Daisy Posted April 30, 2012 Author 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!! Alto, Thank you for clarifying what Schuyler was trying to say. I will stay around. 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 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 Eeekk, Daisy. I meant this as Alto interpreted. You are a good bloke!! I LIKE YOU. WE LIKE YOU. This came through diametrically the opposite of the way it was intended. 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 Thank you for your replies. I am ready to put this behind me and move on. Thanks again 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
Daisy Posted May 1, 2012 Author Share Posted May 1, 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 Eeekk, Daisy. I meant this as Alto interpreted. You are a good bloke!! I LIKE YOU. WE LIKE YOU. This came through diametrically the opposite of the way it was intended. I like all of you too 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 May 1, 2012 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted May 1, 2012 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 May 5, 2012 Author Share Posted May 5, 2012 To me!!! 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 May 5, 2012 Share Posted May 5, 2012 Daisy, I relate so well to hearing or interpreting things negatively. It is very pronounced now and seems to tie in with neuroemotion and the negative emotions being accentuated. You are loved and appreciated! {{{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
Daisy Posted May 5, 2012 Author Share Posted May 5, 2012 Thank you Barbarannamated 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
Daisy Posted May 10, 2012 Author Share Posted May 10, 2012 I just wanted to post an update. I am now down to 10 beads of Effexor XR and I am doing well. Going from 13 to 12 beads was the hardest...I do not know why. I had increased tinnitus, muscles ached a bit and I had increased emotional sensitivity...but these symptoms stopped after 3 days. I hope to write a success story soon. 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
Daisy Posted October 7, 2012 Author Share Posted October 7, 2012 I am a mess and scared. I went back on 150mg of Effexor XR in August. I felt I needed to in order to fully function at a new job. Prior to resuming my original dose, I had tapered to 6 beads.I got a job and was let go due to my anxiety showing through. I then got another job which also caused anxiety but I was able to keep it under control. But I got tired of living that way, so I made a decision to take my own life. Obviously it was unsuccessful. My friend found me and called 911. I spent the night in the ER with a guard watching me. I was assessed in the morning by PET and I was discharged home. Starting tomorrow, I will attend a day program 3 hours a day, 5 days a week for ????. During the first week, I will see a Shrink. I am very afraid he will cold turkey me from Effexor XR and start me on something else. I have been through cold turkey before for a total of 7 days. It was 6 days of hell. I do not know if it is feasible to start a low dose of a long acting antidepressant such as Prozac while I am taking Effexor XR to help alleviate some of the withdrawal symptoms and then taper off Prozac when I am ready. I want my life back!!!! 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 Karma Posted October 7, 2012 Administrator Share Posted October 7, 2012 Daisy I'm so sorry that you have suffered so. There is something called a Prozac bridge, but you would need a knowledgeable physician to support your through it - there is no guarantee that it will be successful. http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1463-the-prozac-switch-or-bridging-with-prozac/page__view__findpost__p__13616__hl__bridge__fromsearch__1. When you meet with the new pdoc let him know about your fears of going off of Effexor XR ... share with him what you experienced before. Ultimately, no matter what they recommend, you still have the choice to take their recommendation or not ... it is still your choice. How long had you been back at 150 mg before you ended up in the ER? What are your symptoms now? How far down did you go on Effexor XR before reinstating? 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 October 7, 2012 Author Share Posted October 7, 2012 Karma I lost what I had written as a reply and just do not have the energy to redo it. I will check out the link you provided and print it out.I already printed out a couple of articles on SSRI dicontinuance syndrome and highlighted the symptoms I had when c/t and tapered. I reinstated 8/13/12 and ended up in the ER 10/1/12. I had tapered down to 6 beads but was having memory and focus problems. Right now my hands are trembling, my ears are ringing and it feels like my body has slight sensation of buzzing. I have lost 10# since reinstating the Effexor. My appetite is poor and my mouth is dry. I have a general sense of loss and I am ashamed of my recent cowardly act. My poor nose and right eye took a beating as did my knees and elbows because I fell several times. What is strange to me is that I drank 3/4th of a 750ml bottle of Tequila, yet my blood alcohol level was only 0.6. 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 October 8, 2012 Administrator Share Posted October 8, 2012 Daisy, please don't beat yourself up more. You did what you did, you were desperate, forgive yourself. Did you try to updose when you were down to only 6 beads? Perhaps go up to 20 beads instead of reinstating a full dose? It sounds to me like maybe 150mg Effexor XR might be too much for you. This is not medical advice. Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a knowledgeable medical practitioner. "It has become appallingly obvious that our technology has surpassed our humanity." -- Albert Einstein All postings © copyrighted. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus peggy Posted October 8, 2012 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted October 8, 2012 Hi Daisy, I am so sorry you are going through such a difficult time...but please be gentle with yourself, the drugs can cause a much bigger range of normal reactions when we are in withdrawal. So, am I right in reading that you are now taking 150mg effexor and have been since August and it was 6 weeks after this that you ended up in the ER? Did you feel any relief from your symptoms after updosing? What are your main symptoms now, and how have they changed? Started in 2000 - On 150mg most of the time, (but up to 225mg at highest dose for 6 months in the beginning)Reduced off easily first time - but got depressed (not too much anxiety) 6 months laterBack on effexor for another 9 months.Reduced off again with no immediate w/d - suddenly got depressed and anxious ++ again 3 or 4 months later.Back on effexor - this time for 3 yearsReduced off over a month - 6 weeks later terrible anxiety - back on.Rinse and repeat 4 more times - each time the period before the anxiety comes back got shorter and shorterJan - July 2012 75mg down to 37.5mg;, 8/3/12 - 35mg. 8/25/12 - 32mg. 9/11- 28mg, 10/2 - 25mg, 10/29 - 22mg, 11/19 - 19.8mg; 12/11 - 17m,1/1- 15.5mg; 1/22 -14mg, 2/7 14.9mg, 2/18 - 17.8mg - crashed big time: back to 75mg where i sat for 2 years.... 4th March 2015 - 67.5mg; 31st March - 60mg; 24th April - 53mg; 13th May - 48mg; 26th May - 45mg; 9th June - 41mg; 1 July- 37.5mg; 20 July - 34mg; 11 August - 31mg; 1st Sept - 28mg; 1st Dec - 25.8mg; 28th Dec - 23.2mg; 23rd Jan-21.9mg; Feb 7th- 21mg; March 1st - 20.1mg, March 30th - 18mg Link to comment
Daisy Posted October 14, 2012 Author Share Posted October 14, 2012 I saw a pdoc on Wednesday. I brought up using Prozac to bridge the withdrawal from Effexor XR. He said it would not work, but Cymbalta would. I Googled Cymbalta today and saw that it also has horrible withdrawal symptoms. I do not doubt that, as they both are SNRIs. I have only been on 30mgs of Cymbalta for 4 days and the Effexor XR was decreased from 150mgs to 112.5mgs. Can I stop the Cymbalta without tapering it since I have only been on it for a short time? 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 peggy Posted October 14, 2012 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted October 14, 2012 Hi Daisy, Cymbalta does have similar withdrawal symptoms as effexor. After 4 days i think you should be ok discontinuing the cymbalta, but you may need to go back up a bit with the effexor.., 150 down to 112.5 mg is quite a large drop. Started in 2000 - On 150mg most of the time, (but up to 225mg at highest dose for 6 months in the beginning)Reduced off easily first time - but got depressed (not too much anxiety) 6 months laterBack on effexor for another 9 months.Reduced off again with no immediate w/d - suddenly got depressed and anxious ++ again 3 or 4 months later.Back on effexor - this time for 3 yearsReduced off over a month - 6 weeks later terrible anxiety - back on.Rinse and repeat 4 more times - each time the period before the anxiety comes back got shorter and shorterJan - July 2012 75mg down to 37.5mg;, 8/3/12 - 35mg. 8/25/12 - 32mg. 9/11- 28mg, 10/2 - 25mg, 10/29 - 22mg, 11/19 - 19.8mg; 12/11 - 17m,1/1- 15.5mg; 1/22 -14mg, 2/7 14.9mg, 2/18 - 17.8mg - crashed big time: back to 75mg where i sat for 2 years.... 4th March 2015 - 67.5mg; 31st March - 60mg; 24th April - 53mg; 13th May - 48mg; 26th May - 45mg; 9th June - 41mg; 1 July- 37.5mg; 20 July - 34mg; 11 August - 31mg; 1st Sept - 28mg; 1st Dec - 25.8mg; 28th Dec - 23.2mg; 23rd Jan-21.9mg; Feb 7th- 21mg; March 1st - 20.1mg, March 30th - 18mg Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted October 14, 2012 Administrator Share Posted October 14, 2012 I agree, you might feel Effexor withdrawal if you just dropped the Cymbalta. Dr. Shipko mentioned some success using mirtazapine (Remeron) as a bridge for SNRIs like Effexor and Cymbalta. He's in Pasadena, California. 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 October 14, 2012 Author Share Posted October 14, 2012 Thank you. I will e mail Dr Shipko. 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
Daisy Posted October 15, 2012 Author Share Posted October 15, 2012 I agree, you might feel Effexor withdrawal if you just dropped the Cymbalta. Dr. Shipko mentioned some success using mirtazapine (Remeron) as a bridge for SNRIs like Effexor and Cymbalta. He's in Pasadena, California. AltaI e mailed Dr Shipko. He responded he has had no experience with using Remeron as a bridge. I am disappointed. 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
moonbow0202 Posted October 15, 2012 Share Posted October 15, 2012 Daisy, I am fairly new to this forum and just read some of your posts. Skimmed might be more accurate because i do not have much of an attention span. I have gone back up to 75 mg twice since beginning this detox. The first time I tried updosing but it did not seem to work. I am now seeing an integrative psychiatrist and to say that she was not happy with me when I went back up to 75 is putting it mildly. She insisted that my perceived improvement was solely due to the placebo effect. Maybe she is right but i do not agree. i am trying to view these instances as bumps in my road. Hang in there! 15+ years on various ADs and combos. Spent 3 yrs tapering (off & on ) off 225mg Effexor venlafaxine) XR & Remeron (mirtazapine). Finished tapering Oct 2014. Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted October 16, 2012 Administrator Share Posted October 16, 2012 I apologize, I might have been mistaken about mirtazapine. Can you see Dr. Shipko to help you taper? He has a lot of experience getting people off psych drugs. 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 October 20, 2012 Author Share Posted October 20, 2012 Alto Too far of a drive for me at this time. Maybe when I feel more stable, I would be able to see him. 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 October 21, 2012 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted October 21, 2012 Hi Daisy.. Just want you to know I'm really sorry to hear you have had such a tough time lately. Know all our thoughts are with you, and we wish you the very best. PS Nothing like a Bit 'O (emoticon) Fun. Glad to see your sense of humor is showing through! 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 October 21, 2012 Author Share Posted October 21, 2012 Thanks Schuyler. 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
Daisy Posted October 8, 2016 Author Share Posted October 8, 2016 I cannot believe I have not posted here since 2012. A lot has happened since then. I bridged over to Prozac quickly and off the Effexor XL. I tapered Xanax slowly and have been free for over 2 years. Initially, I was put on 60 mgs of Prozac, 30 mgs of Buspar twice a day and 15 mgs of Remeron at night.. Today I am taking only 30 mgs of Prozac. I have been fortunate to not have experienced too many withdrawal symptoms from tapering the Remeron, Prozac or Buspar. I cannot say that about the Effexor XL. I still remember how horrible I felt in 2012 when I cold turkey'd for 7 days. I think it did a lot of damage from which it is taking me a long time to recover. Today I feel good. I have built a life for myself again. It is not the life I had before this all began, but it is good enough for now. 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 ChessieCat Posted October 8, 2016 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted October 8, 2016 Hi Daisy, Wow, almost 4 years ago. Thank you for coming back and letting us know how your are doing. Well done on getting off the other drugs and halving your Prozac dose. That is really great news. The fact that you haven't posted for long probably means that you weren't feeling too bad and were able to get on with living your life. I hope that is the case. Live in the now and enjoy the life you have! * 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
Daisy Posted October 9, 2016 Author Share Posted October 9, 2016 Hi Daisy, Wow, almost 4 years ago. Thank you for coming back and letting us know how your are doing. Well done on getting off the other drugs and halving your Prozac dose. That is really great news. The fact that you haven't posted for long probably means that you weren't feeling too bad and were able to get on with living your life. I hope that is the case. Live in the now and enjoy the life you have! Actually, I went through a living hell for what seemed like a long time. I got support from many sources during that time. But Surviving Antidepressants is where my journey started. I am grateful to have found it. I do not think I would be alive today and enjoying my life if I had not taken my first steps to recovery here. 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 ChessieCat Posted October 9, 2016 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted October 9, 2016 "Actually, I went through a living hell for what seemed like a long time." I am sorry to here that. I'm glad you got the support you needed and have been able to get through it. * 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
Daisy Posted October 9, 2016 Author Share Posted October 9, 2016 Thank you 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 February 22, 2017 Author Share Posted February 22, 2017 I am going through a rough time. My mother passed away on Valentines Day. I feel like hell. I do not know if it is all from grief, or if the stress is bringing back withdrawal symptoms. I cant seem to get warm enough, my head and back hurt and I cry a lot. I want to be strong and and carry on with my life. But I just do not seem to be able make myself. 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
buggedout Posted February 22, 2017 Share Posted February 22, 2017 I am going through a rough time. My mother passed away on Valentines Day. I feel like hell. I do not know if it is all from grief, or if the stress is bringing back withdrawal symptoms. I cant seem to get warm enough, my head and back hurt and I cry a lot. I want to be strong and and carry on with my life. But I just do not seem to be able make myself. Daisy I am sorry for your loss, Daisy. I find that stress brings on full WD symptoms for myself... even if I haven't made a reduction for several months, it can feel even worse than when I actually have. It's quite strange yet also interesting how our bodies work. Give it time and remember that grieving is completely natural and healthy. Effexor XR: July 2008: 150mg | June 24 2015: 145mg | July 28 2015: 130.5mg | Sept 4 2015: 117mg | Nov 10 2015: 105mg Jan 24 2016: 94.5mg | Feb 28 2016: 85mg | Mar 27 2016: 76.5mg | Apr 28 2016: 69mg | Aug 14 2016: 62mg Jan 19 2017: 56mg | Feb 21 2017: 50mg | Mar 30 2017: 36mg | Apr 2 2017: 45mg | Sep 1 2019: 27.5mg April 9 2020: 25.2mg | Oct 30 2021: 16.9mg | Apr 1 2023: 15.2mg | May 1 2023: 13.7mg | May 31 2023: 12.3mg July 1 2023: 11.1mg | Aug 1st 2023: 10mg | Sep 25 2023: 9mg | Oct 25 2023: 8.1mg Vitamins & Supplements: MegaFood Women's Postnatal Vitamin | Metagenix D3 5000 IU | Floradix Liquid Iron Link to comment
Daisy Posted February 22, 2017 Author Share Posted February 22, 2017 I am going through a rough time. My mother passed away on Valentines Day. I feel like hell. I do not know if it is all from grief, or if the stress is bringing back withdrawal symptoms. I cant seem to get warm enough, my head and back hurt and I cry a lot. I want to be strong and and carry on with my life. But I just do not seem to be able make myself. Daisy I am sorry for your loss, Daisy. I find that stress brings on full WD symptoms for myself... even if I haven't made a reduction for several months, it can feel even worse than when I actually have. It's quite strange yet also interesting how our bodies work. Give it time and remember that grieving is completely natural and healthy. Thank you BD. I will try to be patient. 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 scallywag Posted February 22, 2017 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted February 22, 2017 Daisy, I'm sorry to hear about your Mom. Please be gentle with yourself during this time and let other people take care of you as much as you can. This is not medical advice. Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a knowledgeable medical practitioner.1997-1999 Effexor; 2002-2005 Effexor XR 37.5 mg linear taper, dropping same #beads/week with bad results Cymbalta 60 mg 2012 - 2015; 2016: 20 mg to 7 mg exact doses and dates in this post; 2017: 6.3 mg to 0.0 mg Aug. 12; details here scallywag's IntroductionOnline spreadsheet for dose taper calculations and nz11's THE WORKS spreadsheet Link to comment
pinkfairy Posted January 28, 2018 Share Posted January 28, 2018 Hope your ok daisy,just wondering how you are ♥️ Xxx First AD when i was 19.Binge drinker/drugs 15 years weekend use.I was always pulled on and off.2005-2007-Mirtapine 45mg CT. 2010-2016 Paxil 40mg + Zopiclone.Jan-2016 i was CT off Paxil.Stopped alcohol Jan 2016.Given 2-4mg of Diazepam April 2016 CT them after 3 month.They reinstated 8mg of Diazepam July 2016 and the Doctor CT me off Zopiclone the same day.They then tried adding all different drugs Mirt one of them at 15mg (i took 7.5mg).I was tapered August 2016 7.5mg.Sep 2016 7mg.Oct 2016 6mg.Tried 1mg of Paxil-stopped after 2 days.Nov 2016 5.5mg.Tried olanzapine @2.5mg (stopped after a week)Dec 2016-5mg.Tried switching to liquid Jan-March 2017 (no good)back to pills.April 2017-4.75mg of Diazepam June 2017 -4.5mg.July 2018 went inpatient for 10 days.Awakening 4 days later.HELD.Sep 2017 4.3mg Dec 2017-4mg (Held)April 2019- started tapering the Mirtazapine.Sep 2019 at 6mg of Mirtazapine (HELD)Stopped smoking CT after 26 years.10.16.19..Restarted the Diazepam taper Jan 2020 micro tapering (game changer) now 18/7/23 @0.052mg Diazepam + Mirtazapine @6mg. Link to comment
Daisy Posted May 11, 2018 Author Share Posted May 11, 2018 I switched from Prozac 40 mgs to Lexapro 5mgs on 3/22/18. I am feeling pretty miserable. Could I be having discontinuation syndrome from the Prozac while on Lexapro? How can I find out? 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
Audrey88 Posted May 11, 2018 Share Posted May 11, 2018 Hello, I too had trouble when I switched from Lexapro to Zoloft but it did get better. Started guided Meditation the app Headspace is great, eating extremely healthy meals, I'm talking blended green drinks with all vegetables to get the great nutrients, a great calming Magnesium product is called Natural Calm by Natural vitality, its a powder that you drink. I would definitely avoid sugar, caffine and alcohol, exercise gets your mind off of the situation as well. I'm sure you will feel a little better each day. Stay Strong! Link to comment
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now