Giulietta

[Gridley]

1 minute ago, Guilietta said:

Should I document dosage changes with these 'symptoms'?

 

Inasmuch as possible, I would insert dosage changes with the symptoms.  The two recent dosage changes that come to my mind are when you stopped the liquid and went to .4mg beads and then to .2mg beads.

 

I would think the listed symptoms are caused by withdrawal.

[Giulietta]

6 minutes ago, Gridley said:

I would insert dosage changes with the symptoms.  

 

Hi

I sent some of this info via PM. Doyou want me to post here too? Meaning Date of dose change and symptoms?

 

G

[Gridley]

1 minute ago, Guilietta said:

Doyou want me to post here too? Meaning Date of dose change and symptoms?

 

I would so that others may benefit.

[Gridley]

@Guilietta

 

Here is a link dealing with vestibular effects of withdrawal.

Dizziness, vertigo, light-headedness, rocking or swaying ...

 

 

 

[Giulietta]

Hello G.

 

Here is what I posted from my PM

 

A friend who has been through this gets that after one system gets fixed - the symptom should go away.

 

Feb/Mar - 1

 

Don't know decreases in liquid - but there were some.

June 16 -1

July - 0 ?

Aug - 4

Sept - 9

Oct - 0 (change to .4 mg - 2 beads - and we don't know the mg of liquid)

Nov - 4

Dec - 8 (this was a bad mo you recall)

Jan 28 - 10 (decrease to .2 mg Jan 5 after 12 months of holding)

 

[Erell]

Dear Guilietta 

 

So Nice To hear from you !

As Gridley said, we are all behind you  ❤

 

I'm sorry To read that you still struggle with your symptoms, but happy To read that you manage To do ' normal' things.

This is also healing : doing, as much as we can, normal things

 

[Giulietta]

Thanks for the link, @Gridley  The good times keep rollin'....

 

https://www.yourhealthremedy.com/health-tips/menieres-disease-vs-labyrinthitis/

 

[Giulietta]

5 minutes ago, Erell said:

doing, as much as we can

 

Hello dear Erell,

 

Thank you for stopping by...I have an appointment with the ENT (ear nose and throat) specialist tomrorow afternoon and he is usually very, very hard to get an appointment with without a wait. 

 

I appreciate the support. Trying to gather information about this garbage and get my mind of it all before I can see how everyone is.

 

I hope you are well.

 

Hugs

G

[Giulietta]

6 hours ago, Gridley said:

I would think the listed symptoms are caused by withdrawal.

 

Hi, Gridley

 

I am seeing the ENT tomorrow (if I didn't mention).  Do you have any thoughts that these are due to an increase in dose or a decrease?

 

This ENT knows of the relationship between tinnitis and getting off ADs so that is a positive.

 

Thanks,

G.

 

 

[Gridley]

19 minutes ago, Guilietta said:

Do you have any thoughts that these are due to an increase in dose or a decrease?

That's hard to answer since we don't know what your dosage was (if anything) when you were on the liquid.  So it could be either.  A too big reinstatement/updose can destabilize as readily as a too-fast taper. 

[mustafa]

Hi guilietta, I was very happy when I had a notification that you mentioned.

Was worried about u and also happy when I think u have some relief and want to go through your normal activities.

Very nice to see u again my friend ❤️.

[Giulietta]

36 minutes ago, mustafa said:

want to go through your normal

 

Hello Mustafa,

 

You have such a positive take on things. Thank you. I am trying to gothrough normal activities as much as possible but it has been very hard lately so not much positive to bring to anyone or post.  I hope I get some positive news from the ear/nose/throat MD tomorrow - or at least an answer.

 

How are you doing? Any luck wtih the work search? Part-time web development?  I at least applied for 3 jobs but haven't heaerd back. It is just as well because even though I had a 9 day window (hoorah!) I couldn't imagine interviwing, working, etc.

 

Hugs,

G.

[Giulietta]

Update on the ENT and the symptoms of morning imbalance / can't walk, blurry vision, dizziness, etc. and change in audiology exam indicated that I do not have a vestibular or ENT-managed problem (i.e., meniere's, labrythinitis).  As I do not (thank goodness) experience vertigo or the sensation of my environment spinning around me and nausea - this is not a vestibular issue.  I experienced this before in my life and this is not what I have now. With my vision association he put this in the hands of the neuro. Re: hearing change - he indicated that my hearing was within normal limits and wanted to retest in 6 months (which I will do).

 

Communique from the neurologist: proposes reduction in the lamotrigine dosage by 100 mg (17%) as my plasma level may be a little high and as lamotrigine at higher levels is associated with many of my complaints.  After the duloxetine fiasco I am not comfortable making this kind of decrease at once unless medically necessary (why do I know).  Even if the end game of 500 mg is good - getting there should happen over time.

 

I know the psych med standard is 10% a month. 

 

I am in week 3 of bead 1.

 

Do others have a point of view on this?

 

Thanks to anyone who wants to chime in.

 

 

[Giulietta]

@Gridley

 

Hello Gridley -

 

How does one find the handles/names of others (on SA) who are affected by imbalance, etc.? Thus far it looks like not many on the thread you provided above.  I can't believe there aren't more.

 

Hope you and the animals are all well.

 

Thanks,

G.

 

 

[Gridley]

6 minutes ago, Guilietta said:

How does one find the handles/names of others (on SA) who are affected by imbalance, etc

 

If you will Google survivingantidepessants.org dizziness you'll find a number of threads dealing with the subject.  Unfortunately, many of the thread are quite old, meaning the members probably aren't still participating.  Still, it might be helpful.

 

Pups are fine, very happy that we've returned from the big city.  Both are within 3 feet of my as I type.

[Giulietta]

24 minutes ago, Gridley said:

Unfortunately, many of the thread are quite old, meaning the members probably aren't still participating.  Still, it might be helpful.

 

Hi there - yes quite right. I would like to provide some info  to MDs to corroborate. The neuro thinks this is an elevated lamotrigine level - and I'm loathe to send her my more precise information which has been transpiring since September. I don't want to lose credibility with her.... 😶

 

I'm glad the pups are all well. My little one is doing well (touch wood as the Brits say). He enjoys rolling in the snow.

 

Hugs to you

Giulietta

[Rhiannon]

Hello dear Guilietta, I'm not around so much now because I've gotten pretty busy with my life projects, also I've been having the usual bout after bout of winter upper respiratory and sinus issues.  I'm glad I have a few minutes to check in today.

 

The situation with lamotrigine is tricky, I think probably your neurologist knows best about how much you should be taking. Maybe you can just tell her that you have had a very hard time tapering off other medications that alter neurotransmitters in the past (ADs) and you would like to try the lower dose of lamotrigine but you would like to reduce it much more slowly. I think it comes in 25 mg increment tablets, maybe even less for a pediatric dose, they might be able to put together a slow taper for you. If not, you could consider doing a dissolve-and-liquid-taper on your own so that you can control the pace; I dissolve my lamotrigine tablets, it seems to work okay.

 

It sounds like the bead taper is basically working--you're not feeling as well as you'd like to of course, but it doesn't sound like you're crashing. I'm so glad. Hang in there.

[Giulietta]

1 hour ago, Rhiannon said:

The situation with lamotrigine is tricky,

 

Hello dear Rhiannon,

 

Thank you for swinging by my thread to give me your feedback on this.

 

I am sorry you have the respiratory issues and glad you do not have  WD issues (at least that you mention)!  I wonder if you are paintining another room?

 

LTG is too high.  I had been thinking 25 mg (4%) a week (or 10 days) - which MD is fine with.  She is aware of my dulox taper and what it has been like.  My LTG levels are high (what she calls toxic) so she wants to get my levels down.

 

Years ago I was decreased from 600 to 550 (8%) at once and that failed. I hope 600 to 575 is smoother.

 

She does know about my experience with my AD and where I am and may have some appreciation for this.

 

Beads seem to be going OK with the exception of the possible  imbalance thing if the dulox taper is causing it. I don't know if this  could be LTG level or WD. Imbalance episodes thus far only occur in the morning 30-40 minutes after waking, they started at 4 in September, none in October, 8 in Nov, 10 in Dec and Jan each.  I wonder if you have any thoughts on this? Bead transition was mid -Oct (no episodes) and also Jan 5. I have no idea of incidence of this WD symptom.

 

MD responded that 25 would be fine so that is good so I can do 25s.  As with everything it is up to the insurance Gods and Goddesses. 

 

I must call insurance now. I don't know what this will cost. 😥

 

Hugs and another update forthcoming. I may need to transition to IR now over the cost and availability....

 

Again, thank you

Giuilietta

 

 

 

 

[mustafa]

On 1/29/2020 at 2:07 AM, Guilietta said:

 

Hello Mustafa,

 

You have such a positive take on things. Thank you. I am trying to gothrough normal activities as much as possible but it has been very hard lately so not much positive to bring to anyone or post.  I hope I get some positive news from the ear/nose/throat MD tomorrow - or at least an answer.

 

How are you doing? Any luck wtih the work search? Part-time web development?  I at least applied for 3 jobs but haven't heaerd back. It is just as well because even though I had a 9 day window (hoorah!) I couldn't imagine interviwing, working, etc.

 

Hugs,

G.

Hi guilietta, 

I think if u have something you need to mention to be free of negative energy, then mention it and don't keep it inside your soul.

For me, I didn't try to search for a job for considerations but I think iam on my way to be relatively ok to work and I hope Iam true concerning my expectation.

Have a good night friend ❤️

[Giulietta]

2 hours ago, mustafa said:

inside your soul

 

Hello Mustafa,

 

This is a good concept - and good practice. People need to express their feelings but sometimes we aren't able to share them.  I have been extremely frustrated - so many set backs at different levels because of this when I hoped to be getting on with my life. I couldn't make a financial commitment to make a trip in October - something I really want to do for years (and years) - because of imbalance. Really sad about that. Maybe there will be other chances in the future.

 

You are quite right about the job. When the time is right - you will pursue the job. In the meanwhile, we make the most of this time.

 

I am trying to have 'positive expectations' - something new to learn - that things will work out.

 

How are you doing in the apartment? Are you become a good cook?

 

Giulietta

[MissyE]

On 1/28/2020 at 3:16 PM, Guilietta said:

Oddly I have had a bloody nose

I have this too.  I'm a picker which doesn't help and it's sooo painful.  I seem to get it each winter.  Never had it before meds though..... Weird.

[mustafa]

11 hours ago, Guilietta said:

 

How are you doing in the apartment? Are you become a good cook?

Hi guilietta,

Yes 😂

Sometimes I went back to stay with family and the others iam in my own flat, just for change.

I hope I can go for work soon because it is a huge distractor and supporter to be working and earning money.

Sending hugs ❤️

Mustafa

[Giulietta]

1 hour ago, mustafa said:

Sometimes I went back to stay with family and the others iam in my own flat, just for change

 

Hello Mustafa,

 

This is great. Being around others even when they don't understand me is supportive and helps reduce anxiety. Change is good.   And now that you can good you can have a dinner party!

 

Have positive expectation about going to work soon and that it will work out. Expect that you will feel better about yourself and WD, meet nice coworkers and earn money.

 

Glad you stop by and let me know how you are doing.

 

Hugs,

Giuilietta

 

 

 

 

[Giulietta]

6 hours ago, MissyE said:

I seem to get it each winter.  Never had it before meds though..... Weird.

 

I rarely get this - but this winter I have. I am telling myself it is the weather. Our weather has been unseasonably warm then cold, etc. I have a stupid cough that is hanging around too - but thinking it could be the weather.

 

It is sunny but very cold today - AND  I am so glad to look out the window and see bright sun. 🌞

 

I hope you have a very nice day.

Hugs,

Giulietta

[Giulietta]

Just posted...more information about the lack of scientific research by omission on the efficacy of ADs. Posted recently.

 

 

https://www.madinamerica.com/2020/01/missing-clinical-trials-antidepressant-drugs/

[Giulietta]

Hello  @Gridley  - Could you kindly advise me about respiratory treatments and WD. My cough has become  worse, with chest pain and light-headness and finally I have to see an MD or NP. 

 

Generally treating these issues I have in the past had to consider seizure disorder and those meds. This gives MDs enough of a headache (and me). Now in WD I don't know what to think.

 

In the past I have in past received an inhaler, nebulizer and maybe an oral anti-biotic.  I don't know what to think now or if it makes a difference. That being said - I don't want to exacerbate my situation with respiratory treatments 🙄 .

 

I will also have to disclose the physical symptoms including the vertigo for the past several months, etc. 

 

I hope you had pleasant day. Time for meditation and prayers.

 

Thanks,

Guilietta

 

 

[Gridley]

12 hours ago, Guilietta said:

Could you kindly advise me about respiratory treatments and WD.  

 

Avoid steroids if you can.  

 

If you need an antibiotic, definitely avoid fluoroquinolones.

 

Good luck at the doctor.

 

Gridley

 

Here is more information on fluoroquinolone if you need it.

 

Fluoroquinolone antibiotics

 

The fluoroquinolones can cause major problems, especially with the benzo.

 

Cipro, Levaquin, Azithromycin (Z-Pack), and other antibiotics

 

The antibiotics that people in benzo withdrawal should avoid if possible are the fluoroquinolone antibiotics, as they affect the same receptors cites as benzos and can displace benzodiazepines from their binding sites on GABA-receptors. These can precipitate acute withdrawal in people taking or tapering from benzodiazepines. Many people have severe setbacks. 

 

For people with current or even prior benzo use, they are particularly dangerous - 

 

Benzodiazepine tolerance, dependency, and withdrawal syndromes and interactions with fluoroquinolone antimicrobials

 

Quinolone antibiotic medications include:

• Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan Ophthalmic and Cipro)
• Levofloxacin (Levaquin and QUIXIN Ophthalmic)
• Lomefloxacin (Maxaquin)
• Moxifloxacin (Avelox)
• Norfloxacin (Chibroxin Ophthalmic and Noroxin Oral)
• Ofloxacin (Floxin and Ocuflox Ophthalmic)
• Sparfloxacin (Zagam)
• Trovafloxacin (Trovan)
• Gatifloxacin (Tequin)
• Gemifloxacin (Factive)
• Cinoxacin (Cinobac)
• Nalidixic acid (NegGram) 

 

 

Edited February 4, 2020 by Gridley

[Giulietta]

7 hours ago, Gridley said:

Avoid steroids if you can.  

 

If you need an antibiotic, definitely avoid fluoroquinolones.

 

Hello Gridley and thank you for this information (and organized) - here is hte MD update:

 

MD diagnosed as Respiratory Airway Disease - which I have been treated for before. I indicated my WD situation - and ironically the nurse/MA was familiaer with the physical side effects.

 

I am grateful no infection diagnosed - and even though pneunomia unlikely (knockon wood) had x-ray done. Results of the latter tonight/tomorrow. So - no ABs I think. Suggestion was an inhaler for 2 weeks bid. Barring that I could try delsym (which you can't take if you are on MAOIs!). I would like to do neither. Glad to get other stuff ruled out.

[Gridley]

29 minutes ago, Guilietta said:

I am grateful no infection diagnosed

That's great news, Guilietta!

[Andie]

Hi Guilietta

 

Ive just been through the whole compounding debacle myself. Where are the standards? 

 

 

[Giulietta]

6 minutes ago, Gridley said:

That's great news

Do you have TV or cable?

 

 Thanks, Gridley   I think the delsym may be more benign so I will try that first.  This is good news.

 

In spite of  this bit of good news (I'm thankful for a little good news) and even though I remember the good days and partial days - the many recent glum days lead me to  feel like I am doing worse overall.  Is it just me who feels this way?  I am 13 months out.  😖 

 

I am grateful that I had 3 consecutive days without vertigo (meaning chair bound). I hope I don't jinx things. Every day I don't start the day with vertigo I am grateful.

 

Time to meditate

 

 

[Giulietta]

1 hour ago, Andie said:

compounding debacle myself

 

Hi Andie

What can I answer? I can speak only about cymbalta/duloxetine in particular and it has left me in this mess.  How you may or may not compound a medication depends on the drug from what I understand.

 

Are you a victim of cymbalta?

[Andie]

Hi There

 

I was comiserating with you. I’ve just switched to Prozac after taking what has probably been highly compromised compounded  Pristiq for 3 years. 

 

Pristiq is an SNRI and ER like Cymbalta so shouldn’t be crushed, divided etc. My compounded Pristiq was being crushed and then made into smaller doses and it’s caused similar chaos to what you have experienced. 

 

 

[Gridley]

11 hours ago, Guilietta said:

Do you have TV or cable?

No, we haven't had a TV since the second Bush-Kerry debate, when it pooped out.  We carried it the curb.  Some people here have a satellite dish for TV but not us.

 

11 hours ago, Guilietta said:

he many recent glum days lead me to  feel like I am doing worse overall.

To me it seems you are improving.  A few bad days can make it feel otherwise, I know.  But you've made a lot of progress working your way out from under the Duloxetine situation.  

[Giulietta]

12 hours ago, Andie said:

Pristiq is an SNRI and ER like Cymbalta so shouldn’t be crushed, divided etc. My compounded Pristiq was being crushed and then made into smaller doses and it’s caused similar chaos to what you have experienced. 

 

 

Hello Andie

 

I missed understood which isn't too hard for me. Thank you for commiserating. I have heard pristique is another miserable 'medication' to get off of.

 

How are you doing now? And large a drop before you realized your error (or was it too late?).

 

I am still experiencing the chaos. New symptoms continue to crop up many months after the (near CT) and I still have the emotional ups and downs. Even though I try when feeling fine to give people positive advice and support - I'm not so good at following my own.

 

This morning is one of those I'm sorry to say. Will swing by your thread.

 

Guilietta

[Giulietta]

55 minutes ago, Gridley said:

We carried it the curb.  Some people here have a satellite dish for TV but not us.

 

 

Best thing for it. I think I recall now that you mention it - its demise. Sometimes having some noise in the background is good particularly on a cloudy day. It also makes bright light.

 

1 hour ago, Gridley said:

A few bad days can make it feel otherwise, I know.

 

I am consinderng the same possibility.

 

Emotional ups and downs, ruminating, what if'ing are endless this morning and yesterday. Similar to yesterday (and 2, 3 and 4). Very conflicted feelings.