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Heath: Lexapro taper plan introduction


Heath

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  • Moderator Emeritus

If the heat is not too humid, putting a wet cloth around your neck might help.

 

I have a couple of "Cool It" Collars that soak up the water.  Similar to these:

 

https://www.amazon.com/cool-collar-people/s?k=cool+collar+for+people

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *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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  • Moderator Emeritus

In dry 40C degree heat I found wearing a wet cotton T-shirt kept me cool.

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *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 all so much I really needed that reassuring encouragement and talk down. 

the cold water and 1:45 hour walk with daughter really helped. I was feeling much better and wife got home and they all took me out to eat for my birthday! I received some good love! 
taking a hot bath rt now at 8:30 pm. I’m gonna sleep good and feel good tomorrow. 
 

I am making notes in a book for self help so I can find faster. Not that y’all weren’t fast because y’all were pretty fast which iam truly grateful! 
 

Chessie 40c is like 104 F 😳and it was 95 F today here. I pray this wd symptom of heat fatigue and exhaustion and Heat stress will pass. I have to work in it some. Thinking about getting an umbrella . I second that wet shirt. If I would have thought about it I would have took a cold shower at work or stuck my head in buckets of ice water. 
 

I have never held at same dose after a wave or fast tapper. I always updosed through dr and then held.  

 

So this is first time for holding at same dose after a wave, (which I did updose.2 ml. ),  

 

so I am nervous and anxious that the same dose will level out just as it has the other times. 

 

I ve got more to say but it’s bed time!

good night !
 

Thank you Frogie, Ariel, Conner , Greatful, and chessiecat and All! 😊

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 woke at 3 am . I’m listening to beach ocean sounds on iPod. I’m hot under covers but shivering . Breathing slow in and out . I have negative thoughts come in and out. I feel anxiety coming. 
 

what is the shivering . This happened 2 weeks ago. 

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 try to stretch away but shivers come back I need to go to work in a couple hrs. 
I don’t won’t to take a cold shower at 4 am 

I did schedule a massage in a few days if I can make it

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

Are you dehydrated?

* 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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  • Moderator Emeritus

From https://www.gohealthuc.com/library/4-signs-severe-dehydration-and-where-go-help

 

5. Fever and Chills

Usually we associate a fever and chills with having an illness like the flu or an . But don’t let this warning sign fool you. It’s also a dangerous sign of severe dehydration. When your body doesn’t have enough fluids, it’s hard to maintain a regular body temperature and this can lead to hyperthermia and fever-like symptoms including chills.

Stop any sport or strenuous activity you’re involved in immediately. The stress you’re placing on your body and its systems is making your symptoms worse. To treat dehydration at home, drink more fluids and either apply a cold compress to your face or take an ice bath to cool down. If your temperature doesn’t improve, or it reaches above 103° indicating severe dehydration in adults, go to the nearest emergency room. 

* 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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  • Moderator Emeritus
5 minutes ago, Heath said:

I don’t won’t to take a cold shower at 4 am 

 

Wet towel in front of fan.

* 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 wouldn’t think dehydrated. But ?
When I roll out of bed I will drink more water and more water today. 

It’s feels like anxiety but I guess if I’m hypersensitive wd then the heat then not enough water then wave and anxiety. 

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

Are you having electrolytes or salt?  If you're eating low carb then you might not be getting enough.

* 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’m having a few carbs. Crackers. I think I can get some test strips to check that. 
 

but I think it may be part of wd and anxiety 

 

it is starting in the morning 

 

we will be drinking more water today

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

Yesterday I probably had about 60 oz water. Wife says I’m not drinking enough water. So I will try to make myself do it

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
12 hours ago, Heath said:

I’m having a few carbs. Crackers. I think I can get some test strips to check that. 
 

but I think it may be part of wd and anxiety 

 

it is starting in the morning 

 

we will be drinking more water today

 

13 hours ago, ChessieCat said:

Are you having electrolytes or salt?  If you're eating low carb then you might not be getting enough.

 

Sorry, that was badly worded and could have been taken 2 different ways.

 

You might need more salt/electrolytes.  Drinking a lot of water means you are flushing them out of your body, and if you are sweating then you are losing them via perspiration.

 

 

* 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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36/M, started 10mg escitalopram June 2011

Sept 20th 2021 - increased 10mg to 15mg.
Oct 1st 2021 -November 16th 2021 drug merry go round. Effexor, Zoloft, pristiq.
Nov 22nd 2021 - lexapro 5mg

nov 29th, 2021 - lexapro 10mg

Dec 29th, 2021 - lexapro 15mg

Jan 20th, 2022 - lexapro 20mg

Jan 25th,2022 - lexapro 15mg,Feb 15th,2022 - lexapro 10mg ,Nov 22nd, 2021 - Dec 20th, 2021 -Xanax .25 X2 a day,Dec 20th, 2021 - Jan 16th, 2022 Klonopin .25 daily

2022

,-June 25 - 7.5mg pill, 2.5mg liquid ,-June 28 - 5mg pill, 5mg liquid ,-July 18th - 9.8mg (5mg pill, 4.8mg liquid),-Aug 1 - 9.6mg (5mg pill, 4.6 liquid) ,-Aug 16 - All liquid (9.6MG) ,-Sept 18th - 9.4MG,-Oct 18th - 9.2MG. -Nov 21st - 9MG 2023, April 17th - 8.8MG, May 15th - 8.6MG, June 19th - 8.4MG, Aug 1 - 8.2Mg, Sept 2, 8mg, Oct 9th 7.8mg, Nov 6, 7.6mg, Dec 8th, 7.4mg, Jan 23, 7.2mg magnesium, fish oil

 

 

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On 5/25/2022 at 9:27 PM, Heath said:

Documenting here after last drop. Symptoms- dry eyes, mouth, sinuses, itchy face, memory loss, can’t think as good, sleepy, no energy, going through the motions, not proactive at work. Not interested in doing anything- then interested in doing something. Not talking. Again these come and go In phases. 

I’m starting to notice a pattern of dry eyes and mouth are more extreme upon waking after sleep. 
 

so currently 3 1/2 weeks after last drop. Muscles sore. Normal tasks muscles feel sore over worked feeling. Arms and legs achy. Stomach feels tight and tensed. Back and butt muscles tensing and releasing. Can’t seem to relax. Back and neck aching. Diarrhea. Little heartburn. Burning yucky mouth starting the past few days. Eye sensitivity- water line in vision some. I mostly sleep 8 hrs. Last night was first night of 5 hrs sleep in several months- wide awake in early morning but felt like I got only 1 hour of sleep sore and achy. 
 

The good news is these will gradually go away as this has happened many times before. 
 The other good news is it’s been several months maybe 6 or more since I needed Prilosec. I attribute this to lowering lexapro dosage. I use Pepcid very seldom and currently for 2 days - heartburn. 
 

Recently I have become more aware of the no emotion feeling. I see it more now for some unknown reason. Just Been thinking about it. 
 


hey how feeling? All of a sudden I’m experiencing the same, Diarrhea, heartburn. Feels like I have ibs. I dont know what to do. Have these issues improved for you yet? 

April 2022- Only 1 celxa pill 10mg

had an adverse reaction & never took anymore again 

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  • Mentor

@peaceandlove I’m feeling better today! Those issues did improve! And some went away completely! 

 

Thank you for asking 👍

 

If your symptoms started during or after ssri usage then it may be the cause. 

 

Have you started an introduction page? If you have not then it would be a good idea to do so ! The moderators would be able to help you better. And answer questions. 

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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  • 4 weeks later...
  • Moderator Emeritus

Hello dear @Heath

Thank you deeply for your support.

I think I read somewhere that you were starting to feel a bit of a break after your recent spike. I hope you manage to get some rest. ❤️ 

You did a great job of not panicking and trying to find ways to support your body through this time! Definitely an inspiration for me, thank you !

 

Are you having some respite from the heat? This summer has been quite a challenge for everyone, I hope you get to enjoy some fresh air soon.

 

Take care dear Heath !

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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  • Mentor

Hello friends !!

 

 I am sorry I haven’t posted sooner. I have been very busy trying to take care of myself better and helping kids in college and trying to start careers and life and such and wife getting away from stressful toxic job to a better job. My son started his new job this week been calling in contacts and I ve been helping son prepare and my wife got a phone call from new job today yay! 
I am sitting here in my shop watching it rain😊.  I have been thinking of things that come to mind that I want to say over the past month but thoughts do escape my these days. 
 

So I am feeling much better ! The nervous anxiety is going away week by week. The last panic was about a month ago on my birthday of all things 🤪.

So I had nervous anxiety every morning that disappeared after lunch for about a month.  I still have a very slight nervousness in mornings. Monday mornings and some of the day I have nervousness and ruminating negative worry thoughts. You know if this if that. What will I do etc. by Tuesday these are all gone until the next Monday. Kinda like the movie Groundhog Day. I have or had anxiety, panic, nervousness, dry burning eyes & sinuses &mouth, tummy troubles, minor burning mouth, muscles in legs, back and but tensing and releasing, little ear sensitivity, irritable attitude , dizziness up on standing , fear upon waking, sensitive to what others say, feeling real hot or cold, sweating, no sleep, back pain, neck pain ,akathisia, secondary fear and no interest in life or work. 
 

These all slowly diminishing. I’m actually forgetting to take magnesium and melatonin and white noise rain at night. I’m starting to think about work and getting some loans paid off. Feeling a little more energy and able to handle some low stress. And I am having some laughing cutting up moments minor but they happen. 
 

Things that helped 

walking in the woods 2 miles daily,  2 teaspoons of powdered magnesium in water bottle daily, saving a 1/4 for nighttime, 3-5mg melatonin at night, white noise like rain in earbuds at night, deep breathing, tensing and releasing each muscle, hot bath, cold shower, cold wet cloths,  cutting everything thing off at 8 pm and getting in bed, calm understanding boss, playing solitaire or soduko, staying busy,  and all my friends here SA giving me encouraging advice when I really needed it. If it wasn’t for y’all I would be in a real mess today ! 
On the ruminating worry fear and anxiety- reading back to my intro when I was in a wave in 2020 just about completely stopped this fear and thoughts. I couldn’t read in SA for a good while but I had a thought and put my blinders on and went straight to beginning of my intro. This proved all my what if thoughts were a lie. It was a si of relief! And I am learning to say no especially when I need to take care of myself. 
 

Oh this is what I was thinking the other day! For the ruminating thoughts we should NOT read or google or focus on said issues- this helps the anxiety/nervousness/wd diminish correct. 
Now on the other hand we should prepare for the wave or any life stresses coming by reading - internet -SA self help etc. 

This is a very fine line and when the wave starts with anxiety and ruminations well it’s really tough to know what to do. So I started making a list like a first aid kit self help for wd/ anxiety . I want to put it on file on computer sometime. But I left the list alone weeks ago because of ups and downs. 
 

the akathisia I’m learning is a nervous feeling all over to me it feels like a tingle feeling All over if I don’t get to moving.

 

 I don’t think the legs, but and back muscles tensing and releasing are from akathisia or being tensed. I think it is some sort of nervous reaction. It only happens during anxiety and nervousness. It can do it about once a second and release. Maybe 6 times and stop for hours. And it started after my first Paxil fast taper years ago. 

 

As for the never ending symptoms from lexapro- dry burning mouth, eyes and sinuses, aching face, achy ears and dizziness/brain fog.  I have really been following this. As of today these seem to be going along with real hot weather, dry and in direct hot sunlight. Now the reason I say this is because thinking back the last 2 summers were not as hot and maybe more rain. And my first year on lexapro when all this started in 2019 it was extremely hot like this year. And also I have forgot some days to put petroleum jelly on my nose for allergies with no major symptoms and I have been following pollen count. I’m not throwing allergies out for these symptoms just yet but I am leaning heavily towards heat. 
The humidifier, hot showers, cold showers, wet cloths, drinking 120 oz water a day, head in freezer and saline spray seems to help. Basically water.  So this week it’s been very hot and dry. At work I start feeling those symptoms and go straight up stairs to locker room and stick my head under cold shower and presto magic symptoms lowered quickly.   Mucus in sinuses start moving but still too thick to come out. 
 

I am still nervous about going back to dr in October for psa check. But I don’t dwell on it. 
 

Even though all this was really rough I am excited about what I have gained in knowledge! 
 

well that was long winded!!!

 

 I want to thank everyone here at SA that helped with advice and encouragement! Some of you helped and didn’t even know it! I am truly greatful for friends here❤️. I wish everyone a good day/night ! 

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

Haven’t walked in a week. Got new shoes and been healing a blister. Been hot for 2 or 3 days. Dry burning sinuses with face and headache. Water helps. We are starting to get rain and fall is coming. Anxious nervousness and neck tension first 2 days back to work so far. Haven’t felt right. Stomach is bloating and heartburn. Eating less and plain food. Also I can see maybe external stress up a little,  seems I am getting pushed where I am needed, that’s kinda how I feel. 
I believe not walking for a week has a lot to do with all this. So it’s Wednesday and headed to woods to walk after work. See how these insole adjustments prevent blister. 

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. 

Link to comment
  • 1 month later...
  • Mentor

Hello everyone!

 

Things are difficult atm. But steadily getting better over long run.  Last wave 3 months ago and still holding at 5.4 ml.  
 

Ive had some stomach issues as usual and pain at lower end like spasms or tension  lasted every day for a few weeks. Hot baths seem to help. It has stopped for a week so far. It maybe called lower pelvic pain, not sure. 
 
God has given us some really good children. We are fortunate. I will say young adult children are stressful at times. I wished I didn’t worry about them at times. That is something I definitely have to work on in this journey. 
 

So things have been good. The early morning cortisol (ground hogs day) is going away. A week ago we went to do something as a family and had fun. But required a lot of sitting which is bad for me. Low back pain.  Which I am paying for. Then on Monday my dad had surgery then had another surgery on Wednesday . I spent most of my non working time at hospital for a week. This messed up my whole schedule of sleep and excercise and taking care of myself. I have also been skipping out on magnesium this week. He went home on Friday. 
 

Friday after work I crashed for a 2 hour nap. Then didn’t get to sleep until real late. Then laid around and napping all day Saturday with ice and tens unit on back. Feeling down. Sunday today feeling down with some negative thoughts of this old back and  lexapro. I do think of tapering but I don’t think it will be best. I’m wondering if this is new wd normal.

 

I also wonder if others notice this? Sometimes happy and talking then a week later becoming quite it’s a slow unnoticeable change. It may have to do with stress I don’t know. But I think it has to do with these ssris also. Years ago when I started with Paxil my wife and mom mentioned that I didn’t talk anymore. As I taper waves and windows I am noticing the back and forth more. 
 

hiking and walking in woods and cold shower definitely helps with mood. I find it difficult to make myself go some days. I have been experimenting with cold showers it seems the evening time seems to be better atm. Maybe mornings cold showers are to much for the cortisol atm. The discipline and control for all these seem to escape me sometimes unlike some folks. Distraction seems to be an easy one for me unless I have to lay around and recover. 
 

still taking about 5 mg of melatonin. Trying to cut this out hopefully soon. I did cut out Allegra at first frost but it warmed back up some with ragweed so I have started back with that. 
 

Slowly with time we are getting better!
wish everyone healing ! 

Edited by Heath

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. 

Link to comment

Hey Heath,

 

Sorry to hear some things have been difficult lately, may your dad heal well 🙏.

It's hard not to worry about your children, loving them so much is a blessing, and you can tell what a proud parent you are. Those in your family are lucky to have such a caring, concerned husband, father and son to be there for them, and no doubt your friends are blessed by you as well.☺️

It's great that there have been some improvements in your health. Going through what we all are, those moments are always welcomed. I also hope your feeling down times, don't linger too long, but it sounds like you're doing really good things to mitigate all that, too. Sometimes we all need to just chill and lay around. Speaking for myself, I'd get caught up thinking I need to be doing something or I'm not productive, not progressing. It's not true though, because when the body needs rest, it needs rest. I had to realize that recharging and taking care of myself so that I can heal and then be productive, means just as much. 

 

I can relate to the talking part; I think the meds have a lot to do with it. I experienced the opposite of what you mention. While on meds I was very talkative and outgoing, almost annoyingly so. Now I barely talk at all, I still have back and forth, just not as chatty. 

 

Navigating this withdrawal "thing" is quite the challenge at times. I don't know about the discipline and control part, when it comes to others who are going through this. We are all so different, and those qualities tend to change with everyone. I'm sure you're doing great and exactly as you should be. To me it depends on whether we're in a window or a wave. During a window, I feel like "I've got this, life is good" and things are in order. During a wave I feel like "Uh oh, I'm drowning, get me out of here!" and all is chaos.

 

Thank you for the advice you gave me. The puzzles and reading are helping. Still checking out the magnesium.

 

Hang in there!

 

StayHopeful

 

1993-1997 Prozac 20mg 

1997 Paxil 10mg     1998 Zyban

2005-2010 Celexa 20mg    

2005-2014 Xanax .5mg prn

2010-2022 Lexapro 40mg tapered, last dose 2/12/22             

2014 Zoloft 10mg

2014-2022 Seroquel 800mg tapered, last dose 7/13/22           

2022 Klonopin .5mg prn (haven't used it yet)

Lexapro start taper 12/16/21 - 40mg - 30mg, 1/2/22 - 20mg, 1/15/22 - 10mg, 2/1/22 - 5mg, 2/12/22 - 0mg. 

Seroquel start taper 12/16/21 - 800mg - 600mg, 1/2/22 - 400mg, 1/15/22 - 300mg, 2/12/22 - 200mg, 3/1/22 - 150mg, 3/15/22 - 100mg, 4/1/22 - 50mg, 4/15/22 - 25mg,   5/1/22 - 12mg, 5/15/22 - 6mg, 6/15/22 - 3mg, 7/13/22 - 0mg.   

Currently taking magnesium, fish oil, calcium and vitamin D3. Cut down processed foods and sugar, no alcohol or caffeine.

Link to comment
  • Mentor

Iam recovering from last weeks extra stress

Past few days I have been more sensitive to light and sound, just a little uncomfortable. This has happened before. 
 

2 things come to mind. 

1 I added more turmeric and omega3 due to back pain and stress from last week. 
 

2 stress from last week

 

just thinking out loud 

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. 

Link to comment
  • 3 weeks later...
  • Mentor

After the stress last month, cold weather change and not being able to hike in woods much due to time change getting darker sooner wd symptoms are coming back a little but tolerable so far.
 

I’ve taken on 2 projects at home which I feel like had no choice to do but now. I like doing these and they are very good distractions. At same time I proceed with caution.  And as with everyone Christmas holidays. 
 

Last night we went to the Christmas parade . The fire trucks and police cars and load horns. The lights are like looking at a small Sun ☀️. I always thought the new cars with led lights were brighter but wow. I used ear plugs and found a darker place to watch. I’m seeing the wd relation more and more.  Today I am more jittery. 

 

Sensitive ears and eyes, tensing muscles in low back, thighs and but, morning cortisol and jittery- tolerable so far. 
 

Today an old friend that I used to work with came by and we talked a while about old times and such.  He is an Effexor survivor which I knew this years before I came to SA.  He came on SA to taper also. I don’t know his SA name.  I don’t think he was on ssris as long as me. He was bragging on SA. I remember years ago he was having more life stress and his dr recommended Effexor imagine that🙄. He said he could tell I was a little jittery today 🤪.

 

 I have pretty much conquered the caffeine for over a year or two. I have maybe one or two a month at most. I used to have 4 or 5 caffeinated sodas a day😮. I used to have to have it.  I thought I would never stop them but I did.
I know alot of folks don’t like to talk about this other old social habit we have it is very negative now days but 

The nicotine is a lot tougher. I thought I could not quit so I wouldn’t rock the boat in wd but I don’t know. The smokeless tobacco has 4 times more nicotine in it than smoked tobacco. So it may have to be I have to stop. I so struggle with this. I have lowered to 3 or 4 a day which is a lot less. As I get lower on lexapro I have become more sensitive to things and nicotine is no exception. 
 

I wish everyone a good day 👍

Edited by Heath

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. 

Link to comment

Hey Heath,

 

When I quit smoking, I used a book that contained a list of cigarettes that had less nicotine than other brands. I was able to buy these different brands and was able to progressively reduce my nicotine intake. Initially, I continued to use the same number of cigarettes (about a pack a day) while weaning off the nicotine; then I coupled techniques to help spread out the times when I'd reach for a smoke, to address the habit. 

 

Unfortunately, the book is no longer in print. I was trying to find it for an acquaintance at work and couldn't find even a used one to purchase. However, there are now lists of those types of cigarettes online and I know that there is a brand called VLN, that just came out with a cigarette that has 95% less nicotine. Maybe they might help?

 

Some of the techniques for the habit portion: 

1. Wait 10 minutes after eating a meal to have a cigarette, then increase those minutes over time.

2. Take a small jar with a lid and fill with about an inch of water. When you are done with a cigarette, put it in the jar. Do this about 5-6 times. When the urge to smoke hits, take off the lid and smell inside the jar. The water also gives a mental image of what the liquid in your lungs is absorbing.

3. When the urge to smoke at home arises, brush your teeth, when your breath and mouth feel fresh, tasting a cigarette is less appealing.

 

I understand your misgivings right now and I don't blame you at all. I don't judge anyone who smokes because I did it too. It's something that you might consider for the future though, if or when you may be ready to quit. 

 

I hope this helps. Have a great day! ☺️

 

SH

1993-1997 Prozac 20mg 

1997 Paxil 10mg     1998 Zyban

2005-2010 Celexa 20mg    

2005-2014 Xanax .5mg prn

2010-2022 Lexapro 40mg tapered, last dose 2/12/22             

2014 Zoloft 10mg

2014-2022 Seroquel 800mg tapered, last dose 7/13/22           

2022 Klonopin .5mg prn (haven't used it yet)

Lexapro start taper 12/16/21 - 40mg - 30mg, 1/2/22 - 20mg, 1/15/22 - 10mg, 2/1/22 - 5mg, 2/12/22 - 0mg. 

Seroquel start taper 12/16/21 - 800mg - 600mg, 1/2/22 - 400mg, 1/15/22 - 300mg, 2/12/22 - 200mg, 3/1/22 - 150mg, 3/15/22 - 100mg, 4/1/22 - 50mg, 4/15/22 - 25mg,   5/1/22 - 12mg, 5/15/22 - 6mg, 6/15/22 - 3mg, 7/13/22 - 0mg.   

Currently taking magnesium, fish oil, calcium and vitamin D3. Cut down processed foods and sugar, no alcohol or caffeine.

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  • Mentor

Thanks stay hopeful !

I can apply these to the smokeless tobacco. There is a lot of good info on the net. It’s hard to find nicotine levels in smokeless tobacco, they don’t label it on packaging. It is becoming a little easier to find as years go by because people wanting to quit. 
 

Greasy food yesterday set off a few symptoms yesterday - fatigue, heartbeat in neck, out of breath and tense neck and stomach didn’t like it. Possible msgs in it. I knew better🙄. Out Christmas shopping. 
 

Building up a little more time in the cold showers and seems to be making a difference. Just got to stick with it. 
 

Dr called today and reminded me of appointment tomorrow. I forgot 😳. Got to put on my poker face.
I’m gradually telling him of wd symptoms over time because he doesn’t believe in them I think and he doesn’t want me to stop taking lex. I’ve known him for 9 years and what I am gathering is he may not  know. It seems he is not the dr to deny the wd if he knew. He can be pushy though because his training is RIGHT. But on the other hand if he doesn’t know that many many people on ssris have lasting wd symptoms then he would have to be living under a rock now days. 🤷‍♂️ But either way he will know in a few more years because it will be all over every news station in the USA. 

Edited by Heath

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. 

Link to comment

Hey Heath,


Sorry, I was thinking about cigarettes, the "smokeless" part completely escaped me. I'm glad some of it may help.  I did find this (you may have already found this yourself) - it's older but might be of some use.

 

https://www.rstreet.org/2012/11/07/nicotine-levels-in-american-smokeless-tobacco-products/  

 

Also, since nicotine patches are smokeless, you might be able to get to a lower level of nicotine using them as you progress. It's nice that they have lots of things on the market to at least help with quitting nicotine. 

 

Have a good day and I hope your doctor appt goes well.🤞

 

SH

1993-1997 Prozac 20mg 

1997 Paxil 10mg     1998 Zyban

2005-2010 Celexa 20mg    

2005-2014 Xanax .5mg prn

2010-2022 Lexapro 40mg tapered, last dose 2/12/22             

2014 Zoloft 10mg

2014-2022 Seroquel 800mg tapered, last dose 7/13/22           

2022 Klonopin .5mg prn (haven't used it yet)

Lexapro start taper 12/16/21 - 40mg - 30mg, 1/2/22 - 20mg, 1/15/22 - 10mg, 2/1/22 - 5mg, 2/12/22 - 0mg. 

Seroquel start taper 12/16/21 - 800mg - 600mg, 1/2/22 - 400mg, 1/15/22 - 300mg, 2/12/22 - 200mg, 3/1/22 - 150mg, 3/15/22 - 100mg, 4/1/22 - 50mg, 4/15/22 - 25mg,   5/1/22 - 12mg, 5/15/22 - 6mg, 6/15/22 - 3mg, 7/13/22 - 0mg.   

Currently taking magnesium, fish oil, calcium and vitamin D3. Cut down processed foods and sugar, no alcohol or caffeine.

Link to comment
  • 3 weeks later...

Hi Heath!

 

Just stopping in to say Hi! Hoping you had a good holiday, and all is well!

 

SH

1993-1997 Prozac 20mg 

1997 Paxil 10mg     1998 Zyban

2005-2010 Celexa 20mg    

2005-2014 Xanax .5mg prn

2010-2022 Lexapro 40mg tapered, last dose 2/12/22             

2014 Zoloft 10mg

2014-2022 Seroquel 800mg tapered, last dose 7/13/22           

2022 Klonopin .5mg prn (haven't used it yet)

Lexapro start taper 12/16/21 - 40mg - 30mg, 1/2/22 - 20mg, 1/15/22 - 10mg, 2/1/22 - 5mg, 2/12/22 - 0mg. 

Seroquel start taper 12/16/21 - 800mg - 600mg, 1/2/22 - 400mg, 1/15/22 - 300mg, 2/12/22 - 200mg, 3/1/22 - 150mg, 3/15/22 - 100mg, 4/1/22 - 50mg, 4/15/22 - 25mg,   5/1/22 - 12mg, 5/15/22 - 6mg, 6/15/22 - 3mg, 7/13/22 - 0mg.   

Currently taking magnesium, fish oil, calcium and vitamin D3. Cut down processed foods and sugar, no alcohol or caffeine.

Link to comment
  • Mentor

Hello @StayHopeful!  Thanks for stopping by. Things are getting more normal after a 5 month hold. Just irritatable symptoms, probably holidays mostly but I have noticed them even after I started tapering. I have to control my expressions and what comes out of my mouth. I feel like road rage 50 %of the time this week 😂🤷‍♂️. Maybe sleep schedule is off and my normal everyday schedule is off. 
 

My daughter slid off icy road early this morning everything is ok. Pulled her out of ditch with truck. I was happy she was not hurt and proud that she had a pretty calm demeanor with some normal nervousness. 
 

If y’all have teenagers and have access to a field or pasture and something with wheels on it let them and in some cases make them drive in pasture when it’s real muddy. Even let them get stuck. This will give them confidence and experience for icy driving. 

 

PSA - everyone please be careful on the roads.
Stay home if you don’t have to go anywhere. 
Take the most traveled roads they will be least likely to be frozen over and more likely to get help in emergencies. 

stay away from other vehicles.

let a little air out of you tires and go slow. 
A slick icy road is usually a shiny black blue color. And mostly on bridges and overpasses. 
If you see a slick icy patch Do NOT make any sudden moves, jerk wheel, brake or accelerate- just coast. Now with that said you do what you have to. 


Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year to all my SA family! 

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. 

Link to comment

Hey Heath!

Glad you're doing well! Blame the irritability on the crowds and crazy holiday drivers, anything before this time of year, was practice. 🤣  Thanks for the safe and prepared driving tips - useful indeed.

 

SH

1993-1997 Prozac 20mg 

1997 Paxil 10mg     1998 Zyban

2005-2010 Celexa 20mg    

2005-2014 Xanax .5mg prn

2010-2022 Lexapro 40mg tapered, last dose 2/12/22             

2014 Zoloft 10mg

2014-2022 Seroquel 800mg tapered, last dose 7/13/22           

2022 Klonopin .5mg prn (haven't used it yet)

Lexapro start taper 12/16/21 - 40mg - 30mg, 1/2/22 - 20mg, 1/15/22 - 10mg, 2/1/22 - 5mg, 2/12/22 - 0mg. 

Seroquel start taper 12/16/21 - 800mg - 600mg, 1/2/22 - 400mg, 1/15/22 - 300mg, 2/12/22 - 200mg, 3/1/22 - 150mg, 3/15/22 - 100mg, 4/1/22 - 50mg, 4/15/22 - 25mg,   5/1/22 - 12mg, 5/15/22 - 6mg, 6/15/22 - 3mg, 7/13/22 - 0mg.   

Currently taking magnesium, fish oil, calcium and vitamin D3. Cut down processed foods and sugar, no alcohol or caffeine.

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  • 4 weeks later...
  • Moderator Emeritus

Hi Heath, 

 

Nice to hear that things got better after your long hold. 
 

I’m sorry to hear that your daughter had an accident, but glad to hear she’s okay. I remember being in a car with my sister in law once and there was black ice on the road, which is clear, so you can’t actually see it. She lives in the country and we ended up down a ditch and through a fence. No one was injured. My niece said afterwards that it was the weirdest thing as we were all so extremely calm. It’s like everything goes in slow motion, none of us were even stressed or panicking. It was totally surreal. 

I hope you have a nice day☀️☀️

 

Been on APs, benzos, ADs and opiates, for chronic pain. Had Akathisia in the past that made me suicidal. Still on Seroquel. 2019:➡️ March10=7.25mg ✔️ April17=7.0✔️ June5=6.75✔️ July14=6.50✔️ Aug28=6.25✔️ Oct10=6.20  ✔️ Oct21=6.0✔️ Dec16=5.80 ✔️ 2020➡️ Jan 21=5.60 ✔️ April2=5.40 ✔️ May29=5.20 ✔️ Aug14= 5.0 ✔️Sep29=4.80✔️2021➡️ Jan31=4.60 mg✔️ April24=4.40mg✔️Jul17=4.30mg ✔️ Aug 28=4.20 ✔️ Oct 11=4.15✔️Nov1=4.10 ✔️ Nov21= 4.05✔️ Dec13= 4mg ✔️2022 ➡️ Jan8=3.95✔️ Jan31=3.90✔️ March2=3.85 ✔️ April4=3.80 ✔️ June16=3.75✔️ July26=3.70✔️ Sep2=3.65✔️ Oct21=3.60 ✔️ Dec8=3.55✔️2023➡️ Jan 26=3.50✔️ March 17=3.45✔️ June12=3.40✔️ July30=3.35✔️ Sep14=3.30✔️ Oct31=3.25✔️This is NOT medical advice.Consult your doctor.

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  • 2 weeks later...
  • Mentor

Well friends, the anxiety has come on strong for 2 days so far . Calmer in evening. Morning anxiety is strong . Ruminating thoughts hard to think about what I’m doing. Didn’t sleep as good last night. 
 

One week and 2 days ago I felt really good. Coming out of stressful 2 weeks at work after Christmas and new years which caused a little wave. Had a drs appointment with some not so good news gave me some anxiety but it cleared and turned into inspiration. Then me and my wife had Covid . 
 

I wasn’t worried about it when dr told me what it was. I ask her for the name of decongestant that doesn’t cause anxiety and she told me but I forgot the long name at the time. I thought she would give me a prescription. I didn’t know it was over the counter. anyway my spirits were good for first 3 days. Even though we physically felt awful. The second , third and fourth night I was desperate so I took NyQuil. On the fourth morning I noticed some jitters then the fifth morning more nervousness. So this is the 7 day back to work with high morning anxiety . at 11 am anxiety lifted like turning a switch off. I still feel off but no anxiety. 

2 or 3 mornings of Negative ruminating thoughts and crying jags. Worry Sadness and guilt feelings.  The black hole. The first day I realized talking about what and why turned into dwelling which only made things worse. I’m practicing changing thoughts to good things when this happens. I have been also doing mindfulness and would like to learn more . 
 

for past few days I distract as much as I can. walking on trail, cold water, breathing, 

 

we have lost our smell and taste. And have a cough. But feeling much better physically . 
 

So I read NyQuil has a decongestant in it that can cause anxiety. Even though it helped me sleep it has been no fun in mornings.
last summer this happened with a different decongestant. Never ever bothered me before. 
 

I feel like this is high cortisol caused by the decongestant and possibly Covid.
Im leaning toward decongestant because it has happened before and Covid well I’ve never had it after tapering ssri so not sure. 
And then not completely healed from holidays and work stress in Dec and January. 

I know it will pass and I will do what I know to do. 

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

It’s so hard. It’s 7 pm and my emotions are high. So sensitive to what people say

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

Waking in a panic at 2 am before daylight .  Trying to distract. 

Edited by Heath

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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Hang in there buddy. I get this from time to time still. I immediately start thinking of my breath and know it’ll pass @Heath

36/M, started 10mg escitalopram June 2011

Sept 20th 2021 - increased 10mg to 15mg.
Oct 1st 2021 -November 16th 2021 drug merry go round. Effexor, Zoloft, pristiq.
Nov 22nd 2021 - lexapro 5mg

nov 29th, 2021 - lexapro 10mg

Dec 29th, 2021 - lexapro 15mg

Jan 20th, 2022 - lexapro 20mg

Jan 25th,2022 - lexapro 15mg,Feb 15th,2022 - lexapro 10mg ,Nov 22nd, 2021 - Dec 20th, 2021 -Xanax .25 X2 a day,Dec 20th, 2021 - Jan 16th, 2022 Klonopin .25 daily

2022

,-June 25 - 7.5mg pill, 2.5mg liquid ,-June 28 - 5mg pill, 5mg liquid ,-July 18th - 9.8mg (5mg pill, 4.8mg liquid),-Aug 1 - 9.6mg (5mg pill, 4.6 liquid) ,-Aug 16 - All liquid (9.6MG) ,-Sept 18th - 9.4MG,-Oct 18th - 9.2MG. -Nov 21st - 9MG 2023, April 17th - 8.8MG, May 15th - 8.6MG, June 19th - 8.4MG, Aug 1 - 8.2Mg, Sept 2, 8mg, Oct 9th 7.8mg, Nov 6, 7.6mg, Dec 8th, 7.4mg, Jan 23, 7.2mg magnesium, fish oil

 

 

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  • Mentor

Thanks @Conner

I definitely need encouraging. 
Im at work in an anxiety type mood. Trying to stay on task at work and distract. Stomach and back muscles tight. I think the key is to stop thinking about it keep moving through with daily tasks and little by little it goes away. Last night I went to a dark place. Shaking and shivering Thanks brother!

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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@Heath

 

Oh my gosh!! I'm so sorry for what you're going through, especially with the COVID adding even more stress and symptoms.

You've really had an ordeal. Why does everything seem to hit at once? C'mon universe - span this stuff out!  You seem to be dealing with your wave really well so far though, even with the morning anxiety and emotional upheaval. I'm not surprised, because you're really good at using techniques to help and mitigate a lot.

 

Whatever the Dr's appt revealed, it's good that you're taking it in stride and turning it into an inspiration, is wonderful!  I always have to remind myself, that attitude makes a huge difference.  

 

When you take a medication that can and does help in one aspect but then hinders in another, makes it so difficult, darned if you do and darned if you don't. It's definitely good that you're feeling better physically. I hope your case of COVID and anxiety improves really quick, so you won't have to take any more of it.

 

Fingers crossed and sending blessings that you and your wife continue to get better, and that everything calms down soon. 

 

 

SH

 

 

 

 

 

1993-1997 Prozac 20mg 

1997 Paxil 10mg     1998 Zyban

2005-2010 Celexa 20mg    

2005-2014 Xanax .5mg prn

2010-2022 Lexapro 40mg tapered, last dose 2/12/22             

2014 Zoloft 10mg

2014-2022 Seroquel 800mg tapered, last dose 7/13/22           

2022 Klonopin .5mg prn (haven't used it yet)

Lexapro start taper 12/16/21 - 40mg - 30mg, 1/2/22 - 20mg, 1/15/22 - 10mg, 2/1/22 - 5mg, 2/12/22 - 0mg. 

Seroquel start taper 12/16/21 - 800mg - 600mg, 1/2/22 - 400mg, 1/15/22 - 300mg, 2/12/22 - 200mg, 3/1/22 - 150mg, 3/15/22 - 100mg, 4/1/22 - 50mg, 4/15/22 - 25mg,   5/1/22 - 12mg, 5/15/22 - 6mg, 6/15/22 - 3mg, 7/13/22 - 0mg.   

Currently taking magnesium, fish oil, calcium and vitamin D3. Cut down processed foods and sugar, no alcohol or caffeine.

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