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Heath: Lexapro taper plan introduction


Heath

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  • Moderator Emeritus
12 minutes ago, Heath said:

since these are all tolerable I believe to hold on where I am . No rush .

That is a good plan.

 

13 minutes ago, Heath said:

Back pain is still there but way less intense.

A very encouraging sign of healing.

 

13 minutes ago, Heath said:

You are a great inspiration to me and many people. 

Thank you for saying that.  It makes me feel very good.

Gridley Introduction

 

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

End 2017 year 1 of taper at 9.25mg 

End 2018 year 2 of taper at 4.1mg

End 2019 year 3 of taper at 1.0mg  

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

3 year, 10 month taper is 100% complete.

 

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

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

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

End 2021  year 1 of Valium taper at 6mg

End 2022 year 2 of Valium taper at 2.75mg 

End 2023 year 3 of Valium taper at 1mg

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

Taper is 95% complete.

 

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

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

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

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

Taper is 90% complete.  

  

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


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

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  • Mentor

This morning  a little emotional worry type anxiousness Fearful thoughts of surgery . Not really interested in My work. Tolerable. Yesterday Went to chiropractor took X-ray back looks good except bottom disk is thin. And we can do this or that.He said if need to he can send me to surgeon for opinion. I’m like no way not in this Ssri withdrawal Symptoms.  Talking to drs about my back is very stressful when I’m in withdrawals happened before. When I’m stable it’s not that big a deal. One of the first Back drs I visited 20 years ago was so hateful and I was already anxious and that’s when I had a lot of anxiety just built up. Start of ssri. I walked last night in new tennis shoes which killed my back. Worrying about finding rt shoes ( dealt with for yrs).  Anyway I do remember these temporary withdrawal emotional symptoms in January without the pain. This time The up dose caused a feel good first week not so good this week it should level out in a few weeks I hope. Applying coping skills as I can. Thanks

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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  • 2 weeks later...
  • Mentor

@Gridley . @ChessieCat  it’s been 3 weeks on 9 from A week on 8.5. 
1st week was good feelings energetic Got up earlier than normal . Then After week 1 emotional feelings in morning. Stomach issues . Sleepy don’t want to get out of bed, don’t want to go to work. Didn’t go to work a few Different  days. Muscles tensing and releasing. No interest spacey forgetful. And Cravings. Beginning Around 3rd week  Irritable angry feelings started.  All These have been tolerable but I really hate the no interest spacey forgetful feelings. I know my cns is adjusting to dose. I believe these will pass in a few weeks or month or so?  I believe what I am experiencing is withdrawal and side effects / upping dose? I know now I should not have reduced dose during stressful time. But I’m angry and concerned that I may never get off this drug. From 15 to 10 I had some of the list above symptoms but not this much. From 10 to 9 was ok but I guess I didn’t see the symptoms until I dropped to 8.5 after 30 days on 9. Frustrated coming down only 5% and boom. I would love it if I could be on a steady taper even if it is 1%. You know it’s good for us to be steady during withdrawal. I really am nervous on what to do when it comes time to taper again. I’m not pursuing any other medical advice on lower back as this will cause nervous anxiety. Just steady with chiropractor, home excercise and stretching. Back pain is better than when I was having the 8.5 ml withdrawals. It is still tolerable but worse than the 20 year normal pain. Praying all this will get better! 
Thanks

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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  • Moderator Emeritus
26 minutes ago, Heath said:

But I’m angry and concerned that I may never get off this drug.

You can.  Take the taper very slowly is the best advice I can give.

Gridley Introduction

 

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

End 2017 year 1 of taper at 9.25mg 

End 2018 year 2 of taper at 4.1mg

End 2019 year 3 of taper at 1.0mg  

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

3 year, 10 month taper is 100% complete.

 

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

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

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

End 2021  year 1 of Valium taper at 6mg

End 2022 year 2 of Valium taper at 2.75mg 

End 2023 year 3 of Valium taper at 1mg

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

Taper is 95% complete.

 

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

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

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

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

Taper is 90% complete.  

  

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


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

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Have you seen this method of tapering?  You can choose the reduction % it doesn't have to be 10%.  But because the reductions are split up and there is an extra holding time, you might be able to "catch" the withdrawal symptoms more easily and hold on a dose for longer as needed.

 

the-brassmonkey-slide-method-of-micro-tapering

 

Just remember that any reduction, however small, is heading towards 0.  But we want to do it keeping discomfort to a minimum.

 

I put this in my drug signature last week - I'm now at 0.56mg Pristiq (started at 100mg):

 

REMINDER TO SELF:

I don't need the drug now, but my still brain does.

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *

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

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

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

 VIDEO:   Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome and its Management

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  • Mentor

@Gridley . @ChessieCat thanks 

I have read brass monkey slide before but haven’t thought much about doing it. I just read his description in detail and in makes more since smaller week drops Then 2 week hold would not put brain in freak out mode like 10% . I’m glad that it is well known And I’m not the only one that symptoms may not show up for few days or a week. Because that’s what happens to me always! I will be thinking of doing this when time comes. Knowing that brass monkey slide works better for sensitive cns gives me some hope!
Slow and steady !

 ❤️ Reminder to self !

thanks again!!

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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  • Mentor

Time change was  yesterday. That’s making symptoms worse this evening I think. Today is definitely not a feel better in afternoon like normal symptoms this past month. I’m thinking is this just a dip or am I heading down! At this point I am sitting here thinking of going back to 10 ml. Or if I wait how long and/or when do I go back to 10? I definitely do not feel in control of this drug today!  If I continue it may be several months I don’t know. Having neg thoughts 

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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  • Mentor

Updosed to 9 ml 10-12-2020. About 3 weeks i had low negative mood, worry anxious sad emotional feelings, no motivation, lay around no energy, vivid dreams, hot sweats, get up early, sleep late, forgetful, spacey, no interest itchy face, anger, irritable, back and leg pain. These all were not consistent  everyday but only some of them. On 11-05-2020 around lunchtime they finally lifted. Mood and pain much better! 

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Might be time to do a long hold and then reduce by less than you have been doing.  Many members find that the lower their dose gets the more they need to slow down.

 

This topic helps to explain why this might be the case:

 

Why taper paper: dose-occupancy curves

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *

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

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

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

 VIDEO:   Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome and its Management

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  • Mentor

Definitely @ChessieCat  a long hold . Meanwhile I am trying to figure out what % to taper with the brass monkey scale.I’m getting me a 1 ml syringe for the .10 and .100 of the dose. So I will have to use a 5 ml and 1 ml syringe for dose. So I will have to figure out % drop then divide by 4 for weekly drops. I do believe the withdrawals wasn’t from the 5% drop in October. I think it was probably the 10% drop in September. I think there was still lingering unstableness per say from that drop and when I dropped another 5% after 30 days that just sent cns over the edge. And we had some stress during that time . In other words maybe if I would have held after that 10% drop for another month. Looking back now I see a few little withdrawal signs in September that if I would’ve picked up on I would’ve held. I don’t know how to figure out my next drop in a few months? I don’t want this to happen again!

thanks

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

3mL syringes are available too.

 

Are you DIYing your liquid or is is prescription liquid?

 

Whichever, you can use more water with the tablet or add water* to the prescription liquid because it contains water.

 

* You would only make up a small amount at a time.

 

The greater the ratio of tablet/prescription liquid to water, the better accuracy you can get because you have to consume a greater amount of liquid because you are diluting the dose.

 

 

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *

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

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

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

 VIDEO:   Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome and its Management

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  • Mentor

@ChessieCat I have prescription liquid. So let’s say I drop 4% a month using brass monkey scale which is what I’m thinking of doing, that will be 1% a week for 4 weeks and hold for 2 wks. So First dose would be 8.91 then 8.82 - 8.73 - 8.64 and hold. At this point is it ok to round to tenths place 8.9- 8.8 etc. ?  Does this look like a safe taper in a few months when I am ready? I am really trying to keep it simple where I can. But I will need to know how to dilute.  How to dilute medicine and formula?

thanks

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

I suggest you read the posts already made in the BMS topic (there is already a lot of helpful information and some examples) and if you still have questions, post over there.  My brain isn't working well this morning so I haven't checked your dose calculations.  Sorry.

 

Yes, it's okay to round the amount.  Because you are doing less than 10% reduction it is okay to round down.  When doing a 10% reduction you always round up.

 

For the dilution of prescription Lexapro liquid you can check/post in the Tips for tapering Lexapro topic.  There is also this topic:  how-to-make-a-liquid-from-tablets-or-capsules and this one:  how-to-calculate-dosages-and-dilutions-spreadsheets-and-calculators

 

If your prescription liquid is 5mL/5mg then the ratio is 1:1 or 1mL = 1mg

 

You could take 8mg dose in prescription liquid and then dilute some to get the balance of your dose.  If you put 1mL prescription liquid in 10mL water (10:1 ratio) each 1mL liquid will = 0.1mg dose (divide both sides by 10).  You can then extract the unwanted portion and drink the rest.

 

Or you can dilute in 100mL water (100:1 ratio) and each 1mL will = 0.01mg dose.

 

Please double check the figures.  I'm human.

 

I hope that makes sense.

 

 

 

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *

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

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

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

 VIDEO:   Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome and its Management

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  • Mentor

Thank you @ChessieCat

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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  • 3 weeks later...
  • Moderator Emeritus

@heath keep up the good work.  This Lexapro is tough to get off of, but we can do it!  I personally did a 5 month hold from early April to late August of this year, and that really helped me.  I actually felt pretty good by end of July, and through most of August.  That gave me hope that I can recover.  I'm all for hold when our CNS is so sensitive.  It's important to take this whole thing slowly, slowly slowly.  I'm at the very last bit, and I have people (who don't know about SSRI WD) tell me, why not just jump off? you are on so little.  I know not to listen to that bad advice.  I just listen to people in here.  My doc says it's fine to take as long as I need.  I'm glad he is supportive.  Jennifer 

Please do not private message me.  Only tag me for urgent questions about tapering and reinstating - thank you.  

 

***Please note this is not medical advice.  Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a doctor who understands psych meds and how to withdraw from them, if you can find one.

 

Lexapro   Started Apr 15 2010 - 10 mg;  started taper August 2017, recent taper info: Apr 2 '20  0.18 mg; Jul 16  0.17 mg, Aug 23  0.16 mg, Oct 7  0.15 mg, Nov 8 - 0.14, Jan 16 '21 - 0.13, Feb 7 - 0.12, Feb 22 - 0.11, Mar 26 - 0.10, May 21 - 0.09, June 15 - 0.08 Aug 16 - 0.07, Oct 6 - 0.06, Nov 21 0.05, Dec. 17 0.04, Jan 14 '22 0.03, Feb 19 0.02, Apr 18 0.01, May 15 0.005,  Jul 8, 0.00.  Psych Drug Free as of July 8, 2022!!  Woohoo!!!

other meds: Levothyroxine 75 mg

magnesium in small amounts at 4 AM, before bed

suppl AM: fish oil, flax oil, vit C, vit E, multivitamin, zinc

suppl 8 PM: magnesium 350 mg, extended release vitamin C, melatonin 2 mg

 

Paxil 2002 - 2010, switched to Lexapro 2010 

Trazodone 50 mg. 2002 - 2019, fast tapered in 2019 

Xanax 0.5 mg as needed 2002 - 2019, up to 3x weekly 

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  • Mentor

@getofflex it is very rare to have a dr that supports you. You are very fortunate!  And yes long holds are really good when cns gets unstable with intolerable symptoms!

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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I'm about to start my taper on Lexapro. I am totally switched over to the liquid....but I'm thinking of maybe waiting til after the Holidays...because I feel pretty good right now. Really want to enjoy Christmas w/my family!

2005-2020 diff AD for trouble sleeping, switched multiple times. 

2020 Dec Escitalopram 10 mg

2021 Jan 10 mg -start BMS taper w/2 wk hold

2022 March 3.63 mg

2022 July 2.65 mg

2022 November 1.96 mg

2023 February 1.48 mg

2023 August .90 mg

.25mg Melatonin (as needed)

 

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  • Moderator Emeritus
17 hours ago, Krisseyb said:

I'm about to start my taper on Lexapro. I am totally switched over to the liquid....but I'm thinking of maybe waiting til after the Holidays...because I feel pretty good right now. Really want to enjoy Christmas w/my family!

Sounds like a good idea, to wait until after Christmas.  I'm considering holding until after Christmas.  

Please do not private message me.  Only tag me for urgent questions about tapering and reinstating - thank you.  

 

***Please note this is not medical advice.  Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a doctor who understands psych meds and how to withdraw from them, if you can find one.

 

Lexapro   Started Apr 15 2010 - 10 mg;  started taper August 2017, recent taper info: Apr 2 '20  0.18 mg; Jul 16  0.17 mg, Aug 23  0.16 mg, Oct 7  0.15 mg, Nov 8 - 0.14, Jan 16 '21 - 0.13, Feb 7 - 0.12, Feb 22 - 0.11, Mar 26 - 0.10, May 21 - 0.09, June 15 - 0.08 Aug 16 - 0.07, Oct 6 - 0.06, Nov 21 0.05, Dec. 17 0.04, Jan 14 '22 0.03, Feb 19 0.02, Apr 18 0.01, May 15 0.005,  Jul 8, 0.00.  Psych Drug Free as of July 8, 2022!!  Woohoo!!!

other meds: Levothyroxine 75 mg

magnesium in small amounts at 4 AM, before bed

suppl AM: fish oil, flax oil, vit C, vit E, multivitamin, zinc

suppl 8 PM: magnesium 350 mg, extended release vitamin C, melatonin 2 mg

 

Paxil 2002 - 2010, switched to Lexapro 2010 

Trazodone 50 mg. 2002 - 2019, fast tapered in 2019 

Xanax 0.5 mg as needed 2002 - 2019, up to 3x weekly 

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  • Mentor

I should have held a month after I changed to liquid. Because I did not I have to hold.  I’m planning on holding for maybe 3 or 4 months maybe 6 , depending. The anxiety nervousness sweating has passed from October. Still have some foggy detachment feeling, this is slowly getting better doing things with people helps this. Still have forgetful, and no focus this may be more of side effect of med had this before. Forgetful has been bad this past month. The fatigue is better but yesterday it hit me again. Feel like I been tent camping or traveling for a week. I feel like I am becoming more involved in work again. I can tell working late and less sleep has made these wds worse and reappear!  I struggle to right down symptoms daily now.  

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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  • Mentor

@Gridley @Frogie @ChessieCatDoes anyone have a detailed description of the 1-5 wd symptom scale? I’m thinking of making one so I can give each day a number instead of detail daily journal?

Or does anyone have an example of the scale as in 4 working but high anxiety, 5 can’t function high anxiety sick fatigue? 
thanks

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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  • Moderator
12 minutes ago, Heath said:

@Gridley @Frogie @ChessieCatDoes anyone have a detailed description of the 1-5 wd symptom scale? I’m thinking of making one so I can give each day a number instead of detail daily journal?

Or does anyone have an example of the scale as in 4 working but high anxiety, 5 can’t function high anxiety sick fatigue? 
thanks

I don’t, but if I come across one I will send it to you

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Moderator Emeritus
2 hours ago, Heath said:

the 1-5 wd symptom scale?

I don't know of one.  It might be best if you make your own customized to your symptoms.  I use a zero to 5 scale but it's pretty subjective without any details.  I do a morning symptom rating and a pm symptom rating.  Very seldom do I have 5's or 4's, but since I jumped to zero from Lexapro and started my Ativan-Valium crossover I've been having more 2's and 3's than previously.

Gridley Introduction

 

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

End 2017 year 1 of taper at 9.25mg 

End 2018 year 2 of taper at 4.1mg

End 2019 year 3 of taper at 1.0mg  

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

3 year, 10 month taper is 100% complete.

 

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

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

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

End 2021  year 1 of Valium taper at 6mg

End 2022 year 2 of Valium taper at 2.75mg 

End 2023 year 3 of Valium taper at 1mg

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

Taper is 95% complete.

 

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

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

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

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

Taper is 90% complete.  

  

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


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

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  • Mentor

Thanks

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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  • Mentor

I’ve been thinking about it today and 0 to 5 being how good or bad my symptoms are. I will make a list of my symptoms and see how it works thanks guys

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Dr Joseph Glenmullen's Withdrawal Symptoms

 

 

There are computer and printable versions here as well as a blank printable.  Obviously the computer one you can add your own or delete all of the list and only list your own.

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *

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

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

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

 VIDEO:   Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome and its Management

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  • Mentor

I also forgot to mention back , leg and neck pain. These have gone back to the normal aches. As I said before wd affects old injuries and or inflammation in some way. Another thing that may have contributed to the physical pain and wds is I had to take cipro antibiotic for 4 weeks around September. I’ve recently read these cause major problems other than stomach issues. I rarely take them have only had 2 different times in 12 years. I ve always known to stay away from them. 

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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  • 1 month later...
  • Mentor

Well it’s been almost 3 months since up dosing. I’m getting back to doing thing and having interest in things. The laying around has gone about a week ago. My thoughts are thinking about starting brass monkey slide and what percentage to start at etc! Hope everyone had a great holiday!!!

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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  • 2 weeks later...
  • Mentor

@Gridley , @ChessieCat , @brassmonkey  I have a question or two about side effects of lexapro.

Can side effects occur months after starting drug ? 

Can side effects occur after an up dose ?

I awoke this morning at 4 am with small ringing ears and drainage in throat. 
About 3 months after starting lexapro 15 I started having extremely dry eyes,dry month and dry sinuses. Sinus burning, light headed, not feeling good. Eyes so dry they clicking when opening and closing. Had a dental infection. Dental surgery and antibiotics.  When I started tapering these got better. In October I updosed 3 months later guess what happened. Dry sinuses, eyes, mouth .  Last week on two occasions I had chills in my arms just felt cold . Yesterday not feeling good , sinuses aching ,sleeping on and off . Been keeping eye on temperature No fever!  I do have sinus drainage but doesn’t flow . I plan on flushing and hot steam shower . If I go to dr all they will do is give me antibiotics which I don’t want. 
 

Another thing I noticed is both times this happened was when my sinuses needed to flow and run. First time during springtime allergies and this past week being outside when temperatures dropped. 


thanks 

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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  • Moderator

These sound like pretty common symptoms. Have you tried saline spray for the sinuses and lubricating eye drops?

 

If regards to your PM about tapering. Have you already been doing a Brassmonkey Slide or have those 10% reductions been all in one shot? The whole idea behind the Slide is to allow for a 10% reduction but still keep the symptoms at a manageable level. It is quit unlike doing a straight 10% reduction. If 10% is too much then many people opt for doing 5% (1.25% a week) which works very well, but it does double the length of time for the total taper.

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

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

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

 

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

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  • Mentor

@brassmonkeyYes the saline flush helps haven’t tried the spray or eye drops yet.

 

so as far as side effects I can say for informational purposes when I start lexapro or up dose these side effects dry sinuses, dry mouth, dry eyes, upset stomach will ramp up around 3 months out. This happened with Paxil 8-9 years after starting I became tired laying around not wanting to do anything . So contradictory to what some drs say side effects can come on at anytime while on these ssris ?

 

Concerning start up taper-

yes I have only been doing 10% drops in one shot every 4 weeks. I do want to start with brass monkey slide soon.
 

I need a little help with deciding the % reduction that I go with. I know It is my decision I just need some input for my thoughts. My first 10% drops every 4 weeks in 2019 went ok but after about 4 months It started catching up to me. Symptoms were manageable so I held for 5 months waiting for liquid prescription. Then I transferred in August 2020 to liquid and held for two weeks then reduced 10% held 4 weeks then reduced about 6% due to unavailable correct syringe. One week later a wave started coming on strong and fast. After holding 2 weeks went back to previous dose. 2 weeks later things started getting much better. In this same time frame I developed an infection and went 20 days on antibiotics . 

 
so my thoughts are 10% drops every 4 weeks is a little to fast.  The last 10% and 6% drop that I had a wave , I could have held a little longer after transferring to liquid and the infection and antibiotics added to the wave. 
I feel like the brass monkey slide will work at 2.5 % per week drops. But on the other hand I have a fear that I need to go with 1.25 %.

thanks

 

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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  • Moderator

Most SSRIs have an antihistamine effect on the body and can cause all the drying symptoms you describe. As the dose is decreased the effect should decrease also. Try the spray and drops, they should help.

 

The onset of strong symptoms during a smooth taper is an indication that things are backing up and the body needs a break to stabilize. I would stay put for a month or so and see how things settle out. Then we can start up on a Brassmonkey Slide. 

 

A 10% Brassmonkey Slide is quite different than a 10% per month taper. Especially with the symptom load. With the slide it is much lighter and resolves quicker. The slide is however two weeks longer per cycle, which is one reason it is smoother. I would start with the normal 10% Brassmonkey Slide and see how that goes. If it causes too many problems then it is quite simple to drop down to 5% or any other lower percentage. Once the calculations have been established it is quite easy to figure out each dose size.

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

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

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

 

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

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  • Mentor

@brassmonkey

sounds like a plan . I was thinking same thing this morning after a 3 month hold these recent symptoms popping up. Along with the other symptoms I listed. The last two mornings waking up 2 hrs early and having vivid dreams. We will hold another month or so and see where we are. Thanks again!

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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  • 2 weeks later...
  • Mentor

@Gridley, @brassmonkey, Well Guys I went to dr today and I still have a UTI. I had a UTI around august-september and took 2 rounds of Cipro. I got better but still had some pains and issues. Called dr around october or so and he said only drink water in which i had been drinking a little caffeine. Things got better a little up and down. Today He said the infection is back but I strongly believe the original infection just never completely went away. He said BPH is most likely causing it. So he is going to run me through cipro again. I don't want to but have no choice. I told him there is no flow problem. He said that I may have to take medicine for BPH and that since I started having BPH at early age and that was 20 years ago and that it may be getting close to time for medicine. I did mention to him about lexapro causing urinary problems and he said that I have been on paxil for years and they are about the same so probably not. I didn't want to push any of that with him anymore because my thoughts were lost in all of what he just said !! Ive never had a UTI in my life until august. Thinking back I believe it was due to not drinking enough water in the summer and too much caffeine. 

 

I hope I can get through this so I can continue the taper soon! The severe sinus headache ear popping went away previously but temperature dropped today so its back. Saline spray is helping. Right now I am focusing on getting this UTI gone. But at same time My thoughts are-  Is any of this related to Lexapro/Paxil? I started paxil 20 years ago for acute stress/pain and anxiety, I started having BPH 20 years ago .

 

Can ssris cause BPH or UTI ?

If ssris can dry out eyes, sinuses, and mouth can it dry out the rest of your body like urinary tract?

Is there someone on here that has experienced this ?

Can I post this in symptoms and self care section ?

 

Thanks

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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Hopefully the Cipro will take care of your UTI. Feel better and keep us updated!!

Lexapro: 2013 - mid August 2019 (20mgs, to 10 mgs for 1 week then 0mgs)

Zoloft: March 2018 - ? (200mgs - unsure of duration, around 2-4 weeks maybe; down to 100 mgs for 1 month, 50 mgs for 1 month; reinstated 20 mgs Lexapro shortly after)

Wellbutrin: mid August 2019 - mid September 2019 (150 mgs then CT)

Prozac: early October 2019 - 20 mgs  to 40 mgs on 11/24/2019; 30 mgs in July 2020; 20 mgs Sept 2020; 10 mgs October 22 2020; 15 mgs 11/13/2020

 

My intro:

https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/topic/21906-ruuree-my-experience-with-lexapro-withdrawal/

 

 

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  • 1 month later...
  • Mentor

Well I took cipro and then 14 days of keflex. Because he did a culture on the bacteria. Keflex better for it he said. I have been off of it for four days . Hopefully infection is cleared up. I think it is he will check me in 3 days. Now since stopping the antibiotics sore body, foggy headed, can’t concentrate, tired, and no interest has gotten worse . Steady on 9 ml lexapro. Hope this passes soon and no infection! 

2000-2013 Paxil - 1 year fast taper

2013-2018 merry go round
zoloft, cymbalta, lamictal, Prozac.

 Nov. 2018 lexapro 15 mgs, Dec. 2019 to Mar. 2020 taper to 10mg. Jul 2020 to October 2020 taper to 8.5 ml.
Oct 2020 reinstated to 9 ml.
Apr 2021 to Jul  taper to 7ml. Oct 2021 to Jan 2022 taper to 5.9ml, Mar 5 2022 5.8 ml, Mar 12 5.7ml, Mar 20 5.6ml, Mar 27 5.5ml, April 23 5.4ml, April 30 5.3ml, May 7 5.2ml,  Jul 9 2022 5.4ml, 

Klonopin prn, Allegra 180 for 3 seasons, aspirin 81 mg, plavix , nitroglycerin 0.4 mg prn, 2k mg  turmeric Qunol, 4- Trader Joe’s omega 3 -2400 mg, Pepcid 20mg,  Prilosec 40 mg, Tylenol arthritis 4 tablets daily, 350mg calm magnesium citrate, melatonin 2.5- 5mg as needed to sleep. Saline spray as needed. 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Hello Heath !

 

I'm honestly not able to answer your questions and I know very little about UTI.

 

I've done a quick search, perhaps you'll find some interesting things here :

 

urination-and-bladder-issues-male-and-female/

 

Hope you'll feel better soon !

 

2006 : 20mg Paxil+Bromazepam. 2008 : cold turkey of both. 2010 : Reinstatement 20mg Paxil + Bromazepam.

2014-June2017 : Switch from Bromazepam to Prazepam, slow taper to 0mg.

2018 to August 2019 : Paxil 20mg taper (3% every 15 days). 22 Aug 2019 updose to 10mg (was at 8.4mg).

25th Sept 2019 To April 2020 : found SA, holding at 10mg Paxil. 

April 2020 : Paxil 10mg to Prozac 7mg bridge. Details topic/21457

 

Current Supplements : magnesium citrate + fish oil

Current medication :

* 7pm Diazepam  : 0.85mg (15 Aug 2022) / 0.95 mg (24 April 2022) / 1mg Diazepam (since 29 Aug 2020)

* 8am Prozac : 6.16mg (25 oct 2022, feel awful, slight updose) / 6.08 mg (9 oct 2022) / 6.24mg (11 July 22) / 6.44mg (22 May 22) / 6.64mg (4 Nov 21) / 6.72mg (8 oct 21) / 6.8 mg (15 Sept 21)6.88mg (14 Aug 21)/ 6.92mg (23 Jun 21)

 

I am not a professional, I don't give medical advice. Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a knowledgeable medical practitioner.

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