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Meimeiquest: my introduction


Meimeiquest

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I started Prozac in 1989 for depression--several life events and working rotating shifts caught up with me. Took off and on, then solidly after adoption of our first daughter in 1999...my doctor told me to when I went in for strep throat and at his inquiry, told him I was tired. Gradually became more tired and developed muscle pains..diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 2003. In 2006, became depressed (still functioning). 3/2006 Exchanged Prozac for Cymbalta. 3 months later had what the pdoc called "mania, hypomania or whatever." So not sleeping. Stopped Cymbalta, added oxazepam, had reactions to Seroquel and Abilify. Started Zyprexa. Became progressively more depressed and anxious...supposedly the downswing of mania. Added Lithium in Nov. 2006 and started to improve, added Wellbutrin for depression about 1/2007. Better, but still so tired. Added Adderall...it made me a little manic, so changed to alternating Adderall and Nuvigil (you can tell I had good insurance, huh). So at my height of polypharmacy was taking Zyprexa, Lithium, Wellbutrin, oxazepam, Adderall, and Nuvigil. Still working, mom to 2 girls and bitchy wife.

 

Heard radio program about how hard it is to detect obstructive sleep apnea. (I strongly recommend you research this if you snore) My longest breathing pause in the sleep study was 90 seconds! Got CPAP machine...felt like a new person. With minimal ado, stopped oxazepam, Adderall and Nuvigil. Asked pdoc if I could try to wean off Zyprexa due to cost (new insurance) and how well I was feeling. Probably started in Sept., finished 12/29/12. Lots of symptoms with each dose reduction...pdoc said it doesn't have withdrawal symptoms, so started surfing, and here I am.

 

My question: I restarted oxazepam 30 mg at bedtime on 12/10/12 (had to come through for Christmas, you know, despite the symptoms). Since I've been on the oxazepam such a short time, should I wean off it or the Wellbutrin next? I have minor anxiety in the evenings after the dose completely wears off. My other meds are lithium 600mg twice daily and Wellbutrin XL 300 mg.

 

Thank you for such an amazing site!

 

Meimeiquest

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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Welcome to the Forum, Meimeiquest. I'm glad you found us.

 

What a crime, being diagnosed as bipolar when you were likely over-stimulated from the Cymbalta! And let's not forget the Adderall and Nuvigil, which are also stimulants. And then being put on all of these other drugs. This just makes me furious.

 

I'm not clear on what drugs you're currently taking, so when you have a minute, please enter your drug history in the signature area of your profile. That will help us give better advice. Here are directions:

 

http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/893-please-put-your-withdrawal-history-in-your-signature/

 

For right now, please don't change your current dosages until we can get a grip on that. It won't hurt to spell out your current regimen in a post, either.

 

This forum was a lifesaver for me when I got off Lexapro too fast. You'll find lots of solid information and friendly support here.

Psychotropic drug history: Pristiq 50 mg. (mid-September 2010 through February 2011), Remeron (mid-September 2010 through January 2011), Lexapro 10 mg. (mid-February 2011 through mid-December 2011), Lorazepam (Ativan) 1 mg. as needed mid-September 2010 through early March 2012

"Never attribute to malice that which is adequately explained by stupidity." -Hanlon's Razor


Introduction: http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1588-introducing-jemima/

 

Success Story: http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/6263-success-jemima-survives-lexapro-and-dr-dickhead-too/

Please note that I am not a medical professional and my advice is based on personal experience, reading, and anecdotal information posted by other sufferers.

 

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Welcome, Meimei.

 

I'm not sure what drugs you're on now either, could you list the drugs, dosages, and when you started each?

 

It certainly sounds like you are grossly overmedicated. Are you anywhere near this doctor? http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/988-recommended-doctors-therapists-or-clinics/page__view__findpost__p__10511

 

You might make an appointment with him.

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

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

All postings © copyrighted.

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Sorry I wasn't more clear. As far as the doctor, he is not near, but still in TN. It may come to that...thanks! I am particularly interested in ideas as to whether I should tackle the oxazepam or Wellbutrin next, since I have been back on the oxazepam such a short time. Right now I'm chilling after the Zyprexa taper.

 

Thanks, Meimeiquest

 

Recent completed tapers: Adderall, Nuvigil, oxazepam 8/12, Zyprexa 12/29/12 (was started 8/06)

Current meds: Lithium 600mg twice daily (started 11/06), Wellbutrin XL 300mg daily (started 1/07), oxazepam 25mg at bedtime (started 6/06, stopped 8/12, restarted at 30mg 12/10/12 during Zypreza withdrawal)

Drama started with situational depression & rotating day/night shifts 10/1989

ADs I have taken: Prozac (years), Celexa, Effexor, Cymbalta, Wellbutrin

Known conditions that affect my mental health: gluten intolerance, obstructive sleep apnea

Found this website 1/14/13

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Still working, mom to 2 girls and bitchy wife.

 

 

:lol: Well you have a wonderful sense of humor and congrats on your detective work. This is a wonderful site and I think that you will do great with the advice you will get here. Welcome!

Fall 1995 xanax, zoloft. switched to Serzone

1996- spring 2003serzone/ xanax/ lightbox.

b]Fall 2003- Fall 2004? Lexapro 10 mg. Light box /4 mg. xanax.[/b]

2004 - Fall of 2009 10 mg Lex, 150 mg Wellbutrin XL % 4 mg xanax

November 2009- Sept. 2011 10 mg lex., 300 Well. XL, 4 mg Xanax [/b

Sept.2012- July 2012 20 mg Lex 300 Well. XL, 4 mg Xanax

My mantra " go slow & with the flow "

3/2/13.. Began equal dosing 5 Xs /day xanax, while simultaneously incorporating a 2.5 % drop ( from 3.5 mg/day to 3.4 mg/day)

4/6/13 dropped from 300 mg. Wellbutrin XL to 150 mg. Difficult but DONE! Down to 3.3 mg xanax/ day / 6/10/13 3 mg xanax/day; 7/15/2013 2.88mg xanax/day.

10/ 1/2013...... 2.5 mg xanax… ( switched to tablets again) WOO HOO!!!!!! Holding here… cont. with Lexapro.

1/ 2/2014.. tapered to 18mg ( by weight) of a 26 mg ( by weight) pill of 20 mg tab. lexapro. goal is 13mg (by weight OR 10 mg by ingredient content) and STOPPED. Feeling very down with unbalanced, unpredictable WD symptoms.

1/2/2014- ??? Taking a brain-healing break from tapering anything after actively tapering something for 1.5 years. So… daily doses as of 2/2/2014: 18 mg by weight Lex, 150 mg Well. XL, 2.5 mg xanax, down from 26 mg by weight Lex., 300 mg well. XL, 4 mg xanax in August, 2012. I'll take it. :) 5/8/14 started equivalent dose liquid./ tabs. 5/13/14 1.5 % cut.

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  • Administrator

I would gradually reduce the benzo, ideally to get off it in a couple of weeks, but try a 10% reduction first to see how it goes.

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

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

All postings © copyrighted.

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Hi Meimeiquest,

 

Welcome!

 

As an FYI, I was diagnosed with sleep apnea a year ago and feel I had it at least since I was a teenager (in my my late 50s). Anyway, I was on psych meds for 15 years before getting off of them.

 

I am horrified at all the meds you were placed on and wish you well in getting off of them.

 

By the way, if you need a support board for apnea, www.cpaptalk.com is a great place to go to.

 

Again, welcome.

 

CS

Drug cocktail 1995 - 2010
Started taper of Adderall, Wellbutrin XL, Remeron, and Doxepin in 2006
Finished taper on June 10, 2010

Temazepam on a PRN basis approximately twice a month - 2014 to 2016

Beginning in 2017 - Consumption increased to about two times per week

April 2017 - Increased to taking it full time for insomnia

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Just a quick update....I stopped Zyprexa 12/29/12. On Wed., feeling strange, some symptoms that I had on Cymbalta just before I went "manic." Thinking I cannot tolerate Wellbutrin without Zyprexa to oppose it. Saw nurse practitioner Thursday. Wellbutrin decreased from 300mg XL to 200mg SR. Am feeling now like I am out of the manic danger zone, but my head does not feel right...nor do I expect it to. It feels like my brain is literally reeling with the Zyprexa being stopped and the Wellbutrin being reduced...it wants to know where its friends are! Wanted to wean oxazepam first but does not seem that will be an option. I really do not know if I can keep working, but am blessed that my husband agrees that not working would be better than taking the Zyprexa. Thanks for your notes earlier this week!

 

Meimeiquest

Finished Zyprexa taper 12/29/12

Wellbutrin 300mg XL since 1/07, decreased to 200mg SR 1/18/13

Oxazepam 30 mg restarted 12/10/13, now on 25mg

Lithium 600 mg twice daily since 11/06

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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  • Administrator

You are correct, Wellbutrin is an "accelerator" and Zyprexa is a brake, as are oxazepam and lithium.

 

I was worried about the Wellbutrin being too activating. Fortunately, it is relatively easy to taper.

 

Do you think you have withdrawal symptoms from Zyprexa as well? Since you had withdrawal symptoms while you were reducing, it seems likely.

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

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

All postings © copyrighted.

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Hi Altostrata,

 

Thanks for your note. Yes, I think I've had withdrawal symptoms from both simultaneously. But doing quite a bit better today--I guess both drugs are relatively easy, if you have info aand support. I would think getting off these meds was hopeless were it not for all the info on the Internet. Thank you! Meimeiquest (off Zyprexa late Dec., decreased Wellbutrin this week, still on oxazepam and lithium)

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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  • 4 weeks later...

I have been going through different stages of withdrawal over the past month, but not anything unbearable ( but I almost quit my job as a private duty nurse last week d/t memory problems). I stopped Zyprexa 12/29 a bit early (didn't know much, and while we were traveling my husband put his wet toothbrush in the baggy that held the Zyprexa fragments). Then I did a hypomania (in that state in my last update). At that time I had other symptoms of sympathetic overstimulation such as head buzzing and startle awakening when just about to fall asleep. I lowered the Wellbutrin dose on Friday and by Sunday I could tell I could work on Monday. I did have extreme tiredness almost to weakness for 5-7 days during the hours the Wellbutrin was not on board, but it has resolved.

 

Would that be too soon for the Wellbutrin drop to be the cause of my improvement? I am still having sleep induction issues despite oxazepam. Last night I went to bed at 9 and was almost asleep when my husband entered at 10. I did a total startle and didn't go to sleep till 1 a.m. So when I see the pdoc tomorrow, should I just hold on everything because I still have WD symptoms, or should I ask to go down (how much?) because the Wellbutrin is too much for me without the Zyprexa to oppose it? I earned my bipolar diagnosis by having mania after 3 months of Cymbalta.

 

Thanks so much!

Meimeiquest

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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Also, does anyone have raging hunger 3-4 hrs. after eating?

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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  • Administrator

Wellbutrin can be highly activating, especially if your system has been sensitized by withdrawal. Yes, the improvement can be from dropping Wellbutrin.

 

Many of us experience appetite changes after withdrawal. Psychiatric drugs, particularly the antipsychotics, derange sugar metabolism. Expect this to gradually resolve.

 

It sounds like you were misdiagnosed "bipolar" when you had an adverse reaction to Cymbalta. This is common. If I were you, I would stay far, far away from psych drugs in the future.

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

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

All postings © copyrighted.

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Wellbutrin can be highly activating, especially if your system has been sensitized by withdrawal. Yes, the improvement can be from dropping Wellbutrin.

 

Many of us experience appetite changes after withdrawal. Psychiatric drugs, particularly the antipsychotics, derange sugar metabolism. Expect this to gradually resolve.

 

It sounds like you were misdiagnosed "bipolar" when you had an adverse reaction to Cymbalta. This is common. If I were you, I would stay far, far away from psych drugs in the future.

 

Thank you, Alto! Yes, I have so learned my lesson, not only from these problems, but also because medicating soul problems is really in opposition to my worldview. That is the reason I am willing to go through so much discomfort now. When I was in my 20's, I was overwhelmed by several real things, plus I was working rotating day/night shifts. Therapist said I would be able to work on my issues so much better if I took medicine, which made me not care about my issues...and we were off to the races.

 

Do you think a 50 mg reduction in Wellbutrin would be about right? My last lithium level was 0.4, the very bottom of the therapeutic window. Do you think I should raise it? I know lithium is not the focus of this group..

 

Thanks,

 

Meimeiquest

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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  • Administrator

Since a 50mg decrease gave you symptoms for a week, try a 25mg drop.

 

If I were you, I would not raise lithium. Why?

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

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

All postings © copyrighted.

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Thank you very much, Alto! Saw pdoc yesterday...left lithium the same and gave me a script for 100 mg SR tablets of Wellbutrin...basically told me to do whatever I want with them. So I am starting 100 mg AM and 75 mg PM today. Trying to visualize the W/D symptoms as wisps of clouds that just pass over me. And sometimes on my knees praying for strength...like to make a nice Valentine's Day dinner last night for my family...which I was actually able to do. Grateful.

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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Hi Meimeiquest...

 

Thank you for replying to my post. Are you planning on tapering all medications?

 

Or are you (like me) wondering if you should remain on something like the Lithium and WEllbutrin?

 

I saw that you had an issue with day/night shift adjustment. That is very difficult and I could see how that you affect anyone.

 

Hang in there and nice to meet you

Intro: http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1902-nikki-hi-my-rundown-with-ads/

 

Paxil 1997-2004

Crossed over to Lexapro Paxil not available

at Pharmacies GSK halted deliveries

Lexapro 40mgs

Lexapro taper (2years)

Imipramine

Imipramine and Celexa

Now Nefazadone/Imipramine 50mgs. each

45mgs. Serzone  50mgs. Imipramine

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Hi Nikki,

 

Thanks for your note. I'm trying to approach it with an open mind one day at a time, except for the Zyprexa which is so risky and "spellbinding"...it is out of here! I really may need the lithium, so if I ever try to taper it will be with an attitude of curiosity, not of determination, to see if I really need it. Have you read the Harm Reduction guide, under Resources at theicarusproject.net? I love it's balanced perspective. Best, Meimeiquest

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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  • Administrator

It doesn't sound like you have a diagnosis that justifies taking lithium, which has a lot of health risks.

 

Are you anywhere near this doctor http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/988-recommended-doctors-therapists-or-clinics/page__p__10511#entry10511

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

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

All postings © copyrighted.

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I really hope you're right. My dad and grandmother apparently both had bipolar disorder or "something" as well as others in the family, so I am cautious. What makes me almost nauseous is wondering if the "fibromyalgia" that virtually took away my parenting while the girls were little might have been a reaction to Prozac. Cymbalta put me into mania, and I can almost feel my body sigh with relief when I reduce the Wellbutrin. No more antidepressants! But if there is such a thing as Bipolar II, I might have it. That dr. Is about 4 hrs. away. I need to finish the Wellbutrin and come off the oxazepam first, I am thinking? Thanks, Meimeiquest

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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  • Administrator

Why are you taking oxazepam?

 

How is your lithium treatment being monitored?

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

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

All postings © copyrighted.

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Her's the long version: We were in marriage counseling, the therapist said with my family history I needed a psychiatrist to manage my antidepressant, and recommended her psychiatrist. By the time I got in, I was hardly sleeping at all. The day I saw her I had slept 20 min. The night before, and had drunk 5 cups of coffee to keep going (brilliant, but I was desperate and had no understanding of what was happening). She said I didn't have bipolar, but "we've got to get you sleeping." She cut the Cymbalta in half and gave me low-dose Seroquel, which made me eat like crazy. Within a couple of days I was in mild mania or hypomania, so at the next visit she stopped the Cymbalta completely, put me on Abilify, and started the oxazepam, and no one ever stopped it. That was in 2006. Last summer I heard a radio program on sleep apnea, and was diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea...why I couldn't sleep and why I was so tired. So I quickly weaned off the oxazepam. But in Dec. I couldn't sleep and was literally screaming at my family in the last weeks of Zyprexa withdrawal...of course my pdoc has no solution, so I asked to restart the oxazepam at bedtime, and here we are. Now I can't sleep due to the unopposed Wellbutrin, but so far that withdrawal is going okay. The obvious problem was moving into polypharmacy instead of just waiting to see what would happen after the Cymbalta cleared.

 

My pdoc does a lithium level, all possible thyroid tests, and a basic lipid/metabolic panel, including kidney function indicators, once a year. My highest ever lithium level was 0.8, the latest was 0.4.

 

Thanks, Meimeiquest

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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  • Administrator

This is how I interpret it: Originally, you had an adverse reaction to an antidepressant (insomnia and anxiety are common adverse reactions) and oxazepam was prescribed to mask it.

 

It seems to me Cymbalta was much too activating for you, and your all your drug treatment has been calming that reaction and then trying to keep you awake because of the sedating effect of the drugs prescribed for calming.

 

What is your pattern of taking oxazepam now?

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

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

All postings © copyrighted.

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I started Prozac in 1989 for depression--several life events and working rotating shifts caught up with me. Took off and on, then solidly after adoption of our first daughter in 1999...my doctor told me to when I went in for strep throat and at his inquiry, told him I was tired. Gradually became more tired and developed muscle pains..diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 2003. In 2006, became depressed (still functioning). 3/2006 Exchanged Prozac for Cymbalta. 3 months later had what the pdoc called "mania, hypomania or whatever." So not sleeping. Stopped Cymbalta, added oxazepam, had reactions to Seroquel and Abilify. Started Zyprexa. Became progressively more depressed and anxious...supposedly the downswing of mania. Added Lithium in Nov. 2006 and started to improve

 

I just realized that the horrible mental illness I experienced was just w/d from the Cymbalta...which was d/c'd for mania (I was not hospitalized), which was a Cymbalta side effect. And now I have a bipolar dx in my medical records for life. Nothing wrong with that dx, unless it's not true. Feeling the anger many of you have felt. Meimeiquest

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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  • Moderator Emeritus

So often the antidepressants are far too strong and stimulating and the unwitting victim ends up with a bipolar diagnosis. There are lots of people out there who have had this experience, some of them badly damaged from years of poly-drugging. True bipolar is extremely rare.

 

I became severly depressed from taking Lipitor and having my cholesterol level drop to 134, which is far too low. I was then put on several antidepressants, Lexapro being the last, and shortly after throwing away the Lipitor and retiring, the Lexapro became overwhelmingly activating. I thank God that I insisted on seeing my PCP for meds instead of the psychiatrist who was recommended. When I told her the Lexapro was making me hyperactive, she didn't question it or try to prescribe additional drugs. She did give me incorrect directions about tapering, which caused a whole new set of problems, but at least I got off the drug roller coaster.

 

Your anger is justified, but it's good that you came to know the truth before getting in any deeper.

Psychotropic drug history: Pristiq 50 mg. (mid-September 2010 through February 2011), Remeron (mid-September 2010 through January 2011), Lexapro 10 mg. (mid-February 2011 through mid-December 2011), Lorazepam (Ativan) 1 mg. as needed mid-September 2010 through early March 2012

"Never attribute to malice that which is adequately explained by stupidity." -Hanlon's Razor


Introduction: http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1588-introducing-jemima/

 

Success Story: http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/6263-success-jemima-survives-lexapro-and-dr-dickhead-too/

Please note that I am not a medical professional and my advice is based on personal experience, reading, and anecdotal information posted by other sufferers.

 

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Big night at my house...2 normal dreams! Yay REM sleep! Felt like I could sleep and sleep...but blessed to get up early and go to work (everyone who CAN'T work knows how seriously I mean that--I've been there!). Meimeiquest

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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  • Moderator Emeritus

How lovley, isn't it great to feel somewhat normal and have a good sleep?

*** Please note this is not medical advice,discuss any decisions about your medical care with a knowledgeable medical practitioner***





http://prozacwithdrawal.blogspot.com/
Original drug was sertraline/Zoloft, switched to Prozac in 2007.
Tapering from 5mls liquid prozac since Feb 2008, got down to 0.85ml 23/09/2012, reinstated back to 1ml(4mg) 07/11/2012, didn't appear to work, upped to 1.05ml 17/11/2012, back down to 1ml 12/12/2012 didn't work, up to 1.30ml 16/3/2013 didn't work, bumped up to 2ml (8mg) 4/4/2013 didn't work, in July 2013 I reinstated Sertraline (Zoloft) 50mg, feeling better now. 

A few months down the line I switched to 5ml liquid Prozac and tapered down to a compromise dose of 3ml liquid Prozac and have stayed there ever since, no withdrawals and no emotional blunting/loss of libido.

 

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  • 2 weeks later...

I still have problems finding and mixing up word and with my memory, especially short-short term. But I had a breakthrough yesterday. For years, I did not have any irritation when I peeled onions. Could not smell them unless I held one right up to my nose. Told my husband to remember it as my first symptom of Alzheimer's. Yesterday peeled an onion...with tears streaming from my burning eyes.

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

Link to comment
  • 2 weeks later...

I am thinking I need to up dose or quit my job, due to poor memory (which I hope is due to poor REM sleep) and fatigue (which I hope is due to withdrawing from the Wellbutrin, it is worse than just sleep deprivation). I was 300 mg XL for years, 200 mg SR from 1/18 to 2/14 (steep drop d/t hypomania when Zprexa withdrawn), 175 and 150 mg SR 2/15 to 2/28 (dropping fast because I couldn't tolerate the drug peaks when splitting the tablets, the broken sustained release tablets were too immediate-release for me). 100mg SR is "steady" but not enough medicine. I am looking for a dose that I can be at relative peace in while my family takes a break from my drama. I just talked to a compounding pharmacist--he can make me an extended-release formula of any dose. Would 125 mg be a good dose to try? Thanks, Meimeiquest

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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  • Administrator

125mg might be fine. Please add the compounding pharmacist to our list here http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1425-compounding-pharmacies-us-uk-and-elsewhere/

 

I wouldn't take the onion test seriously.

 

Poor memory can be a side effect of benzos.

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

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

All postings © copyrighted.

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Based on the phone message relayed from receptionist, dr. did not agree to compounding. She read his response which didn't make sense; he doesn't have a clear context. I'll see him in person early next month. In the meantime, I can't find anywhere on the web anyone being as symptomatic on Wellbutrin 100mg as I am (although I did well yesterday). Lots of nausea and flu-like symptoms today.

 

I am wondering if my symptoms might still be from my ignorant Zyprexa taper, last dose 12/29/13. It was over 5-6 months, I jumped off at about 0.6 mg with unresolved withdrawal symptoms still in play. Original dose was 5mg. Would a reinstatement trial of Zyprexa be appropriate? If so, what dose? Thanks so much, Meimeiquest

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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Thanks Tezza! I'll try to see the nurse practitioner tomorrow.

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

Link to comment

Ha, I automatically read it as 0.2mg as I knew it would be somewhere around there. I need to find my reading glasses. Saw the NP...she wanted to give me an SSRI bridge. No thank you. I told her I am very sensitive since going off Cymbalta CT. I don't expect them to understand, but they need to give me what I want if it is reasonably safe, or I will have to go elsewhere. The doc is supposed to call tonight. I like them, so I hope it works out, but the ball is in their court. Meimeiquest

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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