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☼ MrAnxious: 3 months off Effexor XR (6 years on)


MrAnxious

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  • Moderator Emeritus

If you are 80% recovered at 20 months out,  I see that as being :) ..... good, positive outcome, something to be grateful for.

 

But I do understand what you are saying about wanting the icing back on top of your cake ;)

 

Maybe not even icing, I think its called frosting there.  If you experienced anxiety before starting on antidepressants, then you will again when you are no longer taking a drug which suppresses it. Anxiety is a natural part of the human experience, its not an illness, unless you consider being human an illness.  Of course the DSM would have us believe that. 

 

Part of growing (up) is learning how to manage our natural human emotions.  Some of us, for whatever reasons, had a harder time accomplishing this.  None of it our fault.

 

It sounds like you are looking for 'permission' to try another supplement as another quick fix pill to take a short cut to somewhere which otherwise is going to take more time, patience and perhaps some work.  Isn't this what got most of us into trouble in the first place?

 

I did exactly the same thing a few weeks ago.  I tried taking seriphos again, I'm desperate to stop my morning cortisol surges which often last into the afternoons. It didn't go well.   I often ignore the fact that a year ago, they were much worse, effecting not only my body, but my cognitive processes too.  At least now, I can think somewhat functionally from about 8am, but still, like you, I'm impatient, I want it all back.  No, I want more, I want that perfect life I see projected all around me, from TV and magazines. 

 

I don't think what you are asking for is unreasonable.  You want happiness and an end to anxiety.  From what I can tell, this is what every other human on the planet is struggling with, even those who have never taken antidepressants.

 

But if we buy into quick fixes, we pay a price.  Even if these fixes are 'natural'.  Sometimes the price is worth paying, like if you try 5htp and it 'naturally' suppresses your anxiety for 5 hours, you may have to take it for the rest of your life, every 5 hours if you want no anxiety, that's if it keeps working.  But then you miss out on the opportunity to grow as a person by learning about yourself and your life and your thoughts and beliefs and how to use it all to create a life better suited to you as an individual. 

 

Instead we swallow down little plastic containers full of goodness knows what, trying to make ourselves fit into externally created, impossible ideals of what corporations tell us our lives should be like.

 

I'm sorry, I didn't mean to start ranting all over your thread. :blush:

 

I wish I had the answers for you.  Trying it may set you back.  Taking seriphos again made me feel worse for about 4 days.  Its true that I slept slightly better one night and didn't wake to the usual extreme feelings.  But it must have put something else out of balance because the depression and DP/DR amped up again.  But as Alex keeps telling me, I'm in early withdrawal, you are much further along than me.

 

 

 

When could I count the healing..how do I know when the healing is complete and what I am left with..so many questions.

 

 

Others may have opinions about when we know healing is complete. 

 

But my view is that healing isn't something which happens only on a physical level, it can be any kind of change which moves us in the direction of being more in tune with the healthiest and most authentic versions of ourselves.  In my opinion, healing from antidepressant withdrawal can last a long time after many of the physical and emotional symptoms have resolved.  But I don't mean this in a negative way,  I think that for some people it can be a catalyst for self directed healing to become a healthier and more functional version of the person who took that first pill, in an attempt to solve a problem.

 

This is going to sound like a great big cliche, but its something I've learned (painfully), through my withdrawal experience.  Embrace the bad feelings, rather than try and push them away, they are a part of who we are as much as our good feelings.  I have found that struggling against difficult feelings, just makes them stronger as they fight for my attention.  When I accept them and let them be, they seem satisfied and fade away for a while, leaving me with some peace.

 

You are doing really well Mr. A, with work, relationships and learning how to manage symptoms (normal human emotions).  The good feelings will come back, in a natural way and they wont be dependent on you having to take a pill.

 

Do you ever read back through your thread?  Doing that can often be very helpful in surprising ways.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I'm not a doctor.  My comments are not medical advise. These are my opinions based on my own experience and what I've learned. Please discuss your situation with a medical practitioner who has knowledge of tapering and withdrawal...if you are lucky enough to find one.

My Introduction Thread

Full Drug and Withdrawal History

Brief Summary

Several SSRIs for 13 years starting 1997 (for mild to moderate partly situational anxiety) Xanax PRN ~ Various other drugs over the years for side effects

2 month 'taper' off Lexapro 2010

Short acute withdrawal, followed by 2 -3 months of improvement then delayed protracted withdrawal

DX ADHD followed by several years of stimulants and other drugs trying to manage increasing symptoms

Failed reinstatement of Lexapro and trial of Prozac (became suicidal)

May 2013 Found SA, learned about withdrawal, stopped taking drugs...healing begins.

Protracted withdrawal, with a very sensitized nervous system, slowly recovering as time passes

Supplements which have helped: Vitamin C, Magnesium, Taurine

Bad reactions: Many supplements but mostly fish oil and Vitamin D

June 2016 - Started daily juicing, mostly vegetables and lots of greens.

Aug 2016 - Oct 2016 Best window ever, felt almost completely recovered

Oct 2016 -Symptoms returned - bad days and less bad days.

April 2018 - No windows, but significant improvement, it feels like permanent full recovery is close.

VIDEO: Where did the chemical imbalance theory come from?



VIDEO: How are psychiatric diagnoses made?



VIDEO: Why do psychiatric drugs have withdrawal syndromes?



VIDEO: Can psychiatric drugs cause long-lasting negative effects?

VIDEO: Dr. Claire Weekes

 

 

 

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Srill struggling here. Sleep apnea is back since doubling down my dose. Its been about 3-4 since re adjusting it. Losing weight with sleep apnea is next to impossible because I am so tired. Jeez does this ever seize to end. I am so tired of feeling sh*tty every day just wiped and tired. Its causing depression and the best thing is people around me just don't get withdrawal and I am done explaining it.

 

Its like a slow death

2007-2012started Effexor xr 225mg -150mg- Varied2months of Taper,(March 22/2012 Off Med/in W/D)Currently No medicationMarch 22/2012- August 16/2012 - Totally Off Effexor( Rough Rough time) Reinstatement for a week(didn't work)****** New Doctor******* Very nice/helpful and in touch.Tried Zoloft- No successAUGUST 17/2012- STARTED 37.5 EFFEXOR FOR ONE WEEK - NOT GOOD < STOPPED.Started Buspar Oct 11th 2012----10 mg for the first 7 days and then 15mg a day---- Taking a new route----Racing thoughts - Gone.Oct 9th ( Done Zoloft,wellbutrin week project trial to feel better) - OFFICIALLY OFF ANTI DEPRESSANT !Oct 26 - Raised Buspar to 20mg a day- Tolerating wellJan 2nd 2013-

Reduce Buspar until full off march 20th 2015 Off all medication !

Tried natural supplements to no avail

Gluten/sugar free since december 2013

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Its not unusual for it to take several weeks for the nervous system to settle down again after a dosage change, don't worry, you will get there.

 

Read through the windows and waves topic again:

 

http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/82-the-windows-and-waves-pattern-of-recovery/

 

I posted a link to a video at the end of the thread, it explains the pattern of withdrawal, maybe you could show it to the people around you who don't get it.

 

I hope this wave ends soon

 

((hugs))

I'm not a doctor.  My comments are not medical advise. These are my opinions based on my own experience and what I've learned. Please discuss your situation with a medical practitioner who has knowledge of tapering and withdrawal...if you are lucky enough to find one.

My Introduction Thread

Full Drug and Withdrawal History

Brief Summary

Several SSRIs for 13 years starting 1997 (for mild to moderate partly situational anxiety) Xanax PRN ~ Various other drugs over the years for side effects

2 month 'taper' off Lexapro 2010

Short acute withdrawal, followed by 2 -3 months of improvement then delayed protracted withdrawal

DX ADHD followed by several years of stimulants and other drugs trying to manage increasing symptoms

Failed reinstatement of Lexapro and trial of Prozac (became suicidal)

May 2013 Found SA, learned about withdrawal, stopped taking drugs...healing begins.

Protracted withdrawal, with a very sensitized nervous system, slowly recovering as time passes

Supplements which have helped: Vitamin C, Magnesium, Taurine

Bad reactions: Many supplements but mostly fish oil and Vitamin D

June 2016 - Started daily juicing, mostly vegetables and lots of greens.

Aug 2016 - Oct 2016 Best window ever, felt almost completely recovered

Oct 2016 -Symptoms returned - bad days and less bad days.

April 2018 - No windows, but significant improvement, it feels like permanent full recovery is close.

VIDEO: Where did the chemical imbalance theory come from?



VIDEO: How are psychiatric diagnoses made?



VIDEO: Why do psychiatric drugs have withdrawal syndromes?



VIDEO: Can psychiatric drugs cause long-lasting negative effects?

VIDEO: Dr. Claire Weekes

 

 

 

Link to comment

Its not unusual for it to take several weeks for the nervous system to settle down again after a dosage change, don't worry, you will get there.

 

Read through the windows and waves topic again:

 

http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/82-the-windows-and-waves-pattern-of-recovery/

 

I posted a link to a video at the end of the thread, it explains the pattern of withdrawal, maybe you could show it to the people around you who don't get it.

 

I hope this wave ends soon

 

((hugs))

 

Thanks Petu, I believe now it is all related to my sleep apnea..because I gained just the right amount of weight since doubling down due to eating my emotions away :) I am losing that weight now and sleeping better which in turn is starting to make me feel better ! Appreciate everything you do petu :) ur awesome and always there for me..a angel on my shoulder.

2007-2012started Effexor xr 225mg -150mg- Varied2months of Taper,(March 22/2012 Off Med/in W/D)Currently No medicationMarch 22/2012- August 16/2012 - Totally Off Effexor( Rough Rough time) Reinstatement for a week(didn't work)****** New Doctor******* Very nice/helpful and in touch.Tried Zoloft- No successAUGUST 17/2012- STARTED 37.5 EFFEXOR FOR ONE WEEK - NOT GOOD < STOPPED.Started Buspar Oct 11th 2012----10 mg for the first 7 days and then 15mg a day---- Taking a new route----Racing thoughts - Gone.Oct 9th ( Done Zoloft,wellbutrin week project trial to feel better) - OFFICIALLY OFF ANTI DEPRESSANT !Oct 26 - Raised Buspar to 20mg a day- Tolerating wellJan 2nd 2013-

Reduce Buspar until full off march 20th 2015 Off all medication !

Tried natural supplements to no avail

Gluten/sugar free since december 2013

Link to comment
  • 3 weeks later...

Update :

 

Well I am on about a week of another decrease in my buspar. So close yet feel so far away. I only have about 7mg to go so that's 7 more months! I have cut out sugar aand I am on low carbs. I feel drained exhausted and like withdrawal all over again but apparently that happens as the body is detoxing. Ahhh the torture. Can't wait for the day of calmness if it comes. Life is a lot better though than when I came off effexor. Its truly remarkable how far the brain can adjust and come back. I am not fully healed but I would say 7/10 so far. I can laugh..I can cry. I can feel emotion and that's what counts. Life is getting better and I don't need a drug to help me! If anyone ever needs any help don't be afraid to ask.

 

I want to thank everyone that has helped me along the way. I love you guys so much!

2007-2012started Effexor xr 225mg -150mg- Varied2months of Taper,(March 22/2012 Off Med/in W/D)Currently No medicationMarch 22/2012- August 16/2012 - Totally Off Effexor( Rough Rough time) Reinstatement for a week(didn't work)****** New Doctor******* Very nice/helpful and in touch.Tried Zoloft- No successAUGUST 17/2012- STARTED 37.5 EFFEXOR FOR ONE WEEK - NOT GOOD < STOPPED.Started Buspar Oct 11th 2012----10 mg for the first 7 days and then 15mg a day---- Taking a new route----Racing thoughts - Gone.Oct 9th ( Done Zoloft,wellbutrin week project trial to feel better) - OFFICIALLY OFF ANTI DEPRESSANT !Oct 26 - Raised Buspar to 20mg a day- Tolerating wellJan 2nd 2013-

Reduce Buspar until full off march 20th 2015 Off all medication !

Tried natural supplements to no avail

Gluten/sugar free since december 2013

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus

 Its truly remarkable how far the brain can adjust and come back. I am not fully healed but I would say 7/10 so far. I can laugh..I can cry. I can feel emotion and that's what counts. Life is getting better and I don't need a drug to help me!

 

:) What a wonderful update MrA, I'm so glad you are able to feel emotions again.  You are a testament to our remarkable healing brains.

I'm not a doctor.  My comments are not medical advise. These are my opinions based on my own experience and what I've learned. Please discuss your situation with a medical practitioner who has knowledge of tapering and withdrawal...if you are lucky enough to find one.

My Introduction Thread

Full Drug and Withdrawal History

Brief Summary

Several SSRIs for 13 years starting 1997 (for mild to moderate partly situational anxiety) Xanax PRN ~ Various other drugs over the years for side effects

2 month 'taper' off Lexapro 2010

Short acute withdrawal, followed by 2 -3 months of improvement then delayed protracted withdrawal

DX ADHD followed by several years of stimulants and other drugs trying to manage increasing symptoms

Failed reinstatement of Lexapro and trial of Prozac (became suicidal)

May 2013 Found SA, learned about withdrawal, stopped taking drugs...healing begins.

Protracted withdrawal, with a very sensitized nervous system, slowly recovering as time passes

Supplements which have helped: Vitamin C, Magnesium, Taurine

Bad reactions: Many supplements but mostly fish oil and Vitamin D

June 2016 - Started daily juicing, mostly vegetables and lots of greens.

Aug 2016 - Oct 2016 Best window ever, felt almost completely recovered

Oct 2016 -Symptoms returned - bad days and less bad days.

April 2018 - No windows, but significant improvement, it feels like permanent full recovery is close.

VIDEO: Where did the chemical imbalance theory come from?



VIDEO: How are psychiatric diagnoses made?



VIDEO: Why do psychiatric drugs have withdrawal syndromes?



VIDEO: Can psychiatric drugs cause long-lasting negative effects?

VIDEO: Dr. Claire Weekes

 

 

 

Link to comment

Hello folks, Wow I came across this website and it definitely helped my outlook on this horrid process of withdrawling from Anti- Depressants. Here is my story. Life was good I was 23 years old, sitting in my University Class seminar, participating with my class, when out of nowhere all these feelings came rushing over me, people started to go sideways, couldn't really talk. Long story short I dropped out of University and went home to parents. I Went to an emerg clinic and was diagnosed with Generalized anxiety disorder(Gad). Immediately I was giving a prescription for Effexor xr 150mg, followed up with my doctor and was up at 225mg for awhile and 150mg for awhile over a 6 year period. I am now 29 years old, about 4 months ago the effexor pooped out, well it may have pooped out a year before that, but we all know how addicting it is. Went through the stigma , perceived personality changes, felt brilliant and ability to talk, got lots of good jobs, was able to be social, felt at times like it was a miracle drug, then slowly over time I lost my jobs, gf's , starting smoking marijuana heavily, took up smoking cigarettes and had anger and frustration issues, never had this before the medication. My doctor just refilled my prescriptions and never really questioned how I was doing on this medication. If I missed a dose one day I would have horrible symptoms. Long story short I feel effexor got me through the first initial espisode I had, but eventually ruined my social life, career life etc. It's been a tough trip. So after this medication pooped out 5 months ago I figured lets try to go off this and tapered off during a two months period.150mg to 75mg to 37.5 then half of 37.5 and then half of that,then off. I quit Effexor on March 22/2012 after being on it since 2005. Wow Lets just say after I came off it I felt so amazing, I saw everything in a fresh new light- like this is what life is like off this? Colors are brighter, Smell is better, everything changed for the positive after coming off it. Rose colored glasses you should say came off. I quit my 2 addictions of Cigs and pot immediately, was so proud of myself, fixed up debts that I wouldn't have touched on effexor. I felt like I had total control of my life, except for how to deal with these raw emotions , felt like a brand new person. Until... The 3 month mark being off Effexor, wow. Anxiety, Insomnia( not sleeping til 730am), not being able to look at somebody and talk to them in a normal light( was never a issue all my life). One week ago I tried Wellbutrin for 5 days and then withdrawled off it 150mg xl. It was just making me more anxious etc. Now the biggest problem I face is feeling like my memory/words have disapeared, can't make sentences or think of what to say and this was never a problem in my life and it's bothering me big time and I don't know what to do, as I feel like my brain has been messed up by 6 years of effexor highest dose 225mg but mostly 150mg. How do I get this back? I need some good responses here because I feel like a complete dummie as my mind has been erased. Thank you for reading this extremely long post, but I didn't want to leave anything important out, and I really want to move on with a life that I can accept and enjoy. Where has my memory gone? Will it comeback? How long if so? My words and ability to talk to people and come up with things to say? Very scared, What can I do? Use to be so smart I am Martin and that is my story, Glad to be a part of this group (29 years old) ^6 years on effexor , now 3months off 2005-2012 , March 22/2012 Off Effexor

Hi I am just now reading your first post... I had tolerance on Effexor too after 6-7 years use. Like you I think it was pooping out on me long before maybe as long as 2 years before but hey years come and go so who is counting. I just wanted to say hi as we have some things in common.  I have read your drug history and am a bit curious about buspar interesting name...buzz haha... ok will stop that. Seems to have helped you.  I am going to read a bit more about you recent history to see how your doing now. 

peace 

WARNING THIS WILL BE LONG
Had a car accident in 85
Codeine was the pain med when I was release from hosp continuous use till 89
Given PROZAC by a specialist to help with nerve pain in my leg 89-90 not sure which year
Was not told a thing about it being a psych med thought it was a pain killer no info about psych side effects I went nuts had hallucinations. As I had a head injury and was diagnosed with a concussion in 85 I was sent to a head injury clinic in 1990 five years after the accident. I don't think they knew I had been on prozac I did not think it a big deal and never did finish the bottle of pills. I had tests of course lots of them. Was put into a pain clinic and given amitriptyline which stopped the withdrawal but had many side effects. But I could sleep something I had not done in a very long time the pain lessened. My mother got cancer in 94 they switched my meds to Zoloft to help deal with this pressure as I was her main care giver she died in 96. I stopped zoloft in 96 had withdrawal was put on paxil went nutty quit it ct put on resperidol quit it ct had withdrawal was put on Effexor... 2years later celexa was added 20mg then increased to 40mg huge personality change went wild. Did too fast taper off Celexa 05 as I felt unwell for a long time prior... quit Effexor 150mg ct 07 found ****** 8 months into withdrawal learned some things was banned from there in 08 have kept learning since. there is really not enough room here to put my history but I have a lot of opinions about a lot of things especially any of the drugs mentioned above.
One thing I would like to add here is this tidbit ALL OPIATES INCREASE SEROTONIN it is not a huge jump to being in chronic pain to being put on an ssri/snri and opiates will affect your antidepressants and your thinking.

As I do not update much I will put my quit date Nov. 17 2007 I quit Effexor cold turkey. 

http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1096-introducing-myself-btdt/

There is a crack in everything ..That's how the light gets in :)

Link to comment

Update :

 

Well I am on about a week of another decrease in my buspar. So close yet feel so far away. I only have about 7mg to go so that's 7 more months! I have cut out sugar aand I am on low carbs. I feel drained exhausted and like withdrawal all over again but apparently that happens as the body is detoxing. Ahhh the torture. Can't wait for the day of calmness if it comes. Life is a lot better though than when I came off effexor. Its truly remarkable how far the brain can adjust and come back. I am not fully healed but I would say 7/10 so far. I can laugh..I can cry. I can feel emotion and that's what counts. Life is getting better and I don't need a drug to help me! If anyone ever needs any help don't be afraid to ask.

 

I want to thank everyone that has helped me along the way. I love you guys so much!

Wow I can't believe how well you are doing at only 2 years off congratulation I know it was not easy.  I would like to ask you how your thinking is especially memory are things good now?  

Also since I am late to the story are you working or otherwise engaged in the world...school social...anything?  

I wish you continued healing and peace :) way to go! 

WARNING THIS WILL BE LONG
Had a car accident in 85
Codeine was the pain med when I was release from hosp continuous use till 89
Given PROZAC by a specialist to help with nerve pain in my leg 89-90 not sure which year
Was not told a thing about it being a psych med thought it was a pain killer no info about psych side effects I went nuts had hallucinations. As I had a head injury and was diagnosed with a concussion in 85 I was sent to a head injury clinic in 1990 five years after the accident. I don't think they knew I had been on prozac I did not think it a big deal and never did finish the bottle of pills. I had tests of course lots of them. Was put into a pain clinic and given amitriptyline which stopped the withdrawal but had many side effects. But I could sleep something I had not done in a very long time the pain lessened. My mother got cancer in 94 they switched my meds to Zoloft to help deal with this pressure as I was her main care giver she died in 96. I stopped zoloft in 96 had withdrawal was put on paxil went nutty quit it ct put on resperidol quit it ct had withdrawal was put on Effexor... 2years later celexa was added 20mg then increased to 40mg huge personality change went wild. Did too fast taper off Celexa 05 as I felt unwell for a long time prior... quit Effexor 150mg ct 07 found ****** 8 months into withdrawal learned some things was banned from there in 08 have kept learning since. there is really not enough room here to put my history but I have a lot of opinions about a lot of things especially any of the drugs mentioned above.
One thing I would like to add here is this tidbit ALL OPIATES INCREASE SEROTONIN it is not a huge jump to being in chronic pain to being put on an ssri/snri and opiates will affect your antidepressants and your thinking.

As I do not update much I will put my quit date Nov. 17 2007 I quit Effexor cold turkey. 

http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1096-introducing-myself-btdt/

There is a crack in everything ..That's how the light gets in :)

Link to comment

I'm glad for you Martin; Effexor is a bad big drug....

But human spirit is more powerful...

 

I wish you more healing.

4 years aprox. on 150mgs.Effexor for situational major depression.No AD before.
Tapered 150-0mgs in 3 months.

Tapered Quetiapine,Xanax in the last 18 months.NO med of any kind anymore.
First 3 months off acute w/d
Protracted w/d ever since.
Symptoms:Anxiety,anhedonia,insomnia,tinnitus,PSSD

04/13/2014 Awful Relapse.Recovered fairly fast.

3 years and 4 months off.

waves and windows.Very much recovered.

November 2015,health issue.Setback.
 

 

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  • 2 weeks later...

 

Update :

 

Well I am on about a week of another decrease in my buspar. So close yet feel so far away. I only have about 7mg to go so that's 7 more months! I have cut out sugar aand I am on low carbs. I feel drained exhausted and like withdrawal all over again but apparently that happens as the body is detoxing. Ahhh the torture. Can't wait for the day of calmness if it comes. Life is a lot better though than when I came off effexor. Its truly remarkable how far the brain can adjust and come back. I am not fully healed but I would say 7/10 so far. I can laugh..I can cry. I can feel emotion and that's what counts. Life is getting better and I don't need a drug to help me! If anyone ever needs any help don't be afraid to ask.

 

I want to thank everyone that has helped me along the way. I love you guys so much!

Wow I can't believe how well you are doing at only 2 years off congratulation I know it was not easy.  I would like to ask you how your thinking is especially memory are things good now?  

Also since I am late to the story are you working or otherwise engaged in the world...school social...anything?  

I wish you continued healing and peace :) way to go! 

 

Hey memory is getting better as the time goes by, I noticed that memories will pop up out of nowhere. Overall my short term and long term memory did take a hit. I also have used brain games programs to help speed up the firing of neurons. I have been to school and I am more social but nowhere close to where I stil want to be. Progress is definitely being made though. It's funny I work now as a personal support worker :)

 

Life goes on after pharmacy drugging,  maybe not the same way as before but more in some enlightened way,  all the best.

2007-2012started Effexor xr 225mg -150mg- Varied2months of Taper,(March 22/2012 Off Med/in W/D)Currently No medicationMarch 22/2012- August 16/2012 - Totally Off Effexor( Rough Rough time) Reinstatement for a week(didn't work)****** New Doctor******* Very nice/helpful and in touch.Tried Zoloft- No successAUGUST 17/2012- STARTED 37.5 EFFEXOR FOR ONE WEEK - NOT GOOD < STOPPED.Started Buspar Oct 11th 2012----10 mg for the first 7 days and then 15mg a day---- Taking a new route----Racing thoughts - Gone.Oct 9th ( Done Zoloft,wellbutrin week project trial to feel better) - OFFICIALLY OFF ANTI DEPRESSANT !Oct 26 - Raised Buspar to 20mg a day- Tolerating wellJan 2nd 2013-

Reduce Buspar until full off march 20th 2015 Off all medication !

Tried natural supplements to no avail

Gluten/sugar free since december 2013

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  • 2 weeks later...

Hey everyone and fellow sa members! I just wanted to pop in and let everyone know how I am coming along. Well I am down to 6mg of buspar left ,so that's gonna take 6 months and than I am med free for a long time hopefully. Lesson learned * coughs.

 

To everyone just starting to feel withdrawal. I say it gets better, a lot better. You will be the old you ,but a new you. You will grasp what I mean by that when its over.

 

I am not fully healed yet but have made great strides to help the healing.

 

#1 cutting out sugar all sugar..been huge

 

#2 cutting out gluten aka wheat..big help

 

#3. If you can tolerate it (cannabis)

 

#4. Fish oil

 

#5. Will power

 

#6 lots of water and exercise

 

#7 good people

 

 

I am working now and helping people and getting paid for it. The whole time I was so scared to withdrawal off effexor but you know what : wouldn't change it for the world. This is me :)

 

Ever have any questions don't hesitate to chat!

 

Hope all my friends are doing well and getting healthier !

2007-2012started Effexor xr 225mg -150mg- Varied2months of Taper,(March 22/2012 Off Med/in W/D)Currently No medicationMarch 22/2012- August 16/2012 - Totally Off Effexor( Rough Rough time) Reinstatement for a week(didn't work)****** New Doctor******* Very nice/helpful and in touch.Tried Zoloft- No successAUGUST 17/2012- STARTED 37.5 EFFEXOR FOR ONE WEEK - NOT GOOD < STOPPED.Started Buspar Oct 11th 2012----10 mg for the first 7 days and then 15mg a day---- Taking a new route----Racing thoughts - Gone.Oct 9th ( Done Zoloft,wellbutrin week project trial to feel better) - OFFICIALLY OFF ANTI DEPRESSANT !Oct 26 - Raised Buspar to 20mg a day- Tolerating wellJan 2nd 2013-

Reduce Buspar until full off march 20th 2015 Off all medication !

Tried natural supplements to no avail

Gluten/sugar free since december 2013

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Have you felt any bad side effects from the cannabis?

Started Effexor August 2012 Sept'12-150mg=extreme anxiety Oct'12 cut half-75mg severe wds

Feb 2013 68.5mg. Mar'13- 65mg. Apr'13-59mg. May'13-57mg. June '13-52mg Aug'13 49.75mg.

Sep'13-48.75. Nov'13-47mg Dec'13-45..5mg

May 2014 42mg. Jun'14 40mg (depressive mood started). Aug'14 -40mg/ started brintellix 2.5mg

Oct '14 -39 Nov'14 36.89 Dec'14 34.45

Jan 2015- 31 Feb'15 29mg. Mar'15 26.72. Apr'15 24.48. May'15 22.31mg. Jun'15 20.30mg

Aug'15-18.89. Oct'15 16.96. Nov/16- 16.10. Dec/15- 15mg

Jan 2016-14.22. May'16 11.45. Aug'16-9.60. Sep/16- 8.88mg. Oct/16- 8.39mg. Nov/16- 8.13. Dec/16- 7.89

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  • 2 weeks later...

Lexy! Hey ,how are you? I have felt anxiety and depression from the cannabis. I am thinking that I should stop. Its made my social anxiety worse. Its such a addictive substance for people in withdrawal. Its good for nausea and brain zaps etc..not so good for anxiety/depression.

2007-2012started Effexor xr 225mg -150mg- Varied2months of Taper,(March 22/2012 Off Med/in W/D)Currently No medicationMarch 22/2012- August 16/2012 - Totally Off Effexor( Rough Rough time) Reinstatement for a week(didn't work)****** New Doctor******* Very nice/helpful and in touch.Tried Zoloft- No successAUGUST 17/2012- STARTED 37.5 EFFEXOR FOR ONE WEEK - NOT GOOD < STOPPED.Started Buspar Oct 11th 2012----10 mg for the first 7 days and then 15mg a day---- Taking a new route----Racing thoughts - Gone.Oct 9th ( Done Zoloft,wellbutrin week project trial to feel better) - OFFICIALLY OFF ANTI DEPRESSANT !Oct 26 - Raised Buspar to 20mg a day- Tolerating wellJan 2nd 2013-

Reduce Buspar until full off march 20th 2015 Off all medication !

Tried natural supplements to no avail

Gluten/sugar free since december 2013

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  • 3 weeks later...

Hey! Does anyone read these anymore? Just wondering if its worth posting? Who reads this, comment please. Then I'll update

2007-2012started Effexor xr 225mg -150mg- Varied2months of Taper,(March 22/2012 Off Med/in W/D)Currently No medicationMarch 22/2012- August 16/2012 - Totally Off Effexor( Rough Rough time) Reinstatement for a week(didn't work)****** New Doctor******* Very nice/helpful and in touch.Tried Zoloft- No successAUGUST 17/2012- STARTED 37.5 EFFEXOR FOR ONE WEEK - NOT GOOD < STOPPED.Started Buspar Oct 11th 2012----10 mg for the first 7 days and then 15mg a day---- Taking a new route----Racing thoughts - Gone.Oct 9th ( Done Zoloft,wellbutrin week project trial to feel better) - OFFICIALLY OFF ANTI DEPRESSANT !Oct 26 - Raised Buspar to 20mg a day- Tolerating wellJan 2nd 2013-

Reduce Buspar until full off march 20th 2015 Off all medication !

Tried natural supplements to no avail

Gluten/sugar free since december 2013

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus

Hi Mr A,

Yes, please update, how are you?

I'm not a doctor.  My comments are not medical advise. These are my opinions based on my own experience and what I've learned. Please discuss your situation with a medical practitioner who has knowledge of tapering and withdrawal...if you are lucky enough to find one.

My Introduction Thread

Full Drug and Withdrawal History

Brief Summary

Several SSRIs for 13 years starting 1997 (for mild to moderate partly situational anxiety) Xanax PRN ~ Various other drugs over the years for side effects

2 month 'taper' off Lexapro 2010

Short acute withdrawal, followed by 2 -3 months of improvement then delayed protracted withdrawal

DX ADHD followed by several years of stimulants and other drugs trying to manage increasing symptoms

Failed reinstatement of Lexapro and trial of Prozac (became suicidal)

May 2013 Found SA, learned about withdrawal, stopped taking drugs...healing begins.

Protracted withdrawal, with a very sensitized nervous system, slowly recovering as time passes

Supplements which have helped: Vitamin C, Magnesium, Taurine

Bad reactions: Many supplements but mostly fish oil and Vitamin D

June 2016 - Started daily juicing, mostly vegetables and lots of greens.

Aug 2016 - Oct 2016 Best window ever, felt almost completely recovered

Oct 2016 -Symptoms returned - bad days and less bad days.

April 2018 - No windows, but significant improvement, it feels like permanent full recovery is close.

VIDEO: Where did the chemical imbalance theory come from?



VIDEO: How are psychiatric diagnoses made?



VIDEO: Why do psychiatric drugs have withdrawal syndromes?



VIDEO: Can psychiatric drugs cause long-lasting negative effects?

VIDEO: Dr. Claire Weekes

 

 

 

Link to comment

Hey Mr. A, yes, I always read your posts.

Please update.

4 years aprox. on 150mgs.Effexor for situational major depression.No AD before.
Tapered 150-0mgs in 3 months.

Tapered Quetiapine,Xanax in the last 18 months.NO med of any kind anymore.
First 3 months off acute w/d
Protracted w/d ever since.
Symptoms:Anxiety,anhedonia,insomnia,tinnitus,PSSD

04/13/2014 Awful Relapse.Recovered fairly fast.

3 years and 4 months off.

waves and windows.Very much recovered.

November 2015,health issue.Setback.
 

 

Link to comment

Wow, what a journey!

I just found your post today and been on it for hours still had to skip a few pages in the middle to get to the most recent update before bed time.

 

It gave me heartaches reading all the suffers and I'm so very happy for you for being where you are now.

 

Definitely update as often /much as possible.

Hat off to you for being so strong mr. A! Keep going and claim all your great and young life back!

 

Lex

Drug free Sep. 23 2017

2009 Mar.: lexapro 10mg for headache for 2 weeks.

2009-2012: on and off 1/4 to 1/3 of 10mg

2012 June--2013 Jan,: 1/4-1/3 of 10mg generic, bad jaw pain

2013 Jan-Mar: 10 mg generic. severe jaw and head pain;

2013 Mar--Aug. started tapering (liquid ever since) from 10 to 5 (one step) then gradually down to 2.25 mg by July. first ever panic attack, severe head/jaw pain

2013 Aug.: back to 2.75 mg; Nov: back to Brand Lex. 2.75mg -- 3mg,

2014 June: stopped PPI, head pressure/numbness. up-dosed 4.5mg, severe reaction mental symptoms added on

2014 Aug--2015 Aug: Micro taper down to 3.2mg, .025mg (<1%) cut holding 2-3 weeks.

2015 Aug 15th, Accidental one dose of 4.2mg. worsening brain non-functional, swollen head, body, coma like, DR

2016 Feb., started dosing 10am through 11 pm everyday 2/13--3.2mg, 3/15-- 2.9mg, 4/19-- 2.6mg, 6/26--2.2mg, 7/22 --1.9mg, 8/16--1.8mg,8/31--1.7m g, 9/13--1.6mg, 9/27--1.5mg, 10/8--1.4mg, 10/14--1.3mg, 11/1--1.2mg, 11/29--1.1mg, 12/12--1mg, 12/22--0.9mg

2017: 1/7--0.8mg, 1/15--0.7mg, 1/17--0.6mg, 1/20--0.52, 1/21--0.4mg, 1/22--0.26, 1/23--0.2, 2/13--0.13mg, 2/20--0.06mg, 3/18--0.13mg, 6/1--0.12mg, 7/6--0.1mg, 7/14--0.08mg, 8/17--0.04mg, 8/20--0.03mg, 8/28--0.02mg, 9/6--0.0205mg, 9/8--0.02mg, 9/17--0.015mg, 9/20--0.01mg, 9/21--0.0048mg, 9/22--0.0001mg,

Link to comment

I always read your post too..just so you know.  I don't post unless I have something to say.

WARNING THIS WILL BE LONG
Had a car accident in 85
Codeine was the pain med when I was release from hosp continuous use till 89
Given PROZAC by a specialist to help with nerve pain in my leg 89-90 not sure which year
Was not told a thing about it being a psych med thought it was a pain killer no info about psych side effects I went nuts had hallucinations. As I had a head injury and was diagnosed with a concussion in 85 I was sent to a head injury clinic in 1990 five years after the accident. I don't think they knew I had been on prozac I did not think it a big deal and never did finish the bottle of pills. I had tests of course lots of them. Was put into a pain clinic and given amitriptyline which stopped the withdrawal but had many side effects. But I could sleep something I had not done in a very long time the pain lessened. My mother got cancer in 94 they switched my meds to Zoloft to help deal with this pressure as I was her main care giver she died in 96. I stopped zoloft in 96 had withdrawal was put on paxil went nutty quit it ct put on resperidol quit it ct had withdrawal was put on Effexor... 2years later celexa was added 20mg then increased to 40mg huge personality change went wild. Did too fast taper off Celexa 05 as I felt unwell for a long time prior... quit Effexor 150mg ct 07 found ****** 8 months into withdrawal learned some things was banned from there in 08 have kept learning since. there is really not enough room here to put my history but I have a lot of opinions about a lot of things especially any of the drugs mentioned above.
One thing I would like to add here is this tidbit ALL OPIATES INCREASE SEROTONIN it is not a huge jump to being in chronic pain to being put on an ssri/snri and opiates will affect your antidepressants and your thinking.

As I do not update much I will put my quit date Nov. 17 2007 I quit Effexor cold turkey. 

http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1096-introducing-myself-btdt/

There is a crack in everything ..That's how the light gets in :)

Link to comment

Hi you are on My Content...

Started Effexor August 2012 Sept'12-150mg=extreme anxiety Oct'12 cut half-75mg severe wds

Feb 2013 68.5mg. Mar'13- 65mg. Apr'13-59mg. May'13-57mg. June '13-52mg Aug'13 49.75mg.

Sep'13-48.75. Nov'13-47mg Dec'13-45..5mg

May 2014 42mg. Jun'14 40mg (depressive mood started). Aug'14 -40mg/ started brintellix 2.5mg

Oct '14 -39 Nov'14 36.89 Dec'14 34.45

Jan 2015- 31 Feb'15 29mg. Mar'15 26.72. Apr'15 24.48. May'15 22.31mg. Jun'15 20.30mg

Aug'15-18.89. Oct'15 16.96. Nov/16- 16.10. Dec/15- 15mg

Jan 2016-14.22. May'16 11.45. Aug'16-9.60. Sep/16- 8.88mg. Oct/16- 8.39mg. Nov/16- 8.13. Dec/16- 7.89

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Mr A, I always follow your posts as well.

 

You have been through much, have come so far, and never fail to encourage others in their journey

 

I am not really a poster,in fact,this is my first one.Everyone on this site touches my heart deeply and I have gleaned many gems as I go through my own (very slow) recovery

 

Please keep us updated on your way to being a recovery success story!!

H.J.

**I started taking Zoloft 100 mg. in 1996 for a panic disorder with agoraphobia and depression, which worsened after a car accident. I have had these symptoms since age 11 .

** In September 2009 , the Zoloft was upped to 150 mg and .5 mg Xanax was added as needed for extreme anxiety due to my Father's illness and death from cancer. Successfully tapered off the Xanax in November 2009.

** I started my Zoloft taper in September 2011,and,in July 2012, reached 75 mgs.(went to 68.5 mgs,but went back up to 75mgs due to withdrawal related depression /anxiety symptoms .

** I started tapering again in September 2014 ,and, as of December,2014, I was holding at 50 mgs. Zoloft until February,2015, when I tapered in two cuts to 37.5 mgs. Due to protracted withdrawal symptoms, have up dosed to 50 mgs. Zoloft on 5/18/2015 and holding there.

**Also started .25 mgs xanax at bedtime in September,2015, due to alerting/jolting awake/anxiety and not sleeping because of heart related issues,now resolved.I tapered completely off in Oct. 2015 (too fast ) had withdrawal symptoms and updosed to .12 mgs Xanax once a night.

** After dry cutting till I couldn't do it accurately, I have been on compounded doses. Am on 0.069 mgs compounded Xanax as of  6/21/17 once per night, as prescribed by my Doctor.

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Okay okay :) I will keep posting just because you guys are amazing.

 

Update : well next month it will be 24 months totally off a anti depressant. Its been about 12 months off benzo and I am on only 6 mg of buspar at the moment. The decrease is going fairly well although I have notice my mood has dipped and i am smoking a lot of pot. I smoke the pot to stabilize my mood through all this I believe it also calms my anxiety if I smoke the right stuff. Eventually I can't wait to be sober from everything but I gotta be easy on myself. This has been one hell of a battle and I am still here, god bless. I am more content with life and starting to understand it and how people are. I see life in a whole new life now and feel so new and alive in a way. Get lots of support from friends and family because you will need it if you are reading this. I really started feeling recovery after 12 months off and its gotten better every month since.

 

I have a job. I just paid off my credit card. I am credit free hehe. I have a place to sleep, a girlfriend that is awesome. One thing is though I feel so empty emotion wise. I feel in a way like a lot of things in life are pointless and why talk to other people for meaningless conversation?

 

I could use a friend to talk to regularly :)

2007-2012started Effexor xr 225mg -150mg- Varied2months of Taper,(March 22/2012 Off Med/in W/D)Currently No medicationMarch 22/2012- August 16/2012 - Totally Off Effexor( Rough Rough time) Reinstatement for a week(didn't work)****** New Doctor******* Very nice/helpful and in touch.Tried Zoloft- No successAUGUST 17/2012- STARTED 37.5 EFFEXOR FOR ONE WEEK - NOT GOOD < STOPPED.Started Buspar Oct 11th 2012----10 mg for the first 7 days and then 15mg a day---- Taking a new route----Racing thoughts - Gone.Oct 9th ( Done Zoloft,wellbutrin week project trial to feel better) - OFFICIALLY OFF ANTI DEPRESSANT !Oct 26 - Raised Buspar to 20mg a day- Tolerating wellJan 2nd 2013-

Reduce Buspar until full off march 20th 2015 Off all medication !

Tried natural supplements to no avail

Gluten/sugar free since december 2013

Link to comment

Okay okay :) I will keep posting just because you guys are amazing.

 

Update : well next month it will be 24 months totally off a anti depressant. Its been about 12 months off benzo and I am on only 6 mg of buspar at the moment. The decrease is going fairly well although I have notice my mood has dipped and i am smoking a lot of pot. I smoke the pot to stabilize my mood through all this I believe it also calms my anxiety if I smoke the right stuff. Eventually I can't wait to be sober from everything but I gotta be easy on myself. This has been one hell of a battle and I am still here, god bless. I am more content with life and starting to understand it and how people are. I see life in a whole new life now and feel so new and alive in a way. Get lots of support from friends and family because you will need it if you are reading this. I really started feeling recovery after 12 months off and its gotten better every month since.

 

I have a job. I just paid off my credit card. I am credit free hehe. I have a place to sleep, a girlfriend that is awesome. One thing is though I feel so empty emotion wise. I feel in a way like a lot of things in life are pointless and why talk to other people for meaningless conversation?

 

I could use a friend to talk to regularly :)

Hi Mr Anxious

 

Congrats on getting down off every thing bar 6mg buspar.

You've done really well.

I hear you about pot, sometimes I just get so pi55ed off that a little bit of it really calms me down.

pregan taper 600mg down to 240mg, daily cuts since xmas

valium, just over 75mg, tapering 0.1 a day, will keep this more udated, cos amounts going down

i have borderline personality, chronic ptsd, and suspected adhd and substance misuse as a symptom, which i am addressing with help of medical staff, drugs agencies & mh sta

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Awesome!

Really happy for you!

 

How do you like to 'talk' regularly?

Drug free Sep. 23 2017

2009 Mar.: lexapro 10mg for headache for 2 weeks.

2009-2012: on and off 1/4 to 1/3 of 10mg

2012 June--2013 Jan,: 1/4-1/3 of 10mg generic, bad jaw pain

2013 Jan-Mar: 10 mg generic. severe jaw and head pain;

2013 Mar--Aug. started tapering (liquid ever since) from 10 to 5 (one step) then gradually down to 2.25 mg by July. first ever panic attack, severe head/jaw pain

2013 Aug.: back to 2.75 mg; Nov: back to Brand Lex. 2.75mg -- 3mg,

2014 June: stopped PPI, head pressure/numbness. up-dosed 4.5mg, severe reaction mental symptoms added on

2014 Aug--2015 Aug: Micro taper down to 3.2mg, .025mg (<1%) cut holding 2-3 weeks.

2015 Aug 15th, Accidental one dose of 4.2mg. worsening brain non-functional, swollen head, body, coma like, DR

2016 Feb., started dosing 10am through 11 pm everyday 2/13--3.2mg, 3/15-- 2.9mg, 4/19-- 2.6mg, 6/26--2.2mg, 7/22 --1.9mg, 8/16--1.8mg,8/31--1.7m g, 9/13--1.6mg, 9/27--1.5mg, 10/8--1.4mg, 10/14--1.3mg, 11/1--1.2mg, 11/29--1.1mg, 12/12--1mg, 12/22--0.9mg

2017: 1/7--0.8mg, 1/15--0.7mg, 1/17--0.6mg, 1/20--0.52, 1/21--0.4mg, 1/22--0.26, 1/23--0.2, 2/13--0.13mg, 2/20--0.06mg, 3/18--0.13mg, 6/1--0.12mg, 7/6--0.1mg, 7/14--0.08mg, 8/17--0.04mg, 8/20--0.03mg, 8/28--0.02mg, 9/6--0.0205mg, 9/8--0.02mg, 9/17--0.015mg, 9/20--0.01mg, 9/21--0.0048mg, 9/22--0.0001mg,

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus

 I am more content with life and starting to understand it and how people are. I see life in a whole new life now and feel so new and alive in a way.

 

This sounds like real recovery and a good kind of change.  I'm wondering how you used to see life and people, compared with now :) .  Do you feel like you have been given a second chance, sort of like being able to start over without going down the medication path?

I'm not a doctor.  My comments are not medical advise. These are my opinions based on my own experience and what I've learned. Please discuss your situation with a medical practitioner who has knowledge of tapering and withdrawal...if you are lucky enough to find one.

My Introduction Thread

Full Drug and Withdrawal History

Brief Summary

Several SSRIs for 13 years starting 1997 (for mild to moderate partly situational anxiety) Xanax PRN ~ Various other drugs over the years for side effects

2 month 'taper' off Lexapro 2010

Short acute withdrawal, followed by 2 -3 months of improvement then delayed protracted withdrawal

DX ADHD followed by several years of stimulants and other drugs trying to manage increasing symptoms

Failed reinstatement of Lexapro and trial of Prozac (became suicidal)

May 2013 Found SA, learned about withdrawal, stopped taking drugs...healing begins.

Protracted withdrawal, with a very sensitized nervous system, slowly recovering as time passes

Supplements which have helped: Vitamin C, Magnesium, Taurine

Bad reactions: Many supplements but mostly fish oil and Vitamin D

June 2016 - Started daily juicing, mostly vegetables and lots of greens.

Aug 2016 - Oct 2016 Best window ever, felt almost completely recovered

Oct 2016 -Symptoms returned - bad days and less bad days.

April 2018 - No windows, but significant improvement, it feels like permanent full recovery is close.

VIDEO: Where did the chemical imbalance theory come from?



VIDEO: How are psychiatric diagnoses made?



VIDEO: Why do psychiatric drugs have withdrawal syndromes?



VIDEO: Can psychiatric drugs cause long-lasting negative effects?

VIDEO: Dr. Claire Weekes

 

 

 

Link to comment

 

 I am more content with life and starting to understand it and how people are. I see life in a whole new life now and feel so new and alive in a way.

 

This sounds like real recovery and a good kind of change.  I'm wondering how you used to see life and people, compared with now :) .  Do you feel like you have been given a second chance, sort of like being able to start over without going down the medication path?

 

Second chance... 

 

what a thought. 

WARNING THIS WILL BE LONG
Had a car accident in 85
Codeine was the pain med when I was release from hosp continuous use till 89
Given PROZAC by a specialist to help with nerve pain in my leg 89-90 not sure which year
Was not told a thing about it being a psych med thought it was a pain killer no info about psych side effects I went nuts had hallucinations. As I had a head injury and was diagnosed with a concussion in 85 I was sent to a head injury clinic in 1990 five years after the accident. I don't think they knew I had been on prozac I did not think it a big deal and never did finish the bottle of pills. I had tests of course lots of them. Was put into a pain clinic and given amitriptyline which stopped the withdrawal but had many side effects. But I could sleep something I had not done in a very long time the pain lessened. My mother got cancer in 94 they switched my meds to Zoloft to help deal with this pressure as I was her main care giver she died in 96. I stopped zoloft in 96 had withdrawal was put on paxil went nutty quit it ct put on resperidol quit it ct had withdrawal was put on Effexor... 2years later celexa was added 20mg then increased to 40mg huge personality change went wild. Did too fast taper off Celexa 05 as I felt unwell for a long time prior... quit Effexor 150mg ct 07 found ****** 8 months into withdrawal learned some things was banned from there in 08 have kept learning since. there is really not enough room here to put my history but I have a lot of opinions about a lot of things especially any of the drugs mentioned above.
One thing I would like to add here is this tidbit ALL OPIATES INCREASE SEROTONIN it is not a huge jump to being in chronic pain to being put on an ssri/snri and opiates will affect your antidepressants and your thinking.

As I do not update much I will put my quit date Nov. 17 2007 I quit Effexor cold turkey. 

http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1096-introducing-myself-btdt/

There is a crack in everything ..That's how the light gets in :)

Link to comment

I am more content with life and starting to understand it and how people are. I see life in a whole new life now and feel so new and alive in a way.

 

Deep catharsis,renovation,purification..call it whatever you want;IT happens.

It is happening to me too.

The "old" Alex that took me to Effexor, wasn't right.

A second chance,and DRUG FREE!!!WOW!!Awsome.

 

I feel so happy for you, and for me...

4 years aprox. on 150mgs.Effexor for situational major depression.No AD before.
Tapered 150-0mgs in 3 months.

Tapered Quetiapine,Xanax in the last 18 months.NO med of any kind anymore.
First 3 months off acute w/d
Protracted w/d ever since.
Symptoms:Anxiety,anhedonia,insomnia,tinnitus,PSSD

04/13/2014 Awful Relapse.Recovered fairly fast.

3 years and 4 months off.

waves and windows.Very much recovered.

November 2015,health issue.Setback.
 

 

Link to comment

This is great news, Alex, so encouraging and gives hope to everyone!

 

Thanks for sharing! Wish you quick and continuous complete recovery!!!!!

Drug free Sep. 23 2017

2009 Mar.: lexapro 10mg for headache for 2 weeks.

2009-2012: on and off 1/4 to 1/3 of 10mg

2012 June--2013 Jan,: 1/4-1/3 of 10mg generic, bad jaw pain

2013 Jan-Mar: 10 mg generic. severe jaw and head pain;

2013 Mar--Aug. started tapering (liquid ever since) from 10 to 5 (one step) then gradually down to 2.25 mg by July. first ever panic attack, severe head/jaw pain

2013 Aug.: back to 2.75 mg; Nov: back to Brand Lex. 2.75mg -- 3mg,

2014 June: stopped PPI, head pressure/numbness. up-dosed 4.5mg, severe reaction mental symptoms added on

2014 Aug--2015 Aug: Micro taper down to 3.2mg, .025mg (<1%) cut holding 2-3 weeks.

2015 Aug 15th, Accidental one dose of 4.2mg. worsening brain non-functional, swollen head, body, coma like, DR

2016 Feb., started dosing 10am through 11 pm everyday 2/13--3.2mg, 3/15-- 2.9mg, 4/19-- 2.6mg, 6/26--2.2mg, 7/22 --1.9mg, 8/16--1.8mg,8/31--1.7m g, 9/13--1.6mg, 9/27--1.5mg, 10/8--1.4mg, 10/14--1.3mg, 11/1--1.2mg, 11/29--1.1mg, 12/12--1mg, 12/22--0.9mg

2017: 1/7--0.8mg, 1/15--0.7mg, 1/17--0.6mg, 1/20--0.52, 1/21--0.4mg, 1/22--0.26, 1/23--0.2, 2/13--0.13mg, 2/20--0.06mg, 3/18--0.13mg, 6/1--0.12mg, 7/6--0.1mg, 7/14--0.08mg, 8/17--0.04mg, 8/20--0.03mg, 8/28--0.02mg, 9/6--0.0205mg, 9/8--0.02mg, 9/17--0.015mg, 9/20--0.01mg, 9/21--0.0048mg, 9/22--0.0001mg,

Link to comment

This post lifted my spirits :)

2000 - sertraline for job anxiety low confidence (17 years old) ..which turned the next 16 years into nightmare!

 

On/off sertraline severe withdrawals every time. 2014 - felt better as reduced dose of sertraline no more inner restlessness. Doctor rushed off again. Hit severe withdrawal. Lost the little I had in life. Couldn't get stable again on 12.5mg. Was switched to prozac. Had severe reaction to prozac..came off in November 2015 at 6mg as felt more confused and damaged on it..Even more withdrawal ..rage, depression, dyphoria, near constant suicidal ideation, self harm impulses, doom, concrete block in head, unable to do much of anything with this feeling in head..went back on 6mg of sertraline to see if would alleviate anything. It didn't..reduced from December to June 2016 came off at 2.5mg sertraline as was hospitalised for the severe rage, suicidal impulses, and put on 50mg lofepramine which in 2nd week reduced all symptoms but gave insomnia which still have..psych stopped lofepramine cold turkey..no increased withdrawal symptoms new symptoms from lofepramine except persistant insomnia which has as side effect.

 

Taking Ativan for 8 months for the severe rage self harm impulses 1-3 times a week (mostly 2 times a week) at .5mg. Two months (I'm unsure exactly when the interdose started to happen) ago interdose withdrawal seemed to happen..2 days I think after the Ativan.

 

 

Nightmare that could have been avoided!

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  • 3 weeks later...

Update : terrible anxiety in the past week,but I also had a lot of stress. It seems to wanna follow me around. I am looking at a supplement that is a nootropic and its called pricetam. Its suppose to wake up the brain and is less toxic than eating salt. It is suppose to boost the neuroplasticity process. Excited to see if it helps.

 

So ya major anxiety , no depression though. I am battling this withdrawal with all I have. Bonus though is I bought a new car!

2007-2012started Effexor xr 225mg -150mg- Varied2months of Taper,(March 22/2012 Off Med/in W/D)Currently No medicationMarch 22/2012- August 16/2012 - Totally Off Effexor( Rough Rough time) Reinstatement for a week(didn't work)****** New Doctor******* Very nice/helpful and in touch.Tried Zoloft- No successAUGUST 17/2012- STARTED 37.5 EFFEXOR FOR ONE WEEK - NOT GOOD < STOPPED.Started Buspar Oct 11th 2012----10 mg for the first 7 days and then 15mg a day---- Taking a new route----Racing thoughts - Gone.Oct 9th ( Done Zoloft,wellbutrin week project trial to feel better) - OFFICIALLY OFF ANTI DEPRESSANT !Oct 26 - Raised Buspar to 20mg a day- Tolerating wellJan 2nd 2013-

Reduce Buspar until full off march 20th 2015 Off all medication !

Tried natural supplements to no avail

Gluten/sugar free since december 2013

Link to comment

It is a wave;it will pass.

Sending good vibes. :)

4 years aprox. on 150mgs.Effexor for situational major depression.No AD before.
Tapered 150-0mgs in 3 months.

Tapered Quetiapine,Xanax in the last 18 months.NO med of any kind anymore.
First 3 months off acute w/d
Protracted w/d ever since.
Symptoms:Anxiety,anhedonia,insomnia,tinnitus,PSSD

04/13/2014 Awful Relapse.Recovered fairly fast.

3 years and 4 months off.

waves and windows.Very much recovered.

November 2015,health issue.Setback.
 

 

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus

Loved reading your updates Mr A and I am so happy for you. This is just a wave, not even a wave, a ripple

and will pass. I hope it passes very soon for you and thank you for sharing your success. I look forward to

reading your success story when you finally get off the last bit of buspar. :)

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Increased stress can often bring on a wave. It can take a while before our resilience to stress builds back up to its former tolerance level.  You have come such a long way Mr. A, I agree with the others, this is just a wave.

 

I am looking at a supplement that is a nootropic and its called pricetam. Its suppose to wake up the brain and is less toxic than eating salt. It is suppose to boost the neuroplasticity process. Excited to see if it helps.

 

I don't know how much research you have done, but just in case you are not aware, here is the list of potential side effects:

 

Nootropil 1200mg film-coated tablets
(piracetam)
PATIENT INFORMATION LEAFLET

 

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS
Like all medicines Nootropil Tablets can cause side effects, although not
everybody gets them.
You may notice the following side effects:
- An allergic reaction and experience difficulty breathing, swelling, fever
- Spontaneous bleeding caused by defects in your blood clotting
mechanism
- Worse fits
- Hallucinations
- Difficulty balancing and unsteadiness when standing
- Anxiety and agitation
- Confusion
- Restlessness
- Nervousness
- Sleepiness
- Depression
- Weakness
- Vertigo
- Weight increase
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhoea
- Feeling or being sick
- Headache
- Being unable to sleep
- Swelling of the skinicon1.png, particularly around the face
- Skin rashicon1.png and itching.

 

from:  http://www.drugs.com/uk/piracetam-1200-mg-film-coated-tablets-leaflet.html

 

If you still decide to try them, do let us know how it goes.

I'm not a doctor.  My comments are not medical advise. These are my opinions based on my own experience and what I've learned. Please discuss your situation with a medical practitioner who has knowledge of tapering and withdrawal...if you are lucky enough to find one.

My Introduction Thread

Full Drug and Withdrawal History

Brief Summary

Several SSRIs for 13 years starting 1997 (for mild to moderate partly situational anxiety) Xanax PRN ~ Various other drugs over the years for side effects

2 month 'taper' off Lexapro 2010

Short acute withdrawal, followed by 2 -3 months of improvement then delayed protracted withdrawal

DX ADHD followed by several years of stimulants and other drugs trying to manage increasing symptoms

Failed reinstatement of Lexapro and trial of Prozac (became suicidal)

May 2013 Found SA, learned about withdrawal, stopped taking drugs...healing begins.

Protracted withdrawal, with a very sensitized nervous system, slowly recovering as time passes

Supplements which have helped: Vitamin C, Magnesium, Taurine

Bad reactions: Many supplements but mostly fish oil and Vitamin D

June 2016 - Started daily juicing, mostly vegetables and lots of greens.

Aug 2016 - Oct 2016 Best window ever, felt almost completely recovered

Oct 2016 -Symptoms returned - bad days and less bad days.

April 2018 - No windows, but significant improvement, it feels like permanent full recovery is close.

VIDEO: Where did the chemical imbalance theory come from?



VIDEO: How are psychiatric diagnoses made?



VIDEO: Why do psychiatric drugs have withdrawal syndromes?



VIDEO: Can psychiatric drugs cause long-lasting negative effects?

VIDEO: Dr. Claire Weekes

 

 

 

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Mr.Anxious, I have been reading your posts over the past month, I had to stop for a while, as I was finding what you were going through really depressing, and it was making me feel hopeless in my journey. I just finished reading all the posts, and I am so relieved. I cant imagine going through what you went through, it makes me really sad to think you were in such a dark place. I have hope now after reading the rest of your posts, so thanks for that. I am only about 5 months into my withdrawal from effexor, I had to reintroduce 5 beads out of my 150mg tablets so I could handle my anxiety a bit better. Things are getting better, although I still experience anxiety and tightness in my chest. I am thankful that I sleep so well, I havent had any problems in that department. I work a very physical job in the forest, so the fresh air and exercise is such a huge help.  I am lucky with my job as I get to cry and freak out whenever I want.. without the audience.  I am finding weekends really hard though, as I am not keeping my mind busy, and I have too much time to think. 

 

Over all, I can feel myself getting better, I remember how I felt a few months ago, and I am for sure improving. I no longer cry all day, I only cry for a few minutes, and my anxiety only lasts a few minutes, to a few hours at the most, not all day, and so I have hope. I am sorry you had to go through all of this, but it really sounds like you are getting better. We all grow so much through this, and when I am in a good mood, I am excited that I have an opportunity to experience such raw emotion, but I really dont like the downs. I am nervous about coming down from the 5 granules, but I just need to take it slow. 

 

Thanks for keeping such a detailed account of your journey. it took me a long time to read through it all, as I was finding it very depressing. But I am glad I got to read to the part where you are feeling better. I look forward to reading more updates. Sorry if this is a really scrambled up message, but I hope you understand that I am thankful for your posts and updates.

-jan14 2016- off effexor!!-

wellbutrin:Jan 25/17;Start to split 100mg in half

-Feb 12/17;100-50mg -Apr 30/17;50-30mg liquid. -June 6/ 17;30-20mg -July6/17;updose to 26mg -Oct 18/17;13 to 12mg -Nov 24/17;12 to 11mg -Feb 21/18;22 to 20mg -Apr 2/18;20 to 18mg -Apr 30/18;18 to 16mg -May 22/18;16 to 14mg -June 18/18;14 to 12.4mg -July 15 /18;12.4 to 11.6mg -Nov5/18;11.2 to 10mg -Dec14/18;10 to 10.4mg

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  • 2 weeks later...

Mr.Anxious, I have been reading your posts over the past month, I had to stop for a while, as I was finding what you were going through really depressing, and it was making me feel hopeless in my journey. I just finished reading all the posts, and I am so relieved. I cant imagine going through what you went through, it makes me really sad to think you were in such a dark place. I have hope now after reading the rest of your posts, so thanks for that. I am only about 5 months into my withdrawal from effexor, I had to reintroduce 5 beads out of my 150mg tablets so I could handle my anxiety a bit better. Things are getting better, although I still experience anxiety and tightness in my chest. I am thankful that I sleep so well, I havent had any problems in that department. I work a very physical job in the forest, so the fresh air and exercise is such a huge help. I am lucky with my job as I get to cry and freak out whenever I want.. without the audience. I am finding weekends really hard though, as I am not keeping my mind busy, and I have too much time to think.

 

Over all, I can feel myself getting better, I remember how I felt a few months ago, and I am for sure improving. I no longer cry all day, I only cry for a few minutes, and my anxiety only lasts a few minutes, to a few hours at the most, not all day, and so I have hope. I am sorry you had to go through all of this, but it really sounds like you are getting better. We all grow so much through this, and when I am in a good mood, I am excited that I have an opportunity to experience such raw emotion, but I really dont like the downs. I am nervous about coming down from the 5 granules, but I just need to take it slow.

 

Thanks for keeping such a detailed account of your journey. it took me a long time to read through it all, as I was finding it very depressing. But I am glad I got to read to the part where you are feeling better. I look forward to reading more updates. Sorry if this is a really scrambled up message, but I hope you understand that I am thankful for your posts and updates.

 

Hey :) can you inbox me. I'd love to chat and your welcome. As I heal I use this less but I will always come back.

2007-2012started Effexor xr 225mg -150mg- Varied2months of Taper,(March 22/2012 Off Med/in W/D)Currently No medicationMarch 22/2012- August 16/2012 - Totally Off Effexor( Rough Rough time) Reinstatement for a week(didn't work)****** New Doctor******* Very nice/helpful and in touch.Tried Zoloft- No successAUGUST 17/2012- STARTED 37.5 EFFEXOR FOR ONE WEEK - NOT GOOD < STOPPED.Started Buspar Oct 11th 2012----10 mg for the first 7 days and then 15mg a day---- Taking a new route----Racing thoughts - Gone.Oct 9th ( Done Zoloft,wellbutrin week project trial to feel better) - OFFICIALLY OFF ANTI DEPRESSANT !Oct 26 - Raised Buspar to 20mg a day- Tolerating wellJan 2nd 2013-

Reduce Buspar until full off march 20th 2015 Off all medication !

Tried natural supplements to no avail

Gluten/sugar free since december 2013

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  • 4 weeks later...

Update :

 

Well it' been two years of being anti depressant free, still on buspar but 5mg left. Taper is going well. As far as I have come, my mind is still slow and same with speech sometimes. My mind sure draws a lot of blanks,is there anything to take to speed up the brain?

 

I have a lot of leftover anxiety, depression I had a spell for a few weeks but its gone which is good.

 

All and all I am progressing through the bumps and bruises. I am still alive and hope in a year from now this is a thing of the past.

2007-2012started Effexor xr 225mg -150mg- Varied2months of Taper,(March 22/2012 Off Med/in W/D)Currently No medicationMarch 22/2012- August 16/2012 - Totally Off Effexor( Rough Rough time) Reinstatement for a week(didn't work)****** New Doctor******* Very nice/helpful and in touch.Tried Zoloft- No successAUGUST 17/2012- STARTED 37.5 EFFEXOR FOR ONE WEEK - NOT GOOD < STOPPED.Started Buspar Oct 11th 2012----10 mg for the first 7 days and then 15mg a day---- Taking a new route----Racing thoughts - Gone.Oct 9th ( Done Zoloft,wellbutrin week project trial to feel better) - OFFICIALLY OFF ANTI DEPRESSANT !Oct 26 - Raised Buspar to 20mg a day- Tolerating wellJan 2nd 2013-

Reduce Buspar until full off march 20th 2015 Off all medication !

Tried natural supplements to no avail

Gluten/sugar free since december 2013

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Good to see you Mr A, thank you for the update. I'm sorry that you are still not feeling great, but it 

sounds like you are healing well and recovering, even though it doesn't feel like it right now. I 

would hold the buspar taper for a while until this wave has passed, maybe your brain needs to catch

up a bit.  Could you update your signature for us to show your buspar status please?  I hope this 

wave passes soon and you get some nice clear windows.  :)

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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