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annatino: I need help because I messed myself up


annatino

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Hi everyone,

I am new here and I am desperate to get well. 
I was on Prozac for 10 years and stoped very easy.
Three months I was feeling great but some major changes in my life made me 
hit rock bottom in March 2021 and was put back on Prozac 40 mg and klonopin 1.25mg.
I decided to stop after one month and went into insanity, emergency rooms and but back on Lexapro 5mg to 10 mg and klonopin .25mg as needed and then decided to stop again after one month.

I ended up with the worst panic attack from withdrawals and shaking,not eating, lost 15 pounds and ended up in hospital.

They kept me 12 days on Paxil 40mg and Quietapine for sleep and 1mg Ativan.

Was feeling great and came home just to start all over and ended up in the hospital again.

I was put on 100mg Zoloft, 300x 2 a day Depakote,1.5mg Ativan and 15mg Mirzaten 

I was great for a month and I reduced myself the dosage to no benzodiazepines, no Depakote, 25mg Sertraline and 7.5 Mirzaten.

I took 0.1mg clonidine to regulate my blood pressure for three weeks.

I am finished, I am bed ridden, crying, surge of adrenaline, shaking.

I am taking 0.5mg Ativan and I am calm till I go to sleep.

Every morning I am waking up with anxiety.

I am at the end of my ropez

I am planing to go to a psychiatrist tomorrow and see what I can do to stabilize.

How can I get off the 7mg mirzaten I am now without feeling this mess.

I cannot keep a job now. 

I took my 20 years old son from Canada and moved at my parents in Romania and we suffer here because we cannot adapt.

My son will leave in couple weeks back to Toronto but I am not able to go in this state of mind. I am unstable. Help!

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

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  • Altostrata changed the title to annatino I need help because I messed myself up
  • Administrator

Welcome, @annatino

 

It sounds like you have antidepressant withdrawal syndrome since you went off Prozac in 2021. How do you feel on 25mg sertraline?

 

At what times o'clock do you take your drugs, with their dosages?

 

Why do you think mirtazapine is the drug causing your problems?

This is not medical advice. Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a knowledgeable medical practitioner.

"It has become appallingly obvious that our technology has surpassed our humanity." -- Albert Einstein

All postings © copyrighted.

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Hi,

Thank you for responding.

it’s been 4 days and I am feeling normal, thank God.

I am off meds, Zoloft and only taking 7mg Mirsaten to help me sleep.

 

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

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Could you please delete my post?

 

Thank you! 

 

 

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

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  • Moderator Emeritus
27 minutes ago, annatino said:

Could you please delete my post?

 

Thank you! 

 

 

 

Please see:

 

 

 

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *

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

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

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

 VIDEO:   Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome and its Management

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  • 5 months later...

Need help in tapering two antidepressants

 

Hi everyone,


I need someone to help me tapering two antidepressants.


I was on Prozac for 10 years and last pill of 20mg I stoped it cold turkey.
I was ok for 4 months but then everything went down hill.


I was hospitalized 3 times last year and was put on Mirtazepine 15mg for sleep and Sertraline 100mg.

 

Sertraline I reduced it myself after one month to 35mg and planing in two weeks to go to one capsule of 25mg.


I believe the right way it’s 10% reduction every month.


I am on first one for 9 months and last one for 3 months.

 
I wonder if I can reduce 20% instead 10% because it will take me 2 years to completely stop it if I ho10%.

 

I’ve spoke to a compound pharmacy and they can help me get a plan maybe liquid form. 
 

I am also taking 0.5mg Ativan every two to three days. This one really helps me.


Thank you.

 

Edited by ChessieCat
added Intro topic title before merging with intro topic

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

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  • Moderator Emeritus

@annatino I've moved your new topic to your original Introduction topic.  Only one Introduction topic per member.

 

Please create your drug signature following these instructions which will let us see your drug history at a glance.  Please include ALL drugs, including the Ativan:

 

Instructions:  Withdrawal History Signature

 

3 minutes ago, annatino said:

I am also taking 0.5mg Ativan every two to three days.

 

Q:  How long have you been taking Ativan for?

 

I have asked the other staff for their assistance.

 

* 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

I have been taking Ativan on and off for 5 years small dosage 0.5mg rarely.

 

Took 0.5mg TDI for one month

and now I am taking 0.5mg every few days.

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

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  • Moderator Emeritus
On 2/22/2022 at 7:47 AM, annatino said:

They kept me 12 days on Paxil 40mg and Quietapine for sleep and 1mg Ativan.

Was feeling great and came home just to start all over and ended up in the hospital again.

I was put on 100mg Zoloft, 300x 2 a day Depakote,1.5mg Ativan and 15mg Mirzaten 

 

Please update your signature to include all of the drugs you've been on. A direct link to your signature is here:

 

 Account Settings – Create or Edit a signature

 

10 hours ago, annatino said:

I have been taking Ativan on and off for 5 years small dosage 0.5mg rarely.

 

Took 0.5mg TDI for one month

and now I am taking 0.5mg every few days.

 

You likely are going into withdrawal in between doses of Ativan. Ativan has a short half life of 10 - 20 hours, depending on how fast you metabolize it. So you likely are getting withdrawal symptoms on the days you don't take it. 

 

It's very hard to taper if you're taking benzos periodically. It's best to set up a consistent dosing schedule and use non-drug coping methods to get you through any breakthrough anxiety. 

 

What time(s) of the day do you take Ativan? Is it at night to help with sleep or during the day to help with anxiety? 

 

 

 

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5 hours ago, Shep said:

 

Please update your signature to include all of the drugs you've been on. A direct link to your signature is here:

 

 Account Settings – Create or Edit a signature

 

 

You likely are going into withdrawal in between doses of Ativan. Ativan has a short half life of 10 - 20 hours, depending on how fast you metabolize it. So you likely are getting withdrawal symptoms on the days you don't take it. 

 

It's very hard to taper if you're taking benzos periodically. It's best to set up a consistent dosing schedule and use non-drug coping methods to get you through any breakthrough anxiety. 

 

What time(s) of the day do you take Ativan? Is it at night to help with sleep or during the day to help with anxiety? 

 

I take Ativan in the mornings like 10 am.

I would like to stop the antidepressants but not sure if I should go faster then 10% a month because I was on Sertraline short time I want to go quickly. 
With Mirtazepine I want to go slower because I am on it for 9 months. This one really helps me get great sleep.

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

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5 hours ago, Shep said:

 

Please update your signature to include all of the drugs you've been on. A direct link to your signature is here:

 

 Account Settings – Create or Edit a signature

 

 

You likely are going into withdrawal in between doses of Ativan. Ativan has a short half life of 10 - 20 hours, depending on how fast you metabolize it. So you likely are getting withdrawal symptoms on the days you don't take it. 

 

It's very hard to taper if you're taking benzos periodically. It's best to set up a consistent dosing schedule and use non-drug coping methods to get you through any breakthrough anxiety. 

 

What time(s) of the day do you take Ativan? Is it at night to help with sleep or during the day to help with anxiety? 

 

I actually stoped Ativan 0.5mg on and off and Prozac 20mg  cold turkey for 5 months with no issues.

It was because moving back and forth from Canada to Europe twice in a year got me into huge stress and my anxiety came back and went into insane roller coaster. 
That is when I have decided to go back on AD’s and swap them in few days because I was having horrible side effects.

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

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5 hours ago, Shep said:

 

Please update your signature to include all of the drugs you've been on. A direct link to your signature is here:

 

 Account Settings – Create or Edit a signature

 

 

You likely are going into withdrawal in between doses of Ativan. Ativan has a short half life of 10 - 20 hours, depending on how fast you metabolize it. So you likely are getting withdrawal symptoms on the days you don't take it. 

 

It's very hard to taper if you're taking benzos periodically. It's best to set up a consistent dosing schedule and use non-drug coping methods to get you through any breakthrough anxiety. 

 

What time(s) of the day do you take Ativan? Is it at night to help with sleep or during the day to help with anxiety? 

 

What would you like me to update?

Paxil and Quatepine was given to me for short time, like 5 days in hospital and I dad bad reaction and the doctor put me on Sertraline.

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

Link to comment
18 hours ago, ChessieCat said:

@annatino I've moved your new topic to your original Introduction topic.  Only one Introduction topic per member.

 

Please create your drug signature following these instructions which will let us see your drug history at a glance.  Please include ALL drugs, including the Ativan:

 

Instructions:  Withdrawal History Signature

 

 

Q:  How long have you been taking Ativan for?

 

I have asked the other staff for their assistance.

 

Is anyone here helping with my post? I would like to know if there is a method on how to stop two antidepressants. 

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

Link to comment
2 minutes ago, annatino said:

What would you like me to update?

Paxil and Quatepine was given to me for short time, like 5 days in hospital and I dad bad reaction and the doctor put me on Sertraline.

Or 12 day, cannot remember total of days.

I had* bad reaction.

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

Link to comment

Hello @annatino

I'm sorry you are suffering from withdrawal symptoms. 

 

The mods are asking you to update your drug signature (see quote box below for instructions). 

That's the bit of text that appears at the bottom of each of your posts. 

The reason it's helpful for the mods is it allows all your drug history to be collected in one place beneath each post. 

This way the mods don't have to spend time reading through your whole intro topic trying to piece together your history based on past correspondence. 

Also, it keeps your drug history up to date so that the mods get all the information summarized. The mods can only advise based on what is provided. 

 

6 hours ago, Shep said:

Please update your signature to include all of the drugs you've been on. A direct link to your signature is here:

 

 Account Settings – Create or Edit a signature

 

Remember to press "save" when you are done making changes. 

 

51 minutes ago, annatino said:

Is anyone here helping with my post? I would like to know if there is a method on how to stop two antidepressants. 

 

SA moderators are all unpaid volunteer staff who are themselves psychiatric survivors or currently still tapering and in WD recovery.

They have families, jobs, full lives outside of SA and when they have free time, they give generously helping SA members come off of psych drugs.

There are many members in need of assistance and fewer mods than there are members.

It may take a day or two before someone is available to respond to your requests.

Please be patient and someone will be with you as soon as they can. 

 

Meanwhile, you might use this time to update your drug signature (which will help the mods help you).

You might search SA to acquaint yourself with the many resources available to you. 

For example, you might browse the Symptoms and Self-Care Forum, or maybe enjoy reading some Success Stories from members who have recovered. 

 

Best of luck to you on your healing journey,

In solidarity and support, 

A.

1996-2018 - misc. polypharmacy, incl. SSRIs, SNRIs, neuroleptics, lithium, benzos, stimulants, antihistamines, etc. (approx. 30+ drugs)

2012-2018 - 10mg lexapro/escitalopram (20mg?)    Jan. 2018 - 10mg -> 5mg, then from 5mg -> 2.5mg, then 0mg  -->  July 2018 - 0mg

2017(?)-2020 - vyvanse/lisdexamfetamine 60-70mg    2020-2021 - 70mg down to 0mg  -->  July 2021 - 0mg

March-April 2021 - vortioxetine 5-10mg (approx. 7 weeks total; CT)  -->  April 28th, 2021 - 0mg

supplements: magnesium powder (dissolved in water) as needed throughout the day; 1 tsp fish oil w/ morning meal; 2mg melatonin 

August 1, 2022 - 1 mg melatonin

 

Courage is fear that has said its prayers.  - Karle Wilson Baker

love and justice are not two. without inner change, there can be no outer change; without collective change, no change matters.  - Rev. angel Kyodo williams

Holding multiple truths. Knowing that everyone has their own accurate view of the way things are.  - text on homemade banner at Afiya house

 

I am not a medical professional; this is not medical advice. 

Link to comment

Hi Ariel.

 

Thank you for the reply. 
 

I will update the signature now.

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus
17 hours ago, annatino said:

I take Ativan in the mornings like 10 am.

I would like to stop the antidepressants but not sure if I should go faster then 10% a month because I was on Sertraline short time I want to go quickly. 
With Mirtazepine I want to go slower because I am on it for 9 months. This one really helps me get great sleep.

 

I wouldn't go faster than 10%. It only takes 1 month to become dependent on an antidepressant. You've been on sertraline since November 2021. You've been on drugs that affect serotonin since 2008, which is 14 years. So your body is likely very dependent on serotonin drugs. 

 

17 hours ago, annatino said:

I would like to know if there is a method on how to stop two antidepressants. 

 

Yes, you'll want to taper the activating drug first and stay on the sedating drug to help with sleep. That would mean coming off the sertraline first followed by Ativan and then mirtazapine, since that drug helps with sleep. Please see:

 

Taking multiple psych drugs? Which drug to taper first?

 

Here is a plan for what to do going forward:

 

  1. Get on a regular dosing schedule with the Ativan. Take the same amount at the same time(s) of the day. With its short half-life, you may want to take it 3 - 4 times a day to avoid interdose withdrawal with a total daily dose that does not exceed 0.5 mg. So you would divide the 0.5 mg up into several doses taken throughout the day. Please get a journal or use a Word or Google Doc to keep track of when you need to take your doses and set alarms on your phone. This will help you stay on track. You'll want to avoid taking Ativan with sertraline and with mirtazapine  due to drug interactions (explained later in this post).
  2. Once you've stabilized on a regular Ativan dosing schedule, come off the sertraline.
  3. Once you've stabilized from tapering sertraline, taper the mirtazapine. 

Here is some information on tapering sertraline:

 

Tips for tapering off sertraline (Zoloft)

Why taper by 10% of my dosage?

 

There is a number of drug interactions with your drug cocktail:

 

Drug interaction report - sertraline, Ativan, mirtazapine

 

You're already taking the mirtazapine at night and the sertraline in the morning, so that will help with that drug interaction. You'll want to space your Ativan apart from the sertraline and the mirtazapine to help mitigate those drug interactions. 

 

For symptoms in between your doses, you may find some relief in practicing non-drug coping techniques:

 

Non-drug techniques to cope with emotional symptoms

 

Please let us know if you have any questions about setting up a regular dosing schedule for the Ativan. Because you were taking 0.5 mg every few days, you may not need that high a dose to stabilize. You may try a total daily dose of .25 mg and see if that's enough. 

 

 

Link to comment
6 hours ago, Shep said:

You've been on sertraline since November 2021.


Thank you for detailed explanation.

 

I was taking Sertraline one month only then stopped it.

I returned to it in June, and now I am on 25mg capsule plus on other 25mg capsule taking powder off by eye like half of the amount for past 10 days. 

I don’t have the Gemini scale yet. 
 

I was planning to take the remaining of the one out of two 25mg capsules for another two weeks then stay on 25mg for a month and start my proper tapper 10% a month with the scale.

 

I am in Toronto and Sertraline comes in capsules.

In November 2021 I was in Europe and Sertraline was in a tablet form, easy to split.

 

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

Link to comment
6 hours ago, Shep said:

Get on a regular dosing schedule with the Ativan. Take the same amount at the same time(s) of the day. With its short half-life, you may want to take it 3 - 4 times a day to avoid interdose withdrawal with a total daily dose that does not exceed 0.5 mg.

I have a method that I think would work.

 

Here is the link, please let me know what you think about it:

 

 

 

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

Link to comment
7 hours ago, Shep said:

So your body is likely very dependent on serotonin drugs. 

I would probably ask my doctor to get me back on Prozac.

Would that be easier to stop Sertraline and start 10mg Prozac and stay with it for a while?

I suffer of OCD, and when I am under stress, I get intrusive thoughts about the most dear person to me.

I literally avoid specific numbers, and I associate everything to death.

It is very painful to get these unwanted morbid thoughts and was thinking what if my disorder will be worst if I won’t take Prozac. 
I know that Sertraline is not for me because my intrusive thoughts are worst on this drug.

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

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  • Moderator Emeritus
17 hours ago, annatino said:

I would probably ask my doctor to get me back on Prozac.

Would that be easier to stop Sertraline and start 10mg Prozac and stay with it for a while?

 

You haven't been on Prozac for 16 months. Reinstating it now would be very risky. Reinstatements work best up to a few months after coming off the drug. 

 

You were on sertraline for over a month, which is long enough to become dependent on it. 

 

Also, while you're setting up a consistent benzo dosing schedule is not a good time to change your antidepressant. Only one change at a time and changing your benzo dosing is a change. Please see:

 

The rule of 3KIS: Keep it simple. Keep it slow. Keep it stable.

 

17 hours ago, annatino said:

I suffer of OCD, and when I am under stress, I get intrusive thoughts about the most dear person to me.

I literally avoid specific numbers, and I associate everything to death.

It is very painful to get these unwanted morbid thoughts and was thinking what if my disorder will be worst if I won’t take Prozac. 
I know that Sertraline is not for me because my intrusive thoughts are worst on this drug.

 

 

On 2/27/2022 at 5:26 AM, annatino said:

it’s been 4 days and I am feeling normal, thank God.

I am off meds, Zoloft and only taking 7mg Mirsaten to help me sleep.

 

I'm looking at your questions being asked today and comparing it to where you were back in February when you reported you were feeling normal.

 

Do you know what changed during this time? 

 

For OCD symptoms, please see:

 

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or OCD: Repetitive, intrusive thoughts, compulsive behaviors

 

"Change the channel" -- dealing with cognitive symptoms

 

What time(s) of day are you taking your drugs and the doses? Have you set up a regular benzo dosing schedule? 

 

 

Link to comment
8 hours ago, Shep said:

 

You haven't been on Prozac for 16 months. Reinstating it now would be very risky. Reinstatements work best up to a few months after coming off the drug. 

 

You were on sertraline for over a month, which is long enough to become dependent on it. 

 

Also, while you're setting up a consistent benzo dosing schedule is not a good time to change your antidepressant. Only one change at a time and changing your benzo dosing is a change. Please see:

 

The rule of 3KIS: Keep it simple. Keep it slow. Keep it stable.

 

 

 

 

I'm looking at your questions being asked today and comparing it to where you were back in February when you reported you were feeling normal.

 

Do you know what changed during this time? 

 

For OCD symptoms, please see:

 

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or OCD: Repetitive, intrusive thoughts, compulsive behaviors

 

"Change the channel" -- dealing with cognitive symptoms

 

What time(s) of day are you taking your drugs and the doses? Have you set up a regular benzo dosing schedule? 

I take Zoloft at noon and Mirtazepine at 10 pm

 

I set up 0.125 Lorazepam at 10 pm and the second half at 5pm.

 

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

Link to comment
9 hours ago, Shep said:

Do you know what changed during this time? 

In February 2022 I was in Europe at my parents and we moved back to Toronto at the end of March.
 

I moved back and forth countries twice in one year.

 

I now am with my son back to the country we lived for past 20 years and he is happy here.

 

We were living in Airbnb for two months and had very noisy tenants upstairs that really stressed me.

 

Finally because my son works full time, we got an apartment in May and because I had panic attacks from the stress at the Airbnb place I was asking my doctor to put me on Sertraline.

 

I went down hill after I reached 100mg and like I said, I reduced the dosage to 75mg in couple weeks then to 50mg and now I am around 35mg.

 

I am feeling guilty because I am not able to keep a full time job and my son should be back in school instead working full time and paying the bills. 
 

So, it is a lot on my heart to handle. 

 

 

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

Link to comment
9 hours ago, Shep said:

changing your benzo dosing is a change

I am now taking 0.5mg Ativan a day for past few days continuously and I am afraid what if I will develop tolerance.

When should I start tapering the Ativan?

I cannot take risks and stay on it until I am completely off Zoloft because this taper will take at least a year.
 

I want to ask you something about my disorder.

 

How could we explain that when I started feeling ill in 2004, I struggled with anxiety/ocd for many years, and had never been taking any psychiatric medication?

 

Then in 2008 or 2009 I’ve decided taking Prozac for which helped 80% and was functional, but now how do I know it’s not my disorder coming back?

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

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  • Moderator Emeritus
13 hours ago, annatino said:

I take Zoloft at noon and Mirtazepine at 10 pm

 

I set up 0.125 Lorazepam at 10 pm and the second half at 5pm.

 

12 hours ago, annatino said:

I am now taking 0.5mg Ativan a day for past few days continuously and I am afraid what if I will develop tolerance.

 

Please confirm your Ativan dose - you mention taking 0.125 mg at 10 PM and the second half at 5 PM. That's only 0.25 mg (not 0.5 mg). 

 

As far as developing tolerance, you have a long history with benzodiazepines, including coming off and on them and periodic dosing, which can be traumatizing to the nervous system, in addition to being dependent on it. Coming off and on benzos can cause nervous system kindling.

 

Benzo Kindling

 

Many people have no problem coming off of benzos the first time. But each subsequent time, the withdrawal is worse. For people who have been on and off benzos, we recommend a very slow taper. 

 

13 hours ago, annatino said:

When should I start tapering the Ativan?

I cannot take risks and stay on it until I am completely off Zoloft because this taper will take at least a year.

 

Both Ativan and Zoloft cause dependency. With a 10% or less reduction in your drug cocktail each month, you won't get off the entire cocktail faster by tapering Ativan first. I would taper the Zoloft first. Removing a benzo while still on an SSRI can increase your chances of developing insomnia, anxiety, and akathisia. 

 

13 hours ago, annatino said:

I want to ask you something about my disorder.

 

How could we explain that when I started feeling ill in 2004, I struggled with anxiety/ocd for many years, and had never been taking any psychiatric medication?

 

Then in 2008 or 2009 I’ve decided taking Prozac for which helped 80% and was functional, but now how do I know it’s not my disorder coming back?

 

Please see:

 

 

How do I know it's withdrawal and not relapse?

 

Prozac, and other antidepressants, have a very high active placebo effect. It's unlikely you're suffering from a mind "disorder." A healthy diet, plenty of exercise, and learning some non-drug coping skills will help you cope with intense feelings and annoying thoughts. 

 

Non-drug techniques to cope with emotional symptoms

 

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or OCD: Repetitive, intrusive thoughts, compulsive behaviors

 

13 hours ago, annatino said:

I am feeling guilty because I am not able to keep a full time job and my son should be back in school instead working full time and paying the bills. 
 

So, it is a lot on my heart to handle. 

 

You have nothing to feel guilty about. You didn't ask to get sick from these drugs. You were simply following your doctor's instructions. It's great you have a son who's able to help out. 

 

 

 

 

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7 hours ago, Shep said:

Please confirm your Ativan dose - you mention taking 0.125 mg at 10 PM and the second half at 5 PM. That's only 0.25 mg (not 0.5 mg). 


My apologize Shep.

 

I meant to say at 10 am and 5 pm.

 

I never been taking Ativan daily more then a month so wonder if I will take now every day 0.5mg could I take it in small bits like four times a day instead two? Or I should just take the whole 0.5mg once a day like 10am.

I am worried that this will create a tolerance if I continue taking it daily until I am off Zoloft.

My ears are hissing from tinnitus and the worst part that I am afraid is the anxiety or ocd/low mood withdrawals.

 

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

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7 hours ago, Shep said:

You have nothing to feel guilty about. You didn't ask to get sick from these drugs. You were simply following your doctor's instructions

I am so furious at all doctors. I never trust any GP or psychiatrist again. 
My son always told me that he never trusted them because they didn’t healed me, they making things worst.

 

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

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7 hours ago, Shep said:

It's great you have a son who's able to help out. 

I am truly blessed to have such an amazing child from God. 
I just want to be able to work so I can help him with the bills.

He cannot save anything for himself.

He needs to start college and build a career that he loves. 

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

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I was taking two capsules of 25mg (50mg a day) Sertraline each for past month after the doctor wanted me on 100mg (only stayed at this dose for one week)

I didn’t agree and tapered after one week to 75mg and after two weeks at 50mg where I stayed for a month, till a week ago.

 

I don’t have a scale yet so the last week I’ve been reducing half of one 25mg capsule by the eye, so I am guessing I take 35mg total a day. 
 

Also I take 0.5mg Ativan at 10 am for few days straight as you told me but yesterday and today I decided to split it in half and take it at 10 am and 5 pm.

 

Today I woke up at 7 am with anxiety and felt strange then I took half of 0.5mg Ativan right away instead at 10 am.

 

I went back to bed and felt better when I woke up couple hours later.

 

 

Around 2:30 pm I started to feel the horrendous adrenaline rush sensation and took right away the other half Ativan. (0.5mg total a day)

 

I also have my period today and I believe I am going through perimenopause so I really don’t know what is causing me to feel this way and what should I do.

 

Should I go back to 50mg Sertraline and start reducing 10% every month after I buy the Gemini scale and should I also take 0.5mg full tablet at 10 am instead taking it twice halved a day? 
 

Thank you so much for your help I really need someone to guide me trough this because I am terrified with those horrible sensations that all started last year which threw me in hospitals four times.  

I don’t feel anymore of who I used to be. 
This is insanity what I had to endure and changed me into a scared woman.

 

I want to be strong and secure again like I used to be. 
I raised my son alone without a father and I was able to function well while  taking Prozac. 
 

What can I do to get back to what I was? Will I ever heal?
 

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

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I was taking two capsules of 25mg (50mg a day) Sertraline each for past month after the doctor wanted me on 100mg (only stayed at this dose for one week)

I didn’t agree and tapered after one week to 75mg and after two weeks at 50mg where I stayed for a month, till a week ago.

 

I don’t have a scale yet so the last week I’ve been reducing half of one 25mg capsule by the eye, so I am guessing I take 35mg total a day. 
 

Also I take 0.5mg Ativan at 10 am for few days straight as you told me but yesterday and today I decided to split it in half and take it at 10 am and 5 pm.

 

Today I woke up at 7 am with anxiety and felt strange then I took half of 0.5mg Ativan right away instead at 10 am.

 

I went back to bed and felt better when I woke up couple hours later.

 

 

Around 2:30 pm I started to feel the horrendous adrenaline rush sensation and took right away the other half Ativan. (0.5mg total a day)

 

I also have my period today and I believe I am going through perimenopause so I really don’t know what is causing me to feel this way and what should I do.

 

Should I go back to 50mg Sertraline and start reducing 10% every month after I buy the Gemini scale and should I also take 0.5mg full tablet at 10 am instead taking it twice halved a day? 
 

Thank you so much for your help I really need someone to guide me trough this because I am terrified with those horrible sensations that all started last year which threw me in hospitals four times.  

I don’t feel anymore of who I used to be. 
This is insanity what I had to endure and changed me into a scared woman.

 

I want to be strong and secure again.

 

 

*Just an update.

 

So after I took the other half of 0.5mg Ativan, about an hour and a half, I feel ok.

Just my tinnitus is hissing into my brain.

So I am thinking is the stupid Ativan 😕 that’s causing these waves?

 

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

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  • Moderator Emeritus
8 hours ago, annatino said:

Or I should just take the whole 0.5mg once a day like 10am.

 

Ativan's half life is between 12-18 hours so it is better to take it at least twice a day, otherwise you may experience interdose withdrawal.

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *

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

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

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

 VIDEO:   Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome and its Management

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  • Moderator Emeritus
5 hours ago, annatino said:

Should I go back to 50mg Sertraline

 

If you are currently taking 35mg, then going back to 50mg might be too much.  When making increases in dose it is better to make a small increase rather than risk taking too much.  It takes about 4 days for a dose to get to full level in the blood and a bit longer for it to register in the brain.

 

Please DO NOT go back to 50mg sertraline.  It could make things worse.

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *

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

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

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

 VIDEO:   Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome and its Management

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17 minutes ago, ChessieCat said:

take it at least twice a day, otherwise you may experience interdose withdrawal.

Thank you.

I did this and will keep it this way till I get of Sertraline.

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

Link to comment
14 minutes ago, ChessieCat said:

Please DO NOT go back to 50mg sertraline.  It could make things worse.

I keep this way.

 

Thank you for confirming this to me.

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

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  • Moderator Emeritus
18 hours ago, annatino said:

I never been taking Ativan daily more then a month so wonder if I will take now every day 0.5mg could I take it in small bits like four times a day instead two? Or I should just take the whole 0.5mg once a day like 10am.

I am worried that this will create a tolerance if I continue taking it daily until I am off Zoloft.

 

Here is a sign that you're already tolerant:

 

15 hours ago, annatino said:

Also I take 0.5mg Ativan at 10 am for few days straight as you told me but yesterday and today I decided to split it in half and take it at 10 am and 5 pm.

 

Today I woke up at 7 am with anxiety and felt strange then I took half of 0.5mg Ativan right away instead at 10 am.

 

I went back to bed and felt better when I woke up couple hours later.

 

 

Around 2:30 pm I started to feel the horrendous adrenaline rush sensation and took right away the other half Ativan. (0.5mg total a day)

 

Because you felt better after you took you took the Ativan, it may be a sign that you're dependent and suffering from interdose withdrawal. 

 

Please be careful of taking it at odd times of the day. Sticking to the same dosing schedule every day is extremely important. If you feel you need to take it more than twice a day, then divide your 0.5 mg daily dose into 3 or 4 doses and then stick to taking it at the same times every day. Consistency is very important. Please note the more you divide the dose, the lower the peak concentration, meaning that you may not get the same amount of relief. For example, you may feel the effects of the drug at .25 mg taken twice a day more than .125 mg taken four times a day. You'll have to decide how tolerable your symptoms are in between the doses. 

 

Non-drug coping skills, such as learning to distract with breathing techniques, gentle yoga or stretching, watching a favorite TV or internet show, listening to calming music, etc. can all help you get through the hours in between doses. It's important to start learning the non-drug coping skills now so you'll have mastered them by the time you're done with your taper. We all have to learn these skills to live our lives drug free. 

 

If you feel your symptoms come on, it's important to change the channel

 

15 hours ago, annatino said:

I also have my period today and I believe I am going through perimenopause so I really don’t know what is causing me to feel this way and what should I do.

 

Yes, upticks in symptoms are definitely common. Please see:

 

PMS, PMDD, and menstrual cycle issues during withdrawal and after

 

Older female issues: perimenopause, menopause, WD or something else

 

 

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3 hours ago, Shep said:

 

Please be careful of taking it at odd times of the day. Sticking to the same dosing schedule every day is extremely important. If you feel you need to take it more than twice a day, then divide your 0.5 mg daily dose into 3 or 4 doses and then stick to taking it at the same times every day.

That’s what I am afraid of the tolerance because I don’t want to increase this dose.

I want to stay at 0.5mg a day until

I get off Zoloft.

 

 

2008-2020 Prozac  60-40mg 

2020 - Prozac 20mg - 0mg 

2021 April -  Prozac 40mg  and  Klonopin  0.75mg - stoped CT after one month and ended up in emergency for three days and was added Lexapro 5mg - for couple weeks and quit. 
2021 NovemberPaxil 40mg  and Quetapine 50mg for 12 days then switched to Sertraline 100mg and Mirtazepine 15mg  for sleep plus 0.5mg Ativan TID 

2021 November Sertraline 100mg rapid taper to 0mg  till February•remained on Mirtazepine 7.5mg  and 0.5 Ativan  when needed

2022 June  - Reinstated Sertraline 25mg increased to 100mg weekly  for one month and ended up in ***hospital again*** because the side effects.  Tapered after couple weeks to Sertraline 50mg, Ativan 0.5mg  TID, Mirtazepine 15mg.

July - when I reached to SD forum and was stabilized on Sert 50mg • Ati 0.25mg BID  • Mirt 15mg  - August - Sert 35mg •Mirt 15mg • Ati 0.5mg >> Sept & Oct >> Tapering - November - Sert 29mg • Mirt 11mg •Ati 0.3mg - December- Sert 25mg • Mirt 10mg •Ati 0.15mg 

2023 January - Sert 25mg • Mirt 9mg • Ati 0.11mg >> HOLD  - February  - Sert 25mg • Mirt 8mg • Ati 0.11mg

2023 May Sert 18mg • Mirt 7.5mg • Ati ZERO !!!

2023 November -  Sert 7mg• Mirt 7.5mg.

2023 December - STOPPED Sert Tried  Prozac 20mg for four days then stoped  • Ati 0,5mg (split a day for past month) • Mirt 7.5mg 

2024 January- Mirt 7.5mg • Ati  0.5mg • Supplemets: Omega 3 - 3000mg • Profferin 30mg (iron deficiency)

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