Roady: Lexapro withdrawal

[Roady]

Hi there, 

I was taking 10-20mg lexapro for 3 years and recently decided to come off. Doctor advised following taper shedule: 2 weeks alternating 10 - 5 mg. 2 weeks on 5mg. 2 weeks skipping alternate days. 2 weeks skipping 2 days and then off. I've been off for 2 weeks now and feeling terrible. Less worried about the emotional symptoms but feeling completely ground down and at my wits end by constant niggly physical symptoms.(headaches, muscle tension, nausea, inability to focus, fatigue, sore glands)  A friend told me that taking fluoxetine temporarily really minimised her withdrawal symptoms. I'm unsure what to do. Did I taper too quickly? And in which case do I go back on a tiny dose or try fluoxetine? Or is it early days and I should be feeling this crap and do I just need to ride it out? Any advice would be so greatly appreciated as its completely limiting my life. 

[Frogie]

@Roady

 

Welcome to SA. We are a volunteer ran site, helping member such as yourself taper off, or have tapered off and now healing from antidepressants and other psychotic medications.

 

This is your introduction page where you will receive information, ask questions, and meet other members. We ask that each member only have one introduction page so we can keep all your information in one place.

 

First, can you please create a signature. Thank you.

 

Instructions:  Withdrawal History Signature

 

We don't suggest a taper higher than 10% a month, and never skip doses. That is why you are now in wd.

 

Tips for tapering off escitalopram (Lexapro)

 

NEVER SKIP DOSES TO TAPER

Dr. Joseph Glenmullen's withdrawal symptom checklist

Why taper by 10% of my dosage?

 

At this point, I would not suggest you go on fluoxetine. Your body is too sensitized by doing the taper you did. I would suggest you go back on 0.5 mg Lexapro and hold for a while until your symptoms get better, then taper very slowly.

 

About reinstating and stabilizing to reduce withdrawal symptoms

 

What is withdrawal syndrome?

 

We don't recommend a lot of supplements on here except 2. You could try one in a small amount, wait a few days before introducing the other.

 

Magnesium

Omega-3 Fish Oil

 

After you read the links provided, please reach out to us with any questions.

 

 

[Roady]

Just some advice regarding administering 0.5mg of escatilopram. I've only ever taken tablets but I know they do 20mg solution. What would be the best way of taking 0.5mg? 

[Frogie]

@Roady

 

If you can get liquid that would be best.

 

You can also make your own liquid.

 

How to make a liquid from tablets or capsules