OldDodgy Posted February 9, 2022 Share Posted February 9, 2022 In brief I have been on medication since 1969. Mainly benzodiazepines and 30 years on various ADs Never used drugs unless prescribed. Got off pregabalin quetiapine and mirtazipine in last 2-3 yr. Stuck on diazepam 20 since death of my wife in 2013. Diagnosis probably GAD : Complex Ptsd Main issue severe Agoraphobia:Panic Disorder 1 My Intro topic. Was Dickie in FB gabapentinoids 2020 January Stopped Quetiapine 150 at night in a fairly chaotic fashion with holds, jumping at 6mg 2020 June Stopped Pregabalin 150 at night using Ashton Method Some holds. 2021 December Stopped Mirtazipine 15 using Ashton Method. (Slower at end). Nov 21 - Given Quetiapine 12.5 for sleep. Reduced mid March 2022 to 6mg - Off 30/5/22 Feb 2022 Ongoing Diazepam 17.5, Blip at Christmas when took 22.5mg for a few days, now 24 FEB Stable 17.5 as advised. Had long covid. Now going to 16.25 from 8/7/22. 7% drop Oxazepam 10mg.STOPPED 10th FEB 2022 “Rescue dose x 2 in 2 months. Buccastem 3mg less than 1 a month for nausea. Past meds since 1969 -Approx dates only available. Tranxene 15, Clomipramine 150 for about 25 years. 1993 Paroxetine 20 AD change. Diazepam 20mg swap from Tranxene. Oxazepam 10mg Prn since 1990's 1995 Trial of MAOIS. 2000 Escitaopram 10mg. 2015 trial of Trazadone. 2004 Pregabalin 150 at night. 2015 Started on Quetiapine 150 note, Mirtazipine 15 note. Diazepam increased to 30mg split dosing. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus ChessieCat Posted February 9, 2022 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted February 9, 2022 Hi OldDodgy and welcome to SA, We have seen here at SA that it is possible to get off psychiatric drugs. However the reasons you started/stayed on the drugs are not necessarily going to have "disappeared". It is important to see a relevant therapist to learn non drug coping techniques for any of these issues. To get you started, please create your drug signature. Keep it simple. We need to see details for the last 2 years (drug name, doses and dates for any dose change, and the date and last dose you took if you stopped any drugs). Anything prior to 2 years just needs to be a summary. Please see these instructions: Instructions: Withdrawal History Signature Please tell us more (in a post, not the drug signature) how you "Got off pregabalin quetiapine and mirtazipine". The details of how you stopped these drugs might be important when it comes to your future drug reduction. Please also tell us about your current symtpoms. How is your sleep? Also please tell us all the drugs (include non psychiatric drugs & doses and supplements you are currently taking as well as the time you take them. Thank you. It is important that we have as much information as possible, even if it might seem irrelevant. This is your own Introduction topic and is the best place to ask questions about your own situation and journal your progress. This keeps your history in one place and means you do not have to repeat your story. 1 * 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 Link to comment
Moderator MerryJayneFriday Posted February 9, 2022 Moderator Share Posted February 9, 2022 Welcome aboard OD I'm glad you are here! Holler if I can help MerryJayneFriday Polydrugged for many years after dx of Failed Back surgery. Tapered from Lyrica from 2016 to 2020 Quit 10 mg oxycontin Sept 2021 currently taking 5mg oxycodone every 4 to 5 hours Link to comment
OldDodgy Posted February 10, 2022 Author Share Posted February 10, 2022 (edited) I was put on Quetiapine as an aid to enhance SSRIs. It made me very drowsy. I had followed Dr Ashton for some years and also joined another group. I reduced using the Ashton 5-10% method with holds and one re-instatement at 25 mg. Stopped at 12.5. Water titration. Pregabalin 150 at night was for RTA Crush injury 2004. Caused drowsiness, ataxia and hypoventilation. This gave me polycythaemia and mutiple Pulmonary Emboli. I Joined the pregabalin withdrawal group and reduced at 5-10-% with several holds especially below 50 mg. Water titration. One re-instatement. Mirtazipine was given after bereavement and cause metabolic changes. I reduced this with Liquid formula easily from 15 to 7.5 and then very slowly over 3 months to zero. Current symptoms. Severe agoraphobia, panic disorder, waking at 3 am since 2013 (Bereavement). Early morning depression. No joy. Aloneness. Other meds Ramipril 2.5 since 2010, omeprazole 20 since 2000. (Caused malabsorption). Supplements Vit d 4000/ K2 200mg AM, Haem iron 18mg daily/ Lipaeic VIT C 2g Midday. B1 weekly B3 weekly, Zinc 25 AM. Magnesium in bath. Low histamine low glutamate diet. Other therapy on and off 20 years CBT til 2015, since 2015 Hypnotherapy, Acupuncture, Mindfullness, Deep relaxation, mainly through Medical hypnosis society. 2021 onwards person centred counselling weekly. Currently stuck on Diaz 20 mg, though was on 17.5 for 2 years until phobias increased. Had been as low as 10mg when on SSRI. (Minor serotonin reaction in past, not allowed now.) Extreme anxiety driving, can't cope with confrontation or crowds so most hobbies stopped. Poor outcome hip replacement so dog walking limited. Bereavement absolutely critical as terminal care was awful. Edited February 10, 2022 by ChessieCat added spacing My Intro topic. Was Dickie in FB gabapentinoids 2020 January Stopped Quetiapine 150 at night in a fairly chaotic fashion with holds, jumping at 6mg 2020 June Stopped Pregabalin 150 at night using Ashton Method Some holds. 2021 December Stopped Mirtazipine 15 using Ashton Method. (Slower at end). Nov 21 - Given Quetiapine 12.5 for sleep. Reduced mid March 2022 to 6mg - Off 30/5/22 Feb 2022 Ongoing Diazepam 17.5, Blip at Christmas when took 22.5mg for a few days, now 24 FEB Stable 17.5 as advised. Had long covid. Now going to 16.25 from 8/7/22. 7% drop Oxazepam 10mg.STOPPED 10th FEB 2022 “Rescue dose x 2 in 2 months. Buccastem 3mg less than 1 a month for nausea. Past meds since 1969 -Approx dates only available. Tranxene 15, Clomipramine 150 for about 25 years. 1993 Paroxetine 20 AD change. Diazepam 20mg swap from Tranxene. Oxazepam 10mg Prn since 1990's 1995 Trial of MAOIS. 2000 Escitaopram 10mg. 2015 trial of Trazadone. 2004 Pregabalin 150 at night. 2015 Started on Quetiapine 150 note, Mirtazipine 15 note. Diazepam increased to 30mg split dosing. Link to comment
Moderator Onmyway Posted February 16, 2022 Moderator Share Posted February 16, 2022 Welcome to SA @OldDodgy, I am so sorry you have been suffering for such a long time. What a long history with those drugs and their side effects. I am glad you found your way to us. I know you have found support from the FB group and am not sure if you are looking for advice at all. But I will post a few links anyway, you can disregard them if you wish and maybe you will find something useful. On SA we are targeted more at informing, advising and holding people's hand in this process. If you do have any questions, please feel free to ask. You can tag me by typing @Onmyway and I will get a notification when you do. We find that many people in withdrawal end up with early morning (terror) awakenings. I have been through that and still going through that myself. A few tips have helped with it - in my case a completely darkened room and sleeping with earplugs and magnesium at night time. We also find that vitamin D can be activating to some people and can increase anxiety/edginess. I am low on it and have had to give up supplementation despite that. I wonder if you lowered that some of your anxiety may let up. You may wish to stop it for a bit (you only need about 800UI a day and you must have quite a store already since you have been taking 4000 a day for a while. See if it will help the edginess/anxiety go away. Many of our members also find Claire Weekes method useful to deal with neuro-emotions - the heightened emotional states caused by withdrawal - anxiety/anger. You have had therapy in terms of hypnotherapy and CBT (which I found useful). For trauma I have also found useful EMDR and IFS therapy. I am not necessarily recommending it but trauma therapy has made quite a few leaps recently and might be interesting to explore. I loved the book "The Body Keeps the Score" which details research on trauma and various ways to address it. The Dr. Claire Weekes Method of Recovering from a Sensitized Nervous System - Symptoms and self-care - Surviving Antidepressants Important topics about symptoms, including sleep problems - Symptoms and self-care - Surviving Antidepressants Early-morning waking - managing the morning cortisol spike - Symptoms and self-care - Surviving Antidepressants Here is our thread on Vitamin D which documents our members' experience with it. Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol or calcitriol) - Symptoms and self-care - Surviving Antidepressants Hope you find your way around here and please do not hesitate to ask questions or say hello Welcome again to SA! OMW 1 "Nothing so small as a moment is insurmountable, and moments are all that we have. You have survived every trial and tribulation that life has thrown at you up until this very instant. When future troubles come—and they will come—a version of you will be born into that moment that can conquer them, too." - Kevin Koenig I am not a doctor and this should not be considered medical advice. You can use the information and recommendations provided in whatever way you want and all decisions on your treatment are yours. In the next few weeks I do not have a lot of capacity to respond to questions. If you need a quick answer pls tag or ask other moderators who may want to be tagged. Aug 2000 - July 2003 (ct, 4-6 wk wd) , citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn, wellbutrin for a few months, trazodone prn Dec 2004 - July 2018 citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn (rarely used) Aug 2018 - citalopram 40 mg (self titrated up) September 2018 - January 2019 tapered citalopram - 40/30/20/10/5 no issues until a week after reaching 0 Feb 2019 0.25 xanax - 0.5/day (3 weeks) over to klonopin 0.25 once a day to manage severe wd March 6, reinstated citalopram 2.5 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 mg for sleep 2-3 times a week Apr 1st citalopram 2.0 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 once a week (off by 4/14/19- no tapering) citalopram (liquid) 4/14/19 -1.8 mg, 5/8/19 - 1.6 mg, 7/27/19 -1.5 mg, 8/15/19 - 1.35, 2/21/21 - 1.1 (smaller drops in between), 6/20/21 - 1.03 mg, 8/7/21- 1.025, 8/11/21 - 1.02, 8/15/21 - 1.015, 9/3/21 - 0.925 (fingers crossed!), 10/8/21 - 0.9, 10/18/21 - 0.875, 12/31/21 - 0.85, 1/7/22 - 0.825, 1/14/22 - 0.8, 1/22/22 - 0.785, 8/18/22 - 0.59, 12/15/2022 - 0.48, 2/15/22 - 0.43, 25/07/23 - 0.25 (mistake), 6/08/23 - 0.33mg Supplements: magnesium citrate and bi-glycinate Link to comment
OldDodgy Posted February 16, 2022 Author Share Posted February 16, 2022 @Onmyway Thank you for your amazingly thorough and warm reply. I have spotted some things to help already in your post. eg My Vit D levels are 80 so I think I can reduce to weekly! It’s protective against Covid complications as is zinc. Omeprazole is the nuisance. I rate Van Der Kelk very highly. I read on the site that diazepam is counterproductive in Ptsd but I am a bit stuck on it after the many withdrawals of other stuff! I will work through your post in more detail over the next few days and ask more as needed please. I start EMDR shortly too. Thanks again and best wishes OldDodgy My Intro topic. Was Dickie in FB gabapentinoids 2020 January Stopped Quetiapine 150 at night in a fairly chaotic fashion with holds, jumping at 6mg 2020 June Stopped Pregabalin 150 at night using Ashton Method Some holds. 2021 December Stopped Mirtazipine 15 using Ashton Method. (Slower at end). Nov 21 - Given Quetiapine 12.5 for sleep. Reduced mid March 2022 to 6mg - Off 30/5/22 Feb 2022 Ongoing Diazepam 17.5, Blip at Christmas when took 22.5mg for a few days, now 24 FEB Stable 17.5 as advised. Had long covid. Now going to 16.25 from 8/7/22. 7% drop Oxazepam 10mg.STOPPED 10th FEB 2022 “Rescue dose x 2 in 2 months. Buccastem 3mg less than 1 a month for nausea. Past meds since 1969 -Approx dates only available. Tranxene 15, Clomipramine 150 for about 25 years. 1993 Paroxetine 20 AD change. Diazepam 20mg swap from Tranxene. Oxazepam 10mg Prn since 1990's 1995 Trial of MAOIS. 2000 Escitaopram 10mg. 2015 trial of Trazadone. 2004 Pregabalin 150 at night. 2015 Started on Quetiapine 150 note, Mirtazipine 15 note. Diazepam increased to 30mg split dosing. Link to comment
Moderator Onmyway Posted February 16, 2022 Moderator Share Posted February 16, 2022 1 hour ago, OldDodgy said: @Onmyway Thank you for your amazingly thorough and warm reply. I have spotted some things to help already in your post. eg My Vit D levels are 80 so I think I can reduce to weekly! It’s protective against Covid complications as is zinc. Omeprazole is the nuisance. I rate Van Der Kelk very highly. I read on the site that diazepam is counterproductive in Ptsd but I am a bit stuck on it after the many withdrawals of other stuff! I will work through your post in more detail over the next few days and ask more as needed please. I start EMDR shortly too. Thanks again and best wishes OldDodgy Hi @OldDodgy, glad you found some advice helpful. Hopefully it will make a difference in the anxiety levels quickly so you can get some respite. I fully understand what it means to crave moments of peace. From your intro I see that you have been through a lot of changes in recent years. Here we view withdrawal as a healing process where your body adapts to the removal of the drug and as such works hard at finding new homeostasis. My advice would be to take a break from tapering for a while to let your body find its bearings. So I would not think of yourself as being stuck on diazepam but more as letting your body take a break. In due time you will come off of it as well. But better to do that taper from a place of strength. Holding at a specific dosage for months has literally saved my life at times. Since you're new off of mirtazapine, maybe wait for a month or two longer at least before you start a new taper? I have not heard that diazepam is counterproductive for PTSD healing. Is it because it may cause dissociation? (I am just guessing here). While doing EMDR I read (half-way) this book. I like to read the training manuals for the therapies that I am interested in. Perhaps you may find it helpful as well? Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Third Edition: Basic Principles, Protocols, and Procedures: 9781462532766: Medicine & Health Science Books @ Amazon.com @hayduke has found EMDR very helpful as well. You can have a look at his intro thread to see his experience with it and ask him questions if you have any. Regarding vit D, there are lots of claims on it and it might have an effect on Covid but most of the claims on the benefits of vit D have not panned out. If your levels are good, I'd see how you'd do giving it up for a while. We also find that some B vitamins may also be activating to some people. You can have a look here on the B3 (some find it helpful but others not). Vitamin B3 (niacin, niacinamide) - Symptoms and self-care - Surviving Antidepressants We do recommend magnesium and Omega-3 but not sure how that would go with your stomach issues. Otherwise we discourage alcohol, pot, other psychoactive substances incl supplements like St John's Wort as they can set some people back. I will let up with the links for now Hope you start feeling better quickly, OMW "Nothing so small as a moment is insurmountable, and moments are all that we have. You have survived every trial and tribulation that life has thrown at you up until this very instant. When future troubles come—and they will come—a version of you will be born into that moment that can conquer them, too." - Kevin Koenig I am not a doctor and this should not be considered medical advice. You can use the information and recommendations provided in whatever way you want and all decisions on your treatment are yours. In the next few weeks I do not have a lot of capacity to respond to questions. If you need a quick answer pls tag or ask other moderators who may want to be tagged. Aug 2000 - July 2003 (ct, 4-6 wk wd) , citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn, wellbutrin for a few months, trazodone prn Dec 2004 - July 2018 citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn (rarely used) Aug 2018 - citalopram 40 mg (self titrated up) September 2018 - January 2019 tapered citalopram - 40/30/20/10/5 no issues until a week after reaching 0 Feb 2019 0.25 xanax - 0.5/day (3 weeks) over to klonopin 0.25 once a day to manage severe wd March 6, reinstated citalopram 2.5 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 mg for sleep 2-3 times a week Apr 1st citalopram 2.0 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 once a week (off by 4/14/19- no tapering) citalopram (liquid) 4/14/19 -1.8 mg, 5/8/19 - 1.6 mg, 7/27/19 -1.5 mg, 8/15/19 - 1.35, 2/21/21 - 1.1 (smaller drops in between), 6/20/21 - 1.03 mg, 8/7/21- 1.025, 8/11/21 - 1.02, 8/15/21 - 1.015, 9/3/21 - 0.925 (fingers crossed!), 10/8/21 - 0.9, 10/18/21 - 0.875, 12/31/21 - 0.85, 1/7/22 - 0.825, 1/14/22 - 0.8, 1/22/22 - 0.785, 8/18/22 - 0.59, 12/15/2022 - 0.48, 2/15/22 - 0.43, 25/07/23 - 0.25 (mistake), 6/08/23 - 0.33mg Supplements: magnesium citrate and bi-glycinate Link to comment
OldDodgy Posted February 16, 2022 Author Share Posted February 16, 2022 Excellent thanks OldDodgy My Intro topic. Was Dickie in FB gabapentinoids 2020 January Stopped Quetiapine 150 at night in a fairly chaotic fashion with holds, jumping at 6mg 2020 June Stopped Pregabalin 150 at night using Ashton Method Some holds. 2021 December Stopped Mirtazipine 15 using Ashton Method. (Slower at end). Nov 21 - Given Quetiapine 12.5 for sleep. Reduced mid March 2022 to 6mg - Off 30/5/22 Feb 2022 Ongoing Diazepam 17.5, Blip at Christmas when took 22.5mg for a few days, now 24 FEB Stable 17.5 as advised. Had long covid. Now going to 16.25 from 8/7/22. 7% drop Oxazepam 10mg.STOPPED 10th FEB 2022 “Rescue dose x 2 in 2 months. Buccastem 3mg less than 1 a month for nausea. Past meds since 1969 -Approx dates only available. Tranxene 15, Clomipramine 150 for about 25 years. 1993 Paroxetine 20 AD change. Diazepam 20mg swap from Tranxene. Oxazepam 10mg Prn since 1990's 1995 Trial of MAOIS. 2000 Escitaopram 10mg. 2015 trial of Trazadone. 2004 Pregabalin 150 at night. 2015 Started on Quetiapine 150 note, Mirtazipine 15 note. Diazepam increased to 30mg split dosing. Link to comment
OldDodgy Posted February 17, 2022 Author Share Posted February 17, 2022 (edited) Getting there after 50 years @Altostrata suggested we post about successes. Hopefully to encourage others. I can’t explain fully how good it is to be down from 4 psychotropic meds to just one. I have been medicated since 1969— Things were very done very differently back then with no psychotherapy, CBT, counselling or even sick leave for exhaustion. So the docs just added one med after another. In 2015 when yet another drug was added and I lost my driving licence I just got really angry about the meds. They were causing metabolic, apnoea and blood thickening. So in 2019 when I had multiple lung clots the docs wanted me off ADs, APsychotics, and Pregabalin as they react with the blood thinners. They wanted me to cold turkey. 🙈🙈🙈🙈 Anyway a I joined a FB group and came off Quetiapine first, rested a month, then off pregabalin with help from the group, rested and came off mirtazipine. That took years but apart from benzos I have been essentially med free for 14 months. My breathing problems, polycythaemia and early metabolic syndrome have almost disappeared. At no time did I have help from psychs or my Gp. I was supported by The Lyrica group and visiting here as a guest years ago. Things are not perfect as I am much more phobic but talking treatment is the way forward now. I don’t think ADs helped in grief but will post for advice on handling aloneness and guilt else where. I really hope others can see that 50 plus years on medication can be reversed and that we must strive to enlighten medics and stay close to groups like SA, family, church if it’s your thing and cherish our physical needs too. Best wishes Olddodgy Edited February 21, 2022 by ChessieCat added success story topic title before merging with Intro topic 3 My Intro topic. Was Dickie in FB gabapentinoids 2020 January Stopped Quetiapine 150 at night in a fairly chaotic fashion with holds, jumping at 6mg 2020 June Stopped Pregabalin 150 at night using Ashton Method Some holds. 2021 December Stopped Mirtazipine 15 using Ashton Method. (Slower at end). Nov 21 - Given Quetiapine 12.5 for sleep. Reduced mid March 2022 to 6mg - Off 30/5/22 Feb 2022 Ongoing Diazepam 17.5, Blip at Christmas when took 22.5mg for a few days, now 24 FEB Stable 17.5 as advised. Had long covid. Now going to 16.25 from 8/7/22. 7% drop Oxazepam 10mg.STOPPED 10th FEB 2022 “Rescue dose x 2 in 2 months. Buccastem 3mg less than 1 a month for nausea. Past meds since 1969 -Approx dates only available. Tranxene 15, Clomipramine 150 for about 25 years. 1993 Paroxetine 20 AD change. Diazepam 20mg swap from Tranxene. Oxazepam 10mg Prn since 1990's 1995 Trial of MAOIS. 2000 Escitaopram 10mg. 2015 trial of Trazadone. 2004 Pregabalin 150 at night. 2015 Started on Quetiapine 150 note, Mirtazipine 15 note. Diazepam increased to 30mg split dosing. Link to comment
OldDodgy Posted February 20, 2022 Author Share Posted February 20, 2022 (edited) Waking terrors on diazepam. Advice welcome My Apologies if this subject has been covered before, but I have looked in search. 🤭🤭 I am on a long diazepam hold after coming off three antipsychotic meds rapidly. I have developed terror attacks on waking. I Take diazepam 7.5 at 7am, 2.5 at midday and 7.5 at ten pm. I only sleep til 3am mostly. I breakfast at 6 and take morning diazepam. Then I drop off for about an hour. Suddenly I wake from a “night” terror. Usually related to my work in forensics or about my deceased wife. These are the most dangerous moments of the day. They can take twenty mins to dissipate and I am so irrational I ring Samaritans or a church friend. I have been told it’s complicated PTSD. I am convinced the morning diaz triggers these attacks. Is it possible that I am taking the meds at the wrong times. ? Any ideas welcome. Thanks OldDodgy Edited February 20, 2022 by ChessieCat added Intro topic title before merging with intro topic & spacing My Intro topic. Was Dickie in FB gabapentinoids 2020 January Stopped Quetiapine 150 at night in a fairly chaotic fashion with holds, jumping at 6mg 2020 June Stopped Pregabalin 150 at night using Ashton Method Some holds. 2021 December Stopped Mirtazipine 15 using Ashton Method. (Slower at end). Nov 21 - Given Quetiapine 12.5 for sleep. Reduced mid March 2022 to 6mg - Off 30/5/22 Feb 2022 Ongoing Diazepam 17.5, Blip at Christmas when took 22.5mg for a few days, now 24 FEB Stable 17.5 as advised. Had long covid. Now going to 16.25 from 8/7/22. 7% drop Oxazepam 10mg.STOPPED 10th FEB 2022 “Rescue dose x 2 in 2 months. Buccastem 3mg less than 1 a month for nausea. Past meds since 1969 -Approx dates only available. Tranxene 15, Clomipramine 150 for about 25 years. 1993 Paroxetine 20 AD change. Diazepam 20mg swap from Tranxene. Oxazepam 10mg Prn since 1990's 1995 Trial of MAOIS. 2000 Escitaopram 10mg. 2015 trial of Trazadone. 2004 Pregabalin 150 at night. 2015 Started on Quetiapine 150 note, Mirtazipine 15 note. Diazepam increased to 30mg split dosing. Link to comment
Moderator Frogie Posted February 20, 2022 Moderator Share Posted February 20, 2022 (edited) I copied this over to your page so we can keep all your information in one place.😊 Waking terrors on diazepam. Advice welcome My Apologies if this subject has been covered before, but I have looked in search. 🤭🤭 I am on a long diazepam hold after coming off three antipsychotic meds rapidly. I have developed terror attacks on waking. I Take diazepam 7.5 at 7am, 2.5 at midday and 7.5 at ten pm. I only sleep til 3am mostly. I breakfast at 6 and take morning diazepam. Then I drop off for about an hour. Suddenly I wake from a “night” terror. Usually related to my work in forensics or about my deceased wife. These are the most dangerous moments of the day. They can take twenty mins to dissipate and I am so irrational I ring Samaritans or a church friend. I have been told it’s complicated PTSD. I am convinced the morning diaz triggers these attacks. Is it possible that I am taking the meds at the wrong times. ? Any ideas welcome. Thanks OldDodgy Edited February 21, 2022 by ChessieCat reduced font size PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist. Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form) ---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil. Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper. 19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020) I am not a medical professional. The suggestions I make are based on personal experience. Link to comment
Moderator Frogie Posted February 20, 2022 Moderator Share Posted February 20, 2022 Just now, Frogie said: I Take diazepam 7.5 at 7am, 2.5 at midday and 7.5 at ten pm. You might want to take more in the evening and less during the day. You might try 15 mg at night and 2.5 morning and 2.5 midday. Because diazepam has a long half life of up to 200 hours, I think you would be ok to move 5 mg from the am dose over to the night dose and see if that helps. Let me know what you think about doing this. Take care. PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist. Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form) ---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil. Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper. 19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020) I am not a medical professional. The suggestions I make are based on personal experience. Link to comment
OldDodgy Posted February 20, 2022 Author Share Posted February 20, 2022 Thanks @Frogie That might be a good way. Certainly I could aim to switch to a more nocturnal regime. I am actually trying to stick to 17.5 most days but occasionally take another 2.5 -which I know is bad practice, but rather that than not getting out at all -). OD My Intro topic. Was Dickie in FB gabapentinoids 2020 January Stopped Quetiapine 150 at night in a fairly chaotic fashion with holds, jumping at 6mg 2020 June Stopped Pregabalin 150 at night using Ashton Method Some holds. 2021 December Stopped Mirtazipine 15 using Ashton Method. (Slower at end). Nov 21 - Given Quetiapine 12.5 for sleep. Reduced mid March 2022 to 6mg - Off 30/5/22 Feb 2022 Ongoing Diazepam 17.5, Blip at Christmas when took 22.5mg for a few days, now 24 FEB Stable 17.5 as advised. Had long covid. Now going to 16.25 from 8/7/22. 7% drop Oxazepam 10mg.STOPPED 10th FEB 2022 “Rescue dose x 2 in 2 months. Buccastem 3mg less than 1 a month for nausea. Past meds since 1969 -Approx dates only available. Tranxene 15, Clomipramine 150 for about 25 years. 1993 Paroxetine 20 AD change. Diazepam 20mg swap from Tranxene. Oxazepam 10mg Prn since 1990's 1995 Trial of MAOIS. 2000 Escitaopram 10mg. 2015 trial of Trazadone. 2004 Pregabalin 150 at night. 2015 Started on Quetiapine 150 note, Mirtazipine 15 note. Diazepam increased to 30mg split dosing. Link to comment
Moderator Onmyway Posted February 20, 2022 Moderator Share Posted February 20, 2022 @OldDodgy, I think this is what you are describing - Early-morning waking - managing the morning cortisol spike - Symptoms and self-care - Surviving Antidepressants Blackout shades help with this. It gets worse for me during waves and better during the windows. Since it's related to two specific traumatic events, it might be important to explore those but I am not sure if it won't 'latch' at something else if those are resolved. For me it has a chemical feel and latches to the flavor of the day in terms of worry. But it can also be other uncomfortable emotions such a guilt, sadness, anger not just fear. OMW 2 "Nothing so small as a moment is insurmountable, and moments are all that we have. You have survived every trial and tribulation that life has thrown at you up until this very instant. When future troubles come—and they will come—a version of you will be born into that moment that can conquer them, too." - Kevin Koenig I am not a doctor and this should not be considered medical advice. You can use the information and recommendations provided in whatever way you want and all decisions on your treatment are yours. In the next few weeks I do not have a lot of capacity to respond to questions. If you need a quick answer pls tag or ask other moderators who may want to be tagged. Aug 2000 - July 2003 (ct, 4-6 wk wd) , citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn, wellbutrin for a few months, trazodone prn Dec 2004 - July 2018 citalopram 20 mg, xanax prn (rarely used) Aug 2018 - citalopram 40 mg (self titrated up) September 2018 - January 2019 tapered citalopram - 40/30/20/10/5 no issues until a week after reaching 0 Feb 2019 0.25 xanax - 0.5/day (3 weeks) over to klonopin 0.25 once a day to manage severe wd March 6, reinstated citalopram 2.5 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 mg for sleep 2-3 times a week Apr 1st citalopram 2.0 mg (liquid), klonopin 0.25 once a week (off by 4/14/19- no tapering) citalopram (liquid) 4/14/19 -1.8 mg, 5/8/19 - 1.6 mg, 7/27/19 -1.5 mg, 8/15/19 - 1.35, 2/21/21 - 1.1 (smaller drops in between), 6/20/21 - 1.03 mg, 8/7/21- 1.025, 8/11/21 - 1.02, 8/15/21 - 1.015, 9/3/21 - 0.925 (fingers crossed!), 10/8/21 - 0.9, 10/18/21 - 0.875, 12/31/21 - 0.85, 1/7/22 - 0.825, 1/14/22 - 0.8, 1/22/22 - 0.785, 8/18/22 - 0.59, 12/15/2022 - 0.48, 2/15/22 - 0.43, 25/07/23 - 0.25 (mistake), 6/08/23 - 0.33mg Supplements: magnesium citrate and bi-glycinate Link to comment
Moderator Frogie Posted February 20, 2022 Moderator Share Posted February 20, 2022 @OldDodgy You don't want to "switch" dose amounts from one day to another. You need to stick to one dose amount. If you are on 20 mg then I would stay on that. If you are going to take 17.5 mg then stay at that dose. PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist. Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form) ---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil. Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper. 19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020) I am not a medical professional. The suggestions I make are based on personal experience. Link to comment
OldDodgy Posted February 20, 2022 Author Share Posted February 20, 2022 Thanks@OMW I am pretty sure it’s cortisol as the chemical background issue, but the recurring theme is still the traumatic bereavement as we have discussed elsewhere before. I must admit that the one to one counselling regarding the loss has been very intense. Things are uncovered which are very uncomfortable- leading to deep regret, sadness and attribution of guilt. Cognitively eventually I can rationalise that at the time I did my best in difficult circumstances, but as we know traumatic dreams are great liars. I had hoped that a year off mirtazipine the nightmares would cease. But perhaps it takes longer than that?. I think I must avoid these early morning snoozes, which is tricky after prolonged sleepless nights. Hey ho OD My Intro topic. Was Dickie in FB gabapentinoids 2020 January Stopped Quetiapine 150 at night in a fairly chaotic fashion with holds, jumping at 6mg 2020 June Stopped Pregabalin 150 at night using Ashton Method Some holds. 2021 December Stopped Mirtazipine 15 using Ashton Method. (Slower at end). Nov 21 - Given Quetiapine 12.5 for sleep. Reduced mid March 2022 to 6mg - Off 30/5/22 Feb 2022 Ongoing Diazepam 17.5, Blip at Christmas when took 22.5mg for a few days, now 24 FEB Stable 17.5 as advised. Had long covid. Now going to 16.25 from 8/7/22. 7% drop Oxazepam 10mg.STOPPED 10th FEB 2022 “Rescue dose x 2 in 2 months. Buccastem 3mg less than 1 a month for nausea. Past meds since 1969 -Approx dates only available. Tranxene 15, Clomipramine 150 for about 25 years. 1993 Paroxetine 20 AD change. Diazepam 20mg swap from Tranxene. Oxazepam 10mg Prn since 1990's 1995 Trial of MAOIS. 2000 Escitaopram 10mg. 2015 trial of Trazadone. 2004 Pregabalin 150 at night. 2015 Started on Quetiapine 150 note, Mirtazipine 15 note. Diazepam increased to 30mg split dosing. Link to comment
OldDodgy Posted February 20, 2022 Author Share Posted February 20, 2022 Thanks @Frogie We had major family trauma in November-Jan and I had slid the diazepam up to 25 on a few occasions. So I know I kindled a bit. Since the 1970s I have used between 4 and thirty mg a day depending on the “job”, but never without a background SSRI for thirty years. I have not been without an AD before last year. I think as you say I must settle on a fixed dose for some time now. Thanks for your input. OD My Intro topic. Was Dickie in FB gabapentinoids 2020 January Stopped Quetiapine 150 at night in a fairly chaotic fashion with holds, jumping at 6mg 2020 June Stopped Pregabalin 150 at night using Ashton Method Some holds. 2021 December Stopped Mirtazipine 15 using Ashton Method. (Slower at end). Nov 21 - Given Quetiapine 12.5 for sleep. Reduced mid March 2022 to 6mg - Off 30/5/22 Feb 2022 Ongoing Diazepam 17.5, Blip at Christmas when took 22.5mg for a few days, now 24 FEB Stable 17.5 as advised. Had long covid. Now going to 16.25 from 8/7/22. 7% drop Oxazepam 10mg.STOPPED 10th FEB 2022 “Rescue dose x 2 in 2 months. Buccastem 3mg less than 1 a month for nausea. Past meds since 1969 -Approx dates only available. Tranxene 15, Clomipramine 150 for about 25 years. 1993 Paroxetine 20 AD change. Diazepam 20mg swap from Tranxene. Oxazepam 10mg Prn since 1990's 1995 Trial of MAOIS. 2000 Escitaopram 10mg. 2015 trial of Trazadone. 2004 Pregabalin 150 at night. 2015 Started on Quetiapine 150 note, Mirtazipine 15 note. Diazepam increased to 30mg split dosing. Link to comment
Moderator Frogie Posted February 20, 2022 Moderator Share Posted February 20, 2022 @OldDodgy You are very welcome. It just wreaks havoc on your CNS when you go up and down. Just pick a dosage and stick with it from now on. And like I suggested I would take more in the evening than during the day😊 PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist. Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form) ---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil. Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper. 19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020) I am not a medical professional. The suggestions I make are based on personal experience. Link to comment
Knosretep Posted February 21, 2022 Share Posted February 21, 2022 Hi @OldDodgy Sorry to read about the Night Terrors. Had that once in 2009 and it was awful. Hope switching up your dosing brings you relief! 2013 - Jan 4, 2021 - Sertraline 50mg Jan 2021 - Venlafaxine 75mg (1/4) Feb 2021 : Mar 2021 - Venlafaxine 75mg April 2021 - Venlafaxine 75mg, Amitriptyline 2mg (4/20), Clonazepam 2mg May 2021 - Venlafaxine 75mg (5/16 - 0mg), Amitriptyline (5/1 - 1mg, 5/16 - 0mg), Clonazepam 2mg Aug 2021 - Sertraline 25mg (re 8/20), Clonazepam 2mg Sep 2021 - Sertraline 50mg (up 9/3), Clonazepam (9/29 - 1mg), Diazepam (9/29 - 2.5mg) Oct 2021 - Sertraline 50mg, Clonazepam (10/14 - 0.9mg, 10/24 - 1mg), Diazepam (10/6 - 1.25mg, 10/14 - 0mg), Trazodone (10/03 - 50mg, 10/17 - 25mg, 10/21 - 12.5mg), Mirtazapine (10/17 - 15mg) Nov 2021 : Current - Sertraline 50mg, Clonazepam (4/22 - 0.975mg, 5/22 - 0.9125mg, co 6/22 - 0.25mg, co 8/22 - 0.5mg, co 1/23 - 0.25mg), Diazepam (co 6/22 - 12mg, 7/22 - 11mg, co 8/22 - 5mg, 9/22 - 4mg, 10/22 - 3mg, 11/22 - 2mg, 12/22 - 1mg, co 1/23 - 5mg, 2/23 - 4.5mg, 3/23 - 3.5mg, 4/23 - 3mg), Trazodone 12.5mg, Mirtazapine 15mg Supplements: 1/2 Multivitamin, Fish Oil 2000mg, Probiotic, Magnesium Chelate 280mg, Vit C 500mg, . Melatonin 5mg/3mgXR Link to comment
Moderator Frogie Posted February 22, 2022 Moderator Share Posted February 22, 2022 Because you're feeling better, I added our cheerful "here comes the sun" symbol ☼ to the title of your Intro topic, to show you're recovering. Please continue to let us know how you're doing. I hope you will add your story to our Recovery Success Stories eventually! Please see this topic: How to write your success story PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist. Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form) ---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil. Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper. 19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020) I am not a medical professional. The suggestions I make are based on personal experience. Link to comment
Moderator Frogie Posted February 22, 2022 Moderator Share Posted February 22, 2022 @OldDodgy We are giving you "Here comes the Sun" Symbol as you have worked so hard at tapering off your medications and feel you need to be recognized for your efforts! 1 PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist. Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form) ---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil. Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper. 19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020) I am not a medical professional. The suggestions I make are based on personal experience. Link to comment
Moxie Posted February 22, 2022 Share Posted February 22, 2022 Hi OldDogy, glad to see you here! trying to figure out how this all works. Cheers, Moxie Link to comment
OldDodgy Posted February 22, 2022 Author Share Posted February 22, 2022 @Frogie I am desperately trying to help my posts in one place! I would be grateful if anyone could respond saying how long the intractable runny nose, stinging eyes and earache last after tapering off the culprits I blame- namely Mirtazipine Quetiapine and possible pregabalin!! it’s not hay fever or Covid but is torrential about every other day. Associated with muscle fatigue. I have done a search and there are threads on this but no hints on recovery times. Thanks OldDodgy 1 My Intro topic. Was Dickie in FB gabapentinoids 2020 January Stopped Quetiapine 150 at night in a fairly chaotic fashion with holds, jumping at 6mg 2020 June Stopped Pregabalin 150 at night using Ashton Method Some holds. 2021 December Stopped Mirtazipine 15 using Ashton Method. (Slower at end). Nov 21 - Given Quetiapine 12.5 for sleep. Reduced mid March 2022 to 6mg - Off 30/5/22 Feb 2022 Ongoing Diazepam 17.5, Blip at Christmas when took 22.5mg for a few days, now 24 FEB Stable 17.5 as advised. Had long covid. Now going to 16.25 from 8/7/22. 7% drop Oxazepam 10mg.STOPPED 10th FEB 2022 “Rescue dose x 2 in 2 months. Buccastem 3mg less than 1 a month for nausea. Past meds since 1969 -Approx dates only available. Tranxene 15, Clomipramine 150 for about 25 years. 1993 Paroxetine 20 AD change. Diazepam 20mg swap from Tranxene. Oxazepam 10mg Prn since 1990's 1995 Trial of MAOIS. 2000 Escitaopram 10mg. 2015 trial of Trazadone. 2004 Pregabalin 150 at night. 2015 Started on Quetiapine 150 note, Mirtazipine 15 note. Diazepam increased to 30mg split dosing. Link to comment
Moderator Frogie Posted February 22, 2022 Moderator Share Posted February 22, 2022 @OldDodgy I wish I could tell you how long your nose will be runny, but mine has been running for 3 years now. Been to the dr numerous times and it is not allergies or infection (until a week or so ago, I did have a sinus infection and bronchitis). You could try saline solution for your nose and just blow it. It is very annoying for sure. If you are having ear pressure, you might want to see a dr to rule out an infection. PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist. Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form) ---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil. Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper. 19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020) I am not a medical professional. The suggestions I make are based on personal experience. Link to comment
OldDodgy Posted February 22, 2022 Author Share Posted February 22, 2022 @Frogie Thanks for the reassurance. I sincerely hope it’s just withdrawal. Phew. Will buy a saline nasal wash. Have you time to look at “Cfs leak” on Google. ?? It’s very rare but I have a lot of the symptoms of “raised intracranial pressure too. “. Apparently it’s often overlooked. My Gp check for raised pressure by looking in my eyes. I am too phobic to attend a scan at present. I quite understand if it’s not relevant to your work in SA. OldDodgy My Intro topic. Was Dickie in FB gabapentinoids 2020 January Stopped Quetiapine 150 at night in a fairly chaotic fashion with holds, jumping at 6mg 2020 June Stopped Pregabalin 150 at night using Ashton Method Some holds. 2021 December Stopped Mirtazipine 15 using Ashton Method. (Slower at end). Nov 21 - Given Quetiapine 12.5 for sleep. Reduced mid March 2022 to 6mg - Off 30/5/22 Feb 2022 Ongoing Diazepam 17.5, Blip at Christmas when took 22.5mg for a few days, now 24 FEB Stable 17.5 as advised. Had long covid. Now going to 16.25 from 8/7/22. 7% drop Oxazepam 10mg.STOPPED 10th FEB 2022 “Rescue dose x 2 in 2 months. Buccastem 3mg less than 1 a month for nausea. Past meds since 1969 -Approx dates only available. Tranxene 15, Clomipramine 150 for about 25 years. 1993 Paroxetine 20 AD change. Diazepam 20mg swap from Tranxene. Oxazepam 10mg Prn since 1990's 1995 Trial of MAOIS. 2000 Escitaopram 10mg. 2015 trial of Trazadone. 2004 Pregabalin 150 at night. 2015 Started on Quetiapine 150 note, Mirtazipine 15 note. Diazepam increased to 30mg split dosing. Link to comment
LizaB Posted February 22, 2022 Share Posted February 22, 2022 6 hours ago, OldDodgy said: @Frogie I am desperately trying to help my posts in one place! I would be grateful if anyone could respond saying how long the intractable runny nose, stinging eyes and earache last after tapering off the culprits I blame- namely Mirtazipine Quetiapine and possible pregabalin!! it’s not hay fever or Covid but is torrential about every other day. Associated with muscle fatigue. I have done a search and there are threads on this but no hints on recovery times. Thanks OldDodgy I am sorry to hear you are going through this. I don’t have much to offer, but hope you get some answers and some relief soon. My Intro topic Lyrica / pregabalin started Feb 2021 and experienced terrible burning in my legs Lyrica / pregabalin started to reduce March 2021 and experiment burning legs, bladder issues, insomnia, anxiety, angry, depression etc. I was reducing too fast so switched to 10% reduction a month. currently taking 85mg of Lyrica. Seroquel started in October 2021 for insomnia…cause hyperventilating and ended up with a blood clot, which may or may not be related. Stopper Seroquel in Dec 2021.Clonazapam- currently taking 0.5mg for anxiety Effexor- took it for maybe 5 years and went off of it in maybe 2018. Cause skin problems and was very hard to get off. Brain zaps. Zoloft- took as an adolescent and into my 20s. Went off of it in my early 20s. Buspar- Took as a child, must have switched to Zoloft at some point. Link to comment
Lovetobefree Posted February 24, 2022 Share Posted February 24, 2022 On 2/17/2022 at 10:30 AM, OldDodgy said: Getting there after 50 years @Altostrata suggested we post about successes. Hopefully to encourage others. I can’t explain fully how good it is to be down from 4 psychotropic meds to just one. I have been medicated since 1969— Things were very done very differently back then with no psychotherapy, CBT, counselling or even sick leave for exhaustion. So the docs just added one med after another. In 2015 when yet another drug was added and I lost my driving licence I just got really angry about the meds. They were causing metabolic, apnoea and blood thickening. So in 2019 when I had multiple lung clots the docs wanted me off ADs, APsychotics, and Pregabalin as they react with the blood thinners. They wanted me to cold turkey. 🙈🙈🙈🙈 Anyway a I joined a FB group and came off Quetiapine first, rested a month, then off pregabalin with help from the group, rested and came off mirtazipine. That took years but apart from benzos I have been essentially med free for 14 months. My breathing problems, polycythaemia and early metabolic syndrome have almost disappeared. At no time did I have help from psychs or my Gp. I was supported by The Lyrica group and visiting here as a guest years ago. Things are not perfect as I am much more phobic but talking treatment is the way forward now. I don’t think ADs helped in grief but will post for advice on handling aloneness and guilt else where. I really hope others can see that 50 plus years on medication can be reversed and that we must strive to enlighten medics and stay close to groups like SA, family, church if it’s your thing and cherish our physical needs too. Best wishes Olddodgy On 2/22/2022 at 6:59 PM, LizaB said: I am sorry to hear you are going through this. I don’t have much to offer, but hope you get some answers and some relief soon. Hi OD, I'm sorry you was put on one drug after another. I'm forever hopeful of getting off P. Question how quickly did you come off P? What level was you taking when you began to taper? I have to say you are such an immense support and so inspirational. Take care L My Intro topic Insomnia following AZ vaccine April 21. May 21-July 21-Began Lorazepam. Withdrew as per Dr recommendations. (i now have learned that this was too fast) August 21 diagnosed with Fibromyralgia and CFS and possible Ehlers Danlos September 21- Started Pregabalin/Lyrica 150mg, upped to 250mg in the coming weeks, didn't like the way it made me feel so dropped to 200mg end Nov 21/start Dec 21 (as per Dr advice) found the survivors group, held there until 22nd Jan 22 began following Ashton Manual. Got to 88mg am and pm (176mg daily) 11th March. Holding here atm as caught covid, and appears I have symptoms of long covid. Link to comment
OldDodgy Posted February 24, 2022 Author Share Posted February 24, 2022 Hi Pregabalin wasn’t my first taper. I had come off Quetiapine at the advised rate , but did hold occasionally. Coming off was fuelled by anger!!! After short break I decided that 150 of preg. at night was causing falls and peripheral neuropathy. I think I jumped down fast but with increased anx I joined Preg Survivors and from 100 to 50 I came down at about 10%. In hospital they wanted me off because it interferes with the blood thinners. Nevertheless I stuck to 10%. That was too fast after a while and I had interdose withdrawal. I partially reinstated for a week and rested and restarted at 5%. I think I stopped at 5mg. I managed to stay on the same dose of diaz throughout this. I had a month (too short) before coming off mirtazipine which was not easy. Everyone is different coming off pentinoids! I think after 14 years on them for pain I got off lightly !! I do wish you well. Slow is my mantra after rushing it myself! Let me know if I can answer anything else. OldDodgy My Intro topic. Was Dickie in FB gabapentinoids 2020 January Stopped Quetiapine 150 at night in a fairly chaotic fashion with holds, jumping at 6mg 2020 June Stopped Pregabalin 150 at night using Ashton Method Some holds. 2021 December Stopped Mirtazipine 15 using Ashton Method. (Slower at end). Nov 21 - Given Quetiapine 12.5 for sleep. Reduced mid March 2022 to 6mg - Off 30/5/22 Feb 2022 Ongoing Diazepam 17.5, Blip at Christmas when took 22.5mg for a few days, now 24 FEB Stable 17.5 as advised. Had long covid. Now going to 16.25 from 8/7/22. 7% drop Oxazepam 10mg.STOPPED 10th FEB 2022 “Rescue dose x 2 in 2 months. Buccastem 3mg less than 1 a month for nausea. Past meds since 1969 -Approx dates only available. Tranxene 15, Clomipramine 150 for about 25 years. 1993 Paroxetine 20 AD change. Diazepam 20mg swap from Tranxene. Oxazepam 10mg Prn since 1990's 1995 Trial of MAOIS. 2000 Escitaopram 10mg. 2015 trial of Trazadone. 2004 Pregabalin 150 at night. 2015 Started on Quetiapine 150 note, Mirtazipine 15 note. Diazepam increased to 30mg split dosing. Link to comment
Moderator Frogie Posted February 24, 2022 Moderator Share Posted February 24, 2022 (edited) On 2/22/2022 at 9:38 AM, OldDodgy said: @Frogie Thanks for the reassurance. I sincerely hope it’s just withdrawal. Phew. Will buy a saline nasal wash. Have you time to look at “Cfs leak” on Google. ?? It’s very rare but I have a lot of the symptoms of “raised intracranial pressure too. “. Apparently it’s often overlooked. My Gp check for raised pressure by looking in my eyes. I am too phobic to attend a scan at present. I quite understand if it’s not relevant to your work in SA. OldDodgy You are very welcome. I think it is withdrawal symptoms though. Hopefully the saline nasal spray will work. I've never heard of "Cfs leak". I will have to google it and see what it is all about. I've had the pressure in my eyes checked by the eye dr and everything is good. Hope you are doing well. Frogie xx Updated: I just looked up the Cfs leak and it is very rare. So I wouldn't worry about it. Edited February 24, 2022 by Frogie PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist. Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form) ---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil. Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper. 19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020) I am not a medical professional. The suggestions I make are based on personal experience. Link to comment
OldDodgy Posted February 24, 2022 Author Share Posted February 24, 2022 @Frogie Sorry it’s Csf leak ! I am hopeful it not. Just poor nights with earache at moment. Managed to stabilise on 17.5 diazepam No longer using prn oxazepam —- Must take it off signature. Cheers OldDodgy My Intro topic. Was Dickie in FB gabapentinoids 2020 January Stopped Quetiapine 150 at night in a fairly chaotic fashion with holds, jumping at 6mg 2020 June Stopped Pregabalin 150 at night using Ashton Method Some holds. 2021 December Stopped Mirtazipine 15 using Ashton Method. (Slower at end). Nov 21 - Given Quetiapine 12.5 for sleep. Reduced mid March 2022 to 6mg - Off 30/5/22 Feb 2022 Ongoing Diazepam 17.5, Blip at Christmas when took 22.5mg for a few days, now 24 FEB Stable 17.5 as advised. Had long covid. Now going to 16.25 from 8/7/22. 7% drop Oxazepam 10mg.STOPPED 10th FEB 2022 “Rescue dose x 2 in 2 months. Buccastem 3mg less than 1 a month for nausea. Past meds since 1969 -Approx dates only available. Tranxene 15, Clomipramine 150 for about 25 years. 1993 Paroxetine 20 AD change. Diazepam 20mg swap from Tranxene. Oxazepam 10mg Prn since 1990's 1995 Trial of MAOIS. 2000 Escitaopram 10mg. 2015 trial of Trazadone. 2004 Pregabalin 150 at night. 2015 Started on Quetiapine 150 note, Mirtazipine 15 note. Diazepam increased to 30mg split dosing. Link to comment
Moderator Frogie Posted February 24, 2022 Moderator Share Posted February 24, 2022 @OldDodgy "cfs and csf" came up the same when googled and it is very rare. So I wouldn't worry about it too much. That's great you were able to stabilize on 17.5 diazepam. Please update your signature to show both😊 PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist. Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form) ---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil. Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper. 19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020) I am not a medical professional. The suggestions I make are based on personal experience. Link to comment
OldDodgy Posted February 24, 2022 Author Share Posted February 24, 2022 Thanks @Frogie That might be a good way. Certainly I could aim to switch to a more nocturnal regime. I am actually trying to stick to 17.5 most days but occasionally take another 2.5 -which I know is bad practice, but rather that than not getting out at all -). OD My Intro topic. Was Dickie in FB gabapentinoids 2020 January Stopped Quetiapine 150 at night in a fairly chaotic fashion with holds, jumping at 6mg 2020 June Stopped Pregabalin 150 at night using Ashton Method Some holds. 2021 December Stopped Mirtazipine 15 using Ashton Method. (Slower at end). Nov 21 - Given Quetiapine 12.5 for sleep. Reduced mid March 2022 to 6mg - Off 30/5/22 Feb 2022 Ongoing Diazepam 17.5, Blip at Christmas when took 22.5mg for a few days, now 24 FEB Stable 17.5 as advised. Had long covid. Now going to 16.25 from 8/7/22. 7% drop Oxazepam 10mg.STOPPED 10th FEB 2022 “Rescue dose x 2 in 2 months. Buccastem 3mg less than 1 a month for nausea. Past meds since 1969 -Approx dates only available. Tranxene 15, Clomipramine 150 for about 25 years. 1993 Paroxetine 20 AD change. Diazepam 20mg swap from Tranxene. Oxazepam 10mg Prn since 1990's 1995 Trial of MAOIS. 2000 Escitaopram 10mg. 2015 trial of Trazadone. 2004 Pregabalin 150 at night. 2015 Started on Quetiapine 150 note, Mirtazipine 15 note. Diazepam increased to 30mg split dosing. Link to comment
Lovetobefree Posted February 24, 2022 Share Posted February 24, 2022 51 minutes ago, OldDodgy said: Hi Pregabalin wasn’t my first taper. I had come off Quetiapine at the advised rate , but did hold occasionally. Coming off was fuelled by anger!!! After short break I decided that 150 of preg. at night was causing falls and peripheral neuropathy. I think I jumped down fast but with increased anx I joined Preg Survivors and from 100 to 50 I came down at about 10%. In hospital they wanted me off because it interferes with the blood thinners. Nevertheless I stuck to 10%. That was too fast after a while and I had interdose withdrawal. I partially reinstated for a week and rested and restarted at 5%. I think I stopped at 5mg. I managed to stay on the same dose of diaz throughout this. I had a month (too short) before coming off mirtazipine which was not easy. Everyone is different coming off pentinoids! I think after 14 years on them for pain I got off lightly !! I do wish you well. Slow is my mantra after rushing it myself! Let me know if I can answer anything else. OldDodgy Thank you OD, I'm interested to know how it was for others yet understand we are all different and that these medications affect us ll differently too. I too came off a benzo (with no problem) probably too fast! I did a drop of 50 from 250(too bigger drop) in early December then found the support of the lovely preg survivors group. 20th Jan-20th feb I started with a micro taper and listened to my body, reduced by 7% and I'm now into month 2 of my micro taper. Hopefully one day of all this junk. Are you on the inner compass page on fb? There was a in interesting live chat recently, not for all but I found it quite interesting. My Intro topic Insomnia following AZ vaccine April 21. May 21-July 21-Began Lorazepam. Withdrew as per Dr recommendations. (i now have learned that this was too fast) August 21 diagnosed with Fibromyralgia and CFS and possible Ehlers Danlos September 21- Started Pregabalin/Lyrica 150mg, upped to 250mg in the coming weeks, didn't like the way it made me feel so dropped to 200mg end Nov 21/start Dec 21 (as per Dr advice) found the survivors group, held there until 22nd Jan 22 began following Ashton Manual. Got to 88mg am and pm (176mg daily) 11th March. Holding here atm as caught covid, and appears I have symptoms of long covid. Link to comment
OldDodgy Posted February 24, 2022 Author Share Posted February 24, 2022 @Frogie Sadly even searching can’t find how to update settings. please advise OD My Intro topic. Was Dickie in FB gabapentinoids 2020 January Stopped Quetiapine 150 at night in a fairly chaotic fashion with holds, jumping at 6mg 2020 June Stopped Pregabalin 150 at night using Ashton Method Some holds. 2021 December Stopped Mirtazipine 15 using Ashton Method. (Slower at end). Nov 21 - Given Quetiapine 12.5 for sleep. Reduced mid March 2022 to 6mg - Off 30/5/22 Feb 2022 Ongoing Diazepam 17.5, Blip at Christmas when took 22.5mg for a few days, now 24 FEB Stable 17.5 as advised. Had long covid. Now going to 16.25 from 8/7/22. 7% drop Oxazepam 10mg.STOPPED 10th FEB 2022 “Rescue dose x 2 in 2 months. Buccastem 3mg less than 1 a month for nausea. Past meds since 1969 -Approx dates only available. Tranxene 15, Clomipramine 150 for about 25 years. 1993 Paroxetine 20 AD change. Diazepam 20mg swap from Tranxene. Oxazepam 10mg Prn since 1990's 1995 Trial of MAOIS. 2000 Escitaopram 10mg. 2015 trial of Trazadone. 2004 Pregabalin 150 at night. 2015 Started on Quetiapine 150 note, Mirtazipine 15 note. Diazepam increased to 30mg split dosing. Link to comment
OldDodgy Posted February 24, 2022 Author Share Posted February 24, 2022 @Lovetobefree Sounds like 7% ok at moment. You might go slower soon. Not joined inner compass yet. 1 My Intro topic. Was Dickie in FB gabapentinoids 2020 January Stopped Quetiapine 150 at night in a fairly chaotic fashion with holds, jumping at 6mg 2020 June Stopped Pregabalin 150 at night using Ashton Method Some holds. 2021 December Stopped Mirtazipine 15 using Ashton Method. (Slower at end). Nov 21 - Given Quetiapine 12.5 for sleep. Reduced mid March 2022 to 6mg - Off 30/5/22 Feb 2022 Ongoing Diazepam 17.5, Blip at Christmas when took 22.5mg for a few days, now 24 FEB Stable 17.5 as advised. Had long covid. Now going to 16.25 from 8/7/22. 7% drop Oxazepam 10mg.STOPPED 10th FEB 2022 “Rescue dose x 2 in 2 months. Buccastem 3mg less than 1 a month for nausea. Past meds since 1969 -Approx dates only available. Tranxene 15, Clomipramine 150 for about 25 years. 1993 Paroxetine 20 AD change. Diazepam 20mg swap from Tranxene. Oxazepam 10mg Prn since 1990's 1995 Trial of MAOIS. 2000 Escitaopram 10mg. 2015 trial of Trazadone. 2004 Pregabalin 150 at night. 2015 Started on Quetiapine 150 note, Mirtazipine 15 note. Diazepam increased to 30mg split dosing. Link to comment
Moderator Frogie Posted February 24, 2022 Moderator Share Posted February 24, 2022 (edited) @OldDodgy To update your signature, go to the upper right corner where your avatar and name is. Click on your name and got to Account Settings. Then choose signature and after you update it be sure to save it. Instructions: Withdrawal History Signature Edited February 24, 2022 by Frogie PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist. Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form) ---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil. Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper. 19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020) I am not a medical professional. The suggestions I make are based on personal experience. Link to comment
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