John Posted February 9, 2014 Author Share Posted February 9, 2014 What really bothers me is an issue that makes no sense to me. When I go to places and see run down buildings, or think of certain things, sometimes random, I get a feeling of which seems like anxiety. I saw the sunset the other day, and it really got to me. Before this began, I thought it was beautiful! I get this too, the strangest things trigger this anxiety response. I also had an experience where looking at what should have been a beautiful scene of the sun and the ocean, brought a kind of dreadful anxiety, I felt so bad I went home. But that was over a year ago, and for me, its been slowly improving. I have to be careful what I expose myself to - nothing sad, cruel, violent, ugly, frightening, basically anything capable of arousing moderate emotions because in me, at the moment, its likely to arouse a stronger reaction, due to a destabilized nervous system, I suspect you are experiencing the same thing. It does get better, with time, it seems to take a long time for some people. Once the nervous system has been taxed it is irritable and healing is slow it demands your attention and care and will not tolerate any further messing about. There are things you can't control once it starts all you can do is lessen the distress by going slow stopping and waiting if your body says stop and wait. Listening to your body now is what is needed. ..... which can be difficult because we are conditioned by our culture to look for answers, to seek quick solutions, to fix things so we can keep moving forward with our plans and our lives. Sometimes there is nothing to do but wait, and that seems unacceptable in today's world. Can it all be depression? I mean I never was before meds, plus the last time this happened it went away, and I don't think depression just goes away on its own. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Petunia Posted February 9, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted February 9, 2014 Can it all be depression? I mean I never was before meds, plus the last time this happened it went away, and I don't think depression just goes away on its own. Depression is a symptom, or a collection of symptoms, not an illness. It gets called an illness, but, really, its not. Depression type symptoms can be caused by different things. Mostly its caused by stressful life events. Often, when the stress decreases, or people learn how to handle stress better, the symptoms decrease or go away. Anxiety and depression are really just normal human responses to difficult life situations. Drugs can mask the feelings of anxiety and sadness by suppressing all emotions, but they don't cure anything, because there isn't an illness to cure. Sometimes, getting a little artificial relief from having to feel the uncomfortable symptoms can give people a small window of opportunity to do something about the original situation which caused the stress, or it gives them some time to adjust to a situation which can't be changed, like the death of a loved one. But if you stay on these drugs they are doing increasing amounts of damage to the whole body. They are toxic substances and the body and its systems change in ways we don't understand in response to ingesting a poison every day. If you suddenly stop taking this substance, which your body has become adapted to, there are going to be repercussions (withdrawal effects). Some of those effects can be some of the symptoms which fall into the cluster of symptoms called 'depression'. If you want to, you can think of it as having 'depression', or it would be better to think of it as having depression like symptoms caused by withdrawal from anti-depressant drugs. If you have any illness at all, like Alto wrote previously, your illness is withdrawal. At the moment there is no evidence or test to diagnose antidepressant withdrawal syndrome. But there is no test to diagnose depression either. But the good news is that people can recover from both 'depression' and antidepressant withdrawal. The best way is with non-drug treatments, because drugs don't cure anything, they only mask symptoms. Its better to find the real cause of the problem and solve it there. The real cause of your current depression-like symptoms is anti-depressant withdrawal. Even if it was the return of a previous bout of 'depression like symptoms', (which its not), its still not a returning illness which needs reinstatement of on ongoing cure, it needs further investigation to find out what is causing so much stress in your life. I wish I could be more helpful John, you seem to be struggling with believing that withdrawal is actually causing your symptoms and that you can recover. I get the same way at times, especially when I'm in a wave, I start wondering if something else is going on and that there may be something 'out there' which will stop this horrible thing which has taken over my life. The first time in my life I experienced depression-like feelings (for more than a few days), was about 2 weeks after I started taking Zoloft (for anxiety). I felt miserable, dead and lifeless, without hope or happiness for months. Anti-depressants gave me depression. Now I get it alternating with anxiety as part of my windows and waves pattern of withdrawal. I don't know what else to write, I just hope you start to feel better. I hope we all do. My advice is to keep holding where you are, if you keep getting worse, then maybe updose a little. Do what you can to minimize stress in other areas of your life as much as possible, sometimes that's hard, many of us lead very unnatural, stressful lives. There is the option of switching to Prozac, when you are ready to continue tapering again. But effexor is an SSNRI, where prozac is just a SSRI, so it would be like going CT off part of the drug. I would be interested to know if anyone has successfully made this particular switch. Try and be patient, you will recover eventually, just not as soon as you would like. Petu. I'm not a doctor. My comments are not medical advise. These are my opinions based on my own experience and what I've learned. Please discuss your situation with a medical practitioner who has knowledge of tapering and withdrawal...if you are lucky enough to find one. My Introduction Thread Full Drug and Withdrawal History Brief Summary Several SSRIs for 13 years starting 1997 (for mild to moderate partly situational anxiety) Xanax PRN ~ Various other drugs over the years for side effects 2 month 'taper' off Lexapro 2010 Short acute withdrawal, followed by 2 -3 months of improvement then delayed protracted withdrawal DX ADHD followed by several years of stimulants and other drugs trying to manage increasing symptoms Failed reinstatement of Lexapro and trial of Prozac (became suicidal) May 2013 Found SA, learned about withdrawal, stopped taking drugs...healing begins. Protracted withdrawal, with a very sensitized nervous system, slowly recovering as time passes Supplements which have helped: Vitamin C, Magnesium, Taurine Bad reactions: Many supplements but mostly fish oil and Vitamin D June 2016 - Started daily juicing, mostly vegetables and lots of greens. Aug 2016 - Oct 2016 Best window ever, felt almost completely recovered Oct 2016 -Symptoms returned - bad days and less bad days. April 2018 - No windows, but significant improvement, it feels like permanent full recovery is close. VIDEO: Where did the chemical imbalance theory come from? VIDEO: How are psychiatric diagnoses made? VIDEO: Why do psychiatric drugs have withdrawal syndromes? VIDEO: Can psychiatric drugs cause long-lasting negative effects? VIDEO: Dr. Claire Weekes Link to comment
btdt Posted February 9, 2014 Share Posted February 9, 2014 Depression is also caused by a host of drugs google drugs that cause depression.. I have the list is very long. Other things can cause depression low vit B12 for instance and thryroid... look up physiological causes of depression. I know for a face that drug induced depression will not go away while your taking a drug that causes depression I had a drug reaction to a proton pump inhibitor drug caused not only depression but a suicidal hit being an old hat I knew immediately this was a drug reaction and started looking up the drug. So lots of causes for sure. Life events causing depression are just that life events ...new events are on there way. Some good some bad. Getting a drug that messes with your brain for a temporary problem or a life event is a bad idea in my opinion. WARNING THIS WILL BE LONG Had a car accident in 85 Codeine was the pain med when I was release from hosp continuous use till 89 Given PROZAC by a specialist to help with nerve pain in my leg 89-90 not sure which year Was not told a thing about it being a psych med thought it was a pain killer no info about psych side effects I went nuts had hallucinations. As I had a head injury and was diagnosed with a concussion in 85 I was sent to a head injury clinic in 1990 five years after the accident. I don't think they knew I had been on prozac I did not think it a big deal and never did finish the bottle of pills. I had tests of course lots of them. Was put into a pain clinic and given amitriptyline which stopped the withdrawal but had many side effects. But I could sleep something I had not done in a very long time the pain lessened. My mother got cancer in 94 they switched my meds to Zoloft to help deal with this pressure as I was her main care giver she died in 96. I stopped zoloft in 96 had withdrawal was put on paxil went nutty quit it ct put on resperidol quit it ct had withdrawal was put on Effexor... 2years later celexa was added 20mg then increased to 40mg huge personality change went wild. Did too fast taper off Celexa 05 as I felt unwell for a long time prior... quit Effexor 150mg ct 07 found ****** 8 months into withdrawal learned some things was banned from there in 08 have kept learning since. there is really not enough room here to put my history but I have a lot of opinions about a lot of things especially any of the drugs mentioned above. One thing I would like to add here is this tidbit ALL OPIATES INCREASE SEROTONIN it is not a huge jump to being in chronic pain to being put on an ssri/snri and opiates will affect your antidepressants and your thinking. As I do not update much I will put my quit date Nov. 17 2007 I quit Effexor cold turkey. http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1096-introducing-myself-btdt/ There is a crack in everything ..That's how the light gets in Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted February 9, 2014 Administrator Share Posted February 9, 2014 John, let's say you do have "depression." What does this mean to 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
John Posted February 9, 2014 Author Share Posted February 9, 2014 John, let's say you do have "depression." What does this mean to you? Well, thats scary on it's own, and if it's "me", that makes me more scared and anxious, and does that mean i'll have bouts for life? On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted February 9, 2014 Administrator Share Posted February 9, 2014 What do you think "depression" is? 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
John Posted February 9, 2014 Author Share Posted February 9, 2014 What do you think "depression" is? To be honest, i'm not sure! I've researched it, and noticed that a lot of my symptoms were the same; loss of appetite, loss of interest in things you once enjoyed, anxiety, etc. But I dont feel worthless or guilty, but am down the way I feel which is predominately scared; very tense and nervous, and any thought is amplified by 100x. The slightest chore has to be forced, and takes so much concentration that before this all happened. Not my life, but my condition seems hopeless, although I did mostly recover before I crashed again. Oddly enough though, the last few nights seems to bring some relief. And when that happens, my appetite returns, and my sexual interest does to. But I go to sleep, wake up, and the hell starts all over again. This pattern didnt start the last time until about 5 or 6 months into it. This time is about 2 weeks. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted February 9, 2014 Administrator Share Posted February 9, 2014 Doesn't that sound like the wave-and-window pattern of withdrawal syndrome? 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
John Posted February 9, 2014 Author Share Posted February 9, 2014 Doesn't that sound like the wave-and-window pattern of withdrawal syndrome? Lol yes it does. I'm sorry for being a pain in the a**, but I'm so clouded up and feel like I'm always in a total crisis. It's hard to get things through my head, especially when the ones who are supposed to be the professionals know nothing about this. By the way, what do you think of that doctor on drugawareness.Com? I bought her withdrawal mp3 file and seems very informative. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted February 9, 2014 Administrator Share Posted February 9, 2014 What doctor? Link, please. 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
John Posted February 10, 2014 Author Share Posted February 10, 2014 http://www.drugawareness.org On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted February 10, 2014 Administrator Share Posted February 10, 2014 Ann Blake-Tracy is not an MD. She has some good advice. 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
John Posted February 10, 2014 Author Share Posted February 10, 2014 As usual, yesterday I felt pretty bad, but since me and my fiancee bought a house, this weekend i've been working on it, and I must say, it's going well! I am very nervous about the life change when we're married in 2 months. I'm not afraid of commitment at all, but it's the change in living situation. I have a very close and caring family where I lived for 41 years in the same house as my parents. I am the only child, and must admit was very cared for and sheltered, yet I had another side to me where I had a notion that I can take care of myself. I'm very unselfish, and under all these withdrawals, I am really excited to start a new life! The withdrawals put scary negative thoughts and give me the notion that i'm losing my parents, and I wont see them anymore, even though our house is only 19 miles away. So yea, these impending changes are stressful, and add to the withdrawal suffering, but is not the cause of it, since when I bought this house, I was very optimistic and excited. Anyway, at the house last night I was not feeling good, very scared and nervous as usual, and the later it gets, the calmer I feel. We finished at the house and went to our homes. I figured since i've been going through these withdrawals the last few weeks, my sleep has been less that optimal; I have no problem falling asleep, but I do awake a few times during the night. So I took a sublingual melatonin, and didnt wake up at all! I only had to wake up because I had to go to work. I even woke a little less nervous than I have been lately, but i'm more groggy than ever. And alas, after going to work, and now being in work,I feel as scared, panicky and hopeless as I ever was. I'd also like to note that tonight i'm going to see the recommended Dr Ahmad Samoon. I'll report how it went when I return tonight. I explained to him my situation on the phone, and he listened, and said "I will say that I did hear a lot of bad things about Effexor." On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus mammaP Posted February 10, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted February 10, 2014 Hi John, it is really good that you are enjoying fixing the house up. I loved fixing up our homes and loved the dirty jobs too! The satisfaction that comes from seeing the transformation is amazing. I'm sure you will be just fine when you are married, you are kind and caring and will take care of your wife and any family that you might have . I hope the appointment with Doctor Samoon goes well for you, let us know how it goes **I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge. Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem) 1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat 2002 effexor. Tapered March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads. Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013 Restarted taper Nov 2013 OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015 Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014 Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg July 2017 30mg. May 15 2018 25mg Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33 Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible Link to comment
John Posted February 10, 2014 Author Share Posted February 10, 2014 Thank you MamaP for those sweet words. I'm going to do my best. Before Effexor I was able to handle anything, now I'm just a shadow of my former self. I will definitely keep you guys informed! On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
John Posted February 11, 2014 Author Share Posted February 11, 2014 Well, now i'm totally confused! I've just come back from seeing Dr. Samoon. I explained everything, and he asked how I was tapering off of the Effexor XR. I told him I was removing a percentage of pellets, and he said that's not a good thing to do. He said that these capsules arent designed to be taken apart and recounted. He said doing so will be giving yourself different dosages every day. He said I should be taking either the 75mg pill, or a 37.5mg which is closest to where I am now. Now this brings me to a question; every pill has a different amount of pellets. How can Wyeth know exactly how many milligrams each is if each one has all different amounts of pellets, especially the 37.5mg one? theyre able to measure out .5 mgs? Dr Samoon said that there are a few choices we can to to be off the Effexor. He said that there is a genetic testing that can be done to see whats the best and worst meds to take according to my metabolism. He'd be able to see that if i'm metabolizing the Effexor too quickly giving me withdrawals. He also ordered full bloodwork, including cortisol, full thyroid panel, insulin, and testosterone. He said I can very well be withdrawals, but it is also possible I developed this disorder while on the drug. I just don't understand if I go to the 37.5 how i'd be able to taper without counting pellets. This is all vital to me more than ever as I have a wedding coming up, plus frankly, Im sick of this!!! I already went through this hell 3 years ago, and now I have to do this again, and 2 months before my wedding no less! On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
lespaul19 Posted February 11, 2014 Share Posted February 11, 2014 its because each beads weighs differently, they arent all .5mg for example 2000-2001 10mg Paxil2001-2012 75mg effexor2012-2013 37.5mg effexorc/t effexor early oct, prozac for 10mg 7-8 days, off all meds until reinstating effexor 37.5mg nov 12th Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Petunia Posted February 11, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted February 11, 2014 I'm sorry your appointment didn't go so well, I can tell how frustrating this is, I would probably be feeling the same way. Its good that he is running some tests, but I get the feeling he doesn't know anything about antidepressant withdrawal or how to get you off effexor. I really don't think you will get better tapering advice than what you find right here: http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/272-tips-for-tapering-off-effexor-and-effexor-xr-venlafaxine/ I'm not a doctor. My comments are not medical advise. These are my opinions based on my own experience and what I've learned. Please discuss your situation with a medical practitioner who has knowledge of tapering and withdrawal...if you are lucky enough to find one. My Introduction Thread Full Drug and Withdrawal History Brief Summary Several SSRIs for 13 years starting 1997 (for mild to moderate partly situational anxiety) Xanax PRN ~ Various other drugs over the years for side effects 2 month 'taper' off Lexapro 2010 Short acute withdrawal, followed by 2 -3 months of improvement then delayed protracted withdrawal DX ADHD followed by several years of stimulants and other drugs trying to manage increasing symptoms Failed reinstatement of Lexapro and trial of Prozac (became suicidal) May 2013 Found SA, learned about withdrawal, stopped taking drugs...healing begins. Protracted withdrawal, with a very sensitized nervous system, slowly recovering as time passes Supplements which have helped: Vitamin C, Magnesium, Taurine Bad reactions: Many supplements but mostly fish oil and Vitamin D June 2016 - Started daily juicing, mostly vegetables and lots of greens. Aug 2016 - Oct 2016 Best window ever, felt almost completely recovered Oct 2016 -Symptoms returned - bad days and less bad days. April 2018 - No windows, but significant improvement, it feels like permanent full recovery is close. VIDEO: Where did the chemical imbalance theory come from? VIDEO: How are psychiatric diagnoses made? VIDEO: Why do psychiatric drugs have withdrawal syndromes? VIDEO: Can psychiatric drugs cause long-lasting negative effects? VIDEO: Dr. Claire Weekes Link to comment
John Posted February 11, 2014 Author Share Posted February 11, 2014 Guys one thing I never realized until now was how every pill even though has the same mgs, they all have different amount of pellets. Now I realize that after rereading the thread, it's because its done by weight! Duh! Anyway the question I have is if you think I wound up like this again because I didnt weigh them, and just counted? Could I of been giving myself different dosages every day? On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted February 11, 2014 Administrator Share Posted February 11, 2014 Answered in the Effexor topic. 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
John Posted February 13, 2014 Author Share Posted February 13, 2014 I was prescribed gabapentin by the Dr. 200 mgs 3 times a day. Makes me tired maybe slightly calmer. How is this drug? On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted February 13, 2014 Administrator Share Posted February 13, 2014 Did you read about it before you started taking it? Which doctor prescribed it? What did he or she say about it? 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
John Posted February 13, 2014 Author Share Posted February 13, 2014 Dr Samoon prescribed it. He said it would take the edge off. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Petunia Posted February 13, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted February 13, 2014 You probably should have checked it out before taking it. Its got a long list of potential side effects: http://www.drugs.com/sfx/gabapentin-side-effects.html I've never taken it, but it doesn't sound very promising according to its wikipedia listing. It says its sometimes prescribed off label for anxiety associated with bi-polar disorder, but it doesn't work with all kinds of anxiety and it causes fatigue and tiredness. I guess if you are asleep, then you are not feeling anxious. It causes weight gain too. I'm sorry, but I've completely lost my enthusiasm for all psyche meds. If you keep taking it, and want to stop, you will have to taper. Here is the wiki listing if you are interested: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gabapentin I'm not a doctor. My comments are not medical advise. These are my opinions based on my own experience and what I've learned. Please discuss your situation with a medical practitioner who has knowledge of tapering and withdrawal...if you are lucky enough to find one. My Introduction Thread Full Drug and Withdrawal History Brief Summary Several SSRIs for 13 years starting 1997 (for mild to moderate partly situational anxiety) Xanax PRN ~ Various other drugs over the years for side effects 2 month 'taper' off Lexapro 2010 Short acute withdrawal, followed by 2 -3 months of improvement then delayed protracted withdrawal DX ADHD followed by several years of stimulants and other drugs trying to manage increasing symptoms Failed reinstatement of Lexapro and trial of Prozac (became suicidal) May 2013 Found SA, learned about withdrawal, stopped taking drugs...healing begins. Protracted withdrawal, with a very sensitized nervous system, slowly recovering as time passes Supplements which have helped: Vitamin C, Magnesium, Taurine Bad reactions: Many supplements but mostly fish oil and Vitamin D June 2016 - Started daily juicing, mostly vegetables and lots of greens. Aug 2016 - Oct 2016 Best window ever, felt almost completely recovered Oct 2016 -Symptoms returned - bad days and less bad days. April 2018 - No windows, but significant improvement, it feels like permanent full recovery is close. VIDEO: Where did the chemical imbalance theory come from? VIDEO: How are psychiatric diagnoses made? VIDEO: Why do psychiatric drugs have withdrawal syndromes? VIDEO: Can psychiatric drugs cause long-lasting negative effects? VIDEO: Dr. Claire Weekes Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus bubble Posted February 13, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted February 13, 2014 Guys one thing I never realized until now was how every pill even though has the same mgs, they all have different amount of pellets. Now I realize that after rereading the thread, it's because its done by weight! Duh! Anyway the question I have is if you think I wound up like this again because I didnt weigh them, and just counted? Could I of been giving myself different dosages every day? read a few of your last posts and understand your confusion. Seems your new doc is yet another one totalyl clueless about tapering and withdrawing. Unfortunately that's why we had to take things into our own hands and challenge professionals ;( But look at his 'logic': isn't it less damage to be inaccurate because it's likely 5 pellets will weigh differently every time than to be accurate by taking either 37.5 or 75 AND NOTHING IN BETWEEN to allow your nervous system to readjust as the drug is being removed from it? Current: 9/2022 Xanax 0.08, Lexapro 2 2020 Xanax 0.26 (down from 2 mg in 2013), Lexapro 2.85 mg (down from 5 mg 2013) Amitriptyline (tricyclic AD) and clonazepam for 3 months to treat headache in 1996 1999. - present Xanax prn up to 3 mg. 2000-2005 Prozac CT twice, 2005-2010 Zoloft CT 3 times, 2010-2013 Escitalopram 10 mg went from 2.5 to zero on 7 Aug 2013, bad crash 40 days afterreinstated to 5 mg Escitalopram 4Oct 2013 and holding liquid Xanax every 5 hours 28 Jan 2014 Xanax 1.9, 18 Apr 2015 1 mg, 25 June 2015 Lex 4.8, 6 Aug Lexapro 4.6, 1 Jan 2016 0.64 Xanax 9 month hold 24 Sept 2016 4.5 Lex, 17 Oct 4.4 Lex (Nov 0.63 Xanax, Dec 0.625 Xanax), 1 Jan 2017 4.3 Lex, 24 Jan 4.2, 5 Feb 4.1, 24 Mar 4 mg, 10 Apr 3.9 mg, May 3.85, June 3.8, July 3.75, 22 July 3.7, 15 Aug 3.65, 17 Sept 3.6, 1 Jan 2018 3.55, 19 Jan 3.5, 16 Mar 3.4, 14 Apr 3.3, 23 May 3.2, 16 June 3.15, 15 Jul 3.1, 31 Jul 3, 21 Aug 2.9 26 Sept 2.85, 14 Nov Xan 0.61, 1 Dec 0.59, 19 Dec 0.58, 4 Jan 0.565, 6 Feb 0.55, 20 Feb 0.535, 1 Mar 0.505, 10 Mar 0.475, 14 Mar 0.45, 4 Apr 0.415, 13 Apr 0.37, 21 Apr 0.33, 29 Apr 0.29, 10 May 0.27, 17 May 0.25, 28 May 0.22, 19 June 0.22, 21 Jun updose to 0.24, 24 Jun updose to 0.26 Supplements: Omega 3 + Vit E, Vit C, D, magnesium, Taurine, probiotic I'm not a medical professional. Any advice I give is based on my own experience and reading. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus bubble Posted February 13, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted February 13, 2014 Dr Samoon prescribed it. He said it would take the edge off. as I said, sooner or later we ourselves have to take responsibility for our 'condition'. In general we look for ways of taking the edge off through employing different coping strategies and techniques rather than taking more drugs with their side effects, mutual bad reactions, messing up with our very, very complex brains, etc. have you checked on symptoms and self-care about what you could do to take the edge off (instead of taking yet another drug that you will again have problems with even if it initialyl helps, which is not always the case)? Current: 9/2022 Xanax 0.08, Lexapro 2 2020 Xanax 0.26 (down from 2 mg in 2013), Lexapro 2.85 mg (down from 5 mg 2013) Amitriptyline (tricyclic AD) and clonazepam for 3 months to treat headache in 1996 1999. - present Xanax prn up to 3 mg. 2000-2005 Prozac CT twice, 2005-2010 Zoloft CT 3 times, 2010-2013 Escitalopram 10 mg went from 2.5 to zero on 7 Aug 2013, bad crash 40 days afterreinstated to 5 mg Escitalopram 4Oct 2013 and holding liquid Xanax every 5 hours 28 Jan 2014 Xanax 1.9, 18 Apr 2015 1 mg, 25 June 2015 Lex 4.8, 6 Aug Lexapro 4.6, 1 Jan 2016 0.64 Xanax 9 month hold 24 Sept 2016 4.5 Lex, 17 Oct 4.4 Lex (Nov 0.63 Xanax, Dec 0.625 Xanax), 1 Jan 2017 4.3 Lex, 24 Jan 4.2, 5 Feb 4.1, 24 Mar 4 mg, 10 Apr 3.9 mg, May 3.85, June 3.8, July 3.75, 22 July 3.7, 15 Aug 3.65, 17 Sept 3.6, 1 Jan 2018 3.55, 19 Jan 3.5, 16 Mar 3.4, 14 Apr 3.3, 23 May 3.2, 16 June 3.15, 15 Jul 3.1, 31 Jul 3, 21 Aug 2.9 26 Sept 2.85, 14 Nov Xan 0.61, 1 Dec 0.59, 19 Dec 0.58, 4 Jan 0.565, 6 Feb 0.55, 20 Feb 0.535, 1 Mar 0.505, 10 Mar 0.475, 14 Mar 0.45, 4 Apr 0.415, 13 Apr 0.37, 21 Apr 0.33, 29 Apr 0.29, 10 May 0.27, 17 May 0.25, 28 May 0.22, 19 June 0.22, 21 Jun updose to 0.24, 24 Jun updose to 0.26 Supplements: Omega 3 + Vit E, Vit C, D, magnesium, Taurine, probiotic I'm not a medical professional. Any advice I give is based on my own experience and reading. Link to comment
John Posted February 13, 2014 Author Share Posted February 13, 2014 I went yesterday to an endocrinologist. I did'nt stress on the effexor. I told him all of a sudden I began feeling very nervous out of nowhere (which I did) Tremors, and fear. He looked for signs of Cushings. I brought my last blood test which was low testosterone and the high cortisol, and he ordered a total urine cortisol test, acth, lh, fsh, Prolactin, t4, tsh, and testosterone. I told him I started on effexor because my family Dr said my pulse rate was high. While I was talking he checked it and said it is high. He said he hopes nothing is wrong but if it is, we'll take care of it. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted February 13, 2014 Administrator Share Posted February 13, 2014 Don't be surprised if the tests turn up nothing the endocrinologist recognizes as treatable. This is usually the case with withdrawal syndrome. 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
John Posted February 13, 2014 Author Share Posted February 13, 2014 I know, this was the case last time. But now my testosterone is pretty low (180) which should be in a range of 300-600, and mines where a 70 year old should be. I also threw out the gabapentin and cancelled all further appointments. With Dr Samoon. 1 On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
John Posted February 13, 2014 Author Share Posted February 13, 2014 I was resting and falling asleep, and every time I do, I wake right up real quick with an adrenaline fear surge, indicating it's all going on in the background automatically. Anyone else have this? On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
btdt Posted February 13, 2014 Share Posted February 13, 2014 Answered in the Effexor topic. Hi Alto I did a search on the site here followed by a google search of this site and I can't seem to narrow down exactly what you mean by the Effexor topic... is it this? http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/3471-effexor-xr-counting-beads/ The discussion of varying number of beads in the capsule is in that thread. I think I posted on one of Johns threads already to get a stable amount to start with and work from there not to just remove the same number of beads from the capsule as there are varying number of beads per capsule now if they are indeed filled by weight it still does not make any sense as the capsules do not weigh the same. These capsules have to be tapered stating with some stable form be it weighing counting or measuring beads in a folded paper... it has to start with something consistent. I know I am not one to talk about this since I caved and went cold turkey but then again maybe I am as I know if taper is too bad people may well quit tapering and attempt cold turkey and perhaps not get anything resembling stable for a number of years. All these small things make a difference for people trying to taper effexor you need to find some way to make the dose consistent and be sure you can duplicate it before you can get stable you have to take a stable amount of the drug. I am just curious has anyone been able to get Pfizer to tell them why the doses of Effexor differ? Weight would only fly if each capsule weighed the same... What I have seen others do is find an average in each capsule by weighing or counting our a few ... you pick how many capsules you can stand counting... count all the beads... average them out and take that amount to start. I have also seen people pour the contents of a capsule in the crease of folded paper and measure it with a ruler. To find a average place to start. I am not saying it is the best way but it is better then accepting each capsule has he same amount when we know it doesn't. Makes your odds of getting a consistent dose a bit better. If you are really sensitive a scale may be a must or when you are down to the lower doses. So far I hear a lot of talk about a liquid I have heard it can be bought at a compounding pharmacy but it will not be extended release. I have to my memory of this minute not talked to anyone who has taken a liquid. I imagine the liquid is made from the non extended release version in pill form and if your going to go that way a scale to weigh and file or cut the pills would be a lot cheaper. WARNING THIS WILL BE LONG Had a car accident in 85 Codeine was the pain med when I was release from hosp continuous use till 89 Given PROZAC by a specialist to help with nerve pain in my leg 89-90 not sure which year Was not told a thing about it being a psych med thought it was a pain killer no info about psych side effects I went nuts had hallucinations. As I had a head injury and was diagnosed with a concussion in 85 I was sent to a head injury clinic in 1990 five years after the accident. I don't think they knew I had been on prozac I did not think it a big deal and never did finish the bottle of pills. I had tests of course lots of them. Was put into a pain clinic and given amitriptyline which stopped the withdrawal but had many side effects. But I could sleep something I had not done in a very long time the pain lessened. My mother got cancer in 94 they switched my meds to Zoloft to help deal with this pressure as I was her main care giver she died in 96. I stopped zoloft in 96 had withdrawal was put on paxil went nutty quit it ct put on resperidol quit it ct had withdrawal was put on Effexor... 2years later celexa was added 20mg then increased to 40mg huge personality change went wild. Did too fast taper off Celexa 05 as I felt unwell for a long time prior... quit Effexor 150mg ct 07 found ****** 8 months into withdrawal learned some things was banned from there in 08 have kept learning since. there is really not enough room here to put my history but I have a lot of opinions about a lot of things especially any of the drugs mentioned above. One thing I would like to add here is this tidbit ALL OPIATES INCREASE SEROTONIN it is not a huge jump to being in chronic pain to being put on an ssri/snri and opiates will affect your antidepressants and your thinking. As I do not update much I will put my quit date Nov. 17 2007 I quit Effexor cold turkey. http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1096-introducing-myself-btdt/ There is a crack in everything ..That's how the light gets in Link to comment
btdt Posted February 13, 2014 Share Posted February 13, 2014 As usual, yesterday I felt pretty bad, but since me and my fiancee bought a house, this weekend i've been working on it, and I must say, it's going well! I am very nervous about the life change when we're married in 2 months. I'm not afraid of commitment at all, but it's the change in living situation. I have a very close and caring family where I lived for 41 years in the same house as my parents. I am the only child, and must admit was very cared for and sheltered, yet I had another side to me where I had a notion that I can take care of myself. I'm very unselfish, and under all these withdrawals, I am really excited to start a new life! The withdrawals put scary negative thoughts and give me the notion that i'm losing my parents, and I wont see them anymore, even though our house is only 19 miles away. So yea, these impending changes are stressful, and add to the withdrawal suffering, but is not the cause of it, since when I bought this house, I was very optimistic and excited. Anyway, at the house last night I was not feeling good, very scared and nervous as usual, and the later it gets, the calmer I feel. We finished at the house and went to our homes. I figured since i've been going through these withdrawals the last few weeks, my sleep has been less that optimal; I have no problem falling asleep, but I do awake a few times during the night. So I took a sublingual melatonin, and didnt wake up at all! I only had to wake up because I had to go to work. I even woke a little less nervous than I have been lately, but i'm more groggy than ever. And alas, after going to work, and now being in work,I feel as scared, panicky and hopeless as I ever was. I'd also like to note that tonight i'm going to see the recommended Dr Ahmad Samoon. I'll report how it went when I return tonight. I explained to him my situation on the phone, and he listened, and said "I will say that I did hear a lot of bad things about Effexor." John how did you get in touch with this doctor? "recommended Dr Ahmad Samoon" Did you find him from the list here at SA? I have not checked the list of suggested doctors that understand withdrawal myself as I was beyond the tapering stage when this site was created. It can be found here...I am going there now to see if this suggested doctors is on the list. I searched each page and did not find his name on the list ??? did I miss something? WARNING THIS WILL BE LONG Had a car accident in 85 Codeine was the pain med when I was release from hosp continuous use till 89 Given PROZAC by a specialist to help with nerve pain in my leg 89-90 not sure which year Was not told a thing about it being a psych med thought it was a pain killer no info about psych side effects I went nuts had hallucinations. As I had a head injury and was diagnosed with a concussion in 85 I was sent to a head injury clinic in 1990 five years after the accident. I don't think they knew I had been on prozac I did not think it a big deal and never did finish the bottle of pills. I had tests of course lots of them. Was put into a pain clinic and given amitriptyline which stopped the withdrawal but had many side effects. But I could sleep something I had not done in a very long time the pain lessened. My mother got cancer in 94 they switched my meds to Zoloft to help deal with this pressure as I was her main care giver she died in 96. I stopped zoloft in 96 had withdrawal was put on paxil went nutty quit it ct put on resperidol quit it ct had withdrawal was put on Effexor... 2years later celexa was added 20mg then increased to 40mg huge personality change went wild. Did too fast taper off Celexa 05 as I felt unwell for a long time prior... quit Effexor 150mg ct 07 found ****** 8 months into withdrawal learned some things was banned from there in 08 have kept learning since. there is really not enough room here to put my history but I have a lot of opinions about a lot of things especially any of the drugs mentioned above. One thing I would like to add here is this tidbit ALL OPIATES INCREASE SEROTONIN it is not a huge jump to being in chronic pain to being put on an ssri/snri and opiates will affect your antidepressants and your thinking. As I do not update much I will put my quit date Nov. 17 2007 I quit Effexor cold turkey. http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1096-introducing-myself-btdt/ There is a crack in everything ..That's how the light gets in Link to comment
btdt Posted February 13, 2014 Share Posted February 13, 2014 To save you some bother he is not listed on the link Alto posted on the above mentioned page link... doctors who will diagnose withdrawal either. I went back to find you a doctor in New York and low and behold there is the doctor you seen... Kelly Brogan, MD, New York, NY Dr. Samoon Ahmad New York, NY Ernest Shaw, MD, Kingston, NY popped right up when I searched new york but not when I searched his name.... Now I am curious how a doctors name gets on the list who seen this doctors and said he can help? Guess it is time to look at the post? Alto posted that list and along with the list she posted this: "If you do not wish to take any other psychiatric medications after quitting, they should respect your wishes. If you find they do not, please let us know and we will remove them from this list." So if you told him specifically you did not want any other drugs and he gave you this one... off the list he goes... from what I can see at least. I am curious what he had to say or how he offered to help other than giving you more drugs... Did he give you any options? From which you picked taking this drug? Sorry I don't know how to change the color back it came with the copy paste?? WARNING THIS WILL BE LONG Had a car accident in 85 Codeine was the pain med when I was release from hosp continuous use till 89 Given PROZAC by a specialist to help with nerve pain in my leg 89-90 not sure which year Was not told a thing about it being a psych med thought it was a pain killer no info about psych side effects I went nuts had hallucinations. As I had a head injury and was diagnosed with a concussion in 85 I was sent to a head injury clinic in 1990 five years after the accident. I don't think they knew I had been on prozac I did not think it a big deal and never did finish the bottle of pills. I had tests of course lots of them. Was put into a pain clinic and given amitriptyline which stopped the withdrawal but had many side effects. But I could sleep something I had not done in a very long time the pain lessened. My mother got cancer in 94 they switched my meds to Zoloft to help deal with this pressure as I was her main care giver she died in 96. I stopped zoloft in 96 had withdrawal was put on paxil went nutty quit it ct put on resperidol quit it ct had withdrawal was put on Effexor... 2years later celexa was added 20mg then increased to 40mg huge personality change went wild. Did too fast taper off Celexa 05 as I felt unwell for a long time prior... quit Effexor 150mg ct 07 found ****** 8 months into withdrawal learned some things was banned from there in 08 have kept learning since. there is really not enough room here to put my history but I have a lot of opinions about a lot of things especially any of the drugs mentioned above. One thing I would like to add here is this tidbit ALL OPIATES INCREASE SEROTONIN it is not a huge jump to being in chronic pain to being put on an ssri/snri and opiates will affect your antidepressants and your thinking. As I do not update much I will put my quit date Nov. 17 2007 I quit Effexor cold turkey. http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1096-introducing-myself-btdt/ There is a crack in everything ..That's how the light gets in Link to comment
btdt Posted February 13, 2014 Share Posted February 13, 2014 Well, now i'm totally confused! I've just come back from seeing Dr. Samoon. I explained everything, and he asked how I was tapering off of the Effexor XR. I told him I was removing a percentage of pellets, and he said that's not a good thing to do. He said that these capsules arent designed to be taken apart and recounted. He said doing so will be giving yourself different dosages every day. He said I should be taking either the 75mg pill, or a 37.5mg which is closest to where I am now. Now this brings me to a question; every pill has a different amount of pellets. How can Wyeth know exactly how many milligrams each is if each one has all different amounts of pellets, especially the 37.5mg one? theyre able to measure out .5 mgs? Dr Samoon said that there are a few choices we can to to be off the Effexor. He said that there is a genetic testing that can be done to see whats the best and worst meds to take according to my metabolism. He'd be able to see that if i'm metabolizing the Effexor too quickly giving me withdrawals. He also ordered full bloodwork, including cortisol, full thyroid panel, insulin, and testosterone. He said I can very well be withdrawals, but it is also possible I developed this disorder while on the drug. I just don't understand if I go to the 37.5 how i'd be able to taper without counting pellets. This is all vital to me more than ever as I have a wedding coming up, plus frankly, Im sick of this!!! I already went through this hell 3 years ago, and now I have to do this again, and 2 months before my wedding no less! Could you please ask him to explain this does he know something we don't? Or is he blowing smoke. Perhaps he needs to come off the list... please talk to Alto about this. If you were to say you did not want more drugs would that be ok with him? Would have any further suggestions... I know this all costs you money to find out. I am not sure if the rest on the list would be any better but a second opinion on this or anything else if you can afford the time and money maybe a better way to go. At least there are two other choices in your state maybe one is better then the other. WARNING THIS WILL BE LONG Had a car accident in 85 Codeine was the pain med when I was release from hosp continuous use till 89 Given PROZAC by a specialist to help with nerve pain in my leg 89-90 not sure which year Was not told a thing about it being a psych med thought it was a pain killer no info about psych side effects I went nuts had hallucinations. As I had a head injury and was diagnosed with a concussion in 85 I was sent to a head injury clinic in 1990 five years after the accident. I don't think they knew I had been on prozac I did not think it a big deal and never did finish the bottle of pills. I had tests of course lots of them. Was put into a pain clinic and given amitriptyline which stopped the withdrawal but had many side effects. But I could sleep something I had not done in a very long time the pain lessened. My mother got cancer in 94 they switched my meds to Zoloft to help deal with this pressure as I was her main care giver she died in 96. I stopped zoloft in 96 had withdrawal was put on paxil went nutty quit it ct put on resperidol quit it ct had withdrawal was put on Effexor... 2years later celexa was added 20mg then increased to 40mg huge personality change went wild. Did too fast taper off Celexa 05 as I felt unwell for a long time prior... quit Effexor 150mg ct 07 found ****** 8 months into withdrawal learned some things was banned from there in 08 have kept learning since. there is really not enough room here to put my history but I have a lot of opinions about a lot of things especially any of the drugs mentioned above. One thing I would like to add here is this tidbit ALL OPIATES INCREASE SEROTONIN it is not a huge jump to being in chronic pain to being put on an ssri/snri and opiates will affect your antidepressants and your thinking. As I do not update much I will put my quit date Nov. 17 2007 I quit Effexor cold turkey. http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1096-introducing-myself-btdt/ There is a crack in everything ..That's how the light gets in Link to comment
John Posted February 13, 2014 Author Share Posted February 13, 2014 You must of, he is on the list. On Venlafaxine XR 75mg > 20 years, because a general MD decided to try these new "calming pills" taken from his sample closet because my pulse was a little high since I get nervous going to the doctor. June 2010 - Cold turkey September 2010 - Sudden onset of EXTREME anxiety, constant terror and fear that got marginally better at night. I had no idea what or why this was; had no idea it was the quitting of Effexor. December 2010 - reinstated 75mgs Effexor XR, felt no better months later January 2011 - Began 5% taper every month 2012 - Anxiety began improving by had many windows and waves January 2014 - Fell back into sudden onset of same anxiety, fear as in 2010; realized I was tapering too quickly. I was not allowing withdrawal effects to dissipate before another taper. Began 2% taper every 6 to 8 months 2016 - Fear, anxiety began to wane 2017, 18 & 19 - Constant Fear & anxiety stopped, just occasional minor bouts that lasted 3 days or so December 2020 - Now at ~31mgs Effexor XR, 5mgs Crestor November 2022 - Added 6% minoxidil and 0.3% finasteride topical. Used for a year. Got systemic side effects. Quit 11/19/2023. Also intermittently used 10 to 20mgs propanolol for adrenaline surges/pvcs. Stopped them also on 11/19/2023. Link to comment
btdt Posted February 13, 2014 Share Posted February 13, 2014 It is your choice to take this other drug he has given or not... up to you just as taking any drug at the end of the day is up to you. I hope you have learned the hard way but learned to check all drugs before taking them... I know just when you don't feel like it. Hang in there this is an obstacle course... but no sense making your situation worse with a drug your not sure why your taking and that only makes thing slightly better... messy... WARNING THIS WILL BE LONG Had a car accident in 85 Codeine was the pain med when I was release from hosp continuous use till 89 Given PROZAC by a specialist to help with nerve pain in my leg 89-90 not sure which year Was not told a thing about it being a psych med thought it was a pain killer no info about psych side effects I went nuts had hallucinations. As I had a head injury and was diagnosed with a concussion in 85 I was sent to a head injury clinic in 1990 five years after the accident. I don't think they knew I had been on prozac I did not think it a big deal and never did finish the bottle of pills. I had tests of course lots of them. Was put into a pain clinic and given amitriptyline which stopped the withdrawal but had many side effects. But I could sleep something I had not done in a very long time the pain lessened. My mother got cancer in 94 they switched my meds to Zoloft to help deal with this pressure as I was her main care giver she died in 96. I stopped zoloft in 96 had withdrawal was put on paxil went nutty quit it ct put on resperidol quit it ct had withdrawal was put on Effexor... 2years later celexa was added 20mg then increased to 40mg huge personality change went wild. Did too fast taper off Celexa 05 as I felt unwell for a long time prior... quit Effexor 150mg ct 07 found ****** 8 months into withdrawal learned some things was banned from there in 08 have kept learning since. there is really not enough room here to put my history but I have a lot of opinions about a lot of things especially any of the drugs mentioned above. One thing I would like to add here is this tidbit ALL OPIATES INCREASE SEROTONIN it is not a huge jump to being in chronic pain to being put on an ssri/snri and opiates will affect your antidepressants and your thinking. As I do not update much I will put my quit date Nov. 17 2007 I quit Effexor cold turkey. http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1096-introducing-myself-btdt/ There is a crack in everything ..That's how the light gets in Link to comment
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