dogmother: Getting off Cymbalta, getting on Wellbutrin XL

[dogmother]

Hello,

 

I hope I can find some info that makes me feel way less crazy than I do now!

 

I've had depressive episodes since I was a teenager and I was first diagnosed in 2008 and was successfully treated with Celexa. In 2010, I felt good enough to come off my meds.

 

In 2011, I had a particularly stressful fall and my brain couldn't take it. I was put on Celexa, which levelled me out but made me tired. Switched to Cipralex, which started out great but then did the same thing as the Celexa. 

 

A year ago, I started Cymbalta, first 30mg and then boosting up to 60. I felt great for a while, but again! Tired. Soooo tired. Dr. put me on Wellbutrin XL, which perked me up a bit. Psychiatrist is concerned about this combination, so we're trying to  dump the Cymbalta.

 

Three weeks ago, I dropped my Cymbalta down to 30 mg. That seemed to go well.

A week ago, I stopped taking Cymbalta altogether. That SEEMED to go well. 

Two or three days ago, I had a weird anxiety thing (racing heart, slightly panicky) and started getting dizzy spells. I feel nauseated. So I'll be pukey feeling with the occasional WOMP of dizziness.

 

On the upside, my poops have been great! I missed having regular BMs while on Cymbalta.

[basildev]

Hi dogmother,

 

Welcome to the forum.

 

What you are experiencing is withdrawal symptoms resulting from dropping your medication too fast. We recommend tapering no more than 10% of the last dose and holding 4-6 weeks at a time.

 

I suggest that you reinstate 25-30mg of the Cymbalta to alleviate the symptoms (which can get MUCH worse), and then when you feel stable you can begin tapering at a slower pace.

 

Here is some information you might find helpful

 

http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/283-tips-for-tapering-off-cymbalta-duloxetine/

 

I wish you all the best with your taper.