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Paresthesia: pins & needles, numbness, tingling, burning sensations aka neuropathy


angie007

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I'm really wondering about the connection between Prozac and nerve pain. The posts I've seen about nerve pain seem to be about 3/4 Prozac or fluoxetine users. This helps me feel more strongly that my discontinuation of fluoxetine 1 1/2 years ago is what started the symptom, rather than the use of benzos. At least I have a bit of understanding, although it is still very disappointing that I have the foot pain despite being back on fluoxetine for a year now. I hope when I taper again, it won't get worse.

2012: Diagnosed major depression: Prozac 40 mg daily use of Klonopin 0.5 mg 2014: switched to Ativan 0.5 mg 2014-15: tapered down Prozac and Ativan (unsuccessful) Chinese herbs acupuncture 2016: diagnosed major depression for second time, put back on Prozac 40 mg also various tiny attempts with other drugs  2016: Gabapentin 1800 mg for nerve pain in feet (believe related to meds) (B12 injections) Low mood, low energy, no motivation. Frequent anxiety between doses of Ativan. Diagnosed adrenal fatigue, supplements. // 2017: 40 mg fluoxetine // 1.5 mg lorazepam // 1800 mg gabapentin // supplements   Mar 2017: 40 mg fluoxetine // 1.33 mg lorazepam // 1800 mg gabapentin // only fish oil supplementation July 2017: tapered off fluoxetine 100 days // 0.25 mg lorazepam // 900 mg gabapentin Continuing nerve pain, intermittent severe depression

http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/14160-squeak-prozac-ativan-nerve-pain-gabapentin-enough/

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I had all of this and now it's gone. It's withdrawal . It was hard at the time but with patience one gets through. I had pins and needles pretty much everywhere -  mainly in the head - that was one of the most disconcerting symptoms. I chose to think of it as healing and I do think that it is . As I was going through it I kept saying to myself -  " this is healing " . This is what healing looks like . Remaining positive is of the utmost importance . For anyone experiencing this now - just know that it does get better with time. Eventually it starts to dwindle away ..... given  time.

Many SSRI's and SSNRI's over 20 years. Zoloft for 7 years followed by Effexor, Lexapro, Prozac, Cymbalta, Celexa, Pristiq, Valdoxan, Mianserin and more - on and off. No tapering. Cold turkey off Valdoxan - end of May 2014

 

                                                  Psych Drug - free since May 2014
.
         

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I had all of this and now it's gone. It's withdrawal . It was hard at the time but with patience one gets through. I had pins and needles pretty much everywhere -  mainly in the head - that was one of the most disconcerting symptoms. I chose to think of it as healing and I do think that it is . As I was going through it I kept saying to myself -  " this is healing " . This is what healing looks like . Remaining positive is of the utmost importance . For anyone experiencing this now - just know that it does get better with time. Eventually it starts to dwindle away ..... given  time.

Mine only affects me when I've ate a meal - usually containing turkey or some other meats. How long did it take for you to recover? Are you healed now?

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I prefer a whole food plant based diet. I believe it has helped me heal. I'm 95% there. I'm nearly 3 years out but still experience windows and waves even now. I know it's just a matter of time before I'm completely healed. I'm hanging in there with hope and optimism. 

Many SSRI's and SSNRI's over 20 years. Zoloft for 7 years followed by Effexor, Lexapro, Prozac, Cymbalta, Celexa, Pristiq, Valdoxan, Mianserin and more - on and off. No tapering. Cold turkey off Valdoxan - end of May 2014

 

                                                  Psych Drug - free since May 2014
.
         

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  • 1 month later...

Neuropathy from SSRI use confirmed

 

I received an answer from a known Dr :

"....seems like SSRIs cause a functional neuropathy - that affects all sorts of peripheral nerve pathways including skin, genitals etc and gut. Food intolerance and IBS type symptoms seem very common.

 

 

Laryngeal-pharyngeal reflux is new to me but it seems highly likely SSRIs can cause it. If you want to develop your email up into a rxisk post we could see if anyone else has had anything similar.."

 

Its been 3 years since I tapered of prozac and I haven't touched it since BUT last year I have developed a severe LPR (larnyphageal reflux ) and stomach doesn't close and pain comes and goes and breathing issues any one else with this experience?

Off SSRI and then functional neuropathy? ??

Also I wonder can it be a "wave" that can heal ????? (In other words would maybe the wisest thing be to wait it out - like all the other WD)

VERY grateful to all replies!

Cause this is taking the last part of my life and the conventonal health care (which doesn't recognise SSRI damages areally thinking to either do a fundoplication (stomach surgery) on me or pur me back on SSRI so I wouldn't feel the pain from the reflux damage :////

/Trying... a bit still...

Edited by manymoretodays
added title member gave topic, merged to similar topic

fluoxetine since 13years followed doctors advice tapered 40 mg to 0mg in 4 months july 2015 august crasched in panic attacks etc end of september akatisia , nausea, crying alot no one told me it could be something called withdrawal I read it and also about going back to last dose No one knew if it was worth it. tried reinstate autumn 2014 5 mg prozac then 10mg since 29/11-2014 feel only worse sucidal for real, tried antihistamine 10 mg or oxascand (benso) 5 mg or valerian for anxiousness but sick feeling taking this. 6mg prozac to taper slowly down since 15/2-2014 (30ml out of 100ml water with 20 mg pill) tapered 10-20% per month until June 2015 super anxious depressed tired. Got Buspar may 2015 5mg 10mg 15mg headache etc
June 2015: 10mg buspar plus around 3 mg prozac quit this cold turkey in July 2015. One week later crying spells and suicidal. Tried 5htp.magnesium omega 3 until September. October 2015 tested vit D was 17 . Since October 2015 ONLY Vit D and magnesium . nov 2016 can laungh again! but still too anxious ,depressed or lethargic in waves can't focuS, Crying spells , scared, social fobia, bitterness. .. . Did not reinstate prozac again . Trying to survive ....

july 2016-troathpain /reflux starts...

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Withdrawals questions

Has anyone ever complained of paraesthesia/tingling feeling in the brain from lexapro withdrawals?

 

I hear it about skin. But I feel it in my brain :( and pain/pulsating feeling in left temple, I can feel it move. But the tingly numbness in my brain is scary 24/7 right down the back of my brain to my spine. But mostly brain. It's intense every moment of the day.

 

And I watch my cheek twitch hugely on the left side of my face too, any ideas on that too?

 

So any thoughts on

(Main question) 24/7 brain tingling? Not scalp, actually in my brain or central nervous system.

Left temple twitch/pulsate pain

Left cheek twitch?

 

If it's not withdrawals then it's either from the 5 months of reinstatement that made me incompetent incapacitated and bearly alive, guessing toxcicity..

8 years lexapro.

July-September 5mg

Sep-October alternate days (kindled) anxiety returned

November-march reinstatement (adverse reaction) bed ridden for 5 months.

Stopped April, felt I had no choice, felt poisoned.

27 years old, mummy of 3.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED:  (6 year taper)      0mg Pristiq  on 13th November 2021

ADs since ~1992:  25+ years - 1 unknown, Prozac (muscle weakness), Zoloft; citalopram (pooped out) CTed (very sick for 2.5 wks a few months after); Pristiq:  50mg 2012, 100mg beg 2013 (Serotonin Toxicity)  Tapering from Oct 2015 - 13 Nov 2021   LAST DOSE 0.0025mg

Post 0 updates start here    My tapering program     My Intro (goes to tapering graph)

 VIDEO:   Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome and its Management

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  • 4 weeks later...

  

On 4/29/2017 at 10:22 AM, tryingtosurvive said:

Neuropathy from SSRI use confirmed

 

I received an answer from a known Dr :

"....seems like SSRIs cause a functional neuropathy - that affects all sorts of peripheral nerve pathways including skin, genitals etc and gut. Food intolerance and IBS type symptoms seem very common.

 

 

Laryngeal-pharyngeal reflux is new to me but it seems highly likely SSRIs can cause it. If you want to develop your email up into a rxisk post we could see if anyone else has had anything similar.."

 

Its been 3 years since I tapered of prozac and I haven't touched it since BUT last year I have developed a severe LPR (larnyphageal reflux ) and stomach doesn't close and pain comes and goes and breathing issues any one else with this experience?

Off SSRI and then functional neuropathy? ??

Also I wonder can it be a "wave" that can heal ????? (In other words would maybe the wisest thing be to wait it out - like all the other WD)

VERY grateful to all replies!

Cause this is taking the last part of my life and the conventonal health care (which doesn't recognise SSRI damages areally thinking to either do a fundoplication (stomach surgery) on me or pur me back on SSRI so I wouldn't feel the pain from the reflux damage :////

/Trying... a bit still...

 

I don't have much of an answer, but since nobody has responded I figured I would respond. Did you take any other medication or have a stressful life event around the time you developed the symptom? I have not had this exact experience, but I did develop a ton of gut problems and related symptoms at about 1.5 years off. I'm now just over 2 years off and not doing well at all with my gut stuff after working with a naturopath. I've read of others getting hit with new symptoms related to the gut and such after much of the main withdrawals are over. I'd personally see if diet and lifestyle changes, along with time, help before I considered surgery or going back on SSRIs. That's just my general approach after I've personally experienced and seen others experience so much damage from the field of medicine (and then be told this damage doesn't exist). I'm sorry I don't have a more solid answer for you or one that's completely informed, but I would not rule out that this is caused by longterm effects of SSRIs.

 

I hope someone comes along with a better answer. Best of luck to you!

Edited by manymoretodays
added quote of post that this member is responding to

Last taper was off of Lamictal (Lamotrigine): Started drop from 225 mg in April 2014 by going down 25 mg every 2 weeks. Then to 12.5 mg every 3 weeks. Then 10 mg every 3 weeks. Then 5 mg after 3.5 weeks. (using the chewable, dispersible pills) I had gone down to 30 mg, but was far too sick and went back up to 35. I then dropped back down to 30 mg, then 1 mg drops until 25 mg. Dropped off completely at 25 mg because the symptoms from taking the pills were becoming more unbearable than the withdrawal at times. Completely off as of 5/11/15. Update 10/28/15: Reinstated 0.0625 mg, meant to take 0.25, measured wrong. Only took 2 days.

I've gotten off of: Abilify, PRN Klonopin (0.5-1 mg) - no taper as took it infrequently, and Effexor (300 mg). Abilify and Effexor were rapid tapers around the beginning of 2014. After tapering Effexor and Abilify I tried taking Remeron and Topamax for a short time with very bad side effects. (I have taken numerous psych drugs over the years (starting in my early teens), but these were the ones I was on when getting off completely).

On 2/9/15, received a Promethazine injection for nausea, which caused pain, numbness, burning, shooting pain and was prescribed pain meds (made me sick and didn't help), 5 days of Prednisone, and some sort of anti-inflammatory. I had been doing somewhat better with Lamictal taper until this point.

Current Supplements: Omega-3 with Co Q-10: 1000 mg x 2, Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids and Rose Hips: 500 mg x 2, Multivitamin, Vitamin D, Probiotics

 

Dx: Asperger Syndrome (originally misdiagnosed Borderline Personality Disorder, ADHD), GAD, and PTSD

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  • 4 weeks later...

Is it possible to get tingling and burning sensation of hands and feet 2 months after quitting medication cold turkey? I didn't know you could get it this late, its very light but its there, i just wonder if it usually get worse with time? Like to the point you can't stand it, right know its pretty bearable, then again i had a panic attack early this evening so i don't know if that caused the tingling

Took 600 mg of trileptal (2 pills) every night and 300 mg (1 pill) in the morning for almost 3 months

 

took 1 mg of risperdal at night and half pill in the morning for 1 month

 

these are the only 2 drugs i've ever taken.

 

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Is it possible to have facial tingling ever since I started zoloft ---it's been like four months and I'm only on 50 mgs. My doctor hasn't been able to deduce if it's because of lyme, anxiety, cervical disc issues---but I'm wondering if it's the Zoloft this whole time?

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On September 1, 2017 at 5:03 PM, AZez15 said:

Is it possible to have facial tingling ever since I started zoloft ---it's been like four months and I'm only on 50 mgs. My doctor hasn't been able to deduce if it's because of lyme, anxiety, cervical disc issues---but I'm wondering if it's the Zoloft this whole time?

Yes, once you get it,  it can be triggered continuously by both these drugs and WD of them. I feel the root is nerve damage, and the interfere of the drugs ( up or down) will bring the symptoms up.

 

i tried so hard for 5+ years to figure out the cause, WD or drug, it seems from both for me, varies with where my CNS is in the process of tapering.

 

did you start getting it AFTER taking Zoloft and BEFORE taperin?

Drug free Sep. 23 2017

2009 Mar.: lexapro 10mg for headache for 2 weeks.

2009-2012: on and off 1/4 to 1/3 of 10mg

2012 June--2013 Jan,: 1/4-1/3 of 10mg generic, bad jaw pain

2013 Jan-Mar: 10 mg generic. severe jaw and head pain;

2013 Mar--Aug. started tapering (liquid ever since) from 10 to 5 (one step) then gradually down to 2.25 mg by July. first ever panic attack, severe head/jaw pain

2013 Aug.: back to 2.75 mg; Nov: back to Brand Lex. 2.75mg -- 3mg,

2014 June: stopped PPI, head pressure/numbness. up-dosed 4.5mg, severe reaction mental symptoms added on

2014 Aug--2015 Aug: Micro taper down to 3.2mg, .025mg (<1%) cut holding 2-3 weeks.

2015 Aug 15th, Accidental one dose of 4.2mg. worsening brain non-functional, swollen head, body, coma like, DR

2016 Feb., started dosing 10am through 11 pm everyday 2/13--3.2mg, 3/15-- 2.9mg, 4/19-- 2.6mg, 6/26--2.2mg, 7/22 --1.9mg, 8/16--1.8mg,8/31--1.7m g, 9/13--1.6mg, 9/27--1.5mg, 10/8--1.4mg, 10/14--1.3mg, 11/1--1.2mg, 11/29--1.1mg, 12/12--1mg, 12/22--0.9mg

2017: 1/7--0.8mg, 1/15--0.7mg, 1/17--0.6mg, 1/20--0.52, 1/21--0.4mg, 1/22--0.26, 1/23--0.2, 2/13--0.13mg, 2/20--0.06mg, 3/18--0.13mg, 6/1--0.12mg, 7/6--0.1mg, 7/14--0.08mg, 8/17--0.04mg, 8/20--0.03mg, 8/28--0.02mg, 9/6--0.0205mg, 9/8--0.02mg, 9/17--0.015mg, 9/20--0.01mg, 9/21--0.0048mg, 9/22--0.0001mg,

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I have been feeling the pins and needles in my head as well. Do yours include an odd dizziness and wavy sensation?   

26 years of Anti-depressants (probably 32, lost track, alone and/in combination Vyvanse 30mg Discontinued Feb. 22, 2013 Topamax  25-75mg Feb 23, 2013--Feb 2016 0.0 mg Discontinued  Lamotrigine 25-50mg Jan 15, 2016-Adverse Reaction Discontinued Feb 2, 2016 T3 25-50mcg Feb.11, 2016  Discontinued April 23, 2016

Escitalopram 20mg-omg fast taper Nov. 2015-Jan.7, 2016 Crash! Reinstated 20mg  Taper Jan 14, 2016  0.0mg Sept 2016 Reinstated Feb.21, 2017 Escitalopram  5mg Dosage Adjustments  Escitalopram to 2.5mg June 28-30; Increased to 3.75mg July 1-28, 2017    July 29-Aug 4 10mg, alternated between 5 and 10mg next couple days.  Aug 9, 7.25mg;  Aug 10-14 10mg; Aug 15-25 7.25mg, August 25-29, 10mg.   

Levofloxacin (January 2017 2 doses) (Adverse Reaction: Neurotoxcity; 3 daysE.R.$30k+tests)

Adderall 25mgXR (start April 23, 2013) (Nov.2016 20mg) (Dec.2016 15mg) (Feb. 5, 2016 10mg) (June 15, 2017) 5mg XR 

Crossover July 7 to Adderall I.M 5mg Discontinued  Reinstated Adderall 5mgXR  July 28th 

Minipress 1mg began July 20-23, 2mg July 24 last dose Discontinued  (Prescribed to assist with side-effects of updose of Escitalopram) WellbutrinXR 150 mg July 24, 2017 Discontinued;  Hydroxyline 25-200 mg daily, began July 20, Discontnued; (Prescribed for side-effects-sensitized; W/D)Gababentin 100mg August 28, 8/29: 00mg, 8/30/17 100mg discontinued (Prescribed for side-effects of sensitized, W//D)Zolipidem PRN (2.5mg.) Reinstated May 15, 2017 after18m+ discontinuation Between May and  Aug18-Aug 30, 2017 Discontinued

Aug. 30. 2017 Escitalopram 8.2mg, Sept. 6 Ecitalopram (7.25 tablet) September 28 Escitalopram   (7 mg tablet)   Omega 3's , October 1 Escitalopram (6.25...I think)  November 1, Escitalopram (approx. 5.75mg) December 1 (5mg)  Missed .75 for few days, lowered dose.  W/D ramped up Dec.23;  Escitalopram 4mg tab. .75ml liquid March 5.  Adderall XR 5mg, Synthroid 112mcg  March 23 Escitalopram 4mg tab .50ml liquid.April 23 Escotalopram 4mgtab .25ml liquid Escitalopram dropping .25 every 30 days; July 23, 2018 Escitalopram 3.50mg, Adderall XR 5mg, Synthroid 112mcg 

July 2021:  Took last dose of Escitalopram .02mg.  Do dah!

Current:   Synthroid/Generic 100mcg decreased November, 2018  (TSH has changed 5 times since August 30, 2018 resulting in both Hyper and hypothyroid symptoms.)  November 1, 2018, increased Adderall XR to 10mg to combat brain fog after decrease in Synthroid.

 

 

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Not much dizziness for me, but very painful along with hardening of the head, neck, back as mine is allover those areas.

Drug free Sep. 23 2017

2009 Mar.: lexapro 10mg for headache for 2 weeks.

2009-2012: on and off 1/4 to 1/3 of 10mg

2012 June--2013 Jan,: 1/4-1/3 of 10mg generic, bad jaw pain

2013 Jan-Mar: 10 mg generic. severe jaw and head pain;

2013 Mar--Aug. started tapering (liquid ever since) from 10 to 5 (one step) then gradually down to 2.25 mg by July. first ever panic attack, severe head/jaw pain

2013 Aug.: back to 2.75 mg; Nov: back to Brand Lex. 2.75mg -- 3mg,

2014 June: stopped PPI, head pressure/numbness. up-dosed 4.5mg, severe reaction mental symptoms added on

2014 Aug--2015 Aug: Micro taper down to 3.2mg, .025mg (<1%) cut holding 2-3 weeks.

2015 Aug 15th, Accidental one dose of 4.2mg. worsening brain non-functional, swollen head, body, coma like, DR

2016 Feb., started dosing 10am through 11 pm everyday 2/13--3.2mg, 3/15-- 2.9mg, 4/19-- 2.6mg, 6/26--2.2mg, 7/22 --1.9mg, 8/16--1.8mg,8/31--1.7m g, 9/13--1.6mg, 9/27--1.5mg, 10/8--1.4mg, 10/14--1.3mg, 11/1--1.2mg, 11/29--1.1mg, 12/12--1mg, 12/22--0.9mg

2017: 1/7--0.8mg, 1/15--0.7mg, 1/17--0.6mg, 1/20--0.52, 1/21--0.4mg, 1/22--0.26, 1/23--0.2, 2/13--0.13mg, 2/20--0.06mg, 3/18--0.13mg, 6/1--0.12mg, 7/6--0.1mg, 7/14--0.08mg, 8/17--0.04mg, 8/20--0.03mg, 8/28--0.02mg, 9/6--0.0205mg, 9/8--0.02mg, 9/17--0.015mg, 9/20--0.01mg, 9/21--0.0048mg, 9/22--0.0001mg,

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Thank you for your reply, LexAnger,  

Lovely to meet you.  

Had the weird tingly head most of yesterday.  Awoke with dizziness this am. and the tingly head has just crept in but ever so slightly.  

 

In looking at your signature, and see you went back and forth on your 10mg dose too.   Then you did a big jump from 10mg of (Escitalopram) to 5mg.  Was this drop because of the head pain? 

In ignorance and at behest of psychiatrist, I went from 3.75 to 4 of liquid Esc. followed by a big leap to 10mg tablet.  After which, I went back and forth.  I also added a slew of other RX's into the mix to help all the side-effects and what turns out to be withdrawal symptoms I was having.  Discontinued all those. Rollar coaster through out this time.  Then I found S.A. 

 

Since August 30, I have been on Escitalopram combination of liquid 3.2 and tablet 5mg.  I am trying to stabilize after all the chaos.  But still so uncertain about what to do.  

Did you notice a big change in symptoms with the liquid?  My anxiety, the freight train in the chest feeling, seems to come on almost immediately after the morning dose.  I see you also did dosing throughout the day and then decreased by micro amounts.  Did this help alleviate your withdrawal symptoms.  You are now .02mg.  Oh, just amazing...

 

I would so appreciate any thoughts you might have.  So difficult to figure out how and what to do.

take care,

 

 

 

 

 

26 years of Anti-depressants (probably 32, lost track, alone and/in combination Vyvanse 30mg Discontinued Feb. 22, 2013 Topamax  25-75mg Feb 23, 2013--Feb 2016 0.0 mg Discontinued  Lamotrigine 25-50mg Jan 15, 2016-Adverse Reaction Discontinued Feb 2, 2016 T3 25-50mcg Feb.11, 2016  Discontinued April 23, 2016

Escitalopram 20mg-omg fast taper Nov. 2015-Jan.7, 2016 Crash! Reinstated 20mg  Taper Jan 14, 2016  0.0mg Sept 2016 Reinstated Feb.21, 2017 Escitalopram  5mg Dosage Adjustments  Escitalopram to 2.5mg June 28-30; Increased to 3.75mg July 1-28, 2017    July 29-Aug 4 10mg, alternated between 5 and 10mg next couple days.  Aug 9, 7.25mg;  Aug 10-14 10mg; Aug 15-25 7.25mg, August 25-29, 10mg.   

Levofloxacin (January 2017 2 doses) (Adverse Reaction: Neurotoxcity; 3 daysE.R.$30k+tests)

Adderall 25mgXR (start April 23, 2013) (Nov.2016 20mg) (Dec.2016 15mg) (Feb. 5, 2016 10mg) (June 15, 2017) 5mg XR 

Crossover July 7 to Adderall I.M 5mg Discontinued  Reinstated Adderall 5mgXR  July 28th 

Minipress 1mg began July 20-23, 2mg July 24 last dose Discontinued  (Prescribed to assist with side-effects of updose of Escitalopram) WellbutrinXR 150 mg July 24, 2017 Discontinued;  Hydroxyline 25-200 mg daily, began July 20, Discontnued; (Prescribed for side-effects-sensitized; W/D)Gababentin 100mg August 28, 8/29: 00mg, 8/30/17 100mg discontinued (Prescribed for side-effects of sensitized, W//D)Zolipidem PRN (2.5mg.) Reinstated May 15, 2017 after18m+ discontinuation Between May and  Aug18-Aug 30, 2017 Discontinued

Aug. 30. 2017 Escitalopram 8.2mg, Sept. 6 Ecitalopram (7.25 tablet) September 28 Escitalopram   (7 mg tablet)   Omega 3's , October 1 Escitalopram (6.25...I think)  November 1, Escitalopram (approx. 5.75mg) December 1 (5mg)  Missed .75 for few days, lowered dose.  W/D ramped up Dec.23;  Escitalopram 4mg tab. .75ml liquid March 5.  Adderall XR 5mg, Synthroid 112mcg  March 23 Escitalopram 4mg tab .50ml liquid.April 23 Escotalopram 4mgtab .25ml liquid Escitalopram dropping .25 every 30 days; July 23, 2018 Escitalopram 3.50mg, Adderall XR 5mg, Synthroid 112mcg 

July 2021:  Took last dose of Escitalopram .02mg.  Do dah!

Current:   Synthroid/Generic 100mcg decreased November, 2018  (TSH has changed 5 times since August 30, 2018 resulting in both Hyper and hypothyroid symptoms.)  November 1, 2018, increased Adderall XR to 10mg to combat brain fog after decrease in Synthroid.

 

 

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hi JS11,

 

im happy to be connected with you too! This has been my most torturous symptoms for many years and I'm glad we can share experience and thoughts on it.

 

Thanks for visiting my thread too! its quite possible the ups and downs countless times is the main cause of the nerve damage for me. 

 

I li see you are on PST time zone too. I'd be happy to talk to you sometimes if you feel like. Will send a PM to you now.

 

hope you have a better day today,

lex

Drug free Sep. 23 2017

2009 Mar.: lexapro 10mg for headache for 2 weeks.

2009-2012: on and off 1/4 to 1/3 of 10mg

2012 June--2013 Jan,: 1/4-1/3 of 10mg generic, bad jaw pain

2013 Jan-Mar: 10 mg generic. severe jaw and head pain;

2013 Mar--Aug. started tapering (liquid ever since) from 10 to 5 (one step) then gradually down to 2.25 mg by July. first ever panic attack, severe head/jaw pain

2013 Aug.: back to 2.75 mg; Nov: back to Brand Lex. 2.75mg -- 3mg,

2014 June: stopped PPI, head pressure/numbness. up-dosed 4.5mg, severe reaction mental symptoms added on

2014 Aug--2015 Aug: Micro taper down to 3.2mg, .025mg (<1%) cut holding 2-3 weeks.

2015 Aug 15th, Accidental one dose of 4.2mg. worsening brain non-functional, swollen head, body, coma like, DR

2016 Feb., started dosing 10am through 11 pm everyday 2/13--3.2mg, 3/15-- 2.9mg, 4/19-- 2.6mg, 6/26--2.2mg, 7/22 --1.9mg, 8/16--1.8mg,8/31--1.7m g, 9/13--1.6mg, 9/27--1.5mg, 10/8--1.4mg, 10/14--1.3mg, 11/1--1.2mg, 11/29--1.1mg, 12/12--1mg, 12/22--0.9mg

2017: 1/7--0.8mg, 1/15--0.7mg, 1/17--0.6mg, 1/20--0.52, 1/21--0.4mg, 1/22--0.26, 1/23--0.2, 2/13--0.13mg, 2/20--0.06mg, 3/18--0.13mg, 6/1--0.12mg, 7/6--0.1mg, 7/14--0.08mg, 8/17--0.04mg, 8/20--0.03mg, 8/28--0.02mg, 9/6--0.0205mg, 9/8--0.02mg, 9/17--0.015mg, 9/20--0.01mg, 9/21--0.0048mg, 9/22--0.0001mg,

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8 hours ago, LexAnger said:

hi JS11,

 

im happy to be connected with you too! This has been my most torturous symptoms for many years and I'm glad we can share experience and thoughts on it.

 

Thanks for visiting my thread too! its quite possible the ups and downs countless times is the main cause of the nerve damage for me. 

 

I li see you are on PST time zone too. I'd be happy to talk to you sometimes if you feel like. Will send a PM to you now.

 

hope you have a better day today,

lex

Thank you, Lex.  I so enjoyed talking with .  It is so lovely to meet others going through similar things.  Assuages that lonely feeling.

Yes, another West Coaster.  So many of us from all over it seems.  Different names for the same evil. The world over.  

 

I do hope your cold and your evening are doing well. 

take care,

JS

 

26 years of Anti-depressants (probably 32, lost track, alone and/in combination Vyvanse 30mg Discontinued Feb. 22, 2013 Topamax  25-75mg Feb 23, 2013--Feb 2016 0.0 mg Discontinued  Lamotrigine 25-50mg Jan 15, 2016-Adverse Reaction Discontinued Feb 2, 2016 T3 25-50mcg Feb.11, 2016  Discontinued April 23, 2016

Escitalopram 20mg-omg fast taper Nov. 2015-Jan.7, 2016 Crash! Reinstated 20mg  Taper Jan 14, 2016  0.0mg Sept 2016 Reinstated Feb.21, 2017 Escitalopram  5mg Dosage Adjustments  Escitalopram to 2.5mg June 28-30; Increased to 3.75mg July 1-28, 2017    July 29-Aug 4 10mg, alternated between 5 and 10mg next couple days.  Aug 9, 7.25mg;  Aug 10-14 10mg; Aug 15-25 7.25mg, August 25-29, 10mg.   

Levofloxacin (January 2017 2 doses) (Adverse Reaction: Neurotoxcity; 3 daysE.R.$30k+tests)

Adderall 25mgXR (start April 23, 2013) (Nov.2016 20mg) (Dec.2016 15mg) (Feb. 5, 2016 10mg) (June 15, 2017) 5mg XR 

Crossover July 7 to Adderall I.M 5mg Discontinued  Reinstated Adderall 5mgXR  July 28th 

Minipress 1mg began July 20-23, 2mg July 24 last dose Discontinued  (Prescribed to assist with side-effects of updose of Escitalopram) WellbutrinXR 150 mg July 24, 2017 Discontinued;  Hydroxyline 25-200 mg daily, began July 20, Discontnued; (Prescribed for side-effects-sensitized; W/D)Gababentin 100mg August 28, 8/29: 00mg, 8/30/17 100mg discontinued (Prescribed for side-effects of sensitized, W//D)Zolipidem PRN (2.5mg.) Reinstated May 15, 2017 after18m+ discontinuation Between May and  Aug18-Aug 30, 2017 Discontinued

Aug. 30. 2017 Escitalopram 8.2mg, Sept. 6 Ecitalopram (7.25 tablet) September 28 Escitalopram   (7 mg tablet)   Omega 3's , October 1 Escitalopram (6.25...I think)  November 1, Escitalopram (approx. 5.75mg) December 1 (5mg)  Missed .75 for few days, lowered dose.  W/D ramped up Dec.23;  Escitalopram 4mg tab. .75ml liquid March 5.  Adderall XR 5mg, Synthroid 112mcg  March 23 Escitalopram 4mg tab .50ml liquid.April 23 Escotalopram 4mgtab .25ml liquid Escitalopram dropping .25 every 30 days; July 23, 2018 Escitalopram 3.50mg, Adderall XR 5mg, Synthroid 112mcg 

July 2021:  Took last dose of Escitalopram .02mg.  Do dah!

Current:   Synthroid/Generic 100mcg decreased November, 2018  (TSH has changed 5 times since August 30, 2018 resulting in both Hyper and hypothyroid symptoms.)  November 1, 2018, increased Adderall XR to 10mg to combat brain fog after decrease in Synthroid.

 

 

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Thank you JS11! 

I enjoyed our talk too.

 

there are so much to learn on here and from own experience dancing with these poisons along the way of tapering. We will make it to the other side someday.

 

be kind to yourself!

lex

Drug free Sep. 23 2017

2009 Mar.: lexapro 10mg for headache for 2 weeks.

2009-2012: on and off 1/4 to 1/3 of 10mg

2012 June--2013 Jan,: 1/4-1/3 of 10mg generic, bad jaw pain

2013 Jan-Mar: 10 mg generic. severe jaw and head pain;

2013 Mar--Aug. started tapering (liquid ever since) from 10 to 5 (one step) then gradually down to 2.25 mg by July. first ever panic attack, severe head/jaw pain

2013 Aug.: back to 2.75 mg; Nov: back to Brand Lex. 2.75mg -- 3mg,

2014 June: stopped PPI, head pressure/numbness. up-dosed 4.5mg, severe reaction mental symptoms added on

2014 Aug--2015 Aug: Micro taper down to 3.2mg, .025mg (<1%) cut holding 2-3 weeks.

2015 Aug 15th, Accidental one dose of 4.2mg. worsening brain non-functional, swollen head, body, coma like, DR

2016 Feb., started dosing 10am through 11 pm everyday 2/13--3.2mg, 3/15-- 2.9mg, 4/19-- 2.6mg, 6/26--2.2mg, 7/22 --1.9mg, 8/16--1.8mg,8/31--1.7m g, 9/13--1.6mg, 9/27--1.5mg, 10/8--1.4mg, 10/14--1.3mg, 11/1--1.2mg, 11/29--1.1mg, 12/12--1mg, 12/22--0.9mg

2017: 1/7--0.8mg, 1/15--0.7mg, 1/17--0.6mg, 1/20--0.52, 1/21--0.4mg, 1/22--0.26, 1/23--0.2, 2/13--0.13mg, 2/20--0.06mg, 3/18--0.13mg, 6/1--0.12mg, 7/6--0.1mg, 7/14--0.08mg, 8/17--0.04mg, 8/20--0.03mg, 8/28--0.02mg, 9/6--0.0205mg, 9/8--0.02mg, 9/17--0.015mg, 9/20--0.01mg, 9/21--0.0048mg, 9/22--0.0001mg,

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I've been experiencing skin sensations--burning, stinging, jabbing, etc.--for five months now with very little relief. In the beginning, I had severe itching so much so that I scratched until I bled. This has subsided for the most part. I am now able to scratch, and the itch goes away. Does all of this eventually disappear so that I will be normal again? Any suggestions for relief of these symptoms in the meantime?

Edited by scallywag
add then delete pre-approval note to moderators

Lexapro: 2004-2010; Effexor XR 225 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017

Abilify 5 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017; Buspirone 60 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Trazadone 100 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Xanax: as needed; Fast taper

 

 

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10 hours ago, LexAnger said:

Thank you JS11! 

I enjoyed our talk too.

 

there are so much to learn on here and from own experience dancing with these poisons along the way of tapering. We will make it to the other side someday.

 

be kind to yourself!

lex

Thank you, Lex for the support and encouragement.  May your day go well.

take care,

JS

26 years of Anti-depressants (probably 32, lost track, alone and/in combination Vyvanse 30mg Discontinued Feb. 22, 2013 Topamax  25-75mg Feb 23, 2013--Feb 2016 0.0 mg Discontinued  Lamotrigine 25-50mg Jan 15, 2016-Adverse Reaction Discontinued Feb 2, 2016 T3 25-50mcg Feb.11, 2016  Discontinued April 23, 2016

Escitalopram 20mg-omg fast taper Nov. 2015-Jan.7, 2016 Crash! Reinstated 20mg  Taper Jan 14, 2016  0.0mg Sept 2016 Reinstated Feb.21, 2017 Escitalopram  5mg Dosage Adjustments  Escitalopram to 2.5mg June 28-30; Increased to 3.75mg July 1-28, 2017    July 29-Aug 4 10mg, alternated between 5 and 10mg next couple days.  Aug 9, 7.25mg;  Aug 10-14 10mg; Aug 15-25 7.25mg, August 25-29, 10mg.   

Levofloxacin (January 2017 2 doses) (Adverse Reaction: Neurotoxcity; 3 daysE.R.$30k+tests)

Adderall 25mgXR (start April 23, 2013) (Nov.2016 20mg) (Dec.2016 15mg) (Feb. 5, 2016 10mg) (June 15, 2017) 5mg XR 

Crossover July 7 to Adderall I.M 5mg Discontinued  Reinstated Adderall 5mgXR  July 28th 

Minipress 1mg began July 20-23, 2mg July 24 last dose Discontinued  (Prescribed to assist with side-effects of updose of Escitalopram) WellbutrinXR 150 mg July 24, 2017 Discontinued;  Hydroxyline 25-200 mg daily, began July 20, Discontnued; (Prescribed for side-effects-sensitized; W/D)Gababentin 100mg August 28, 8/29: 00mg, 8/30/17 100mg discontinued (Prescribed for side-effects of sensitized, W//D)Zolipidem PRN (2.5mg.) Reinstated May 15, 2017 after18m+ discontinuation Between May and  Aug18-Aug 30, 2017 Discontinued

Aug. 30. 2017 Escitalopram 8.2mg, Sept. 6 Ecitalopram (7.25 tablet) September 28 Escitalopram   (7 mg tablet)   Omega 3's , October 1 Escitalopram (6.25...I think)  November 1, Escitalopram (approx. 5.75mg) December 1 (5mg)  Missed .75 for few days, lowered dose.  W/D ramped up Dec.23;  Escitalopram 4mg tab. .75ml liquid March 5.  Adderall XR 5mg, Synthroid 112mcg  March 23 Escitalopram 4mg tab .50ml liquid.April 23 Escotalopram 4mgtab .25ml liquid Escitalopram dropping .25 every 30 days; July 23, 2018 Escitalopram 3.50mg, Adderall XR 5mg, Synthroid 112mcg 

July 2021:  Took last dose of Escitalopram .02mg.  Do dah!

Current:   Synthroid/Generic 100mcg decreased November, 2018  (TSH has changed 5 times since August 30, 2018 resulting in both Hyper and hypothyroid symptoms.)  November 1, 2018, increased Adderall XR to 10mg to combat brain fog after decrease in Synthroid.

 

 

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On 3/15/2017 at 2:19 AM, IrishMonkey92 said:

TERRY - omg! I have this.

 

The tops of my hands burn/prickle after I eat a meal. I'm trying to figure out if it's due to turkey or not, but it tends to happen with certain meals.

 

My legs have started getting ridiculously strong pins and needles in them when I'm crossing my legs. My hands go numb with holding my phone sometimes. Even laying on the sofa can make the side of my bode go numb too. I use to wake up with numb body parts too!

 

I basically Cold turkey'd (4 week taper) Citalopram 19 months ago.

I had these exact symptoms too last summer very badly as I was getting to the tail end of a one year slow taper. Unfortunately was placed back on original dose and since have stabilized with majority of parasthesia symptoms.  You say you have been done with citalprom more than 19 months now? Only now have your symptoms appeared or have you been battling with these since your discontinuation? If so has it gotten better? 

Effexor XR 37.5mg (1st time 2003-2004 / 2nd time 2007-2008 / 3rd time 2010-current) Attempted to get off again in July of 2015 and did a year long taper only to reinstate by June 2016 due to failed taper. By July 2017 started to give this another try.

 

7.01.17 - 37.5mg fast forward to 3.25.18 - 26 mg  / 4.27.18 - 23.4 mg  / 5.20.18 - 21 mg  / 6.24.18 - 18.9 mg / 9.7.18 - 17 mg  / 10.13.18 - 15 mg / 11.10.18 - 13.5 mg 12.24.18 - 12 mg / 2.10.19 - 11 mg  / 3.6.19 - Updose to 13 mg and was better only for a month so decided to continue with tapering process. / 5.18.19 - 12 mg / 6.12.19 - 11 mg  / 7.7.19 - 11 mg  / 8.22.19 - 10 mg  / 10.4.19 - 9 mg   / 11.29.19 - 8.5mg / 12.16.19 - 8 mg / 1.24.20 - 7.5mg / 3.15.20 - 6.5mg / 3.29.20 - 6 mgs / 5.9.20  - 5.5 mgs / 5.23.20 - 5 mgs / 6.29.20 - 4.5 mgs / 7.10.20 - 4.25mgs / 7.24.20 - 4 mgs / 8.18.20 - 3.75mg / 9.1.20 - 3.5 mgs / 9.29.20 - 3 mgs but Horrendous insomnia suddenly appear preventing further tapering.

 

10.9.20 - Effexor Updose to 3.5mg

10.18.20 - Effexor Updose to 4 - 4.5 mg but no relief and insomnia got worse so.....

11.04.20 Effexor jump! with direct switch to Prozac 10mg.

12.4 - prozac 7.5mg 

12.20 - prozac 4mg 

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On 9/10/2016 at 6:42 PM, Chicosalt said:

This may be the best forum I've read in a year!

I took Paxil for 15 years when it finally "pooped out." Doc told me to just stop and try Wellbutrin (which didn't do a THING for me.) You all can imagine how horrific that cold turkey WD was..

I was really sick for several weeks and a few months in began to experience foot tingling/numbness/weird sensations. Same doctor told me I had Idiopathic Peripheral Neuropathy (Not loving this guy any longer..) . Add that to an already anxious soul- I've been a mess for a year now.

Reading all the above notes gives me faith that these constant symptoms might possibly be ongoing WD symptoms. Thank you to all who have written that, with symptoms getting better, no matter how slowly, these nerves of mine will heal.

XO!

how are you now? I was in similar situation as yours but i did do a slew cautious taper.  But got the

same silly diagnosis and I don't see that doctor anymore.

 

Although I'm stabilized due to reinstatement I've been starting a much shower taper. Scared of the same symptoms occurring again but if they do I wanted to see if since this post you have improved. 

Effexor XR 37.5mg (1st time 2003-2004 / 2nd time 2007-2008 / 3rd time 2010-current) Attempted to get off again in July of 2015 and did a year long taper only to reinstate by June 2016 due to failed taper. By July 2017 started to give this another try.

 

7.01.17 - 37.5mg fast forward to 3.25.18 - 26 mg  / 4.27.18 - 23.4 mg  / 5.20.18 - 21 mg  / 6.24.18 - 18.9 mg / 9.7.18 - 17 mg  / 10.13.18 - 15 mg / 11.10.18 - 13.5 mg 12.24.18 - 12 mg / 2.10.19 - 11 mg  / 3.6.19 - Updose to 13 mg and was better only for a month so decided to continue with tapering process. / 5.18.19 - 12 mg / 6.12.19 - 11 mg  / 7.7.19 - 11 mg  / 8.22.19 - 10 mg  / 10.4.19 - 9 mg   / 11.29.19 - 8.5mg / 12.16.19 - 8 mg / 1.24.20 - 7.5mg / 3.15.20 - 6.5mg / 3.29.20 - 6 mgs / 5.9.20  - 5.5 mgs / 5.23.20 - 5 mgs / 6.29.20 - 4.5 mgs / 7.10.20 - 4.25mgs / 7.24.20 - 4 mgs / 8.18.20 - 3.75mg / 9.1.20 - 3.5 mgs / 9.29.20 - 3 mgs but Horrendous insomnia suddenly appear preventing further tapering.

 

10.9.20 - Effexor Updose to 3.5mg

10.18.20 - Effexor Updose to 4 - 4.5 mg but no relief and insomnia got worse so.....

11.04.20 Effexor jump! with direct switch to Prozac 10mg.

12.4 - prozac 7.5mg 

12.20 - prozac 4mg 

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On 10/2/2016 at 5:37 PM, ChessieCat said:

You might find reading this topic helpful/interesting:  What is Happening in Your Brain.

 

Alto's quote at the beginning of the post:  "The domino effect of neurotransmitter dysregulation she describes here regarding GABA and glutamate also applies generally to all the other neurotransmitters affected by psychiatric drugs. They are all necessary, working in harmony, like an orchestra. Dysregulate one, and the others tend to get dysregulated, too."

 

It is a long post but I suggest you read completely through Post #1 because I think it helps for us to understand that there is an immense amount of work going on in the brain.  I think this analogy within that post is excellent:

 

"It would be like if the World Trade Center Towers hadn't completely fallen - but had crumbled inside in different places.. Imagine if you were [...] to rebuild the tower - WHILE people were coming and going and [...] to work in the building!  You'd have to set up a temporary elevator - but when you needed to fix part of that area, you'd have to tear down that elevator and set up a temporary elevator somewhere else. And so on. You'd have to build, work around, then tear down, then build again, then work around, then build... ALL while people are coming and going, ALL while the furniture is being replaced, ALL while the walls are getting repainted... ALL while [...] is going on INSIDE the building. No doubt it would be chaotic. That is EXACTLY what is happening with windows and waves.  The windows are where the body has "got it right" for a day or so - but then the building shifts and the brain works on something else - and it's chaos again while another temporary pathway is set up to reroute function until repairs are made."

This helps so very much to visualize things, Chessie Cat.  Thank you, take care, JS

26 years of Anti-depressants (probably 32, lost track, alone and/in combination Vyvanse 30mg Discontinued Feb. 22, 2013 Topamax  25-75mg Feb 23, 2013--Feb 2016 0.0 mg Discontinued  Lamotrigine 25-50mg Jan 15, 2016-Adverse Reaction Discontinued Feb 2, 2016 T3 25-50mcg Feb.11, 2016  Discontinued April 23, 2016

Escitalopram 20mg-omg fast taper Nov. 2015-Jan.7, 2016 Crash! Reinstated 20mg  Taper Jan 14, 2016  0.0mg Sept 2016 Reinstated Feb.21, 2017 Escitalopram  5mg Dosage Adjustments  Escitalopram to 2.5mg June 28-30; Increased to 3.75mg July 1-28, 2017    July 29-Aug 4 10mg, alternated between 5 and 10mg next couple days.  Aug 9, 7.25mg;  Aug 10-14 10mg; Aug 15-25 7.25mg, August 25-29, 10mg.   

Levofloxacin (January 2017 2 doses) (Adverse Reaction: Neurotoxcity; 3 daysE.R.$30k+tests)

Adderall 25mgXR (start April 23, 2013) (Nov.2016 20mg) (Dec.2016 15mg) (Feb. 5, 2016 10mg) (June 15, 2017) 5mg XR 

Crossover July 7 to Adderall I.M 5mg Discontinued  Reinstated Adderall 5mgXR  July 28th 

Minipress 1mg began July 20-23, 2mg July 24 last dose Discontinued  (Prescribed to assist with side-effects of updose of Escitalopram) WellbutrinXR 150 mg July 24, 2017 Discontinued;  Hydroxyline 25-200 mg daily, began July 20, Discontnued; (Prescribed for side-effects-sensitized; W/D)Gababentin 100mg August 28, 8/29: 00mg, 8/30/17 100mg discontinued (Prescribed for side-effects of sensitized, W//D)Zolipidem PRN (2.5mg.) Reinstated May 15, 2017 after18m+ discontinuation Between May and  Aug18-Aug 30, 2017 Discontinued

Aug. 30. 2017 Escitalopram 8.2mg, Sept. 6 Ecitalopram (7.25 tablet) September 28 Escitalopram   (7 mg tablet)   Omega 3's , October 1 Escitalopram (6.25...I think)  November 1, Escitalopram (approx. 5.75mg) December 1 (5mg)  Missed .75 for few days, lowered dose.  W/D ramped up Dec.23;  Escitalopram 4mg tab. .75ml liquid March 5.  Adderall XR 5mg, Synthroid 112mcg  March 23 Escitalopram 4mg tab .50ml liquid.April 23 Escotalopram 4mgtab .25ml liquid Escitalopram dropping .25 every 30 days; July 23, 2018 Escitalopram 3.50mg, Adderall XR 5mg, Synthroid 112mcg 

July 2021:  Took last dose of Escitalopram .02mg.  Do dah!

Current:   Synthroid/Generic 100mcg decreased November, 2018  (TSH has changed 5 times since August 30, 2018 resulting in both Hyper and hypothyroid symptoms.)  November 1, 2018, increased Adderall XR to 10mg to combat brain fog after decrease in Synthroid.

 

 

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On 9/6/2017 at 8:55 AM, Callie said:

I've been experiencing skin sensations--burning, stinging, jabbing, etc.--for five months now with very little relief. In the beginning, I had severe itching so much so that I scratched until I bled. This has subsided for the most part. I am now able to scratch, and the itch goes away. Does all of this eventually disappear so that I will be normal again? Any suggestions for relief of these symptoms in the meantime?

Oh my gosh Callie, I'm so very sorry.  I wish I could give you some expert advice but there are many others out there who can.

I hope you feel better.

take care,

JS11 

and nice to meet you

26 years of Anti-depressants (probably 32, lost track, alone and/in combination Vyvanse 30mg Discontinued Feb. 22, 2013 Topamax  25-75mg Feb 23, 2013--Feb 2016 0.0 mg Discontinued  Lamotrigine 25-50mg Jan 15, 2016-Adverse Reaction Discontinued Feb 2, 2016 T3 25-50mcg Feb.11, 2016  Discontinued April 23, 2016

Escitalopram 20mg-omg fast taper Nov. 2015-Jan.7, 2016 Crash! Reinstated 20mg  Taper Jan 14, 2016  0.0mg Sept 2016 Reinstated Feb.21, 2017 Escitalopram  5mg Dosage Adjustments  Escitalopram to 2.5mg June 28-30; Increased to 3.75mg July 1-28, 2017    July 29-Aug 4 10mg, alternated between 5 and 10mg next couple days.  Aug 9, 7.25mg;  Aug 10-14 10mg; Aug 15-25 7.25mg, August 25-29, 10mg.   

Levofloxacin (January 2017 2 doses) (Adverse Reaction: Neurotoxcity; 3 daysE.R.$30k+tests)

Adderall 25mgXR (start April 23, 2013) (Nov.2016 20mg) (Dec.2016 15mg) (Feb. 5, 2016 10mg) (June 15, 2017) 5mg XR 

Crossover July 7 to Adderall I.M 5mg Discontinued  Reinstated Adderall 5mgXR  July 28th 

Minipress 1mg began July 20-23, 2mg July 24 last dose Discontinued  (Prescribed to assist with side-effects of updose of Escitalopram) WellbutrinXR 150 mg July 24, 2017 Discontinued;  Hydroxyline 25-200 mg daily, began July 20, Discontnued; (Prescribed for side-effects-sensitized; W/D)Gababentin 100mg August 28, 8/29: 00mg, 8/30/17 100mg discontinued (Prescribed for side-effects of sensitized, W//D)Zolipidem PRN (2.5mg.) Reinstated May 15, 2017 after18m+ discontinuation Between May and  Aug18-Aug 30, 2017 Discontinued

Aug. 30. 2017 Escitalopram 8.2mg, Sept. 6 Ecitalopram (7.25 tablet) September 28 Escitalopram   (7 mg tablet)   Omega 3's , October 1 Escitalopram (6.25...I think)  November 1, Escitalopram (approx. 5.75mg) December 1 (5mg)  Missed .75 for few days, lowered dose.  W/D ramped up Dec.23;  Escitalopram 4mg tab. .75ml liquid March 5.  Adderall XR 5mg, Synthroid 112mcg  March 23 Escitalopram 4mg tab .50ml liquid.April 23 Escotalopram 4mgtab .25ml liquid Escitalopram dropping .25 every 30 days; July 23, 2018 Escitalopram 3.50mg, Adderall XR 5mg, Synthroid 112mcg 

July 2021:  Took last dose of Escitalopram .02mg.  Do dah!

Current:   Synthroid/Generic 100mcg decreased November, 2018  (TSH has changed 5 times since August 30, 2018 resulting in both Hyper and hypothyroid symptoms.)  November 1, 2018, increased Adderall XR to 10mg to combat brain fog after decrease in Synthroid.

 

 

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  • 3 weeks later...
On 06/09/2017 at 9:34 PM, whatshappening said:

I had these exact symptoms too last summer very badly as I was getting to the tail end of a one year slow taper. Unfortunately was placed back on original dose and since have stabilized with majority of parasthesia symptoms.  You say you have been done with citalprom more than 19 months now? Only now have your symptoms appeared or have you been battling with these since your discontinuation? If so has it gotten better? 

Battling since discontinuation. 

 

The first 5 months I didn't realise anything was actually wrong. I had minor symptoms which my doctor said was anxiety. Brain zaps here and there. RLS at night time for a month or so. And a bright white dot that zoomed across my vision and left again. Then it wasn't until I had a heavy night of drinking 5 months in, did I think anything was wrong. I woke up and all hell broke loose. That was January 2016. The pins and needles have calmed down. However I still have a lot of my other symptoms. 

 

The burning hands has seemed to disappear too.

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  • 1 month later...

please, please, please someone tell me how to reverse numbness it’s profoundly effect my entire body and in more regions than others.  I need some help finding an answer. I know my diet, sleep, and depression need improvement, but I need to hear that I can get better with a protocol or something positive.  I literally feel like I’m dying.  I really need some support. Anything that all.

Short Term Case: 7 pill of 10 mg of Modafinil in a 3 month span, but last 3 I took back to back causing severe withdrawals, lasting 3 weeks. Than 2 pills lexapro to help withdrawal lead to more withdrawal.  I have most symptoms Pssd, emotional loss, cognitive issues, nerve damage in legs.  Also 2 benzodiazepines.  Not much to damage me long term...

 

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I'm sorry you're going through this Webhead21 and I can relate. My best advice is to take things day by day and do calming things for your nervous system: meditation, gentle yoga, epsom salts baths, get out for a walk. As for supplements, I take a good quality probiotic from Metagenics and I personally think healing the gut is key to recovery, but that's just my opinion. Things improve incredibly slowly, but there is healing going on. Yes, it can take years. It's been 26 months for me. My symptoms of numbness come and go and move around. Things got worse for me after an acupuncture treatment, so I've been staying away from that for now. Take care of yourself and keep moving forward. 

Celexa 10 mg ( approx 5 years), reduced to 5mg (approx 10 years). Prescribed for anxiety and panic. Started tapering July 2015-2.5 mg for a month, then 2.5 every other day. Kept tapering until October when I took my last crumb.  Almost 4 years drug free and WD symptoms are evolving constantly. Some improved, some new. 

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I have a question for those who have been through these skin issues as I would like to know if I am improving or getting worse with them.

 

When my post AD WD symptoms began, I suffered intense, insatiable itching. I scratched till I bled; the more I scratched the worse I itched. That symptom resolved after about a month or so. Then burning, pin-sticking, jabbing sensations, and knife-like stabbing persisted for a few months. That went away and was replaced with sparking sensations in my skin. That subsided as well. Now being almost eight months into AD WD, my skin has become super, ultra hypersensitive with a tiny bit of itching on occasion. My arms hurt really bad and also feel cold.

 

Has anyone experienced this or similar? Am I getting worse or better? I would appreciate your help!

 

Thanks,

 

Callie

Lexapro: 2004-2010; Effexor XR 225 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017

Abilify 5 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017; Buspirone 60 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Trazadone 100 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Xanax: as needed; Fast taper

 

 

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Itching, yes.  Another sensation like someone stinging me with stinging nettles lasted for weeks at a time, but okay at present.

 

Heard others have similar issues.  Burning, yes another one. 

 

Pin pricking yes.  Lexapro has what she calls "needling" sensation in her head.

 

Feeling cold, yes and aching muscles (right arm is worse ) and legs are excruciating painful with shooting pains in feet.

 

All part of w/d sorry to say.

 

Have to wait for nervous system to heal.

1995-2007      20mg Aropax/Paxil for pain.  Years of up and down doses

2008                Endep, Lexapro and then Esipram (hell!) CT (oh dear!)

2009                20mg Aropax.  Tried skipping doses for a year (more hell!)

                        2010                10mg.  10% taper.  Lasted 4 months. Crashed again

2011                5% taper. 9mg-7mg (hell got even worse!)

2012                2.5% taper.  6.6mg – 5.6mg (worser still & unbearable)

2013                5% taper.  Big mistake.  5.5mg – 4.6mg  (even worserer)

2014                2.5% taper.  4.9mg – 4.5mg;    2015 2.5% taper 4.4 - 4.0mg

2016                2.5% taper.  3.9mg  Feb 3.8   Mar 3.7  May 3.6   Jul 3.5

2017                2.5% taper.  Jan 3.4;   Mar 3.35;  Apr 3.3; Oct 3; Dec 2.9;

2018                2.5% taper. Jan 2.8; Mar 2.7; Mar: 2.75; Jun 2.7; Aug 2.6; Oct 2.5; Nov 2.4; Dec 2.3

2019                Jan 2.2; Feb 2.1;

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Thank you, grandmaD. I am really having a hard time. I have had no relief from this at all. It is torturous hell for me, so I very much appreciate your response. It helps.

 

Callie

Lexapro: 2004-2010; Effexor XR 225 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017

Abilify 5 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017; Buspirone 60 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Trazadone 100 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Xanax: as needed; Fast taper

 

 

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  • 4 weeks later...

It started out as paresthesia months ago, I'm sure, but now the skin on my arms is so hypersensitive that it feels as if it's going to peel off when anything touches it. It's just getting worse day by day. Anybody else have this same problem?

 

Callie

Lexapro: 2004-2010; Effexor XR 225 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017

Abilify 5 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017; Buspirone 60 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Trazadone 100 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Xanax: as needed; Fast taper

 

 

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  • 3 weeks later...

I get tingling in both my hands little fingers and ring fingers also more often mainly when I’m lying down using my phone with both arms bent or when I’m lying down trying to sleep. When I wake up they are normally both knumb. Has been about 4-5 weeks. I’m going through a very messy wd 

been on venlafaxine for 4 weeks 

1mg of lorazepam a day 

25mg quatiapine at night 

Fluoxetine 20mg January 2011-October 2017

The straight swap to citalapram 20mg October 2017

lorazepam 1mg October 2017

quatiapan 25mg June 2017 for sleep

straight swap from citalapram to venlafaxine December 5 at 37.5mg then upped to 75mg a week later

Stopped quetiapine may 28 2018 and changed to zopiclone 

Started venlafaxine December 5 at 37.5mg and upped dosage reaching 150mg

Reduced venlafaxine over a one month period and stopped around June 15 2018

also stoped the lorazepam June 15 2018

started 20mg fluoxetine 7th August 2018

witg 1mg lorazepam every morning and at around 1-2pm

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51 minutes ago, Spice81 said:

I get tingling in both my hands little fingers and ring fingers also more often mainly when I’m lying down using my phone with both arms bent or when I’m lying down trying to sleep. When I wake up they are normally both knumb. Has been about 4-5 weeks. I’m going through a very messy wd 

been on venlafaxine for 4 weeks 

1mg of lorazepam a day 

25mg quatiapine at night 

had similar thing happen to me, around months 2 - 3 after stopped meds when I would lie down to try and sleep my right arm and hand would go numb, it was always the right side, I would wake up with it completely numb, I thought it was my mattress so bought a new one but it continued, this lasted around 6 weeks and then it stopped,

2001 - 2005 prozac,  2001 - 2017 various benzos, mainly diazapem and zanex,  2002 - 2017 olanzapine or seroquel,  2002 -2017 propanolol, 2005 - 2009 venlafaxine 75mg , forced to go cold turkey off venlafaxine as moved Thailand, doctor cut me off and couldn't get it there, severely ill for over 2 years, countered withdrawals with more zanex and seroquel

2014 returned to UK, mainly to get treatment getting off meds

doctor advised to taper seroquel over a few weeks, severely ill and bed bed-bound so reinstated it, 2015 tapered seroquel myself slower over a few months, was off it 2 months and was too ill so went on olanzapine, became zombie and too tired to get out of bed, went back on seroquel, very depressed so went back on venlafaxine, didnt work  so doctor swapped to zoloft became very agitated so back on venlafaxine

June 2016 - felt strong enough to begin tapering again, started what I thought was a slow taper of all meds,  2016 July Not had any alcoholic drink since this date, 

2016 October completely off diazepem, 2017 Feb completely off seroquel, 2017 March completely off proponanlol, 2017 April (day before birthday) completely off venlafaxine, OFF ALL MEDS 11/4/2017, was fine for nearly 3 months and then delayed withdrawal hit,

supplements taking: turmeric capsules, NiaCel (nicotinamide riboside), Vit B12 sublingual, Vit B3, Vit B6, Vit B1, apple cider vinegar, manuka umf 10 honey, camu camu powder,  melatonin when needed, epsom salt baths, juices, smoothies, 

Intro: http://survivingantidepressants.org/topic/15175-dj2010-off-all-meds-for-3-months-and-been-fine-now-bad-insomnia/

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Hi !

 

I am now two years off klonopin.  I used it for 13 years.  I still now suffer from nerve pain : numbness, buzzing, tingling, burning, pins and needles burning sensation in limbs.  But this condition worsens as I started Tapering Luvox last spring.  The condition is now so bad that I can't sleep. I also have to deal with muscle pain all over.  I really think tapering the SSRI increased that benzo protracted withdrawal related nerve pain symptoms.  I had an MRi which is normal. Not sure if I should continue to taper the SSRI or take a break.  I am currently half way to the end...

Took several SSRi over the last 17 years.  Currently on luvox.  Also free of 14 years of Benzo use (mainly klonopin) as of Feb 05, 2016.  Benzo for GAD, Panic Disorder, Chronic Pain. Started Benzo after multiple  surgeries that dramatically increased pain and anxiety.  Took Rivotril about 10 years : Ativan 2mg for 3 years. It took me two years to taper.  Benzo free since Feb 2016. Still experiencing withdrawal symptoms...

 

Take AD Luvox went up to 125mg.  Started to taper mid August 2017 using a scale. As of Jan 2018,  holding around 60 mg

 

It is difficult to taper.  I would suspect already being in Benzo withdrawal not helping !  The worst being nerve pain, muscle pain and insomnia increasing as Luvox dosage gets lower.  Menauposis is also in the way.  Hot flashes since  March 2017.  Planning to start Hormone Therapy.

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Hi, Maridou. Please start a topic for yourself in the Introductions forum and we will discuss your Luvox taper.

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

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

All postings © copyrighted.

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Sorry if I make a maybe old question, but if I go to a neurologist will he be able to diagnose any damage related to the nerves? And maybe get a prognosis? 

 

After I took an antibiotic (Cipro) for one time 500mg, a nervous pain in my legs and arms popped up in addition to all the other diseases. I am so scared because this antibiotic is itself frequently associated with this type of issues.


My psychological effects are now relatively mild, but all summed up I am thinking seriously of having a iatrogenic neuropathy.

 

November 2014 - September 2015: Zoloft 50 mg, Trilafon 4mg, clonazepam 1mg
October 2015 - September 2016: Effexor 75 mg
September 2016 - January 2017: Effexor 150 mg
Stopped Effexor in March 2017 after tapering under medical supervision
The doctor I've now found is an expert in withdrawal from ADs
Persistent withdrawal syndrome since July 2017: Prozac 10 mg, clonazepam 0.5 mg, to cope with it.
December 2017 -  withdrawing from Prozac, 10 mg every 2 days
Drug free since January (?) 2018
 
Symptoms: pins and needles, burning skin sensations, PSSD, OCD, mood swings (a lot), malaise (a lot), muscle spasms, voice in my conscience. 

Doing not so bad, but I want to be the person I was. 
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Hey Littleball - 

 

There might be 1 neurologist in 100 who will "correct" for drug errors.

 

I posted here:

 

Quote

 I know of at least one person in the USA who found a compassionate neurologist.  The neurologist said to her, "You are overdrugged," and then later told her she was never "mentally ill," that it was all drug effects.  (Aria - she has an intro thread and a success story). 

But - I've found that most medical professionals WON'T TOUCH psych drugs with a 10 foot pole.  Meaning, if you are on them, there must be a "good reason" (ugh!) for it.

 

Example:  opthalmologist - I had some retinal tearing.  (that's tear as in rip, not tears as in cry)  I asked him, "what could cause that?"  At first, he didn't want to say anything, something like, "we don't really know"  (oh I hear that way too often!)  He said something about chronic dehydration, and I said:  "So if my kidneys are compromised by lithium, that could cause this?"  He hesitated.  You could see him weighing in his mind if he wanted a stark raving bipolar going off her drugs based on what he said.  He did admit, reluctantly, that this could be the case.  But - he didn't want to.

GP's, same.  I have a friend who is diagnosed with chronic brain damage from neuroleptics.  Diagnosed, and they have offered her support for her brain damage.  But they wouldn't DREAM of reducing her neuroleptics.  After all, that's crazy!  And nobody wants to see crazy.....

So - I make it a point to tell professionals that I did a 2 year taper of lithium (they especially get nervous around lithium, as a loose bipolar can be pretty scary), and that I've been off it for 2 years, and much better, thanks.

WIthdrawal can look like a neurological disorder.  You've been in chronic withdrawal for - decades now.  If you go to the neurologist, you might take your drug history, hand it to him, and say, "could this cause this?"  Don't say anything else, don't talk about tapering or anything "antipsychiatry" until you see his reaction to that.

 

and here:

 

Quote

 I was listening to Peter Breggin the other night, and thought of you.  Now Uncle Peter is a kindly, gentle soul - but his words are often harsh truths, delivered with kindness.  This discussion talked about how neurologists depend upon referrals from psychiatrists for their bread-and-butter.  And that a neurologist is never likely to contradict the drugging behaviour of a psychiatrist.  But you can try, and it would be good to eliminate the possibility of any lasting damage.

 

But here's the thing - once you get off the drugs, much of the damage can be reworked - it's called neuroplasticity.  Norman Doidge, "The Brain that Changes Itself" is a very encouraging read.  I'll tell a personal story - my husband had a stroke, and now has a golf-ball sized hole in his brain.  He didn't lose any physical capacity - he lost words.   He could walk and dig the garden and play guitar - but he couldn't tell you what he had just done, or what he wanted, or how he feels (he still struggles with that one, much to my dismay).  With 6 weeks of intensive rehab (3 weeks inpatient, 3 weeks outpatient) - he got his words back, and was able to go back to work where he needed to talk on the phone, create reports, respond to software emergencies, and a number of other verbal tasks.  The brain is an amazing thing, and while he still has this huge hole over the Broca's area, he is 95% recovered.  All the outsiders believe he is fully recovered.

 

There are people on the Facebook group who claim to have gotten MRI results that show encephalopathy (damage).  But they are not acknowledging the neuroplasticity side of the thing.

If you have a problem and do nothing, there is a chance that you will heal.

 

If you have a problem and address that problem - with yoga, tai chi, walking, meditation, pet therapy - there is a much better chance you will heal.

"Easy, easy - just go easy and you'll finish." - Hawaiian Kapuna

 

Holding is hard work, holding is a blessing. Give your brain time to heal before you try again.

 

My suggestions are not medical advice, you are in charge of your own medical choices.

 

A lifetime of being prescribed antidepressants that caused problems (30 years in total). At age 35 flipped to "bipolar," but was not diagnosed for 5 years. Started my journey in Midwest United States. Crossed the Pacific for love and hope; currently living in Australia.   CT Seroquel 25 mg some time in 2013.   Tapered Reboxetine 4 mg Oct 2013 to Sept 2014 = GONE (3 years on Reboxetine).     Tapered Lithium 900 to 475 MG (alternating with the SNRI) Jan 2014 - Nov 2014, tapered Lithium 475 mg Jan 2015 -  Feb 2016 = GONE (10 years  on Lithium).  Many mistakes in dry cutting dosages were made.


The tedious thread (my intro):  JanCarol ☼ Reboxetine first, then Lithium

The happy thread (my success story):  JanCarol - Undiagnosed  Off all bipolar drugs

My own blog:  https://shamanexplorations.com/shamans-blog/

 

 

I have been psych drug FREE since 1 Feb 2016!

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