharmacies GSK halted deliveries Lexapro 40mgs Lexapro taper (2years) Imipramine Imipramine and Celexa Now Nefazadone/Imipramine 50mgs. each 45mgs. Serzone 50mgs. Imipramine Link to comment
Daisy Posted April 30, 2012 Author Share Posted April 30, 2012 Nikki, Thank you Daisy Effexor XL 2009-2012. CT 150mg Effexor XR 2012, Effexor XR 75mg 2012 then rapid taper to 0, Reinstated Effexor XR 13mg then updosed to 20mg, Tapered to 18mg Effexor XR 4/9/12, Off Effexor XL ?Reinstated Effexor XL 150 mgs August 2012, Crashed in November 2012, Prozac 40 mgs 2012 to Feb 2018, Buspar 60 mgs 2012-stopped 2015, Remeron 7.5 mgs as needed for sleep-stopped Feb 2017, Prozac 50 mgs Feb 2018 to March 2018, Lexapro 5 mgs March 18 2018 to May 17th 2018, Lexapro 2.5 mgs May 18th to May 26th 2018, Prozac 10 mgs May 15th 2018, Prozac 5 mgs May 19th 2018 to current day May 28th 2018, Xanax 0.25 mgs to 0.5 mgs daily for over 15 years. Increased Xanax to 1.5 mgs Sept 2012, Tapered Xanax to 0 mgs May 2013.Reinstated Xanax Feb 2017 at 0.125 mgs as needed, Gradual increase of Xanax to 1.5 mgs daily till May 22nd 2018, Xanax 1.25 mgs daily. Holding Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted April 30, 2012 Administrator Share Posted April 30, 2012 Daisy, sometimes online we misinterpret what the other person said, because we can't see them and how they meant it. I think Schuyler was being caring and trying to ask you not to hurt yourself with self-criticism. I can see how you might have taken it as criticism, but I don't think she meant it that way. Hugs to you, please stay with us -- and don't be too hard on yourself!! 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
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