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Sablee: Need help tapering off 10 mg. of Fluoxetine

sablee

By sablee
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sablee Newbie

sablee

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Hi Everyone,

 

I would greatly appreciate your help.  I went on 10 mg. of fluoxetine on Sept. 18th.  I stood on it till Oct. 1.  That was 11 days.  I then went off it for 8 days.  I went back on it for 17 days and today I cut it back to 3/4 of a 10mg. pill.   That was before I just found this site this morning.  I'm also on 100 mg. of wellbutrin Sr., once a day in the a.m.  I'm on the wellbutrin for about 2 months.  I want to get off that also but I want to do the prozac first because I hate how it makes me feel.  Like a zombie. M

 

Do I need to do a taper on such a small dose for such a short period of time?  Can you please help me with this.  My Dr. knows nothing about tapering. I'll be anxiously awaiting your answer.  Where do I find anyone's reply? what page or topic will it be under.  I'm brand new to this site. Thank you.

 

sablee

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Karma Contributor

Karma

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Hi Sablee

 

Welcome to the forum.  You will find the response right here in your thread.  Use this thread to post questions and update us on your progress.  I've added your name to your topic so it will be easier for you to find.

 

Here is our topic on tapering off of fluoxetine http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/300-important-topics-in-the-tapering-forum-and-faq/

 

It looks like your were on it for 11 days and then went off of it for 8 days and the back on for 17 days.  What happened after you were off of it for 8 days that caused you to go back on it?  That is a short period of time to be on fluoxetine, but as you will read in the link I provided, it has the ability to extend its half-life and that may complicate things a bit.  How are you feeling now? 

 

What is your reaction to the Wellbutrin SR? 

 

When you get a chance please add your drug withdrawal history in your signature: http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/893-please-put-your-withdrawal-history-in-your-signature/.  Your signature will show up with each post and will provide a ready reference for mods or members responding to your questions.

 

If you can tell us a little more about your reaction we will be able to give you better suggestions about how to come off fluoxetine.  We have lots of knowledge moderators who will chime it to help you out.

 

Karma

2007 @ 375 mg Effexor - 11/29/2011 - 43.75 mg Effexor (regular) & .625 mg Xanax

200 mg Gabapentin 2/27/21 - 194.5 mg, 5/28/21 - 183 mg, 8/2/21 - 170 mg, 11/28/21 - 150 mg, 4/19/22 - 122 mg; 8//7/22 - 100 mg; 12/17 - 75mg; 8/17 - 45 mg; 10/16 40 mg
Xanax taper: 3/11/12 - 0.9375 mg, 3/25/12 - 0.875 mg, 4/6/12 - 0.8125 mg, 4/18/12 - 0.75 ; 10/16 40mg;

1/16 0.6875 mg; at some point 0.625 mg
Effexor taper: 1/29/12 - 40.625 mg, 4/29/12 - 39.875 mg, 5/11/12 - Switched to liquid Effexor, 5/25/12 - 38 mg, 7/6/12 - 35 mg, 8/17/12 - 32 mg, 9/14/12 - 30 mg, 10/19/12 - 28 mg, 11/9/12 - 26 mg, 11/30/12 - 24 mg, 01/14/13 - 22 mg. 02/25/13 - 20.8 mg, 03/18/13 - 19.2 mg, 4/15/13 - 17.6 mg, 8/10/13 - 16.4 mg, 9/7/13 - 15.2 mg, 10/19/13 - 14 mg, 1/15/14 - 13.2 mg, 3/1/2014 - 12.6 mg, 5/4/14 - 12 mg, 8/1/14 - 11.4 mg, 8/29/14 - 10.8 mg; 10/14/14 - 10.2 mg; 12/15/14 - 10 mg, 1/11/15 - 9.5 mg, 2/8/15 - 9 mg, 3/21/15 - 8.5 mg, 5/1/15 - 8 mg, 6/9/15 - 7.5 mg, 7/8/15 - 7 mg, 8/22/15 - 6.5 mg, 10/4/15 - 6 mg; 1/1/16 - 5.6 mg; 2/6/16 - 5.2 mg; 4/9 - 4.8 mg; 7/7 4.5 mg; 10/7 4.25 mg; 11/4 4.0 mg; 11/25 3.8 mg; 4/24 3.6 mg; 5/27 3.4 mg; 7/8 3.2 mg ... 10/18 2.8 mg; 1/18 2.6 mg; 4/7 2.4 mg; 5/26 2.15mg; 8/18 1.85 mg; 10/7 1.7 mg; 12/1 1.45 mg; 3/2 1.2 mg; 5/4 0.90 mg; 6/1 0.80 mg; 6/22 0.65 mg; 08/03 0.50 mg, 08/10 0.45 mg, 10/05 0.325 mg, 11/23 0.2 mg, 12/14 0.15 mg, 12/21 0.125 mg, 02/28 0.03125 mg, 2/15 0.015625 mg, 2/29/20 0.00 mg - OFF Effexor

I am not a medical professional - this is not medical advice. My suggestions are based on personal experience, reading, observation and anecdotal information posted by other sufferers

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sablee Newbie

sablee

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Hi Karma,

 

Thank you for responding.  When I was off it for 8 days I had no bad withdrawal symptoms but I think I got depressed again once I went off it and I guess that's why I went back on it. It made me tired and it was covering up my feelings and I felt very dull.  I don't like those feelings and that's why I want to get off it.  I'd rather try and deal with my depression through either alternative medicine or maybe just try exercise.  Right now I'm feeling tired because I just came from the gym and did 31 minutes of cardio. I probably will not know how I feel till I rest a  little and have lunch.  I hope this helps and you or someone will be able to tell me how to taper.  Thank you.

 

Sable

 

11 days on fluoxetine 10 mg. the 8 days off it.  Back on it for 17 days

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Altostrata Grand Master

Altostrata

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Welcome, Sablee.

 

If I were you, I'd taper fairly quickly off the Prozac, maybe 25% per week.

 

Make a plan for non-drug methods to treat your distress -- our Symptoms and Self-care forum has some suggestions.

 

About tapering Wellbutrin: http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/877-tips-for-tapering-off-wellbutrin-sr-xr-xl-buproprion/

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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sablee Newbie

sablee

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Thank you Altostrara,

 

I'll do what you suggested.  If I run into problems with withdrawal I'll call for help.  Do you think I should taper off the welbutrin at the same time or do prozac first then wellbutrin?  Thanks a million

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Jemima Newbie

Jemima

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It's always best to taper one drug at a time.  That way, if you have symptoms, you'll know which drug is causing the problem and you can adjust the dose accordingly. It is sometimes necessary to updose a bit while tapering off, although you may not have any difficulties given the short time you've been on the drugs.

 

The depression you felt after going off of Prozac the first time may have been a withdrawal symptom, so don't be surprised if it happens again as you're going off the drugs. Yes, the drugs can cause the very symptoms they're supposed to cure and doctors generally assume this is a relapse and add even more drugs, starting a vicious cycle.  I hope you'll stick to your plan to avoid them. Please do be aware that alternative medicine doesn't know anything more about depression and tapering off antidepressants than does mainstream medicine, and alternative doctors often prescribe lots of supplements, which can be just as harmful as pharmaceuticals.

 

Welcome to the forum. You'll find lots of good 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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sablee Newbie

sablee

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Hi Jemina,

 

You said "It is sometimes necessary to updose a bit while tapering off, although you may not have any difficulties given the short time you've been on the drugs."  Did you mean it might be necessary to updose on the wellbutrin or the prozac?  Thanks so much for responding.

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Altostrata Grand Master

Altostrata

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sablee, if I were you, I'd go off the Prozac first.

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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Karma

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Hi Sablee

 

Jemima means that if you are tapering the Prozac and you get a little wobbly, you may need to updose the Prozac slightly.  Ideally you would keep the Wellbutrin consistent while tapering Prozac.

 

Karma

2007 @ 375 mg Effexor - 11/29/2011 - 43.75 mg Effexor (regular) & .625 mg Xanax

200 mg Gabapentin 2/27/21 - 194.5 mg, 5/28/21 - 183 mg, 8/2/21 - 170 mg, 11/28/21 - 150 mg, 4/19/22 - 122 mg; 8//7/22 - 100 mg; 12/17 - 75mg; 8/17 - 45 mg; 10/16 40 mg
Xanax taper: 3/11/12 - 0.9375 mg, 3/25/12 - 0.875 mg, 4/6/12 - 0.8125 mg, 4/18/12 - 0.75 ; 10/16 40mg;

1/16 0.6875 mg; at some point 0.625 mg
Effexor taper: 1/29/12 - 40.625 mg, 4/29/12 - 39.875 mg, 5/11/12 - Switched to liquid Effexor, 5/25/12 - 38 mg, 7/6/12 - 35 mg, 8/17/12 - 32 mg, 9/14/12 - 30 mg, 10/19/12 - 28 mg, 11/9/12 - 26 mg, 11/30/12 - 24 mg, 01/14/13 - 22 mg. 02/25/13 - 20.8 mg, 03/18/13 - 19.2 mg, 4/15/13 - 17.6 mg, 8/10/13 - 16.4 mg, 9/7/13 - 15.2 mg, 10/19/13 - 14 mg, 1/15/14 - 13.2 mg, 3/1/2014 - 12.6 mg, 5/4/14 - 12 mg, 8/1/14 - 11.4 mg, 8/29/14 - 10.8 mg; 10/14/14 - 10.2 mg; 12/15/14 - 10 mg, 1/11/15 - 9.5 mg, 2/8/15 - 9 mg, 3/21/15 - 8.5 mg, 5/1/15 - 8 mg, 6/9/15 - 7.5 mg, 7/8/15 - 7 mg, 8/22/15 - 6.5 mg, 10/4/15 - 6 mg; 1/1/16 - 5.6 mg; 2/6/16 - 5.2 mg; 4/9 - 4.8 mg; 7/7 4.5 mg; 10/7 4.25 mg; 11/4 4.0 mg; 11/25 3.8 mg; 4/24 3.6 mg; 5/27 3.4 mg; 7/8 3.2 mg ... 10/18 2.8 mg; 1/18 2.6 mg; 4/7 2.4 mg; 5/26 2.15mg; 8/18 1.85 mg; 10/7 1.7 mg; 12/1 1.45 mg; 3/2 1.2 mg; 5/4 0.90 mg; 6/1 0.80 mg; 6/22 0.65 mg; 08/03 0.50 mg, 08/10 0.45 mg, 10/05 0.325 mg, 11/23 0.2 mg, 12/14 0.15 mg, 12/21 0.125 mg, 02/28 0.03125 mg, 2/15 0.015625 mg, 2/29/20 0.00 mg - OFF Effexor

I am not a medical professional - this is not medical advice. My suggestions are based on personal experience, reading, observation and anecdotal information posted by other sufferers

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sablee Newbie

sablee

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Hi everyone,

 

I started having horrible anxiety, headache and nausea This morning.  Last night I could not sleep and took 1 melatonin which I guess I shouldn't have taken but I couldn't hand how I felt.  I think I made a mistake in my tapering. I was on 10 mg. or prozac for  about 23 days.  Then with this groups help it was suggested that I go down by a quarter of 10 mgs. a week.  I started the taper on 10-26-13 to 3/4 of the 10 mg. pill .  I stayed on that for 4 days and then went down to 1/2 pill for one day and no bad side effects.  When I saw my Dr. and told her I was tapering off she said you could either taper slowly like your doing or just stop it all together now.  She said it's your choice. so I stopped it 3 days ago.  I am so sorry I did this and did not do the slow taper that was suggested.  After feel so ill this morning I felt I should go back on it for a while so I took 5 mg. and took some advil.  I still feel horrible anxious, can't concentrate on school work and I'm scared I'll have insomnia tonight.  My Dr. suggested I take gabapentin when I saw her a few days ago She suggested 100 mg. 3 times a day or if it makes me tired I could take the whole dose before I go to bed.  I filled the prescription but I'm scared to take it.  I googled it and it said if your on it and go off it you need to taper off it so I guess it's addicting and could cause problems.  I'm now on 200 mg. of wellbutrin.  She said it works very well with the wellbutrin.

 

Could someone please tell me what to do about this anxiety and insomnia and should I take the gabapentin or not.  I think your all so intelligent, have more knowledge than most Dr.s and can help me.  I'm sorry this message was so long.

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alex Rookie

alex

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Hi sablee;what you are going through is probably withdrawal from Prozac.Even when you took the drug for just a short time your brain and CNS got out of balance.

People with more exeperience here will give you more advice, but mine is DON'T take more psychiatric drugs, and add more trouble to the cocktail; it will make worse.

On the contrary, you have to give your body the chance to re-balance.

It is ok to take melatonin for sleep.

 

Don't worry too much, it will pass.

4 years aprox. on 150mgs.Effexor for situational major depression.No AD before.
Tapered 150-0mgs in 3 months.

Tapered Quetiapine,Xanax in the last 18 months.NO med of any kind anymore.
First 3 months off acute w/d
Protracted w/d ever since.
Symptoms:Anxiety,anhedonia,insomnia,tinnitus,PSSD

04/13/2014 Awful Relapse.Recovered fairly fast.

3 years and 4 months off.

waves and windows.Very much recovered.

November 2015,health issue.Setback.
 

 

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sablee Newbie

sablee

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Thank you for your response silver star.  I don't know how to deal with this anxiety.  Do you or anyone else have any suggestions?  Do you have any idea when this withdrawal will Pass

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lexicon Newbie

lexicon

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Posted

Hi sablee,

I am so very sorry that you are going through this :(

Please don't loose hope, someone with knowledge will be here shortly to advise you.

 

Meanwhile, please look at the "symptoms and self care "forum.

There is a lot of helpful information there.

 

Thinking of you, and wishing you well.

Love, Lexi

Hello,
I am tapering Lorazepam, and my daily dose is 1.125 mgs.

I followed a long hold for 5 months, ( Nov-March 2019) hoping to find some stability, 

but it did not work. So I resumed my taper and hold pattern.
For the last 3 years, I have been using a daily microtaper, cutting .001mgs per day, with holds as needed.
Symptoms are head pressure, labored breathing, palpitations, abrupt surges of dizziness, this being my worst symptom for now, internal tremors, my latest nemesis, unsteadiness, anxiety, plus many other symptoms that cycle in, and cycle out consistently. Not a day passes, without grief :(

I take no other meds.

January 2013 - 15 day quick taper off 10 mgs of Lexapro, and 25 mgs of Sertraline,

at a detox clinic.

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Petunia Newbie

Petunia

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Hi Sablee,

I joined your new introduction topic with your original one because it makes following your progress easier.  Please would you add your drug and withdrawal history to your signature, instructions are here:

 

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

 

It sounds to me like you are experiencing withdrawal symptoms from coming off the Prozac too fast, reinstating was probably a good idea, but it will take a while for you to stabilize again, maybe several weeks.  When your symptoms have settled down again, perhaps consider a slower taper.

 

I agree with Alex, not a good idea to add more drugs to the mix.  Stay on what you are on right now, same doses at the same time of day, don't change anything and wait until you are feeling better.

 

It will take a while to feel better again, until then, do what you can to stay calm, reduce stress and get as much rest as possible.  Be gentle with yourself until your nervous system stabilizes again.

 

Have a look at our symptoms and self care section for non-drug ideas for managing symptoms:

 

http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/forum/8-symptoms-and-self-care/

 

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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sablee Newbie

sablee

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Hi Petu,

I don't know if I should reinstate at the 10 mg. dose or could I reinstate at the 5 or 7 1/2 mg. dose?  Someone please try to answer me as soon as possible.  It's now 3:20 a.m. and I want to start reinstating by 7:30 or 8  a.m.  Thank you all so much for your responses.  This quitting all at once was insane.  My Dr. doesn't know anything about withdrawal.

 

 

on Welll butrin 200 mg. for 2 months, prozac 10 mg. for 1 month

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Petunia Newbie

Petunia

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 After feel so ill this morning I felt I should go back on it for a while so I took 5 mg. and took some advil.

 

If I were you, I would stick with 5mg for now. Maybe someone else has other opinions, but this is what I would do.  Let us know how you go.

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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sablee Newbie

sablee

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I reinstated the 5 mg this morning.  How long should I stay  on this dose till I taper to 2 1/2 mg.? I hate prozac & psychiatric drugs.  Yesterday was the worst day of my life.

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Altostrata Grand Master

Altostrata

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sablee, as Petu said, it will take some weeks for your nervous system to stabilize. Let's see how you feel in a few weeks.

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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sablee Newbie

sablee

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Thank you Altostrata,  This time I'll listen to everyone's advice.  I had a horrible night of anxiety like I never had before.  I'm ashamed to tell all of you that I took a 5mg. of valium because I felt so anxious and headachy that I was scared I was going to have to go to an emergency room and I really didn't want to do that.  I've never had a problem with benzodiazapens.  I never take them.  The reason I had one was because I had eye surgery last year and they wanted me to take one or two pills 1 hour before the surgery.  I took it at about 6:30 p.m. last night.  It calmed me down but I couldn't fall asleep later.  By 11:50 I couldn't bear being up anymore so I took a melatonin which helped me sleep.  I've been comatose all day.  I reinstated the 5 mg. prozac this morning.  I appreciate all your help so much.

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Skyler Newbie

Skyler

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Thank you Altostrata,  This time I'll listen to everyone's advice.  I had a horrible night of anxiety like I never had before.  I'm ashamed to tell all of you that I took a 5mg. of valium because I felt so anxious and headachy that I was scared I was going to have to go to an emergency room and I really didn't want to do that.  I've never had a problem with benzodiazapens.  I never take them.  The reason I had one was because I had eye surgery last year and they wanted me to take one or two pills 1 hour before the surgery.  I took it at about 6:30 p.m. last night.  It calmed me down but I couldn't fall asleep later.  By 11:50 I couldn't bear being up anymore so I took a melatonin which helped me sleep.  I've been comatose all day.  I reinstated the 5 mg. prozac this morning.  I appreciate all your help so much.

 

Hi Sablee... I'm very sorry to hear you are feeling so bad. At least rest your mind on the benzo issue? You don't need to worry about taking one valium... it's only folks who have drug seeking behaviors, etc. (addictive personalities) who need to worry about benzodiazepines so early on. If everyone who had valium prescribed was as judicious as you are, there would be no problems with them.  Cut yourself some slack for now, K? I really think you will do just fine...give yourself time to heal and get over this bump.

 

We are all rooting for you,

Skyler

As always, LISTEN TO YOUR BODY! A proud supporter of the 10% (or slower) rule.

 

Requip - 3/16 ZERO  Total time on 25 years.

 

Lyrica: 8/15 ZERO Total time on 7 or 8 yrs.

BENZO FREE 10/13 (started tapering 7/10)  Total time on 25 years.

 

Read my intro thread here, and check the about me section.  "No matter how cynical you get, it's almost impossible to keep up." Lily Tomlin

 

 

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Rhiannon Rookie

Rhiannon

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Hi Sablee--

 

Just want to make sure, in case it wasn't clear, that when Skyler said you don't need to worry about taking one valium, I think she means people don't get addicted from one use, which is true. (I'm not clear about addictive personalities, etc--have never really subscribed to that paradigm myself, but regardless it doesn't seem to be an issue with you anyway.)

 

But just to be clear, benzos ARE quite addictive relatively quickly and then have to be tapered off, whether you have an addictive personality (if there is such a thing) or not. Best to avoid taking them more than once or twice a week at most, and even then not for more than a few weeks. I've seen people end up in withdrawal after surprisingly intermittent and relatively minor benzo use. Not everyone, of course, not even most people, but I've seen it happen.

 

It's certainly no defect of character or anything like that though, to reach for relief! we all can relate to that! Just be aware.

 

Hang in there. From the history you describe I would expect if you just stay on the 5 mg Prozac every day and don't add or subtract any other meds, you will be feeling better in a few weeks or sooner, and then you can taper off.

Started on Prozac and Xanax in 1992 for PTSD after an assault. One drug led to more, the usual story. Got sicker and sicker, but believed I needed the drugs for my "underlying disease". Long story...lost everything. Life savings, home, physical and mental health, relationships, friendships, ability to work, everything. Amitryptiline, Prozac, bupropion, buspirone, flurazepam, diazepam, alprazolam, Paxil, citalopram, lamotrigine, gabapentin...probably more I've forgotten. 

Started multidrug taper in Feb 2010.  Doing a very slow microtaper, down to low doses now and feeling SO much better, getting my old personality and my brain back! Able to work full time, have a full social life, and cope with stress better than ever. Not perfect, but much better. After 23 lost years. Big Pharma has a lot to answer for. And "medicine for profit" is just not a great idea.

 

Feb 15 2010:  300 mg Neurontin  200 Lamictal   10 Celexa      0.65 Xanax   and 5 mg Ambien 

Feb 10 2014:   62 Lamictal    1.1 Celexa         0.135 Xanax    1.8 Valium

Feb 10 2015:   50 Lamictal      0.875 Celexa    0.11 Xanax      1.5 Valium

Feb 15 2016:   47.5 Lamictal   0.75 Celexa      0.0875 Xanax    1.42 Valium    

2/12/20             12                       0.045               0.007                   1 

May 2021            7                       0.01                  0.0037                1

Feb 2022            6                      0!!!                     0.00167               0.98                2.5 mg Ambien

Oct 2022       4.5 mg Lamictal    (off Celexa, off Xanax)   0.95 Valium    Ambien, 1/4 to 1/2 of a 5 mg tablet 

 

I'm not a doctor. Any advice I give is just my civilian opinion.

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Skyler Newbie

Skyler

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Posted

Hi again... I guess my post above was too cryptic.  To clarify, I don't think it's a good idea to take benzos for WD issues, but I understand the desire to escape from anxiety that threatens to overwhelm us... and on occasion the one off dose is very reasonable.

 

The majority do not get into difficulty with benzos if they are used no more than once a week.  My caution above was for people who form addictions,whether to alcohol, or drugs, or otherwise destructive behaviors (those who habitually seek drugs to salve emotional pain).  One dose of a benzo is not harmful except in very exceptional circumstances.  I was just telling you to not beat up on yourself for taking that single dose, or even if you took two doses. 

 

Skyler

As always, LISTEN TO YOUR BODY! A proud supporter of the 10% (or slower) rule.

 

Requip - 3/16 ZERO  Total time on 25 years.

 

Lyrica: 8/15 ZERO Total time on 7 or 8 yrs.

BENZO FREE 10/13 (started tapering 7/10)  Total time on 25 years.

 

Read my intro thread here, and check the about me section.  "No matter how cynical you get, it's almost impossible to keep up." Lily Tomlin

 

 

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sablee Newbie

sablee

Posted
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Posted

Hi Everyone,

 

Update I don't know if anyone remembers me.  I started tapering off 5mg. of prozac by first cutting the dose in half for a few days and then going cold turkey.  This was about a month ago.  I had horrible anxiety attacks that were unbearable.  A few of you suggested I go back to the 5mg. of prozac until I was stabilized again.  I stabilized within 2 days back on and I've been fine for the rest of the month or maybe it's even a little longer then a month that I went back on.  I want to try to taper again but I do not know by how much.  I know you recommend a 10% taper a month.  Is that true also for people that are on such a low dose of prozac?  I do not know how to taper from 5 mg. of prozac and would greatly appreciate it if someone could tell me how.  You've all helped me so much in the past and are so knowledgeable.  My internist suggested that I take the 5mg. pill every other day for  2 or 3 weeks.  Then then skip two days, take it on the third day for 2 or 3 weeks, then skip three days, take it on the fourth day etc.  I do not know how to proceed.  I know there's liquid but since I'm on such a small dose to begin with is the liquid a good idea?  Someone please tell me what to do.  I want to get off this prozac so badly.  I hate how it makes me feel.  After the prozac I want to get off the wellbutrin.  I want to get off the prozac first.  Someone please help me. Thank you

 

 

now on wellbutrin 150mg. for about 4 months, 5mg. prozac about 3 months

 

sablee

 

 

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mammaP Newbie

mammaP

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Posted

Hi Sablee, Ive merged your new post into your introduction, we have just one thread per person in the introduction forum, it is easier to keep track of how things are, it is your journal so you can look back and see how things change. 

 

I'm glad you are feeling better now, but would wait a little while longer before cutting again. Going from 5mg to 2.5 would be a 50% drop and you could end up with withdrawal symptoms again. I am tapering effexor and found that large cuts at lower doses can still lead to withdrawal which is what you want to avoid if possible. The liquid prozac is much easier for tapering, you can measure the cuts without any problems by using a syringe. 

PLEASE do not do the every other day method, it plays havoc with the CNS and makes things much worse!

 

It's good to hear you are feeling better.  :)

**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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sablee Newbie

sablee

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Posted

Hi MammaP

 

I've been on 5 mg. of prozac for quite a while now.  Maybe 2 months.  I do not know how to measure a taper from 5mg. by liquid prozac.  Could you or someone please give me instructions on how to do this.  How much should I cut from 5 mg. and how often if I'm using the liquid prozac.  What is the amount in the syringe I should take.  It's definitely time for me to start this taper.  I've been stable of l5 mg. for quite some time.  Someone please give me instructions as to how to do this.  Thank you.

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Altostrata Grand Master

Altostrata

Posted
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Posted

Here's lots of information about tapering Prozac http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/759-tips-for-tapering-off-prozac-fluoxetine/

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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Rhiannon Rookie

Rhiannon

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Posted

I would say definitely use the liquid to taper and try a 10% cut at first. Given how quickly you stabilized, you may be able to taper off relatively quickly, but sooner or later we all run out of "slack", so go slowly at first and make sure it's working for you. 

Started on Prozac and Xanax in 1992 for PTSD after an assault. One drug led to more, the usual story. Got sicker and sicker, but believed I needed the drugs for my "underlying disease". Long story...lost everything. Life savings, home, physical and mental health, relationships, friendships, ability to work, everything. Amitryptiline, Prozac, bupropion, buspirone, flurazepam, diazepam, alprazolam, Paxil, citalopram, lamotrigine, gabapentin...probably more I've forgotten. 

Started multidrug taper in Feb 2010.  Doing a very slow microtaper, down to low doses now and feeling SO much better, getting my old personality and my brain back! Able to work full time, have a full social life, and cope with stress better than ever. Not perfect, but much better. After 23 lost years. Big Pharma has a lot to answer for. And "medicine for profit" is just not a great idea.

 

Feb 15 2010:  300 mg Neurontin  200 Lamictal   10 Celexa      0.65 Xanax   and 5 mg Ambien 

Feb 10 2014:   62 Lamictal    1.1 Celexa         0.135 Xanax    1.8 Valium

Feb 10 2015:   50 Lamictal      0.875 Celexa    0.11 Xanax      1.5 Valium

Feb 15 2016:   47.5 Lamictal   0.75 Celexa      0.0875 Xanax    1.42 Valium    

2/12/20             12                       0.045               0.007                   1 

May 2021            7                       0.01                  0.0037                1

Feb 2022            6                      0!!!                     0.00167               0.98                2.5 mg Ambien

Oct 2022       4.5 mg Lamictal    (off Celexa, off Xanax)   0.95 Valium    Ambien, 1/4 to 1/2 of a 5 mg tablet 

 

I'm not a doctor. Any advice I give is just my civilian opinion.

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sablee Newbie

sablee

Posted
  • Author
Posted

Thank you MammaP, Altosrata and Rhi,

 

I appreciate all of  your help so much.  I will start my 10% liquid taper tomorrow and go slowly.  Will keep you all posted in due time. Thanks again.

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sablee Newbie

sablee

Posted
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I'm going to start my liquid prozac taper tomorrow.  I didn't have the right syringe to start this morning.  I think 1 and 1/8 ml. is 10% of 5mg. of prozac?  If I'm wrong somebody please give me the right measurement.  thank you.

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mammaP Newbie

mammaP

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Posted

Hi Sablee, My calculation would be 1.25 ml per 5 mg.  5ml = 20mg .

**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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mammaP Newbie

mammaP

Posted
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Posted

Wait till someone confirms it Sablee before taking that dose, I am often wrong!  

**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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