PortugueseSea Posted September 29, 2022 Share Posted September 29, 2022 13 hours ago, EttaLouWho said: Family has pulled together and vowed to support me. Mom wants me to move home so she can help take care of me. Sister promises to help in any way she can. I'm in constant terror but my family believes I have akathisia and promises not to force medicate me and help me through. Talking to boss about relocating out of state. This is excellent news and I am very glad your family pulled together to help you; like me, you need support and family is the best place to get it if possible. Get your drug interactions report and be specific about the meds, I am very sorry you had a very rough afternoon and evening. I hope that we get your sleep to improve sooner rather than later. We are rooting for you! December 2021 - Metoclopramide started. Akathisia symptoms start; Metoclopramide gets changed to PRN. March 2022 - Akathisia diagnosed; Metoclopramide stopped; Propranolol 10mg x twice a day. Biperiden PRN (0.5mg to 1mg). April 2022 - Tandospirone 30mg (10mg 3x day), Quetiapine 25mg (only taken once, immediate adr). Mirtazapine 7.5mg. . Discontinued Propranolol. May 2022 - Mirtazapine upped to 15mg. Tandospirone cut to 2x 10mg. Low dose Depakote for the month; 100 to 200 to 100 to 0. Mirtazapine cut back to 11.75mg (3/4 of a 15mg pill).June 2022 - Mirtazapine updose to 15mg. Tandospirone, Biperiden discontinued. Klonopin started PRN (0.5mg). September 2022 - Akathisia slowly starts improving, WD/ADR normal sets in in mid September. Hold for 4 months.March 2023 - Off mirtazapine; no Klonopin for 5 months either! Started quercetin (250mg x 2) to soften the histamine rebound. May 2023 - Stopped quercetin and changed from magnesium carbonate to oxide - reacted badly. Reverted back to carbonate. June 2023 - Added fish oil.Current regimen: CALM Magnesium (Carbonate into Citrate) 175mg x2; Vitamin E 268mg x2; Fish oil (100mg Omega3; EPA 30mg; DHA 37mg)x2 Intro thread: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/topic/27095-portuguesesea-metoclopramide-akathisia-and-mirtazapine/ Link to comment
EttaLouWho Posted September 29, 2022 Author Share Posted September 29, 2022 Thanks @PortugueseSea I posted the drug interactions report so hopefully that will help. I hope you’re continuing to feel better. Thank you for the support. 1 1995 Prozac 1996 Prozac and Paxil 1997 Celexa 1998-2018 Cymbalta 60-120mg-- failed taper and restarted at 20mg after development of intense rage--finally able to taper off in late 2018 2017-2021 Clonazepam 0.5mg BID--discontinued over 4 weeks in April 2021 resulting in severe benzo withdrawal for 5 months maybe still ongoing at time of AD rapid taper in Dec 2021 2018-2019 Bupropion *Have been polydrugged since 1995 with a variety of benzos, sleeping pills, anxioltyics, and ADs. Too many to list or remember. Never properly tapered by doctor before switching medicines* 2020 Started on Buspirone 15mg three times a day 2020-2021 Antidepressant was changed three times: Trintellix, Pristiq, Fluvoxamine. Underwent 6 months of ketamine infusions. Advised to discontinue all meds due to inefficacy in November 2021. Weaned off Fluvoxamine by psychiatrist over 6 weeks-- last dose ~December 10, 2021. Severe ongoing withdrawal. February 2021 Started on 300mg Gabapentin for anxiety, restless legs, insomnia, and wide spread body pain from withdrawal. Began Gabapentin taper to 200mg on 8/5/2022. Worsened withdrawal symptoms. Also began 2000mg of L-Tryptophan for depression/AD withdrawal, 2400mg of N Acetyl Cysteine for OCD and 300mg of Magnesium for depression. Began L-Tryptophan taper from 2000mg to 1500mg on 8/14/2022. Completed l-tryptophan and NAC taper on 8/29/2022. Current Meds: 15mg of Buspirone twice a day (morning and night since 2020), 5 mg Buspirone at midday (Started taper of midday dose from 15mg to 5 mg in September 2023) , 200mg of gabapentin at night (Since August 2022), 1mg of alprazolam at night (Started at 0.25mg in Jan 2023 and gradually upped to 1-2mg three times a week until end of 11/2023--reinstated 1mg daily on 12/1/2023), 80mg propranolol in the morning, 10mg Zyrtec in the morning, birth control pills Current Supplements: 300 mg of magnesium citrate midday, 1000mg of Fish Oil in the morning, 1mg melatonin at night Link to comment
EttaLouWho Posted September 29, 2022 Author Share Posted September 29, 2022 Wednesday 9/28/2022 5:45am Wake in panic/shaking, diarrhea 6:00am 15mg buspirone, 50mg metoprolol, 10mg zyrtec, 100 mg magnesium, probiotic, drink Glucerna shake for breakfast 6:15am Walk dog 6:30am Call family for support, suicidal ideation 7:30am Body turns ice cold, full body shaking begins 9:00am Extreme fatigue, need to pace, shaking lessens a bit 9:30am-11:00am A bit better 11:00am-12:00pm Therapy, crying, despondent 12:30pm 100mg magnesium, 1000mg fish oil, 15mg buspirone--eat hummus and ezekiel bread and veggie burger patties 12:45pm-2:50pm Mild anxiety 2:50pm Feel panic attack building 3:00pm Diarrhea 3:10pm-9:00pm Anxiety, depression, bouts of crying 9:00pm 200 mg gabapentin, 15mg buspirone, birth control, 12.5mg benadryl 9:00pm-10:00pm Seek support from friend, suicidal ideation 10:15pm Sleep Slept better than usual. 1995 Prozac 1996 Prozac and Paxil 1997 Celexa 1998-2018 Cymbalta 60-120mg-- failed taper and restarted at 20mg after development of intense rage--finally able to taper off in late 2018 2017-2021 Clonazepam 0.5mg BID--discontinued over 4 weeks in April 2021 resulting in severe benzo withdrawal for 5 months maybe still ongoing at time of AD rapid taper in Dec 2021 2018-2019 Bupropion *Have been polydrugged since 1995 with a variety of benzos, sleeping pills, anxioltyics, and ADs. Too many to list or remember. Never properly tapered by doctor before switching medicines* 2020 Started on Buspirone 15mg three times a day 2020-2021 Antidepressant was changed three times: Trintellix, Pristiq, Fluvoxamine. Underwent 6 months of ketamine infusions. Advised to discontinue all meds due to inefficacy in November 2021. Weaned off Fluvoxamine by psychiatrist over 6 weeks-- last dose ~December 10, 2021. Severe ongoing withdrawal. February 2021 Started on 300mg Gabapentin for anxiety, restless legs, insomnia, and wide spread body pain from withdrawal. Began Gabapentin taper to 200mg on 8/5/2022. Worsened withdrawal symptoms. Also began 2000mg of L-Tryptophan for depression/AD withdrawal, 2400mg of N Acetyl Cysteine for OCD and 300mg of Magnesium for depression. Began L-Tryptophan taper from 2000mg to 1500mg on 8/14/2022. Completed l-tryptophan and NAC taper on 8/29/2022. Current Meds: 15mg of Buspirone twice a day (morning and night since 2020), 5 mg Buspirone at midday (Started taper of midday dose from 15mg to 5 mg in September 2023) , 200mg of gabapentin at night (Since August 2022), 1mg of alprazolam at night (Started at 0.25mg in Jan 2023 and gradually upped to 1-2mg three times a week until end of 11/2023--reinstated 1mg daily on 12/1/2023), 80mg propranolol in the morning, 10mg Zyrtec in the morning, birth control pills Current Supplements: 300 mg of magnesium citrate midday, 1000mg of Fish Oil in the morning, 1mg melatonin at night Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted September 29, 2022 Administrator Share Posted September 29, 2022 Please be sure to include supplements you are taking in your daily drug notes. Suggest you stop taking magnesium in the morning and magnesium and fish oil in the afternoon. This can cause diarrhea. It appears that there's something in your morning drug batch causing an adverse effect: Quote 6:00am 15mg buspirone, 50mg metoprolol, 10mg zyrtec, 100 mg magnesium, probiotic, drink Glucerna shake for breakfast 6:15am Walk dog 6:30am Call family for support, suicidal ideation 7:30am Body turns ice cold, full body shaking begins 9:00am Extreme fatigue, need to pace, shaking lessens a bit 9:30am-11:00am A bit better You may be having an adverse reaction to buspirone or the drug combination. How do you feel after your 9:00 p.m. drug batch -- better, worse, the same? 8 hours ago, EttaLouWho said: 9:00pm 200 mg gabapentin, 15mg buspirone, birth control, 12.5mg benadryl 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. Link to comment
EttaLouWho Posted September 29, 2022 Author Share Posted September 29, 2022 I feel ok after taking the evening drug dose. No noticeable differences. Food seems to affect my sleep and mood the most at night. I was eating one to two medjool dates but I think the sugar is making me have panic attacks. Do you not think the diarrhea is associated with the panic attacks and anxiety? They seem to always occur together. 1 1995 Prozac 1996 Prozac and Paxil 1997 Celexa 1998-2018 Cymbalta 60-120mg-- failed taper and restarted at 20mg after development of intense rage--finally able to taper off in late 2018 2017-2021 Clonazepam 0.5mg BID--discontinued over 4 weeks in April 2021 resulting in severe benzo withdrawal for 5 months maybe still ongoing at time of AD rapid taper in Dec 2021 2018-2019 Bupropion *Have been polydrugged since 1995 with a variety of benzos, sleeping pills, anxioltyics, and ADs. Too many to list or remember. Never properly tapered by doctor before switching medicines* 2020 Started on Buspirone 15mg three times a day 2020-2021 Antidepressant was changed three times: Trintellix, Pristiq, Fluvoxamine. Underwent 6 months of ketamine infusions. Advised to discontinue all meds due to inefficacy in November 2021. Weaned off Fluvoxamine by psychiatrist over 6 weeks-- last dose ~December 10, 2021. Severe ongoing withdrawal. February 2021 Started on 300mg Gabapentin for anxiety, restless legs, insomnia, and wide spread body pain from withdrawal. Began Gabapentin taper to 200mg on 8/5/2022. Worsened withdrawal symptoms. Also began 2000mg of L-Tryptophan for depression/AD withdrawal, 2400mg of N Acetyl Cysteine for OCD and 300mg of Magnesium for depression. Began L-Tryptophan taper from 2000mg to 1500mg on 8/14/2022. Completed l-tryptophan and NAC taper on 8/29/2022. Current Meds: 15mg of Buspirone twice a day (morning and night since 2020), 5 mg Buspirone at midday (Started taper of midday dose from 15mg to 5 mg in September 2023) , 200mg of gabapentin at night (Since August 2022), 1mg of alprazolam at night (Started at 0.25mg in Jan 2023 and gradually upped to 1-2mg three times a week until end of 11/2023--reinstated 1mg daily on 12/1/2023), 80mg propranolol in the morning, 10mg Zyrtec in the morning, birth control pills Current Supplements: 300 mg of magnesium citrate midday, 1000mg of Fish Oil in the morning, 1mg melatonin at night Link to comment
PortugueseSea Posted September 30, 2022 Share Posted September 30, 2022 Sugar can definitely make things worse but I think fruit, after a meal, should not be a problem. It goes without saying that caffeine is a big nono. Hoping you get more of that restful sleep you need. Diogo December 2021 - Metoclopramide started. Akathisia symptoms start; Metoclopramide gets changed to PRN. March 2022 - Akathisia diagnosed; Metoclopramide stopped; Propranolol 10mg x twice a day. Biperiden PRN (0.5mg to 1mg). April 2022 - Tandospirone 30mg (10mg 3x day), Quetiapine 25mg (only taken once, immediate adr). Mirtazapine 7.5mg. . Discontinued Propranolol. May 2022 - Mirtazapine upped to 15mg. Tandospirone cut to 2x 10mg. Low dose Depakote for the month; 100 to 200 to 100 to 0. Mirtazapine cut back to 11.75mg (3/4 of a 15mg pill).June 2022 - Mirtazapine updose to 15mg. Tandospirone, Biperiden discontinued. Klonopin started PRN (0.5mg). September 2022 - Akathisia slowly starts improving, WD/ADR normal sets in in mid September. Hold for 4 months.March 2023 - Off mirtazapine; no Klonopin for 5 months either! Started quercetin (250mg x 2) to soften the histamine rebound. May 2023 - Stopped quercetin and changed from magnesium carbonate to oxide - reacted badly. Reverted back to carbonate. June 2023 - Added fish oil.Current regimen: CALM Magnesium (Carbonate into Citrate) 175mg x2; Vitamin E 268mg x2; Fish oil (100mg Omega3; EPA 30mg; DHA 37mg)x2 Intro thread: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/topic/27095-portuguesesea-metoclopramide-akathisia-and-mirtazapine/ Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted October 1, 2022 Administrator Share Posted October 1, 2022 If you think eating sugary foods is a problem, stop eating sugary foods. In my opinion, your symptom pattern indicates an adverse reaction to your drug batches. If you don't want to change your drugs, you don't have to, but you probably will still have those symptoms as long as you're taking your cocktail the way you do. We can't help you in that case. 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. Link to comment
EttaLouWho Posted October 1, 2022 Author Share Posted October 1, 2022 I’m open to changing my drug batches. If you think I should stop the fish oil and magnesium I will. 1995 Prozac 1996 Prozac and Paxil 1997 Celexa 1998-2018 Cymbalta 60-120mg-- failed taper and restarted at 20mg after development of intense rage--finally able to taper off in late 2018 2017-2021 Clonazepam 0.5mg BID--discontinued over 4 weeks in April 2021 resulting in severe benzo withdrawal for 5 months maybe still ongoing at time of AD rapid taper in Dec 2021 2018-2019 Bupropion *Have been polydrugged since 1995 with a variety of benzos, sleeping pills, anxioltyics, and ADs. Too many to list or remember. Never properly tapered by doctor before switching medicines* 2020 Started on Buspirone 15mg three times a day 2020-2021 Antidepressant was changed three times: Trintellix, Pristiq, Fluvoxamine. Underwent 6 months of ketamine infusions. Advised to discontinue all meds due to inefficacy in November 2021. Weaned off Fluvoxamine by psychiatrist over 6 weeks-- last dose ~December 10, 2021. Severe ongoing withdrawal. February 2021 Started on 300mg Gabapentin for anxiety, restless legs, insomnia, and wide spread body pain from withdrawal. Began Gabapentin taper to 200mg on 8/5/2022. Worsened withdrawal symptoms. Also began 2000mg of L-Tryptophan for depression/AD withdrawal, 2400mg of N Acetyl Cysteine for OCD and 300mg of Magnesium for depression. Began L-Tryptophan taper from 2000mg to 1500mg on 8/14/2022. Completed l-tryptophan and NAC taper on 8/29/2022. Current Meds: 15mg of Buspirone twice a day (morning and night since 2020), 5 mg Buspirone at midday (Started taper of midday dose from 15mg to 5 mg in September 2023) , 200mg of gabapentin at night (Since August 2022), 1mg of alprazolam at night (Started at 0.25mg in Jan 2023 and gradually upped to 1-2mg three times a week until end of 11/2023--reinstated 1mg daily on 12/1/2023), 80mg propranolol in the morning, 10mg Zyrtec in the morning, birth control pills Current Supplements: 300 mg of magnesium citrate midday, 1000mg of Fish Oil in the morning, 1mg melatonin at night Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted October 2, 2022 Administrator Share Posted October 2, 2022 As suggested earlier, magnesium and fish oil can cause diarrhea. You can stop them for now and try them again later. Please continue to post daily notes. 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. Link to comment
Elaine5 Posted December 13, 2022 Share Posted December 13, 2022 How are you doing? Aug 2020 - Feb 2022 on and off Lexapro 5 and 10mg, Rapid taper Nov 2021 - May 2022 on off Wellbutrin 100mg, 150mg, 75mg CT clindamycin cycle and also Plan B bc 1x Fall 2020- June 2022 - Xanax .5 PRN usually 4x a week, CT June 2022 - Z pack, Buspar 7.5 3 days September 20-24th - low tryptophan diet and 20-30g beef gelatin powder Oct 3- 16 - Xanax .5 for sleep each pm, 1 mg Ativan in ER, .25 Xanax —> .125–>0 Oct 14-17Trazadone 50/75, Lunesta 3mg Oct 24- start Belsomra, 4 days to20mg Nov 3-5 10mg Belsomra and 300mg Gabapentin Oct 13-Dec 1 Buspar 7.5 2x/day rapid taper over 2 weeks due to ADR Recent: Belsomra 20mg since 10/23/2022 to 15mg mid December for 2 nights —> 20mg —> 15 mg since 12/22/2022 —>14 mg compounded 02/11/2023 —> 15 mg 2/13 —> 10mg 2/22 —> 5mg 3/1 —> 0mg 3/8/2023 Current: Propanolol 20mg AM, 10mg 4pm, 20mg PM since 11/30/2022 Link to comment
EttaLouWho Posted December 13, 2022 Author Share Posted December 13, 2022 @ElaineBenes5 I just hit one year of withdrawal/akathisia. My mornings are still pretty hellish. I wake in complete terror that usually lasts for several hours and is often accompanied by pacing and rocking or sobbing in complete despair. Around lunch I get a bit better but really it’s more like going numb and dissociating. It sucks but it’s better than the abject terror. My anxiety and depression start ramping up around 4pm and I just try to distract distract distract until I go to bed around 10:30pm. Sadly my first thought in the morning when I wake up is Damn I’m still alive. How are you holding up? 1 1995 Prozac 1996 Prozac and Paxil 1997 Celexa 1998-2018 Cymbalta 60-120mg-- failed taper and restarted at 20mg after development of intense rage--finally able to taper off in late 2018 2017-2021 Clonazepam 0.5mg BID--discontinued over 4 weeks in April 2021 resulting in severe benzo withdrawal for 5 months maybe still ongoing at time of AD rapid taper in Dec 2021 2018-2019 Bupropion *Have been polydrugged since 1995 with a variety of benzos, sleeping pills, anxioltyics, and ADs. Too many to list or remember. Never properly tapered by doctor before switching medicines* 2020 Started on Buspirone 15mg three times a day 2020-2021 Antidepressant was changed three times: Trintellix, Pristiq, Fluvoxamine. Underwent 6 months of ketamine infusions. Advised to discontinue all meds due to inefficacy in November 2021. Weaned off Fluvoxamine by psychiatrist over 6 weeks-- last dose ~December 10, 2021. Severe ongoing withdrawal. February 2021 Started on 300mg Gabapentin for anxiety, restless legs, insomnia, and wide spread body pain from withdrawal. Began Gabapentin taper to 200mg on 8/5/2022. Worsened withdrawal symptoms. Also began 2000mg of L-Tryptophan for depression/AD withdrawal, 2400mg of N Acetyl Cysteine for OCD and 300mg of Magnesium for depression. Began L-Tryptophan taper from 2000mg to 1500mg on 8/14/2022. Completed l-tryptophan and NAC taper on 8/29/2022. Current Meds: 15mg of Buspirone twice a day (morning and night since 2020), 5 mg Buspirone at midday (Started taper of midday dose from 15mg to 5 mg in September 2023) , 200mg of gabapentin at night (Since August 2022), 1mg of alprazolam at night (Started at 0.25mg in Jan 2023 and gradually upped to 1-2mg three times a week until end of 11/2023--reinstated 1mg daily on 12/1/2023), 80mg propranolol in the morning, 10mg Zyrtec in the morning, birth control pills Current Supplements: 300 mg of magnesium citrate midday, 1000mg of Fish Oil in the morning, 1mg melatonin at night Link to comment
Elaine5 Posted December 13, 2022 Share Posted December 13, 2022 Sorry to hear- rooting for you. ❤️🙏🏼 Aug 2020 - Feb 2022 on and off Lexapro 5 and 10mg, Rapid taper Nov 2021 - May 2022 on off Wellbutrin 100mg, 150mg, 75mg CT clindamycin cycle and also Plan B bc 1x Fall 2020- June 2022 - Xanax .5 PRN usually 4x a week, CT June 2022 - Z pack, Buspar 7.5 3 days September 20-24th - low tryptophan diet and 20-30g beef gelatin powder Oct 3- 16 - Xanax .5 for sleep each pm, 1 mg Ativan in ER, .25 Xanax —> .125–>0 Oct 14-17Trazadone 50/75, Lunesta 3mg Oct 24- start Belsomra, 4 days to20mg Nov 3-5 10mg Belsomra and 300mg Gabapentin Oct 13-Dec 1 Buspar 7.5 2x/day rapid taper over 2 weeks due to ADR Recent: Belsomra 20mg since 10/23/2022 to 15mg mid December for 2 nights —> 20mg —> 15 mg since 12/22/2022 —>14 mg compounded 02/11/2023 —> 15 mg 2/13 —> 10mg 2/22 —> 5mg 3/1 —> 0mg 3/8/2023 Current: Propanolol 20mg AM, 10mg 4pm, 20mg PM since 11/30/2022 Link to comment
Elaine5 Posted December 13, 2022 Share Posted December 13, 2022 Also not sure if it’s relevant to you, but j recently developed Akathisia after being on Buspar for about a month. During that time I also found that Benadryl worsened my agitation and I had a paradoxical reaction when I took it while on Buspar. I am aware that it helps others with Akathisia. Just sharing my experiencing in case there are any ways to lessen the aka burden for you to consider. Aug 2020 - Feb 2022 on and off Lexapro 5 and 10mg, Rapid taper Nov 2021 - May 2022 on off Wellbutrin 100mg, 150mg, 75mg CT clindamycin cycle and also Plan B bc 1x Fall 2020- June 2022 - Xanax .5 PRN usually 4x a week, CT June 2022 - Z pack, Buspar 7.5 3 days September 20-24th - low tryptophan diet and 20-30g beef gelatin powder Oct 3- 16 - Xanax .5 for sleep each pm, 1 mg Ativan in ER, .25 Xanax —> .125–>0 Oct 14-17Trazadone 50/75, Lunesta 3mg Oct 24- start Belsomra, 4 days to20mg Nov 3-5 10mg Belsomra and 300mg Gabapentin Oct 13-Dec 1 Buspar 7.5 2x/day rapid taper over 2 weeks due to ADR Recent: Belsomra 20mg since 10/23/2022 to 15mg mid December for 2 nights —> 20mg —> 15 mg since 12/22/2022 —>14 mg compounded 02/11/2023 —> 15 mg 2/13 —> 10mg 2/22 —> 5mg 3/1 —> 0mg 3/8/2023 Current: Propanolol 20mg AM, 10mg 4pm, 20mg PM since 11/30/2022 Link to comment
EttaLouWho Posted December 13, 2022 Author Share Posted December 13, 2022 I’m sorry to hear this. Akathisia is a hell no one should have to endure. Benadryl seems to help me sleep thankfully. I hope to start a buspar taper once I stabilize. Have you come off of the buspar? 1995 Prozac 1996 Prozac and Paxil 1997 Celexa 1998-2018 Cymbalta 60-120mg-- failed taper and restarted at 20mg after development of intense rage--finally able to taper off in late 2018 2017-2021 Clonazepam 0.5mg BID--discontinued over 4 weeks in April 2021 resulting in severe benzo withdrawal for 5 months maybe still ongoing at time of AD rapid taper in Dec 2021 2018-2019 Bupropion *Have been polydrugged since 1995 with a variety of benzos, sleeping pills, anxioltyics, and ADs. Too many to list or remember. Never properly tapered by doctor before switching medicines* 2020 Started on Buspirone 15mg three times a day 2020-2021 Antidepressant was changed three times: Trintellix, Pristiq, Fluvoxamine. Underwent 6 months of ketamine infusions. Advised to discontinue all meds due to inefficacy in November 2021. Weaned off Fluvoxamine by psychiatrist over 6 weeks-- last dose ~December 10, 2021. Severe ongoing withdrawal. February 2021 Started on 300mg Gabapentin for anxiety, restless legs, insomnia, and wide spread body pain from withdrawal. Began Gabapentin taper to 200mg on 8/5/2022. Worsened withdrawal symptoms. Also began 2000mg of L-Tryptophan for depression/AD withdrawal, 2400mg of N Acetyl Cysteine for OCD and 300mg of Magnesium for depression. Began L-Tryptophan taper from 2000mg to 1500mg on 8/14/2022. Completed l-tryptophan and NAC taper on 8/29/2022. Current Meds: 15mg of Buspirone twice a day (morning and night since 2020), 5 mg Buspirone at midday (Started taper of midday dose from 15mg to 5 mg in September 2023) , 200mg of gabapentin at night (Since August 2022), 1mg of alprazolam at night (Started at 0.25mg in Jan 2023 and gradually upped to 1-2mg three times a week until end of 11/2023--reinstated 1mg daily on 12/1/2023), 80mg propranolol in the morning, 10mg Zyrtec in the morning, birth control pills Current Supplements: 300 mg of magnesium citrate midday, 1000mg of Fish Oil in the morning, 1mg melatonin at night Link to comment
Moderator FireflyFyte Posted December 13, 2022 Moderator Share Posted December 13, 2022 I know that you tried once but you may want to reconsider splitting your Gabapentin dose as the recommendation is not to have more than 12 hours between doses to avoid inter-dose withdrawal. I was prescribed to take it three times a day which seems to be the standard dosing schedule from what I have gathered. I am just wondering if some of the anxiety you are experiencing is due to inter-dose withdrawal as I have read increased anxiety is a common withdrawal symptom of Gabapentin. I came cold turkey off of Buspar but was only on it for a few weeks. I would recommend slowly tapering as this site suggestions when you are stable/ready. Pre- October 2022: Wellbutrin, Escitalopram, Citalopram, Sertraline, Adderall IR, Vyvanse, Propranolol, Buspar, Ativan, and Latuda Oct 13, 2022 - Oct 24, 2022 and Oct 31, 2022 - Present: Zyprexa (2.5 mg). Jan 14, 2023 -> Began transition to liquid suspension. Jan 29, 2023 = 2.375mg -> Feb 12, 2023 = 2.25mg -> Feb 27, 2023 = 2.14mg -> Mar 12, 2023 = 2.025mg -> Mar 27, 2023 = 1.93mg -> Apr 10, 2023 = 1.82mg -> Apr 23, 2023 = 1.74mg -> May 7, 2023 = 1.64mg -> May 21, 2023 = 1.56mg -> June 4, 2023 = 1.48mg -> June 19, 2023 = 1.4mg -> July 2, 2023 = 1.33mg -> July 16, 2023 = 1.26mg -> July 31, 2023 = 1.2mg -> Aug 13, 2023 = 1.14mg -> Aug 27, 2023 = 1.08mg -> Sep 13, 2023 = 1.02mg -> Jan 22, 2024 = 0.97mg -> Feb 4, 2024 = 0.92mg -> Feb 19, 2024 = 0.87mg -> Mar 3, 2024 = 0.83mg -> Mar 17, 2024 = 0.78mg -> Mar 31, 2024 = 0.74mg -> Apr 14, 2023 = 0.7mg Oct 14, 2022 - Present: Prozac (40mg) upped from 20mg on Nov 1, 2022. Oct 31, 2022 - Present: Gabapentin (300mg 3x day) -> May 3, 2023 = 300mg 2x day -> Oct 1, 2023 = 570mg -> Oct 15, 2023 = 540mg -> Oct 29, 2023 = 510mg -> Nov 13, 2023 = 484mg -> Nov 27, 2023 = 460mg -> Dec 9, 2023 = 436mg -> Dec 24, 2023 = 414mg -> Jan 7, 2024 = 400mg Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted December 14, 2022 Administrator Share Posted December 14, 2022 I'm sorry you're having such difficulty, @EttaLouWho Please note I requested daily notes in October. I can't tell what's going on without those daily notes. It may be your gabapentin dosing could be adjusted, as @FireflyFyte suggested. 1 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. Link to comment
EttaLouWho Posted December 6, 2023 Author Share Posted December 6, 2023 @Altostrata I'm sorry I have been gone for so long but I have gotten myself into a bad situation and desperately need advice. I have had an incredibly difficult time with akathisia over the past year mainly manifesting as extreme terror that can last for upwards of 8 hours and extreme agitation. During waves I often go two or more days with no sleep. Back in August of this year, one of my best friends of 20+ years was diagnosed with brain cancer. She has no family who can help her and I have been named as her primary medical and durable Power of Attorney and caregiver. To say the stress this has added to my life has been overwhelming is the understatement of the year. I became so desperate for relief that I began taking 1-2mg of alprazolam prn (about once a week) because this was the only time I could actually relax enough to sleep. I knew better than to do this but again I was desperate. I upped the frequency of taking the alprazolam to 2-3 times a week and then decided about a week ago that I needed to discontinue it altogether. This of course sent me into a horrendous wave or what felt like closer to acute withdrawal instead of my withdrawal normal. I waited three days and then decided to try reinstating at 0.5mg of alprazolam. That did nothing so I upped to 1mg and have been taking it daily to make sure the horrible withdrawal does not recur. I guess being desperate and stupid I thought taking it a few times a week would not end me right back in this place but here I am. I have already come off of clonazepam back in 2021 which was hell. My question is do I try to stabilize for four weeks on 1mg of the alprazolam and then begin a 10% taper every four weeks to discontinue? I read the info about Dr. Heather Ashton and the possibility of switching to diazepam but I am unsure what route to take. I, like so many, have struggled to find a supportive psychiatrist who even believes in these slow tapers. Mine wanted me to reinstate at 1mg at 3 times a week and then gradually reduce the days and then move to every other week etc. but looking back I think I began to up the frequency I was taking the alprazolam because I was having interdose withdrawals. I feel lost, scared, and embarrassed that I have done this to myself not that it matters at this point because what's done is done. I just need to find the best path forward from here on out. 1995 Prozac 1996 Prozac and Paxil 1997 Celexa 1998-2018 Cymbalta 60-120mg-- failed taper and restarted at 20mg after development of intense rage--finally able to taper off in late 2018 2017-2021 Clonazepam 0.5mg BID--discontinued over 4 weeks in April 2021 resulting in severe benzo withdrawal for 5 months maybe still ongoing at time of AD rapid taper in Dec 2021 2018-2019 Bupropion *Have been polydrugged since 1995 with a variety of benzos, sleeping pills, anxioltyics, and ADs. Too many to list or remember. Never properly tapered by doctor before switching medicines* 2020 Started on Buspirone 15mg three times a day 2020-2021 Antidepressant was changed three times: Trintellix, Pristiq, Fluvoxamine. Underwent 6 months of ketamine infusions. Advised to discontinue all meds due to inefficacy in November 2021. Weaned off Fluvoxamine by psychiatrist over 6 weeks-- last dose ~December 10, 2021. Severe ongoing withdrawal. February 2021 Started on 300mg Gabapentin for anxiety, restless legs, insomnia, and wide spread body pain from withdrawal. Began Gabapentin taper to 200mg on 8/5/2022. Worsened withdrawal symptoms. Also began 2000mg of L-Tryptophan for depression/AD withdrawal, 2400mg of N Acetyl Cysteine for OCD and 300mg of Magnesium for depression. Began L-Tryptophan taper from 2000mg to 1500mg on 8/14/2022. Completed l-tryptophan and NAC taper on 8/29/2022. Current Meds: 15mg of Buspirone twice a day (morning and night since 2020), 5 mg Buspirone at midday (Started taper of midday dose from 15mg to 5 mg in September 2023) , 200mg of gabapentin at night (Since August 2022), 1mg of alprazolam at night (Started at 0.25mg in Jan 2023 and gradually upped to 1-2mg three times a week until end of 11/2023--reinstated 1mg daily on 12/1/2023), 80mg propranolol in the morning, 10mg Zyrtec in the morning, birth control pills Current Supplements: 300 mg of magnesium citrate midday, 1000mg of Fish Oil in the morning, 1mg melatonin at night Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted December 6, 2023 Administrator Share Posted December 6, 2023 Hello, @EttaLouWho I am sorry you're having these difficulties. You're still taking several drugs each day? Have you discussed your symptoms with the prescriber who gave you more alprazolam? This is really their responsibility. 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. Link to comment
EttaLouWho Posted December 6, 2023 Author Share Posted December 6, 2023 Yes @Altostrata and she suggested I cut the drug dose in half and take it three days a week for a few weeks, then move to twice a week for a few weeks, then weekly and then every other week etc. I know this will send me into even worse withdrawal so Im unsure what to do. 1995 Prozac 1996 Prozac and Paxil 1997 Celexa 1998-2018 Cymbalta 60-120mg-- failed taper and restarted at 20mg after development of intense rage--finally able to taper off in late 2018 2017-2021 Clonazepam 0.5mg BID--discontinued over 4 weeks in April 2021 resulting in severe benzo withdrawal for 5 months maybe still ongoing at time of AD rapid taper in Dec 2021 2018-2019 Bupropion *Have been polydrugged since 1995 with a variety of benzos, sleeping pills, anxioltyics, and ADs. Too many to list or remember. Never properly tapered by doctor before switching medicines* 2020 Started on Buspirone 15mg three times a day 2020-2021 Antidepressant was changed three times: Trintellix, Pristiq, Fluvoxamine. Underwent 6 months of ketamine infusions. Advised to discontinue all meds due to inefficacy in November 2021. Weaned off Fluvoxamine by psychiatrist over 6 weeks-- last dose ~December 10, 2021. Severe ongoing withdrawal. February 2021 Started on 300mg Gabapentin for anxiety, restless legs, insomnia, and wide spread body pain from withdrawal. Began Gabapentin taper to 200mg on 8/5/2022. Worsened withdrawal symptoms. Also began 2000mg of L-Tryptophan for depression/AD withdrawal, 2400mg of N Acetyl Cysteine for OCD and 300mg of Magnesium for depression. Began L-Tryptophan taper from 2000mg to 1500mg on 8/14/2022. Completed l-tryptophan and NAC taper on 8/29/2022. Current Meds: 15mg of Buspirone twice a day (morning and night since 2020), 5 mg Buspirone at midday (Started taper of midday dose from 15mg to 5 mg in September 2023) , 200mg of gabapentin at night (Since August 2022), 1mg of alprazolam at night (Started at 0.25mg in Jan 2023 and gradually upped to 1-2mg three times a week until end of 11/2023--reinstated 1mg daily on 12/1/2023), 80mg propranolol in the morning, 10mg Zyrtec in the morning, birth control pills Current Supplements: 300 mg of magnesium citrate midday, 1000mg of Fish Oil in the morning, 1mg melatonin at night Link to comment
Moderator LotusRising Posted December 6, 2023 Moderator Share Posted December 6, 2023 2 hours ago, EttaLouWho said: I became so desperate for relief that I began taking 1-2mg of alprazolam prn (about once a week) because this was the only time I could actually relax enough to sleep. I knew better than to do this but again I was desperate. I upped the frequency of taking the alprazolam to 2-3 times a week and then decided about a week ago that I needed to discontinue it altogether. When did you start taking alprazolam again? Could you please add the dates to your signature. 2 hours ago, EttaLouWho said: This of course sent me into a horrendous wave or what felt like closer to acute withdrawal instead of my withdrawal normal. What symptoms did you experience? 2 hours ago, EttaLouWho said: hat did nothing so I upped to 1mg and have been taking it daily to make sure the horrible withdrawal does not recur. When did you start taking it daily? It looks like you're also taking some other medications - could you please add these to your signature as well please, with dates. 2003-2009 on and off various SSRI's for short periods, Ativan prn 2010-2011 Ativan, up to 1.5mg/day - tapered off without issue 2013-2021 ativan 1-1.5mg 10-12x/month, daily starting Oct 21 to help with buspar WD 2016 - Effexor 75mg, short-term 2021 Mar -Jun Buspar ADR at high dose, tapered 3 months 2021 Aug Wellbutrin 150mg for 5 days (ADR), then MIrtazapine 7.5mg for 7 days (ADR) Oct 22/21 - Direct switch ativan to clonazepam (don't do this) Tapered clonaz Oct/21 - Apr/23 - 0mg! Supplements: omega-3, mag-glycinate "Believe that your tragedies, your losses, your sorrows, your hurt, happened for you, not to you. And I bless the thing that broke you down and cracked you open, because the world needs you open" - Rebecca Campbell *** Disclaimer: Please note, my suggestions/comments are based on my own personal experiences. Please consult a knowledgeable practitioner to discuss decisions regarding your medical care *** *** Please do not send me PM's *** Link to comment
EttaLouWho Posted December 6, 2023 Author Share Posted December 6, 2023 @LotusRising I started taking the alprazolam about 0.25-0.5mg very infrequently around once a month or so around January 2023. That increased in dosage and frequency around the summer (approximately July/August) to 1.0mg about once a week and then increased to 1.0-2.0 mg two to three times a week in the past month. I tried to stop cold turkey about a week and a half ago and then after four days reinstated to 1.0mg a day to try to stabilize. I think I was experiencing interdose withdrawal which kept me increasing the frequency I was taking it on top off the withdrawal I have been in since December 2021. When I stopped taking it I experienced horrible anxiety and panic attacks and did not sleep for over three days straight. That is when I reinstated. I will update my signature with dates now so they read more clearly. 1995 Prozac 1996 Prozac and Paxil 1997 Celexa 1998-2018 Cymbalta 60-120mg-- failed taper and restarted at 20mg after development of intense rage--finally able to taper off in late 2018 2017-2021 Clonazepam 0.5mg BID--discontinued over 4 weeks in April 2021 resulting in severe benzo withdrawal for 5 months maybe still ongoing at time of AD rapid taper in Dec 2021 2018-2019 Bupropion *Have been polydrugged since 1995 with a variety of benzos, sleeping pills, anxioltyics, and ADs. Too many to list or remember. Never properly tapered by doctor before switching medicines* 2020 Started on Buspirone 15mg three times a day 2020-2021 Antidepressant was changed three times: Trintellix, Pristiq, Fluvoxamine. Underwent 6 months of ketamine infusions. Advised to discontinue all meds due to inefficacy in November 2021. Weaned off Fluvoxamine by psychiatrist over 6 weeks-- last dose ~December 10, 2021. Severe ongoing withdrawal. February 2021 Started on 300mg Gabapentin for anxiety, restless legs, insomnia, and wide spread body pain from withdrawal. Began Gabapentin taper to 200mg on 8/5/2022. Worsened withdrawal symptoms. Also began 2000mg of L-Tryptophan for depression/AD withdrawal, 2400mg of N Acetyl Cysteine for OCD and 300mg of Magnesium for depression. Began L-Tryptophan taper from 2000mg to 1500mg on 8/14/2022. Completed l-tryptophan and NAC taper on 8/29/2022. Current Meds: 15mg of Buspirone twice a day (morning and night since 2020), 5 mg Buspirone at midday (Started taper of midday dose from 15mg to 5 mg in September 2023) , 200mg of gabapentin at night (Since August 2022), 1mg of alprazolam at night (Started at 0.25mg in Jan 2023 and gradually upped to 1-2mg three times a week until end of 11/2023--reinstated 1mg daily on 12/1/2023), 80mg propranolol in the morning, 10mg Zyrtec in the morning, birth control pills Current Supplements: 300 mg of magnesium citrate midday, 1000mg of Fish Oil in the morning, 1mg melatonin at night Link to comment
Moderator LotusRising Posted December 7, 2023 Moderator Share Posted December 7, 2023 Are you certain you were experiencing interdose withdrawal, and not just increased anxiety related to current stressors? The reason I ask is because I would hate for you to end up back on a benzo unnecessarily. I also don't understand what's happening with your buspar taper - could you also have increased anxiety and sleeplessness because you are tapering too quickly? 1 2003-2009 on and off various SSRI's for short periods, Ativan prn 2010-2011 Ativan, up to 1.5mg/day - tapered off without issue 2013-2021 ativan 1-1.5mg 10-12x/month, daily starting Oct 21 to help with buspar WD 2016 - Effexor 75mg, short-term 2021 Mar -Jun Buspar ADR at high dose, tapered 3 months 2021 Aug Wellbutrin 150mg for 5 days (ADR), then MIrtazapine 7.5mg for 7 days (ADR) Oct 22/21 - Direct switch ativan to clonazepam (don't do this) Tapered clonaz Oct/21 - Apr/23 - 0mg! Supplements: omega-3, mag-glycinate "Believe that your tragedies, your losses, your sorrows, your hurt, happened for you, not to you. And I bless the thing that broke you down and cracked you open, because the world needs you open" - Rebecca Campbell *** Disclaimer: Please note, my suggestions/comments are based on my own personal experiences. Please consult a knowledgeable practitioner to discuss decisions regarding your medical care *** *** Please do not send me PM's *** Link to comment
EttaLouWho Posted December 7, 2023 Author Share Posted December 7, 2023 I'm not 100% certain but I believe that was the case. Also when I stopped the xanax for five days I was plunged into horrible acute withdrawal symptoms that only mitigated upon reinstatement of the drug. The two cuts I made to the buspar increased me anxiety a bit but were nothing in comparison to the situation with the xanax. And I was still sleeping at that point. 1995 Prozac 1996 Prozac and Paxil 1997 Celexa 1998-2018 Cymbalta 60-120mg-- failed taper and restarted at 20mg after development of intense rage--finally able to taper off in late 2018 2017-2021 Clonazepam 0.5mg BID--discontinued over 4 weeks in April 2021 resulting in severe benzo withdrawal for 5 months maybe still ongoing at time of AD rapid taper in Dec 2021 2018-2019 Bupropion *Have been polydrugged since 1995 with a variety of benzos, sleeping pills, anxioltyics, and ADs. Too many to list or remember. Never properly tapered by doctor before switching medicines* 2020 Started on Buspirone 15mg three times a day 2020-2021 Antidepressant was changed three times: Trintellix, Pristiq, Fluvoxamine. Underwent 6 months of ketamine infusions. Advised to discontinue all meds due to inefficacy in November 2021. Weaned off Fluvoxamine by psychiatrist over 6 weeks-- last dose ~December 10, 2021. Severe ongoing withdrawal. February 2021 Started on 300mg Gabapentin for anxiety, restless legs, insomnia, and wide spread body pain from withdrawal. Began Gabapentin taper to 200mg on 8/5/2022. Worsened withdrawal symptoms. Also began 2000mg of L-Tryptophan for depression/AD withdrawal, 2400mg of N Acetyl Cysteine for OCD and 300mg of Magnesium for depression. Began L-Tryptophan taper from 2000mg to 1500mg on 8/14/2022. Completed l-tryptophan and NAC taper on 8/29/2022. Current Meds: 15mg of Buspirone twice a day (morning and night since 2020), 5 mg Buspirone at midday (Started taper of midday dose from 15mg to 5 mg in September 2023) , 200mg of gabapentin at night (Since August 2022), 1mg of alprazolam at night (Started at 0.25mg in Jan 2023 and gradually upped to 1-2mg three times a week until end of 11/2023--reinstated 1mg daily on 12/1/2023), 80mg propranolol in the morning, 10mg Zyrtec in the morning, birth control pills Current Supplements: 300 mg of magnesium citrate midday, 1000mg of Fish Oil in the morning, 1mg melatonin at night Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted December 7, 2023 Administrator Share Posted December 7, 2023 Hey, @EttaLouWho I get it that you're having problems with your psychiatric drugs and withdrawal off and on but we're not here to help people who go up and down and sideways on their drugs. You've been doing this since 1995. We provide peer support for helping people taper off drugs, meaning reduce their drug burden. You may feel you need to increase your drugs from time to time. When people increase their drugs, that's between them and their doctors. We do not provide free unpaid monitoring for people who are adjusting their drugs, even if those adjustments result in withdrawal symptoms. We help you taper, then you decide to go back up on your drugs, then you want help again. That's too much to ask of peer support. 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. Link to comment
EttaLouWho Posted December 7, 2023 Author Share Posted December 7, 2023 @Altostrata Apologies as that was not my intention. Best of luck and healing to everyone on this site. Take care. 1 1995 Prozac 1996 Prozac and Paxil 1997 Celexa 1998-2018 Cymbalta 60-120mg-- failed taper and restarted at 20mg after development of intense rage--finally able to taper off in late 2018 2017-2021 Clonazepam 0.5mg BID--discontinued over 4 weeks in April 2021 resulting in severe benzo withdrawal for 5 months maybe still ongoing at time of AD rapid taper in Dec 2021 2018-2019 Bupropion *Have been polydrugged since 1995 with a variety of benzos, sleeping pills, anxioltyics, and ADs. Too many to list or remember. Never properly tapered by doctor before switching medicines* 2020 Started on Buspirone 15mg three times a day 2020-2021 Antidepressant was changed three times: Trintellix, Pristiq, Fluvoxamine. Underwent 6 months of ketamine infusions. Advised to discontinue all meds due to inefficacy in November 2021. Weaned off Fluvoxamine by psychiatrist over 6 weeks-- last dose ~December 10, 2021. Severe ongoing withdrawal. February 2021 Started on 300mg Gabapentin for anxiety, restless legs, insomnia, and wide spread body pain from withdrawal. Began Gabapentin taper to 200mg on 8/5/2022. Worsened withdrawal symptoms. Also began 2000mg of L-Tryptophan for depression/AD withdrawal, 2400mg of N Acetyl Cysteine for OCD and 300mg of Magnesium for depression. Began L-Tryptophan taper from 2000mg to 1500mg on 8/14/2022. Completed l-tryptophan and NAC taper on 8/29/2022. Current Meds: 15mg of Buspirone twice a day (morning and night since 2020), 5 mg Buspirone at midday (Started taper of midday dose from 15mg to 5 mg in September 2023) , 200mg of gabapentin at night (Since August 2022), 1mg of alprazolam at night (Started at 0.25mg in Jan 2023 and gradually upped to 1-2mg three times a week until end of 11/2023--reinstated 1mg daily on 12/1/2023), 80mg propranolol in the morning, 10mg Zyrtec in the morning, birth control pills Current Supplements: 300 mg of magnesium citrate midday, 1000mg of Fish Oil in the morning, 1mg melatonin at night Link to comment
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