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☼ Skybert: needs help - delayed onset Lexapro withdrawal


skybert

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Thank you Alto:) That makes sense. I have probiotics, just been hesitant to take them since I had a terrible day when I took it the first time and I blamed the probiotics but it was probably not that at all. I will try it tomorrow with my medication and supplements. 

Started Esctialopram (Lexapro) 10mg june 2012. 20mg august 2012.15mg february 2013 - 10mg april 2013 - 5mg may 2013 0mg - 26.june 2013 Crashed mid. august 2013. Reinstated 2mg Escitalopram 22.september 2013 2.5mg 29 september 2013, 3mg 15 november 2013.

First taper from 3mg to 2.7mg 10 may 2014

Micro cuts since then.

Current dose september 2017 1.7mg

Current supplements: Nothing. (GI issues)

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Hi Skybert, sorry you are having a bit of a wave.  I would try the probiotics, they made

a big difference for me, I also like the ginger tea. I bashed a ginger root with a rolling pin,

(very therapeutic  ;) ) Then peeled and grated it and store it in a jar in the fridge. A

teaspoon of ground ginger in hot water with a slice of lemon is very settling. 

**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    :D 

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

 

 

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  • Administrator

Love the ginger tea recipe!

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 for the tip mammaP:) I did what you said and made myself some tea today:P Tasted pretty good to. No bad reactions to the probiotics either. Thanks for the great advice both of you! 

Started Esctialopram (Lexapro) 10mg june 2012. 20mg august 2012.15mg february 2013 - 10mg april 2013 - 5mg may 2013 0mg - 26.june 2013 Crashed mid. august 2013. Reinstated 2mg Escitalopram 22.september 2013 2.5mg 29 september 2013, 3mg 15 november 2013.

First taper from 3mg to 2.7mg 10 may 2014

Micro cuts since then.

Current dose september 2017 1.7mg

Current supplements: Nothing. (GI issues)

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  • Moderator Emeritus

When I was suffering from stomach discomfort during my lexapro taper last winter, ginger tea was a lifesaver. I found it a bit bitter tasting but a little honey did the trick. 

 

Wishing you more comfortable days soon...

RU :)

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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Oh man this is turning out to be a really heavy wave. Is this something to expect this far out? I think I read something about it. The 6 month mark. thing. Any thoughts? Feels so messed up now. 

Started Esctialopram (Lexapro) 10mg june 2012. 20mg august 2012.15mg february 2013 - 10mg april 2013 - 5mg may 2013 0mg - 26.june 2013 Crashed mid. august 2013. Reinstated 2mg Escitalopram 22.september 2013 2.5mg 29 september 2013, 3mg 15 november 2013.

First taper from 3mg to 2.7mg 10 may 2014

Micro cuts since then.

Current dose september 2017 1.7mg

Current supplements: Nothing. (GI issues)

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  • Moderator Emeritus

hello brave viking!

 

I admire your courage and stamina. I think I also read about a 6 mth mark and would also very much appreciate to hear more about it.

 

Honestly, I'm also concerned that so far out such a bad wave can struck you ;( Although we know the recovery is not linear and actually means that waves are less frequent but one would also expect them to be decent enough and be less intense...

 

What exactly are your symptoms at the moment? disconnection, DR and GI issues?

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 after
reinstated 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. 

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Hi bubble:) I suffer badly right now and have a lot of trouble writing and concentrating. I will be back with a post soon I just can't do it right now. 

To be continued. 

Thank you for responding.

Oh and bite me lexapro!

Started Esctialopram (Lexapro) 10mg june 2012. 20mg august 2012.15mg february 2013 - 10mg april 2013 - 5mg may 2013 0mg - 26.june 2013 Crashed mid. august 2013. Reinstated 2mg Escitalopram 22.september 2013 2.5mg 29 september 2013, 3mg 15 november 2013.

First taper from 3mg to 2.7mg 10 may 2014

Micro cuts since then.

Current dose september 2017 1.7mg

Current supplements: Nothing. (GI issues)

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I just don't know what to say. This is such a weird disconnect and I just don't feel right in this world anymore. All progress and knowledge seem to not matter in this state. It's so uncomfortable the whole concept of being alive right now I don't know how to snap out of it. It's like there is an override on my brain that takes it all away. I feel like nothing can put me back together. It like the crazy me is winning over the old me.

I hate this. I want to come back but I don't know how anymore.

Sorry my post suck but it's all I can manage to get out right now. I'll try harder when I regain some brain function.

I want to look back on this post and be puzzled by this soon.

(insert joke here)

Started Esctialopram (Lexapro) 10mg june 2012. 20mg august 2012.15mg february 2013 - 10mg april 2013 - 5mg may 2013 0mg - 26.june 2013 Crashed mid. august 2013. Reinstated 2mg Escitalopram 22.september 2013 2.5mg 29 september 2013, 3mg 15 november 2013.

First taper from 3mg to 2.7mg 10 may 2014

Micro cuts since then.

Current dose september 2017 1.7mg

Current supplements: Nothing. (GI issues)

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus

you are so great skybert!

 

I think I had similar experience after discontinuing Lexapro so I can sort of imagine the agony you are going through... But have no idea why it is happening now!!!

 

I think we've been through this before: you haven't changed anything? Haven't added any new supplements or anything?

 

A very wild guess; how are you taking those 3 mg, in what form? Maybe something happened with the liquid?

 

If nothing else, we will have to stick with: this will pass.

 

In any case keep us posted of what is going on. I wish I could help you more! 

 

I also wish it just disappears as a bad cramp...

 

big hug!

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 after
reinstated 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. 

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Thank you for the great support bubble:) I have started with probiotics again to kind of try to fix this bloated stuff but I don't think that's what is causing this. Just bad timing:P I take 3mg/ml with oral syringe from a 5mg tablet dissolved in 5ml water. Pour out the reminding 2mg/ml since it's to hard to get it right with the remains. I have been thinking it's not accurate enough at times but it's the best I can get here.

Probably been here before. I just don't remember. Which is probably a good thing:)

But it's like the other waves "always something new and impossible to prepare for".

My nervous system is fixing something HUGE right now! When it's done I can probably fly or something. To bad it's to stimulating to fly right now.

Started Esctialopram (Lexapro) 10mg june 2012. 20mg august 2012.15mg february 2013 - 10mg april 2013 - 5mg may 2013 0mg - 26.june 2013 Crashed mid. august 2013. Reinstated 2mg Escitalopram 22.september 2013 2.5mg 29 september 2013, 3mg 15 november 2013.

First taper from 3mg to 2.7mg 10 may 2014

Micro cuts since then.

Current dose september 2017 1.7mg

Current supplements: Nothing. (GI issues)

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Once it happened to one member here that he made a mistake with dosing so he was taking half of the dose for a week or so without realising it and we were all trying to explain his symptoms without success until he realised that.

 

I don't think this is the case here because your dosing is very straightforward... I was just clutching at straws searching for an explanation.

 

Now I actually remembered that the other member Lobster, also reinstating Lexapro is suddenly experiencing a bad way after been well for quite some time. Maybe you could check his thread. That's the best I can remember...

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 after
reinstated 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. 

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Yeah strange stuff. I don't know what could be causing this. I'll just have to wait and see. Maybe I can't handle the probiotics. But that doesn't make much sense. I'll keep using them for a couple more days and if I don't get better I try not using them and see if it makes a difference. I have not done anything different than what I have been doing. I just have to live it. Nothing I can do about it anyways. Just breathe. Everything else has passed and this will to. Just not what I expected at all at this point. Very strange and unsettling. 

Started Esctialopram (Lexapro) 10mg june 2012. 20mg august 2012.15mg february 2013 - 10mg april 2013 - 5mg may 2013 0mg - 26.june 2013 Crashed mid. august 2013. Reinstated 2mg Escitalopram 22.september 2013 2.5mg 29 september 2013, 3mg 15 november 2013.

First taper from 3mg to 2.7mg 10 may 2014

Micro cuts since then.

Current dose september 2017 1.7mg

Current supplements: Nothing. (GI issues)

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  • Administrator

Sometimes people do have a strong reaction to probiotics. You might stop taking them for a couple of days and see if that helps.

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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Maybe I try just one more day then. I was really bloated the day after I took it, and a little the day after. Today was not so bad but I figured it was just some adjustment in my gut flora that needed some time settling. Maybe ginger is the best solution for me and I was looking into potato starch (potato starch could be the wrong word. Blame google translate.) I might try that. 

Thank you Alto:)

Started Esctialopram (Lexapro) 10mg june 2012. 20mg august 2012.15mg february 2013 - 10mg april 2013 - 5mg may 2013 0mg - 26.june 2013 Crashed mid. august 2013. Reinstated 2mg Escitalopram 22.september 2013 2.5mg 29 september 2013, 3mg 15 november 2013.

First taper from 3mg to 2.7mg 10 may 2014

Micro cuts since then.

Current dose september 2017 1.7mg

Current supplements: Nothing. (GI issues)

Link to comment

I stopped the probiotics for the time being. Today I'm just very strange emotionally. It's just a dull numb surreal feeling. Probably some DR but it just feels like a disconnect from everything. I can't tie any emotions to anything. I feel kind of new in this world. I hope I come back soon. My stomach hurt a little but nothing major. And for the first time in months I have no physical pain at all. My head doesn't hurt anywhere, my legs are fine, no pressure anywhere, not dizzy, it's actually kind of weird:P Maybe I could take a walk without feeling like I'm falling every step. 

Started Esctialopram (Lexapro) 10mg june 2012. 20mg august 2012.15mg february 2013 - 10mg april 2013 - 5mg may 2013 0mg - 26.june 2013 Crashed mid. august 2013. Reinstated 2mg Escitalopram 22.september 2013 2.5mg 29 september 2013, 3mg 15 november 2013.

First taper from 3mg to 2.7mg 10 may 2014

Micro cuts since then.

Current dose september 2017 1.7mg

Current supplements: Nothing. (GI issues)

Link to comment

Rising anxiety and doubt now. A lot of the old fears about the condition is kicking my ass again. Permanent damage fears, depression, emotional numbness, nothing makes sense anymore, DR, confusion, losing my mind, and so on. Not sure what to make of this. I feel about as hopeless as in the beginning. 

Any thoughts? The spring has hit norway the past days I swear I could feel it in my body when it came. It was not a great feeling. 

Started Esctialopram (Lexapro) 10mg june 2012. 20mg august 2012.15mg february 2013 - 10mg april 2013 - 5mg may 2013 0mg - 26.june 2013 Crashed mid. august 2013. Reinstated 2mg Escitalopram 22.september 2013 2.5mg 29 september 2013, 3mg 15 november 2013.

First taper from 3mg to 2.7mg 10 may 2014

Micro cuts since then.

Current dose september 2017 1.7mg

Current supplements: Nothing. (GI issues)

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  • Moderator Emeritus

How about this as a creative attempt at explaining: change of the atmospheric conditions. I'm very susceptible to weather and its changes and as you so beautifully describe it, I can feel it in a lot of different unpleasant ways. 

 

And I think it can influence the vulnerable CNS to start behaving in all sorts of strange ways. There's even soem research on that, but I can't find it now...you know that stuff: biometheorological forecast- they always say it makes people tired, irritable, sleepy...that is messes their CNS. With people like us, the effects might be even more dramatic.

 

When it comes to permanent damage and the rest, this is aslo a symptom, and particularly nasty for that, of a wave. In other words, it's not based in reality.

 

Remember how 'damaged' you felt before, beyond repair and then you were in such a nice window that we almost forgot you here and you forgot about all the damage. and most importantly, it proved that the damage you feared and the feeling I will never again be me, didn't happen.

 

But it takes a strong man to handle this losing one's mind thing. the scariest experience a human being can feel, equal to death I think....

 

hang in there, keep us posted and we are hoping it will pass soon

 

big hug

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 after
reinstated 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

Thank you so much bubble!

This is hearth breaking. Not sure how to handle it.  

Spending all my energy trying to figure out what caused this. Obsessing over every little detail. But there probably was nothing I could have done or can do. I just have to trust the process. 

 

Hugs

Started Esctialopram (Lexapro) 10mg june 2012. 20mg august 2012.15mg february 2013 - 10mg april 2013 - 5mg may 2013 0mg - 26.june 2013 Crashed mid. august 2013. Reinstated 2mg Escitalopram 22.september 2013 2.5mg 29 september 2013, 3mg 15 november 2013.

First taper from 3mg to 2.7mg 10 may 2014

Micro cuts since then.

Current dose september 2017 1.7mg

Current supplements: Nothing. (GI issues)

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus

I totally understand!

 

That's the first thing I do when I;m (more) unwell (than usually). Petu wrote beautifully about that. 

 

I think it's a healthy impulse which helps us keep our heads over the water. How is your sleep? I've had what seems to be a mild version of what you are having and thought I would die with fear over what was happening to me. so I just admire you (and hope it passes)

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 after
reinstated 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

My sleep is great. I never had any big sleep issues. And I am very grateful for that. I haven't got to much of that vivid dreaming either. I usually sleep 8-9 hours or so, sometimes a little less. I hope it stays that way. I only get jolted back awake sometimes just when I'm about to fall asleep. Startles me badly but I can always sleep after it. I think that's  why I do "okay" when the suffering is really bad. I am always able to shutdown the whole system and be completely "off" for a good period. I can imagine it would be way harder to endure if sleep was an issue, and I feel so so sorry for all the people with sleep problems:\

 

About the admire me... Just so you know I admire you in every way! The world needs more bubble(s) You should give lectures and write a book about compassion for your fellow man.

Thank you so much!

Started Esctialopram (Lexapro) 10mg june 2012. 20mg august 2012.15mg february 2013 - 10mg april 2013 - 5mg may 2013 0mg - 26.june 2013 Crashed mid. august 2013. Reinstated 2mg Escitalopram 22.september 2013 2.5mg 29 september 2013, 3mg 15 november 2013.

First taper from 3mg to 2.7mg 10 may 2014

Micro cuts since then.

Current dose september 2017 1.7mg

Current supplements: Nothing. (GI issues)

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus

yes, you are really blessed with good sleep! I'm very glad about that

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 after
reinstated 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. 

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Thank you for helping me get through this day:) It's been very hard.

Started Esctialopram (Lexapro) 10mg june 2012. 20mg august 2012.15mg february 2013 - 10mg april 2013 - 5mg may 2013 0mg - 26.june 2013 Crashed mid. august 2013. Reinstated 2mg Escitalopram 22.september 2013 2.5mg 29 september 2013, 3mg 15 november 2013.

First taper from 3mg to 2.7mg 10 may 2014

Micro cuts since then.

Current dose september 2017 1.7mg

Current supplements: Nothing. (GI issues)

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  • Moderator Emeritus

I'm glad i was able to and hope tomorrow will be at least a tiny bit better 

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 after
reinstated 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. 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Hi Skybert,

I'm so glad Bubble helped you through a difficult day, these waves can be frightening beyond belief, especially after a period of feeling better.

.... Not sure how to handle it.  

Spending all my energy trying to figure out what caused this. Obsessing over every little detail. But there probably was nothing I could have done or can do. I just have to trust the process. 

 

 

Whenever a wave hits me, the first thing I do is obsessively examine everything I've done over the previous few days, looking for clues.  Sometimes I find some possible culprits, other times there is nothing and so I start to obsess over if one of my supplements has turned paradoxical on me.

 

Then I start analyzing the space weather sites and spiritual/ascension sites,  looking for evidence of changes in energy patterns.  It seems like my mind needs to find some kind of explanation so that it can preserve its illusion of control.

 

Occasionally, there is an obvious cause, but other times I can't find anything conclusive and so I just make up stories about what's going on to keep myself from completely losing my sanity.  If I can half believe something, that seems to help.

 

While in a wave I lose my ability to connect with anything positive or helpful which I know I have available at other times.  My memory gets hijacked, my imagination gets locked onto fear inducing images, in other words, my brain becomes incapable of operating in any way that's helpful, I become a victim of it and I even forget this and keep believing that I actually have some control.

 

But like you, I can still sleep and get a break during the evenings, usually, and even though it feels like each wave is eternal, while in it, they never are.

 

I've been going through this a long time and its only in looking back, can I see progress.  While in a wave, each one feels as bad as the first, I'm not sure how that works, but that's how it is.  I see that happening for others too.  If every day was exactly the same, then I think I would be worried, but the fact that there are changes from hour to hour, day to day and week to week, even though some of those changes feel unpleasant, it gives me hope that 'something' is happening.

 

I think we need to leave clues for ourselves to find when we are in a wave, so that we can be reminded of the truth, that it will pass.  Luckily we have this site and so we can keep reminding each other when we are not capable of remembering for ourselves.

 

So that was my long winded, rambling way of saying, hang in there Skybert, this is just a wave, probably caused by nothing more than the mysterious healing process itself, it will pass.

 

hugs

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

 

 

 

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Perfect post Petu! Thank you so much:)

Yet I know all of this but the WD convinces me otherwise every time. And that is the illness.

It's a real mystery why that happens every time. What sets that of like that every single time?

It's just this certain state of being where nothing helps. I really hate that state. And it always scare me so badly and have this permanent feel to it that is impossible to override.

And off-course it is always something new, somewhat related but the feeling is new and scary in a new way.

 

Hugs

 

Started Esctialopram (Lexapro) 10mg june 2012. 20mg august 2012.15mg february 2013 - 10mg april 2013 - 5mg may 2013 0mg - 26.june 2013 Crashed mid. august 2013. Reinstated 2mg Escitalopram 22.september 2013 2.5mg 29 september 2013, 3mg 15 november 2013.

First taper from 3mg to 2.7mg 10 may 2014

Micro cuts since then.

Current dose september 2017 1.7mg

Current supplements: Nothing. (GI issues)

Link to comment

I went to the psy today. She pissed me off beyond belief. I thought after several months of talking about this nightmare I was finally getting through to her. But today she kindly told me after all her research and cooperation with her colleagues she was fairly certain I was wrong about this.

I am still trying to calm down after this. Don't know if I'm more mad at her for her conclusion or myself for not being able to get through to her. 

On top of this I'm in a wave which makes this so much harder.  

Started Esctialopram (Lexapro) 10mg june 2012. 20mg august 2012.15mg february 2013 - 10mg april 2013 - 5mg may 2013 0mg - 26.june 2013 Crashed mid. august 2013. Reinstated 2mg Escitalopram 22.september 2013 2.5mg 29 september 2013, 3mg 15 november 2013.

First taper from 3mg to 2.7mg 10 may 2014

Micro cuts since then.

Current dose september 2017 1.7mg

Current supplements: Nothing. (GI issues)

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus

That's why I don't hang out with the crowd ;( 

 

I'm very lucky that it seems my GP believes me, at least enough to prescribe the meds the way I want.

 

But you have achieved a way more than I could ever dream: she talked with you about this for several months instead of simply dismissing it (or even saying this proves how sick you are since you were 'rebelling' against treatment), she allegedly did some research (couldn't find anything since all the research is sponsored by pharma) and cooperated with her coleagues who know even less and was probably scared she would end up sounding insane herself before her distinguished colleagues.

 

Somebody wrote that the only way to persuade psychiatrist of withdrawal is to put them on meds, change dosages every once in a while, throw in a few more for good measure and then after a year or 2 send them on holidays to a far off deserted island (previously taking away their meds since they are non-addictive and harmless and for sure wouldn't be needed in such stress-free environment).

 

I bet whatever caused you to take Escitalopram was nowhere near this hell you are going through now ;( 

 

I know it for sure I can thank this same drug for my first ever experience of DR (and if I went to a psychiatrist they would sadly concluded my illness has gotten a lot worse and maybe even progressed to psychosis).

 

I was/still am on friendly trems with a young doctor specialising in psychiatry. He was actually part of a group that worked on translating Will Hall's Harm reduction guide into our language. But when I told him this autumn I felt very bad because I stopped taking Escitalopram he told me in a friendly way that i was talking nonsense (and we spent a lot of time together trying to set up a peer support group, etc.)

 

don't feel bad

 

I was so hoping to hear the wave got at least a tiny bit better...

 

big hug!

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 after
reinstated 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

The wave is better bubble:) or at least changing. Which I take as a good sign that something good is happening even though it feels like a nightmare. I went to work yesterday and today for a couple of hours even though it was really hard. I would call that progress considering I'm in a wave. I would not be able to do anything close to that just a few months ago while in a wave. Normally I don't give a #¤"#%¤" about what my psy says or does, I just go there to kind of show I am trying to the people within our health system. I do have fun there at times to, when it's clear my knowledge about a subject by far surpass hers and she don't know what to say. But really it's just a waist of time. Whatever it's free. I know there really is nothing they can do to help me so I kind of made it my mission while there to teach them something so it potentially could help someone else at some point, or have someone acknowledge that I am right about this. For some reason that is important to me. Probably a pride thing.

 

The DR was the same for me as for you. I woke up at night with it while weaning on to it. The scariest night of my life. I still think about it sometimes. Looking back on all of this I can pretty safely thank Escitalopram for pretty much everything except the panic attacks in the beginning, which was stress over a long period at a young age and nothing more. All I needed was a break..and look at me now.. ;( I miss my normal life so much.

I feel my wave is making me feel hopeless today so I better stop. 

Hoping for a clear window soon. 

 

Hugs.

Started Esctialopram (Lexapro) 10mg june 2012. 20mg august 2012.15mg february 2013 - 10mg april 2013 - 5mg may 2013 0mg - 26.june 2013 Crashed mid. august 2013. Reinstated 2mg Escitalopram 22.september 2013 2.5mg 29 september 2013, 3mg 15 november 2013.

First taper from 3mg to 2.7mg 10 may 2014

Micro cuts since then.

Current dose september 2017 1.7mg

Current supplements: Nothing. (GI issues)

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  • Moderator Emeritus

All in all, this is a lot better! Even the slightest change and weakening of symptoms is a great sign and especially the comparison with the previous month...

 

I totalyl understand everything about psychiatrists. I think it's not only a pride thing but the urge to save as many people as possible from what happened to us.

 

When I look at the thing that pushed me to taking drugs: ok, I've always been sensitive, and I was depressed after I broke up with a boyfriend but I asked my doctor for something to help me deal with 7 classes of unruly teenagers in one day which was my first part-time job while studying. The same way you needed a break, I had to just quit and not go on Xanax ;( 

 

I think we all have a moment like that when all we had to do was give ourselves some break but it's best not to look back now..

 

only forward, now we know ;)

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 after
reinstated 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

I stopped the probiotics for the time being. Today I'm just very strange emotionally. It's just a dull numb surreal feeling. Probably some DR but it just feels like a disconnect from everything. I can't tie any emotions to anything. I feel kind of new in this world. I hope I come back soon. My stomach hurt a little but nothing major. And for the first time in months I have no physical pain at all. My head doesn't hurt anywhere, my legs are fine, no pressure anywhere, not dizzy, it's actually kind of weird:P Maybe I could take a walk without feeling like I'm falling every step. 

Hi Skybert - I am tapering off Lexapro and have had alot of gastro issues related to the too fast withdrawal.  I just wanted to pipe in and say that i cannot tolerate probiotics of any kind. they really aggravate symptoms for me...big time. 

just wanted to let you know.

i hope you are feeling better.

Pokeshaw in Bklyn

 

7 yrs Lexapro 10 mg. Mar/2011 - 1 month taper. Severe W/D. Multiple symptoms.Gallbladder and parathyroid surgery in Aug and Oct. Disability 3 months.  Dec/2011 reinstated 5mg Lex and went back to work. very bad shape.

By Aug/2012 - self tapered to 1.25 mg cutting pills. -very bad shape. Nov/2012  Dr. Hinz neuro-replete. up and down. Aug/2013 at aprox 1.0 mg Lex stopped neuro-replete ~Oct 2013 Found this site  ~ began using compounded Lexapro and have been micro tapering since then and holding as needed.

11/6/2013 -  0.6 mg

2/1/2018 - .135 mg  Now reducing 5-10% per month 

4/1/18 - .1 mg

4/17/18 - changed delivery from compounded individual caps to aliquot. went from .1 mg to .09 aliquot

7/4/2018 - .09 mg Holding due to wave of W/D symptoms

7/22/18 updosed to .1 mg aliquot

9/30/18 - reduced to .0975 aliquot

2/1/19 - updosed to .1 mg aliquot due to instability bad wave W/D

9/12/19 - back to .1 mg individual caps since could not get stable using aliquot

Link to comment
True bubble:) Hard to let it go sometimes though. But I will eventually. 

 

Hi Pokeshaw. Thank you for the comment really appreciate it:) . It seems like we might have that in common then. This is my second try and I reacted badly booth times so I think I'm done trying them now. And it could possibly explain these strange symptoms I got the days after. I'm feeling better now:) Still really bloated, hyper vigilant, jerking numb limbs, trouble walking and sitting up. 

But the head is pretty good right now and that's the most important thing:) 

Started Esctialopram (Lexapro) 10mg june 2012. 20mg august 2012.15mg february 2013 - 10mg april 2013 - 5mg may 2013 0mg - 26.june 2013 Crashed mid. august 2013. Reinstated 2mg Escitalopram 22.september 2013 2.5mg 29 september 2013, 3mg 15 november 2013.

First taper from 3mg to 2.7mg 10 may 2014

Micro cuts since then.

Current dose september 2017 1.7mg

Current supplements: Nothing. (GI issues)

Link to comment

Hi guys:) I still have a lot of GI issues and very strange physical symptoms. I'm very dizzy when I walk and sit. It seems like I'm fine in certain positions but not in all of them. I'm best when I lay down on the side. This stuff has been going on for quite a while but it has gotten worse with time. Starting to get a little concerned about it. I'm almost always bloated and a little chest pain. When I wake up my legs are numb and feels like after a long workout. They go numb several times a day and sometimes they jerk like crazy and i can't stop. It seems to me that it is all related to my stomach but I can't seem to find out what it is. Thinking maybe a supplement could be a problem. (But probably not) I currently take C vitamin, zink, d3 and magnesium. I stopped taking all of them yesterday and see if it makes a difference. I eat meat, eggs, fish, vegetables, apples. I drink water, ginger tea. Can anyone relate to the stuff I (tried to) describe, and have any tips to what I could try.

Started Esctialopram (Lexapro) 10mg june 2012. 20mg august 2012.15mg february 2013 - 10mg april 2013 - 5mg may 2013 0mg - 26.june 2013 Crashed mid. august 2013. Reinstated 2mg Escitalopram 22.september 2013 2.5mg 29 september 2013, 3mg 15 november 2013.

First taper from 3mg to 2.7mg 10 may 2014

Micro cuts since then.

Current dose september 2017 1.7mg

Current supplements: Nothing. (GI issues)

Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus

sorry to see things are still tough :( 

 

as usually I have no idea but wanted to let you know you are at least not alone. I was very dizzy after I CT Zoloft but why you should have these symptoms so long into reinstating and after being stable for a long time beats me.... You didn't mention it but it sounds like you didn't have these symptom in acute WD? is this something new? and the thing with legs...

 

My only 'creative' but reluctant idea is maybe a visit to a GP? In December  I had a urinary infection and thought the pain in my belly was WD so didn't go to see a doctor for 3 weeks and when I did there were bacteria all over :)

 

just an idea in your 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 after
reinstated 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. 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

this is what I found a member WinningThrough wrote to member Wolfhound and it reminded me of you: numb arm..

 

see if any of this sounds familiar:

 

 

Hi Wolfhound


And this might really help you..some of my symptoms started to heal! My bladder sensation returned. My numb arm went back to normal. The internal leg shaking stopped. My restlessness isn't as severe as it was. I developed a very bad tremor..that has gone.

Interestingly, like you, I've had chronic fatigue for years.

While researching online and trying to work out what on earth was wrong with me, I found out about akathisia. And what I read about severe akathisia exactly matched what I was experiencing, I was experiencing the inner hell that you'd do just about anything to escape from but can't and it makes you move around a lot. And the extreme sense of doom. It was all there! Id first hear the word when my original doctor had mentioned it. I was getting restlessness on the citalooram and he mentioned it then but he described it as involuntary jerks. When it isn't. I mentioned the word to the first osychiastrict and he described is as something different than the first doctor. I mentioned it to another doctor who described it as something different again!!! So clearly, none of them knew what it was!

I found a blog, written by an ex sufferer. It helped me immensely to find it. The lady who wrote it suffered severely from it for about six months after being given a shot of something in hospital. She now helps others through it. You can find her blog at akathisiainfo.wordpress.com and she said everyone gets better in time. That gave me huge hope. I'd highly recommend looking at her blog. She says being as clean as possible, as in no drugs and a clean diet, is the best way.


Some days are better than others. I say affirmations like I am healing. I keep believing, believing, believing all the time. I am going to write a list of all the things I want to do when I'm better. I read inspirational quotes. One that really helps is a Michael J Fox quote..Acceptance doesn't mean resignation. It means understanding that something is what is is and there has to be a way through it.

The brain has a remarkable capacity to heal.

From what I've read in some of your posts, you seem a little better, even if you don't feel it.

I hope none of this is alarming. My intention is the opposite..to show that some of my major symptoms disappeared and others will too. Things are changing. There is a way through. I wanted to write this as I know you've been looking for people who have experienced akathisia and have had the same thoughts and feelings as you. Akathisia is miserable and quite frankly, hell on earth and it can be very lonely. Trying to turn your thoughts around is hugely helpful.
 

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 after
reinstated 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. 

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Hi bubble, thank you:) I have been looking into akathisia and I can relate to that at times. Body symptoms have always been an issue ever since I started on this crap. I had a lot of issues in acute WD I actually used that word to describe it in the beginning. But it was usually short lived and I kind of forgot about it after the worst of the agitation let go and I stopped moving all the time.

But I might know what the problem is.. I am a lazy person when it comes to moving my body for the sake of moving my body. I've always been that way and these months have not helped at all! I need to start moving again. How can I expect my digestion system working properly when I hardly move. Maybe my legs are protesting my inactivity. I have used this WD as an excuse to move around even less and have a lot of anxiety related to moving about. I need to get up and move! If I fall over or faint so be it! 
This is great! So inspired so ready! I will walk so hard that my shoes will beg for mercy! 

(Meet you back here in 5 minutes with severe leg symptoms and laughing shoes)

Started Esctialopram (Lexapro) 10mg june 2012. 20mg august 2012.15mg february 2013 - 10mg april 2013 - 5mg may 2013 0mg - 26.june 2013 Crashed mid. august 2013. Reinstated 2mg Escitalopram 22.september 2013 2.5mg 29 september 2013, 3mg 15 november 2013.

First taper from 3mg to 2.7mg 10 may 2014

Micro cuts since then.

Current dose september 2017 1.7mg

Current supplements: Nothing. (GI issues)

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