Jump to content
SurvivingAntidepressants.org is temporarily closed to new registrations until 1 April ×

Caesar65: Escitalopram withdrawal within only 5 weeks after taking it for 18 years/unbearable symptoms since 1 year after withdrawal/advice urgently needed!


Caesar65

Recommended Posts

  • Moderator Emeritus
1 minute ago, Caesar65 said:

But to answer a message, I shall always click on quote first? Is this the way to answer? Or shall  I just write at the topic underneath. 

Follow these steps:

1.  Highlight the sentence or sentence you want to quote.  This is essential.  After you highlight, the word "quote" will appear.

2.  Click on "quote."  The quoted sentence will appear at the top of your post.

3.  Now you can write your message.

Gridley Introduction

 

Lexapro 20 mg since 2004.  Begin Brassmonkey Slide Taper Jan. 2017.   

End 2017 year 1 of taper at 9.25mg 

End 2018 year 2 of taper at 4.1mg

End 2019 year 3 of taper at 1.0mg  

Oct. 30, 2020  Jump to zero from 0.025mg.  Current dose: 0.000mg

3 year, 10 month taper is 100% complete.

 

Ativan 1 mg to 1.875mg 1986-2020, two CT's and reinstatements

Nov. 2020, 7-week Ativan-Valium crossover to 18.75mg Valium

Feb. 2021, begin 10%/4 week taper of 18.75mg Valium 

End 2021  year 1 of Valium taper at 6mg

End 2022 year 2 of Valium taper at 2.75mg 

End 2023 year 3 of Valium taper at 1mg

Jan. 24, 2024: Hold at 1mg and shift to Imipramine taper.

Taper is 95% complete.

 

Imipramine 75 mg daily since 1986.  Jan.-Sept. 2016 tapered to 14.4mg  

March 22, 2022: Begin 10%/4 week taper

Aug. 5, 2022: hold at 9.5mg and shift to Valium taper

Jan. 24, 2024: Resume Imipramine taper.  Current dose as of Feb. 22: 7.6mg

Taper is 90% complete.  

  

Supplements: multiple, quercetin, omega-3, vitamins C, E and D3, magnesium glycinate, probiotics, zinc, melatonin .3mg, anti-candida, iron, serrapeptase, nattokinase


I am not a medical professional and this is not medical advice but simply information based on my own experience, as well as other members who have survived these drugs.

Link to comment
1 minute ago, Gridley said:

1.  Highlight the sentence or sentence you want to quote.  This is essential.  After you highlight, the word "quote" will appear.

2.  Click on "quote."  The quoted sentence will appear at the top of your post.

3.  Now you can write your message.

Ok, I see it now, but what about the empty space at the end of the page, which says…… reply to a topic…..? When I answer through this, where do I see it after? 
Because I wrote back sometimes with this way. Sorry, I am stupid, because of my withdrawal conditions, this dizziness, and brain fog😩

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus
31 minutes ago, Caesar65 said:

but what about the empty space at the end of the page, which says…… reply to a

That's the blank space for your next post.  Don't do anything with it until you're ready to write a new separate post.

 

31 minutes ago, Caesar65 said:

Sorry, I am stupid, because of my withdrawal

It's fine, no problem at all.  

 

Caesar, please answer my earlier question:

What about a compounding pharmacy?  They should be able to make any dose you want.  This could work for your Escitalopram reinstatement and wouldn't require you to do measurements.

Edited by Gridley

Gridley Introduction

 

Lexapro 20 mg since 2004.  Begin Brassmonkey Slide Taper Jan. 2017.   

End 2017 year 1 of taper at 9.25mg 

End 2018 year 2 of taper at 4.1mg

End 2019 year 3 of taper at 1.0mg  

Oct. 30, 2020  Jump to zero from 0.025mg.  Current dose: 0.000mg

3 year, 10 month taper is 100% complete.

 

Ativan 1 mg to 1.875mg 1986-2020, two CT's and reinstatements

Nov. 2020, 7-week Ativan-Valium crossover to 18.75mg Valium

Feb. 2021, begin 10%/4 week taper of 18.75mg Valium 

End 2021  year 1 of Valium taper at 6mg

End 2022 year 2 of Valium taper at 2.75mg 

End 2023 year 3 of Valium taper at 1mg

Jan. 24, 2024: Hold at 1mg and shift to Imipramine taper.

Taper is 95% complete.

 

Imipramine 75 mg daily since 1986.  Jan.-Sept. 2016 tapered to 14.4mg  

March 22, 2022: Begin 10%/4 week taper

Aug. 5, 2022: hold at 9.5mg and shift to Valium taper

Jan. 24, 2024: Resume Imipramine taper.  Current dose as of Feb. 22: 7.6mg

Taper is 90% complete.  

  

Supplements: multiple, quercetin, omega-3, vitamins C, E and D3, magnesium glycinate, probiotics, zinc, melatonin .3mg, anti-candida, iron, serrapeptase, nattokinase


I am not a medical professional and this is not medical advice but simply information based on my own experience, as well as other members who have survived these drugs.

Link to comment
1 hour ago, Gridley said:

That's the blank space for your next post.  Don't do anything with it until you're ready to write a new separate post.

 

It's fine, no problem at all.  

 

Caesar, please answer my earlier question:

What about a compounding pharmacy?  They should be able to make any dose you want.  This could work for your Escitalopram reinstatement and wouldn't require you to do measurements.

 

1 hour ago, Gridley said:

That's the blank space for your next post.  Don't do anything with it until you're ready to write a new separate post.

 

It's fine, no problem at all.  

 

Caesar, please answer my earlier question:

What about a compounding pharmacy?  They should be able to make any dose you want.  This could work for your Escitalopram reinstatement and wouldn't require you to do measurements.

Yes, I have already asked in several pharmacies, how Escitalopram could be used in a minimum dose of liquid formula of starting with 0,1 mg, and then they said the smallest dose to get with a syringe would be 0,05 ml which is 1 mg, as I remember it right. 0,1 mg / 0,0005 ml could not be get with a syringe, I am told. But I am not so sure anymore, it could also be the smallest dose with 0,5 ml.

Escitalopram/ Lexapro is only available in 20 mg in liquid formula, but the others 10/15/5 mg only as pills. And the pharmacy would need to prepare for me especially small doses, that’s what I need, if I really go into the risk of reinstating. 

The problem is I can not think clearly anymore😢 That’s why I thought of the Tapering Strips Method, but this will not yet be paid by the german health insurance, because it is still very unknown here in Germany. And a complicated procedure to order it from the Netherland Pharamcy, there is only one, which produces them. 
It is a shame! Do you know Peter Lehmann, the book author? He is trying to introduce this method to the public, and he is fighting against the ignorance of so many doctor’s concerning the withdrawal facts caused through antidepressants. 
But my main problem is and will always be, to make a decision, if I should take the risk and try reinstating, and that makes me scared like hell. Anyway it has become very difficult, to make decisions of any kind. I go crazy…….!

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus
24 minutes ago, Caesar65 said:

Yes, I have already asked in several pharmacies

I'm not talking about a regular pharmacy.  I'm talking about a special pharmacy that makes whatever size dose you want, just like the tapering strips company does. They have them in all developed countries, and I would be sure they have them in Germany.  They are called compounding pharmacies in English.

Edited by Gridley

Gridley Introduction

 

Lexapro 20 mg since 2004.  Begin Brassmonkey Slide Taper Jan. 2017.   

End 2017 year 1 of taper at 9.25mg 

End 2018 year 2 of taper at 4.1mg

End 2019 year 3 of taper at 1.0mg  

Oct. 30, 2020  Jump to zero from 0.025mg.  Current dose: 0.000mg

3 year, 10 month taper is 100% complete.

 

Ativan 1 mg to 1.875mg 1986-2020, two CT's and reinstatements

Nov. 2020, 7-week Ativan-Valium crossover to 18.75mg Valium

Feb. 2021, begin 10%/4 week taper of 18.75mg Valium 

End 2021  year 1 of Valium taper at 6mg

End 2022 year 2 of Valium taper at 2.75mg 

End 2023 year 3 of Valium taper at 1mg

Jan. 24, 2024: Hold at 1mg and shift to Imipramine taper.

Taper is 95% complete.

 

Imipramine 75 mg daily since 1986.  Jan.-Sept. 2016 tapered to 14.4mg  

March 22, 2022: Begin 10%/4 week taper

Aug. 5, 2022: hold at 9.5mg and shift to Valium taper

Jan. 24, 2024: Resume Imipramine taper.  Current dose as of Feb. 22: 7.6mg

Taper is 90% complete.  

  

Supplements: multiple, quercetin, omega-3, vitamins C, E and D3, magnesium glycinate, probiotics, zinc, melatonin .3mg, anti-candida, iron, serrapeptase, nattokinase


I am not a medical professional and this is not medical advice but simply information based on my own experience, as well as other members who have survived these drugs.

Link to comment
1 hour ago, Gridley said:

I'm not talking about a regular pharmacy.  I'm talking about a special pharmacy that makes whatever size dose you want, just like the tapering strips company does. They have them in all developed countries, and I would be sure they have them in Germany.  They are called compounding pharmacies in English.

 

1 hour ago, Gridley said:

I know what you mean, but in Ulm where I am from, there is no pharmacy like that, maybe in big cities like Berlin, Munich. I wrote emails to several and talked to them, but I lesrned,  a special equipment is needed therefore, but maybe they could order from anywhere, I suggested.  But I can tell you, what the Problem in the german health system is, first you need a prescription, and when it is a very special treatment, it needs first to get approved by the health insurance, concerning the payment, otherwise they don’t produce it, you don’t get it.

I know what you mean, but in Ulm where I am from, there is no pharmacy like that, maybe in big cities like Berlin, Munich. I wrote emails to several and talked to them, but I lesrned,  a special equipment is needed therefore, but maybe they could order from anywhere, I suggested.  But I can tell you, what the Problem in the german health system is, first you need a prescription, and when it is a very special treatment, it needs first to get approved by the health insurance, concerning the payment, otherwise they don’t produce it, you don’t get it.

Because if the official leading point is questioning a very special treatment, like these small doses, which is for the pharmacy not worth ecenomically, they show no interest, first of all, because the doctor’s are maintaining, that such very small doses show no effects, you are running against a wall, because of the predominant opinion.🤯😩 

As long as the administration of the indispensable very small doses fails due to the availability of the appropriate dosage forms and preparations, pharmacologically well-founded schemes remain only theory. Regarding this,  Germany is not a developed country, concerning the succes of very slow withdrawal of Antidepressiva or in my case an intended reinstation of Escitalopram. They still recommend official steps, and those are much to rapidly! 😢And that’s why I am in this horrible Situation since over a year! Because the official guidelines are absolutely not useful and practically. In England they changed their guidelines, there is an organisation like the IIPDW with Dr Mark Horowitz. In the Netherlands they produce the tapering strips, in Germany they can be prescriped, but the health insurances refuses payment! And so on…..! 

Edited by Caesar65
My answer is visible twice, I don’t know what happened, sorry

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus
9 minutes ago, Caesar65 said:

first you need a prescription, and when it is a very special treatment, it needs first to get approved by the health insurance, concerning the payment, otherwise they don’t produce it, you don’t get it.

  If a compounding pharmacy doesn't work for you, then it doesn't.   I understand.  

Gridley Introduction

 

Lexapro 20 mg since 2004.  Begin Brassmonkey Slide Taper Jan. 2017.   

End 2017 year 1 of taper at 9.25mg 

End 2018 year 2 of taper at 4.1mg

End 2019 year 3 of taper at 1.0mg  

Oct. 30, 2020  Jump to zero from 0.025mg.  Current dose: 0.000mg

3 year, 10 month taper is 100% complete.

 

Ativan 1 mg to 1.875mg 1986-2020, two CT's and reinstatements

Nov. 2020, 7-week Ativan-Valium crossover to 18.75mg Valium

Feb. 2021, begin 10%/4 week taper of 18.75mg Valium 

End 2021  year 1 of Valium taper at 6mg

End 2022 year 2 of Valium taper at 2.75mg 

End 2023 year 3 of Valium taper at 1mg

Jan. 24, 2024: Hold at 1mg and shift to Imipramine taper.

Taper is 95% complete.

 

Imipramine 75 mg daily since 1986.  Jan.-Sept. 2016 tapered to 14.4mg  

March 22, 2022: Begin 10%/4 week taper

Aug. 5, 2022: hold at 9.5mg and shift to Valium taper

Jan. 24, 2024: Resume Imipramine taper.  Current dose as of Feb. 22: 7.6mg

Taper is 90% complete.  

  

Supplements: multiple, quercetin, omega-3, vitamins C, E and D3, magnesium glycinate, probiotics, zinc, melatonin .3mg, anti-candida, iron, serrapeptase, nattokinase


I am not a medical professional and this is not medical advice but simply information based on my own experience, as well as other members who have survived these drugs.

Link to comment
2 minutes ago, Gridley said:

I don't think we are communicating.  A compounding pharmacy makes whatever dose you need, big or small.  Their charges to you do not depend on the size of the dose.  Members here have used compounding pharmacies to make doses much, much smaller than 0.5mg.  

 

If you don't want to use a compounding pharmacy, that's fine and up to you.

Of course I want to find a compounding pharmacy, but please believe me, I know also many people from german Facebook Groups fe, and they have the same problem, like I have. Many of them make their own through the water soluble method, from which I am afraid of, because they don’t get their needed small doses, I learned. 
My permanent anxiety paralyzes me, I am sorry. 😢😢

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus
4 minutes ago, Caesar65 said:

My permanent anxiety paralyzes me, I am sorry.

I understand.  I'm sorry that you're feeling so bad.

Gridley Introduction

 

Lexapro 20 mg since 2004.  Begin Brassmonkey Slide Taper Jan. 2017.   

End 2017 year 1 of taper at 9.25mg 

End 2018 year 2 of taper at 4.1mg

End 2019 year 3 of taper at 1.0mg  

Oct. 30, 2020  Jump to zero from 0.025mg.  Current dose: 0.000mg

3 year, 10 month taper is 100% complete.

 

Ativan 1 mg to 1.875mg 1986-2020, two CT's and reinstatements

Nov. 2020, 7-week Ativan-Valium crossover to 18.75mg Valium

Feb. 2021, begin 10%/4 week taper of 18.75mg Valium 

End 2021  year 1 of Valium taper at 6mg

End 2022 year 2 of Valium taper at 2.75mg 

End 2023 year 3 of Valium taper at 1mg

Jan. 24, 2024: Hold at 1mg and shift to Imipramine taper.

Taper is 95% complete.

 

Imipramine 75 mg daily since 1986.  Jan.-Sept. 2016 tapered to 14.4mg  

March 22, 2022: Begin 10%/4 week taper

Aug. 5, 2022: hold at 9.5mg and shift to Valium taper

Jan. 24, 2024: Resume Imipramine taper.  Current dose as of Feb. 22: 7.6mg

Taper is 90% complete.  

  

Supplements: multiple, quercetin, omega-3, vitamins C, E and D3, magnesium glycinate, probiotics, zinc, melatonin .3mg, anti-candida, iron, serrapeptase, nattokinase


I am not a medical professional and this is not medical advice but simply information based on my own experience, as well as other members who have survived these drugs.

Link to comment
  • Administrator

You can dilute escitalopram liquid to take any dose you wish with an oral syringe.

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
  • Administrator
On 3/13/2023 at 5:10 PM, Caesar65 said:

Vitamine D 2000 iU; Probiotica ( Omnibiotic ) Multivitamin Complex Juice; Omega 3 Fatty Acids with Coenzyme Q10 and Vitamine E;  sometimes extra in addition with Vitamine B Complex; a combi product with passionflower, valerian, hop; magnesium; sometimes CBD Oil without THC (doesn’t help my anxiety ) 

 

Hello, @Caesar65. You can safely stop the probiotic, multivitamin complex, and vitamin B complex to see if your symptoms reduce. 

 

Omega 3 fatty acids and CoQ10 are less likely to cause problems, but if you stop the others first and there are no changes, you can suspend taking these 2 to see if that helps.

 

If the combination product with passionflower, etc. doesn't help, I'd put it aside for a while.

 

Did you read this about lamotrigine? 

 

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
55 minutes ago, Altostrata said:

Hello, @Caesar65. You can safely stop the probiotic, multivitamin complex, and vitamin B complex to see if your symptoms reduce. 

 

Omega 3 fatty acids and CoQ10 are less likely to cause problems, but if you stop the others first and there are no changes, you can suspend taking these 2 to see if that helps.

 

If the combination product with passionflower, etc. doesn't help, I'd put it aside for a while.

Hi Altostrata, many thanks for your advice. I will do that, of course. 
I forgot to mention L Tryhtophan, I used it also but only for several weeks, than stopped again. I think it helped me sometimes to fall to sleep better, but not always. 
 

But I can also tell you, that I already have tried that,  I stopped some of these supplements some months ago, and not to take any of this nutrition supplements for a while, but all the symptoms remained the same, or some got even worse.
The main reason why I was taking all those vitamines, is that I mostly eat unbalanced meals.
Since my beloved mom died, I eat much too rarely salad and vegetables. I miss her so much😢😢😢! This easter it will be already 3 years since her passing, and my grief has become rather stronger than ever😢 

And one of my main torturing withdrawal symptoms is this horrible bodily weakness in my arms, permanently! 😢 Since over a year it has not become any better.
 I thought it will get better if I take CoQ10 and essential amino acids against my fatique. 

By the way, what do you think about using Gaba capsules to fight against my constantly strong anxiety?  I think about trying this, in addition with L Tryhtophan. 
Or better 5 HTP? I am also concerned and afraid even of those products sometimes. 


With my Best Wishes and with the greatest Respect for your work! 
 

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment
  • Administrator

If you don't eat enough vegetables, eat more vegetables. You need the folate. Fresh is better for you.'

 

Have you had your vitamin B12 levels tested? That's very important.

 

If the supplements aren't helping, why continue to take them?

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
2 minutes ago, Altostrata said:

If you don't eat enough vegetables, eat more vegetables. You need the folate. Fresh is better for you.'

 

Have you had your vitamin B12 levels tested? That's very important.

 

If the supplements aren't helping, why continue to take them?

Yes, you are right.
Perhaps I only take them because of my despair, to get rid of this bodily weakness aso. And all the blood tests I made recently seemed to be alright. 
Vitamin B12, too. But these tests are often only superficial, I learned. 
In the first 6 - 8 months nothing happened, I was the one, who suggested to test also serotonin, noradrenalin in different blood tests. It would have been very interesting how the blood value of serotonin was, while I was still on Lexapro, or shorty after my withdrawal in January 2022. A neurostress test will not be paid by my health insurance, but blood tests only, from which I think are not sufficiently enough. 
 

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment
3 hours ago, Altostrata said:

You can dilute escitalopram liquid to take any dose you wish with an oral syringe.

Thank you, I have a very hard time to make this heavy decision of reinstating the drug  again. More than a year after I quit! 😢

But if don’t feel any better in the neat future, I think I have to make this choice.

But I fear  the risk of making everything worse again. 
And: I am afraid of all the terrible side effects, I was going through all the years with Lexapro. Will they come back to me? But if decide to reinstate, I am also afraid of whatbhappens, if I feel no efect and would need a higher dose as I intended to take maximum? If I reinstate, I intend I will only take from 0,1 up to 0,5 or until maximum until 2 mg. But what if this is not enough?! Only God  knows. 
And then my plan is to begin again to taper very slowly, this time really very slowly. 

Until now, I am not sure if I should try it or not.

Maybe, I have nothing to lose…….? 

 

 

 

 

 

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment
On 3/8/2023 at 6:19 PM, Caesar65 said:

Hello to everybody!

 

I am very grateful to get an opportunity to write my story in this forum, I am from Germany and in our country those severe problems with antidepressants withdrawals have not yet become very aware to the public, nor the prescribing doctors. It is really a tragedy! 

The tapering strips method, which seems to me being used successfully in England, the USA, the Netherlands aso, is almost still unknown in Germany.

And in the meantime, I think, if I would have already known, more than a year ago, what I know now, all the knowledge, that I achieved, I would probably not be in such an unbearable and suffering situation, than I am still now, since the whole year 2022.  

Here in Germany is absolutely no help if such problems occur, after the withdrawal of Psychopharmaka, this is my sadest experience, and many others are in the same situation 😢 I can also read this in all the stories of the  German Facebook groups who are having this title: withdrawal of psychopharmaka/Antidepressants. Nobody cares, nobody knows, nobody seems to be interested. And there are a lot of predjudices,  there is very often totally lack of knowledge of these kind of drugs. 

The majority of the doctors are denying this very long lasting withdrawal symptoms, most of them still maintain, it doesn’t exist! And all they say, if you are refusing to Antidepressiva, there is nothing we can do! They don’t care about the side effects and all the other terrible and dangerous things in connection with the drug use. And because my side effects, which were getting stronger especially over the last years, I decided to quit with it, a very long time, I was not aware at all, that the problems which occured, the terrible Tinnitus, the Brain Zaps, the abnormal excitements, the sweating excavations, the furious extreme outbreaks of rages, insomnia, regular daily daily bouts of fatigue with leaden tiredness and then later being overactive again. For years I only functioned and lived in a bubble, and I was emotionally numb.

It is more than a year ago that I stopped taking the drug, and unfortunately I reduced the dose to fast. According to my psychiatrists advice, I reduced the dose within only 5 weeks from 20 mg to O; which means 5 mg less per week, and this after my longtime experience of using Lexapro since 2004. How could I ever have been so stupid! If my beloved mom would still be alive, I probably would not have been so naiv, but since then I am traumatized forever, because of the circumstances of her death almost 3 years ago. 

In the End of January, 2022  I was finished with my reduction. And since the whole last year, I really go through hell until nowadays and I never ever felt so bad, since my withdrawal I never had experienced such horrible feelings and symptoms before! And my doctor\ psychiatrist still doesn’t believe, that all the symptoms I still have, are caused from the withdrawal of the drug. He maintains, that after a year, this cannot be. Even though I gave him really a lot of Information about the facts, he is still questioning it! 😢  

Initially, after stopping, I had severe flu-like symptoms, severe nausea for months, loss of appetite, electric shock-like sensations in my head and other parts of my body, movement disorders, visual disturbances, severe muscle cramps. All of this has now subsided, within  a year. But delayed, a permanent physical weakness has developed, especially noticeable in the arms and unbearable anxiety, heavily heart palpitations, plus severe dizziness, difficulty concentrating, brain fog**, a feeling of total insensibility, fatique, hopelessness and joylessness, cognitive disorder.  A permanent state of chronic loss of appetite has also remained. And a permanent feeling of Unreality, very hard to describe, there are feelings of derealization I never had in my mind, and nobody understands, I hardly can explain. 

There are no spontaneous emotions anymore, I can't decide for anything, not even for the simplest things, I think back and forth forever, plus strong tinnitus, severe depression, suicidal thoughts, I live only in the past, have a strong longing for earlier times. My only emotional reaction and emotion is actually only sadness, a melancholy and sadness deeply anchored in me, which is a constant companion.

Already when I wake up in the morning, I always experience this terrible indescribable feeling, which restricts my everyday life so massively, I am already on sick leave for most of the year and also have great fear for my existence, great fear for the future.

I don't know how much longer I can endure this condition, I have been trying for months to achieve relief by taking various dietary supplements and phytopharmaceuticals, i.e. only herbal remedies, and have already spent a lot of money, in vain. Unfortunately, my health insurance does not cover orthomolecular and holistic medicine, only these expensive antidepressants, which have been prescribed for years, which are covered by the german health insurance. I am not able to smile or laugh, no joyful emotions, I can’t listen to music anymore but I love music!😢

 

My prescribing doctor believes my withdrawal symptoms, but says, this is only a reaction of my body, which means, that my depression is back.

Well, the depression was always my company, since my youth, it never disappeared! He says, that I would feel so bad, because I refused to take another drug, and recommended  Sertralin, in the meantime he recommended Agomelatine, that I also refused to take.  Since a year he did absolutely nothing to help me with my severe symptoms. I was the one, who started to research in the internet, and I found a lot of information there.

And thank God there a few people in Germany who are very busy and concerned about the problems which occur after the drug withdrawal, like Peter Lehmann, Peter Ansari, and some others. They were publishing very good books about this case. I learned a lot about my symptoms and why they excist. 

 

The majority of the doctors are denying this very long lasting withdrawal symptoms, most of them still maintain, it doesn’t exist! And  they say, if you are refusing to Antidepressiva, there is nothing we can do! They don’t care about the side effects and all the other terrible and dangerous things in connection with the drug use. 

 

And the main question is also: Is it ever possible to reinstate the drug with the tapering method even only with small doses after more than a year after quitting with this SSRI? Or better through the liquid formula with a special syringe? 

But this method is still very unusal to be practiced in Germany and I would have to order the strips  from the Netherlands. There is only one pharmacy who produces them,  I found out.

 

I am very afraid to reinstate even a low dose of Lexapro again, because I already tried it last June 2022 with a short period of taking another drug called Brintellix/Vortioxetin, which is said to be similar to the drug Cipralex/Lexapro/Escitalopram. My doctor  only precribed it because it was my suggestion, the drug is not available in Germany anymore and my pharmacy had to order it from Switzerland. 

And the all the symptoms got worse and I was lying in bed again with flu like symptoms including shivering in hot summer. I am quite sure now, the dose was much to high for being used as reinstating drug, it was 10 mg, than i reduced myself to 5 mg. 

 

But what shall I do? I can´t live with this terrible symptoms anymore, I fear, they last longer, perhaps for years, I can´t bear that anymore.

If I would know, that I will feel better in the near future, sometimes this year, but everything seems so uncertain and my anxiety kills me.

The heavily heart palpations, this terrific bodily weakness in my arms and this dizziness, this very difficult concentration even for the simplest things, and all that, It is so frustrating! I am crying every single day. And I have great fear for my income, what will happen to me, if I can´t work anymore?

Thank you for your consideration and your attention of my story. Best wishes to all of you who read this! 

 

 

 

 

Hello,

 

I have the same problem Ceasar65 and I know the horrible experience of rapid heart rates, anxiety, chronic dizziness and difficulty sleeping.  

 

I looked very hard everywhere in my search on the internet and with doctor's to find solutions and I couldn't find any answers, but when I found your post I knew there was a correlation to my symptoms. I had the same symptoms of withdrawals. 

 

I have found some answers recently with the help of doctor's. This condition that you're experiencing is also possible because of bird flu. Both bird-flu (or another virus) and escitalopram withdrawal can contribute to dysautonomia. It's hard to say which one if effecting you. 

 

Here are some of the things I did to make my situation better:

 

1) Get your doctor to order a Holter exam (24hr ecg). You can do this at home while doing anything. It's a very small monitor that goes on your chest for a 24hr period and you can drop it off at the clinic next day.

 

2) Get a beta blocker like propranolol. Start with 5mg twice a day. Then 5mg thrice a day. Then slowly once some side effects (very minor) go away, take 10mg twice a day. Based on your Holter test, the doctor can also recommend a beta blocker based on that.

 

3) Bringing your HR down is the absolute most important thing!! First priority! Your anxiety, insomnia and dizziness are connected to it. This is why nothing what you're doing is working. This erratic HR from dysautonomia is not in your control. You cannot breathe and slow it down. It's the body's autonomic nervous system controlling it.

 

4) These are the things that made it worse for me. Omega 3 & Vitamin B12. But definitely get your folate checked, to be sure first. I believe Omega 3 speeds up the withdrawals and causes more dizziness and crazy heart rates. Magnesium is good. Black tea works for me as well, I tried it after reading your post and it's good! But decaf black tea only works. 

 

5) Skullcap tea or tincture - This is very important also. This has saved me from going insane and made withdrawals bearable. I take it 3 times a day and it's extremely good for my anxiety!

 

6) The recommendation that you recieved from the website staff of reinstating is also good. I have not reinstated because doing above things helped me, but SSRI reinstatement will very likely help you in small doses. The treatment for dysautonomia from withdrawals, long COVID or bird flu is SSRI. So for both reasons following their directions may be helpful..

 

PRIORITY: Bring your heart rate down with beta blocker. Talk to your doctor. Get the 4hr version to try it first, before you try the 24hr release version. 

 

Doing all of these things. I have now entered the wave of withdrawals as discussed in one of the articles on this website. I have 1 bad day, 2nd is better day less dizziness (I can drive after half day), 3rd day is much better day. 4th day is bad again and the cycle follows, but it's supposed to get better with each wave/cycle. Until I entered the wave, it was horrible every day!

 

I really wish you a speedy recovery. My best wishes, my heart goes out for you, because I know how hard it is with all those same symptoms and confusion and braking fog associated with it. It is so hard to think clearly. 

 

Please feel free to reach out to me if you ever want to talk. If you want to talk in person, I'm located in Canada, we can talk on WhatsApp or FB messenger.

 

 

 

 

Jan 1-15 2023 - Ativan 2mg

Jan 1-12 2023 - Trintellix 10mg

Jan 14-16 2023 - Escitalopram 5mg

Jan 15-Jan 20 2023 - Ativan 1mg

Jan 21-30 2023 - Ativan 0.5mg Slow taper down - 5 days 0.5mg once a day. Then 0.5 mg every other day for 3 doses.

Jan 17- Feb 04 2023 - Escitalopram 10mg

Feb 05-14 2023 - 5mg for 5 days, then 2.5mg for 4 days. Feb 15 - Zero Mg Escitalopram

Mar 11, 2023 - Propranolol 20mg

 

Link to comment
2 hours ago, Altostrata said:

 

Hello, @Caesar65. You can safely stop the probiotic, multivitamin complex, and vitamin B complex to see if your symptoms reduce. 

 

Omega 3 fatty acids and CoQ10 are less likely to cause problems, but if you stop the others first and there are no changes, you can suspend taking these 2 to see if that helps.

 

If the combination product with passionflower, etc. doesn't help, I'd put it aside for a while.

 

Did you read this about lamotrigine? 

 

Dear Altostrata,

Many thanks for this text about this medication and for this very good explanations.

 I think about it, since last week, when I have heard, that this drug could probably eliminate all the withdrawal symptoms forever.  And at first, I was full of hope. 
But I am not having bipolar disorder, nor epilepsy. It shall be useful with depression, also, but what about my strong anxiety symptoms with the permanent heart palpitations?! And my bodily weakness?! 
This is also a very hard decision to make. My Doctor already prescribed me this, because I mentioned it, but of course the risky dose of 25 mg, which I will never take. I destroyed the prescription.
If I would ever try it, I would take only the maximum of 2 mg. 

He still believes that very small doses of any drug will have no effect.
I see this in a totally different way, in the meantime, after my bad experience with Lexapro 20 mg, and all the knowledge I have now, I have become very very careful and scared. 
And if I really ever take it, I already think  about, that I would have to taper again another drug, even though my doctor said to me: don’t worry, if you don’t feel good, just stop it! 🤯 
Can you imagine?! And when I read about the terrible side effects, I get very scared. 
I don’t know what will be the right way to get rid of the symptoms. 
 

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment
21 minutes ago, AmitV said:

Hello,

 

I have the same problem Ceasar65 and I know the horrible experience of rapid heart rates, anxiety, chronic dizziness and difficulty sleeping.  

 

I looked very hard everywhere in my search on the internet and with doctor's to find solutions and I couldn't find any answers, but when I found your post I knew there was a correlation to my symptoms. I had the same symptoms of withdrawals. 

 

I have found some answers recently with the help of doctor's. This condition that you're experiencing is also possible because of bird flu. Both bird-flu (or another virus) and escitalopram withdrawal can contribute to dysautonomia. It's hard to say which one if effecting you. 

 

Here are some of the things I did to make my situation better:

 

1) Get your doctor to order a Holter exam (24hr ecg). You can do this at home while doing anything. It's a very small monitor that goes on your chest for a 24hr period and you can drop it off at the clinic next day.

 

2) Get a beta blocker like propranolol. Start with 5mg twice a day. Then 5mg thrice a day. Then slowly once some side effects (very minor) go away, take 10mg twice a day. Based on your Holter test, the doctor can also recommend a beta blocker based on that.

 

3) Bringing your HR down is the absolute most important thing!! First priority! Your anxiety, insomnia and dizziness are connected to it. This is why nothing what you're doing is working. This erratic HR from dysautonomia is not in your control. You cannot breathe and slow it down. It's the body's autonomic nervous system controlling it.

 

4) These are the things that made it worse for me. Omega 3 & Vitamin B12. But definitely get your folate checked, to be sure first. I believe Omega 3 speeds up the withdrawals and causes more dizziness and crazy heart rates. Magnesium is good. Black tea works for me as well, I tried it after reading your post and it's good! But decaf black tea only works. 

 

5) Skullcap tea or tincture - This is very important also. This has saved me from going insane and made withdrawals bearable. I take it 3 times a day and it's extremely good for my anxiety!

 

6) The recommendation that you recieved from the website staff of reinstating is also good. I have not reinstated because doing above things helped me, but SSRI reinstatement will very likely help you in small doses. The treatment for dysautonomia from withdrawals, long COVID or bird flu is SSRI. So for both reasons following their directions may be helpful..

 

PRIORITY: Bring your heart rate down with beta blocker. Talk to your doctor. Get the 4hr version to try it first, before you try the 24hr release version. 

 

Doing all of these things. I have now entered the wave of withdrawals as discussed in one of the articles on this website. I have 1 bad day, 2nd is better day less dizziness (I can drive after half day), 3rd day is much better day. 4th day is bad again and the cycle follows, but it's supposed to get better with each wave/cycle. Until I entered the wave, it was horrible every day!

 

I really wish you a speedy recovery. My best wishes, my heart goes out for you, because I know how hard it is with all those same symptoms and confusion and braking fog associated with it. It is so hard to think clearly. 

 

Please feel free to reach out to me if you ever want to talk. If you want to talk in person, I'm located in Canada, we can talk on WhatsApp or FB messenger.

 

 

 

Hi Amit.

thank you so very much for your kind words, let us keep in touch. 
It is a very important experience for me tomget an opportunity to talk to people who go through the same hell as I am going through😢 Hardly anybody I know around me, understands this. And that makes everything more painful for me. 

I will write you back very soon🌹Best wishes to you

FB and WhatsApp is also good of course. Even though I was not able to put my messenger link of my FB page inside my profile, I am not so familiar with this, but I will try again. 

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment
48 minutes ago, Caesar65 said:

If the supplements aren't helping, why continue to take them?

Yes, you are right. 
But concerning my strong heart  palpitations with even extra systoles, I take the Omega Fatty Acids, to avoid to make them worse. Sometimes I had the feeling I get a heart attack and I had pain in my chest very often since my withdrawal last year. Especially in the first 6 - 9 months. And my high blood pressure I noticed since my withdrawal, I never had before. The diastolic value is always much higher than normal. 

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment
  • Administrator

Have you seen a cardiologist, @Caesar65? It's important that you rule out non-withdrawal conditions. Not everything is withdrawal.

 

The problem with seeking lamotrigine treatment is most doctors do not have a clue about how to use it. So you're on your own seeing if a low dose will work for you. 

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
10 hours ago, Altostrata said:

Have you seen a cardiologist, @Caesar65? It's important that you rule out non-withdrawal conditions. Not everything is withdrawal.

 

The problem with seeking lamotrigine treatment is most doctors do not have a clue about how to use it. So you're on your own seeing if a low dose will work for you. 

Hi Altostrata, yes I went to a kardiologist already, and nothing severe was found, but my heart palpitations still exist permanently. And my family doctor is a very nice man, but is also helpless since over a year.😢 

I am also things about a small dosis of Lamotrigine since a while, but I don’t know if my mood will get better, and if it would help my anxiety, and about my heavy arms?! 
Right now, I mean since this year I became more and more depressed and hopeless. 
I am not able to work, how will I survive? And the loneliness is my steady companion. 
I have read your experience with Lamotrigine and I was crying when I read about your  longtime experience of suffering, about the long time you had to deal with your symptoms. And until now, I have great fear to make a decision if I should reinstate or trying out a small dose of Lamotrigine. 
 

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment

Hello Ceasar65,

 

please try the breathing exercise in this video. Just the breathing exercise nothing more. Breathing from diaphragm. You may be stuck in fight-or-flight. I found the diaphragm breathing just 4 times helped me bring my anxiety down almost immediately. Yesterday my brain fog even went away for 2 hours. I was talking faster, I was moving faster, I felt extreme clarity. I have not felt that in a long time!

 

please only try at your comfort level, don’t do any more than your comfort level.

 

I can understand the brain fog and dizziness, it’s debilitating. I know it because I experience it myself.

 

 

Jan 1-15 2023 - Ativan 2mg

Jan 1-12 2023 - Trintellix 10mg

Jan 14-16 2023 - Escitalopram 5mg

Jan 15-Jan 20 2023 - Ativan 1mg

Jan 21-30 2023 - Ativan 0.5mg Slow taper down - 5 days 0.5mg once a day. Then 0.5 mg every other day for 3 doses.

Jan 17- Feb 04 2023 - Escitalopram 10mg

Feb 05-14 2023 - 5mg for 5 days, then 2.5mg for 4 days. Feb 15 - Zero Mg Escitalopram

Mar 11, 2023 - Propranolol 20mg

 

Link to comment
  • Administrator
On 3/18/2023 at 7:51 AM, Caesar65 said:

my heart palpitations still exist permanently

 

When did these palpitations start? Do they occur at any particular times of day? Has this symptom pattern changed in the last 6 months?

 

On 3/16/2023 at 4:26 PM, Caesar65 said:

who suggested to test also serotonin, noradrenalin in different blood tests. It would have been very interesting how the blood value of serotonin was, while I was still on Lexapro, or shorty after my withdrawal in January 2022. A neurostress test will not be paid by my health insurance

 

The purported neurotransmitter tests are not useful.

 

How about your sodium and potassium levels, have they been checked recently?

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
1 hour ago, Altostrata said:

 

When did these palpitations start? Do they occur at any particular times of day? Has this symptom pattern changed in the last 6 months?

 

 

The purported neurotransmitter tests are not useful.

 

How about your sodium and potassium levels, have they been checked recently?

The palpitations are present since about last spring 2022, but they have become much stronger until now. 

 

Why  do you think  the neurotransmitter test, with Gaba or Glutamin are not helpful?

I thought, I would need additional Gaba transmitter to fight against my strong anxiety with heartbeating. 
The sodium potassium ( you mean:  natrium/ kalium   levels ) were ok after the last test, my Family Doctor said. 
 

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment
On 3/18/2023 at 3:51 PM, Caesar65 said:

Have you seen a cardiologist, @Caesar65? It's important that you rule out non-withdrawal conditions. Not everything is withdrawal.

 

The problem with seeking lamotrigine treatment is most doctors do not have a clue about how to use it. So you're on your own seeing if a low dose will work for you. 

Last week  I went to another doctor once again, because I am still looking for a doctor who is not questioning my PPWS. But again I made a  frustrating experience, because he said, it doesn’t matter if you have whatever symptoms, you need medication, and he recommended me Pregabalin! Of course I refused to take this drug and was very disappointed, again. 
I told him about the many people discussing their big problems in Withdrawal Online Forums, but he didn’t  care. Like many other so- called specialists, too. I am speaking against a wall, even when I am telling my side effects, that I had, while I was on Lexapro😢.

When I went to doctors I always had some information papers with me, to hand out to the doctors as to inform about the severe problems caused through withdrawal of antidepressants.
And I always said, that in the UK they guidelines were changed because of that. Believe me, I am trying to fight against the ignorance and lack of knowledge spread here in my environment. 

Peter Lehmann intends to publish my story in his new book, coming out later this year. I reported him a lot, as good as I could, because most of the time, I can’t think clear😢, and we had long phone calls. I think you know his books, too. Here in Germany the situation is worse, it’s unbelievable how ignorant the doctors act. And the less who are dealing with this facts reported, are getting under pressure of their higher authorities, I learned. 

 

What do you think about using Lamictal  in my case? 

I am thinking very much about the use of Lamictal, if this would be helpful for a  while, but I am very afraid of the side effects, or my symptoms may get worse. On the other side I am very scared also like of my considering to reinstate again Lexapro after more than a year. But considering my Symptomes, in my first post , would Lamictal also help against my anxiety, my strange feelings of unreality, my heavy arms, my dead emotions, I can’t even smile anymore since over a year ago!😢 All I feel is melancholy and grief. And this dizziness and my unability to start anything to work or something.

And I have to say, I have no deep sleep anymore since a while, this has become worse, I think since January / February this year.

I hardly can describe, how I feel, but everything seems so unreal. I have absolutely no joy anymore, I feel nothing and I avoid to get in touch with people even though I wish to be accompanied by people who understand me. But there ain’t nobody who signals understanding and empathy😢 Just very few, but I am totally alone all by myself. 
And it is strange, everyone says, I am looking good, handsome and they say, that withdrawal problems can’t be that unbearable, they don’t believe it. 
And I have a Trauma because of the circumstances of my moms death😢😢😢,

I can’t get  over it, it has become even much more stronger over the last years.
She died almost 3 years ago😢 I am crying every day, my soul is frozen since then!😢 And the year before in 2019 my father died, while she was also hospialized, too. This was also still managed yet, not at all. 

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment
1 hour ago, Caesar65 said:

When did these palpitations start? Do they occur at any particular times of day? Has this symptom pattern changed in the last 6 months?

 

I have to add the heart palpitations exist since about a year ago, but I remember that I had felt them already when I was still on lexapro until the  End of January 2022. 
But I didn’t pay to much attention to it. And the palpitations start already after I wake up, every day and are getting much stronger when I get up and then the anxiety is permantly present and I feel unable to do a simple thing😢 
This lasts for several hours, and then it can be the heart palpitations get less and return again later, but I can say, in the late evening the palpitations get better. 
I would say, this symptom has become worse in the last  months, for sure. 

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment
On 3/18/2023 at 5:52 PM, AmitV said:

Hello Ceasar65,

 

please try the breathing exercise in this video. Just the breathing exercise nothing more. Breathing from diaphragm. You may be stuck in fight-or-flight. I found the diaphragm breathing just 4 times helped me bring my anxiety down almost immediately. Yesterday my brain fog even went away for 2 hours. I was talking faster, I was moving faster, I felt extreme clarity. I have not felt that in a long time!

 

please only try at your comfort level, don’t do any more than your comfort level.

 

I can understand the brain fog and dizziness, it’s debilitating. I know it because I experience it myself.

 

 

Thank you 🙏 I will try it. 

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment
On 3/16/2023 at 8:51 PM, Altostrata said:

You can dilute escitalopram liquid to take any dose you wish with an oral syringe.

Dear Altostrata, I think about it every single day, if I should really try to reinstate Lexapro/ Escitalopram with the recommended small doses, but it makes me so scared, because I remember my side effects, and I fear what could happen then.

It is risky and could my symptoms worse or everything will get better? And how long should I try to reinstate, if I feel more bad again than right now? 😢 


And I also think about taking Lamictal but only the smallest dose, from which my psychiatrist says, it will have no effect anyway, he is always questioning small doses. My psychiatrist gave me a prescription of 25 mg, and my family doctor 2 mg. 
And my psychiatrist didn’t explain me anything about Lamictal/ Lamotrigine. 
Concerning my symptoms, what would you say, I should try first, the reinstating or Lamotrigine? I am not able to make any decisions anymore, don’t know what to do. 😢

 

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment
  • Administrator
23 hours ago, Caesar65 said:

Why  do you think  the neurotransmitter test, with Gaba or Glutamin are not helpful?

I thought, I would need additional Gaba transmitter to fight against my strong anxiety with heartbeating. 

 

Because balancing neurotransmitters, including your idea of adding GABA, is an invalid theory and whatever these tests show is irrelevant.

 

21 hours ago, Caesar65 said:

This lasts for several hours, and then it can be the heart palpitations get less and return again later, but I can say, in the late evening the palpitations get better. 

 

Do the palpitations start when you wake up and last several hours? How many hours? Does this pattern repeat every day?

 

How do you feel in the evening? Are there stretches when you have no palpitations?

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
2 hours ago, Altostrata said:
On 3/19/2023 at 11:42 PM, Caesar65 said:

Why  do you think  the neurotransmitter test, with Gaba or Glutamin are not helpful?

I thought, I would need additional Gaba transmitter to fight against my strong anxiety with heartbeating. 

 

Because balancing neurotransmitters, including your idea of adding GABA, is an invalid theory and whatever these tests show is irrelevant.

Thank you for your advice!

I believe you, but because I am so full of despair, I am seeking all day long for a way to avoid the reinstatement or the trying of use of Lamotrigin to overcome my symptoms and feel better.

So I better don’t spend the money for useless actions. Today I thought about to make a neurostress test for testing adrenaline, dopamin, Serotonin aso. And then to start according to the result with taking fe Gaba, in Glutamin Formula etc. But now I think it is useless, isn’t it? A while ago I made a test including the serotonin and noradrenalin level and the serotonin level was ok, but noradrenalin higher than normal. But I learned that through a simple blood test you can’t get the result how much of serotonin is really inside the brain, the blood test shows the result of the total in the whole body but not in the brain. And then I could take a special supplement against my terrible anxiety, that is what I thought. But after all, it is probably not helpful, I think now. 

Edited by Caesar65

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment
1 hour ago, Altostrata said:

Do the palpitations start when you wake up and last several hours? How many hours? Does this pattern repeat every day?

 

How do you feel in the evening? Are there stretches when you have no palpitations?

Yes, after when I wake up,  I feel the heart palpitations and the terrible anxiety, every day, and it is lasting for several hours. I wake up early, but can’t get up, only forced going to the toilet and immediately to bed again, I feel fatique and very tired then.
And since a while I have no deep sleep. But even when there were times, when I could sleep, the other morning the same thing with anxiety and heart problems occured again, every day. 
At high noon I get up and then the heart palpitations and the anxiety get much stronger then, and last until late afternoon, it is terrible. But sometimes it also happens palpitations get better earlier in the afternoon. 
In the evening especially in the night it gets better, but just with the palpitations and the anxiety. The other symptoms like the weakness in arms remains  the same, every day, every hour. The dizziness, the grief, the feeling of Unreality, hard to describe, and all that other symptoms, the total lack of any emotions, aso, remain the same.  

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment
  • Administrator
1 hour ago, Caesar65 said:

Today I thought about to make a neurostress test for testing adrenaline, dopamin, Serotonin aso. And then to start according to the result with taking fe Gaba, in Glutamin Formula etc. But now I think it is useless, isn’t it? A while ago I made a test including the serotonin and noradrenalin level and the serotonin level was ok, but noradrenalin higher than normal.

 

None of these tests produce useful information.

 

What are the palpitations like?

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
26 minutes ago, Altostrata said:

 

None of these tests produce useful information.

 

What are the palpitations like?

They are very strong and sometimes make me coughing, while I am speaking. And when I am making a blood pressure test, the second diastolic is mostly too high. 
 

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment

In case I would reinstate again, I get strong fear from theses muscle cramps I got sometimes but always late at night, and then I woke up from anal spasms.
It was always very painful, it can occure as a side effect and/  or withdrawal symptom I have read. And all the other terrible side effects I had, I have fear from that everything returns or my withdrawal symptoms get even worse. 
Oh my god, what shall I do. I have great fear my suffering continues for years to come. Because I was on Lexapro for 18 years total, I still can’t believe it, but it’s true. 

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment
  • Administrator

I guess you might try reinstating 0.5mg escitalopram or 0.5mg citalopram, its milder sibling.

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
1 hour ago, Altostrata said:

I guess you might try reinstating 0.5mg escitalopram or 0.5mg citalopram, its milder sibling.

Thanks for your reply! But this is what I am thinking about, too. 
Maybe it would be less risky to reinstate with Citalopram instead of the stronger formula Escitalopram. And of course only with a maximum of 0,5 mg, that’s for sure. And please consider also that I 

stopped taking it more than a year ago. 

But I  can’t make a decision. Or should I better try Lamictal 2 mg first? 
I am very scared of both. I think about the side effects I had for many years, and my symptoms making worse. And in case I try Lamictal first, maybe afterwards I will  blame me for using this first, not after reinstating. 

18 years of Escitalopram/ Lexapro 

  • since 2004 until December 2021 Escitalopram/ Lexapro
  • Jan 2004 until June 2004 10 mg Escitalopram 
  • July 2004 until March 2011 20 mg Escitalopram 
  • 2011 until 2016  10 mg Escitalopram
  • 2016 until Dec 2021  20 mg Escitalopram
  • Dec 2021 until end of Jan 2022  5-week taper of Escitalopram, 5mg less per week to 0 end of Jan 2022/ last doses 2,5 mg /1,25 mg

Trying to reinstate with Vortioxetin/Brintellix used instead of Escitalopram/ Lexapro! in June 2022 Vortioxetin 10mg only for about 2 days; the 5 mg for 2 weeks, then Stop because of the effects of worse symptoms ( dose to high !? ) 

Starting to reinstate Lexapro on March 25th, 2023 with 0,25 mg following 26th March 0,5 mg; since 2nd of April 1 mg liquid drop; in between again dose cut to 0,5 for 2 days; increased again on April 4 th to 1 mg until 23th April;  reduced dose 0,5 mg again on 24th April 23 - 30.04.23; reduced dose effective May 1st, 23 to 0,25 mg. 

currently supplements are Diasporal Magnesiumcitrat 300 mg and Doppelherz Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1400 mg EPA 285 mg/ DHA 190 mg , Multivitamine Fruit Juice La Vita 

 

 

Link to comment

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in



Sign In Now
×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

Terms of Use Privacy Policy