Junebug567: taking a cocktail for 3 years -where to start?

[Junebug567]

Hello,

I am just starting out and learning how to use the forum. I am trying to learn how to taper off olanz.

My meds are olanz., depak., and sertraline. I've been on them for 3 years and would liketo get off of the olanz. because of side effects.

I am on olanz. 7.5 mg; depak. 500 mg; sertral. 100 mg. The olanz. is affecting me the most with blood sugar issues and word-finding issues.

I think I will look for an MD and compounding pharmacy to help me go down by 10%. I don't think I know how to do it myself by crushing tablets.

Thank you. As soon as I figure out how to make a signature file I will.

Edited May 16, 2021 by Karma
Updated name

[Junebug567]

Hello,

I've been on three meds since my first manic episode in March 2018. I was in my early forties when it happened. The hospital put me on olanzapine and depakote. The doctor who saw me after release also put me on sertraline. I think it was long term sertraline use in my 20s and 30s that gave me my first manic episode. I would like to now taper off of them, and would like to know where to start. Do I taper olanzapine first or last? It seems to be causing the most problems. I'm on olanzapine 7.5 mg, depakote 500 mg at night, and sertraline 100 mg. Thank you. I'd attach a signature file (which I created) but am not sure how.

Edited May 16, 2021 by Gridley

[Junebug567]

I have read this whole thread and have learned alot. Where can I find answers about what PAWS is? Are neuroleptics the same as APs? Can a taper lead to cervical dystonia? Thank you for your help.

[Altostrata]

Welcome, @Junebug567

 

Have you seen our Tips for tapering off olanzapine (Zyprexa)?

 

Please let us know how you're doing.

Edited May 16, 2021 by Karma
Updated name

[Junebug567]

Hello Altostrata,

Yes, I have read the file about tips for coming off of olanzapine.

From what I have read, and from what was recommended by a different moderator, it seems that tapering the SSRI should happen first, before the olanzapine. To protect sleep. I thought of going down to 5 mg olanzapine and then tapering the SSRI. Would that be ok? I've also just learned about PAWS, and that scares me. I don't want that to happen when I taper the SSRI. Thank you.

[Gridley]

Welcome to SA, Junebug567.  Thank you for completing your drug signature.  It is fine.

 

We have other members who have reported mania caused by Zoloft.

 

In terms of which drug to taper first, we generally recommend tapering activating drugs first, leaving sedating drugs to be tapered later in order to help preserve sleep.  SSRI's such as Zoloft are activating.  Benozodiazepines such as Olanzapine and antipsychotics such as Depakote are sedating.

 

Taking multiple psych drugs? Which drug to taper first?

 

Our usual advice would be to taper the activating Zoloft first.  However, in your signature you indicate you'd like to raper the Olanzapine first due to insulin and blood sugar issues.  You will need to weigh the pros and cons to decide which drug to taper first.

 

We recommend tapering by no more than 10% of current dose every four weeks.  

 

Why taper by 10% of my dosage?

 

This link is specifically about tapering Zoloft.  Zoloft comes in a prescription liquid, which is easy and accurate for tapering.  There are other methods, such as making your own liquid and using a digital scale, described in the link.

 

Tips for tapering off sertraline (Zoloft)

 

We don't recommend a lot of supplements on SA, as many members report being sensitive to them due to our over-reactive nervous systems, but two supplements that we do recommend are magnesium and omega 3 (fish oil). Many people find these to be calming to the nervous system. 

 

Magnesium, nature's calcium channel blocker 

 

Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) 

 

Add in one at a time and at a low dose in case you do experience problems. Get supplements that are single ingredient (not mixed with other types of supplements).

 

This is your Introduction topic, where you can complete your drug signature, ask questions and connect with other members.  We're glad you found your way here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Junebug567]

thanks for this good information. Is a 10% taper considered fast? Would a 5% taper every 4 weeks be better? SHould I do a liquid taper or shave the tablets?

[getofflex]

Two intro topics were merged into one to keep your history all in one place.  

 

https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/topic/24839-junebug567-taking-a-cocktail-for-3-years-where-to-start/?do=findComment&comment=532743

 

Above linked post was moved from another intro thread.  

 

@Junebug567Please post questions and discussion about your situation in this one thread, to avoid confusion and duplication of efforts.  Thank you.  

 

Edited May 17, 2021 by getofflex