sunflower Posted June 16, 2014 Share Posted June 16, 2014 (edited) Hello fellow survivors,In 1998 I was in the throes of peri-menopause and some life stressors which caused me to experience severe anxiety. Went to my family doc who prescribed some Ativan, which caused me to feel really depressed. I was then prescribed Zoloft and slowly but surely I weaned myself off the Ativan. I have to be honest and say that the Zoloft did help with the anxiety and other peri-menopausal symptoms so I continued to take it. In 2010 my insurance changed and it no longer covered the brand name Zoloft I was using so went on the generic. I did not feel well after I began taking the generic so I went to my psych doc and she wanted to add a mood stabilizer to my regimen. I did not want to go that route so I decided that it was time to get off the medi-go-round. I continued taking the generic Zoloft, but also decided to give bio-identical hormones a try with the hope that I could eventually wean off what I believed was the worse of the two evils...Zoloft. Well, the estrogen patch only made matters worse for me and I went into a severe depression. I then went to see a homeopathic psych doc who increased my Zoloft from 100 mgs to 200mgs., prescribed Klonopin, and Remeron. Boy was I over-medicated and a mess. Since then I have managed to wean myself from the K...the R and decrease the Z from 200 mgs back to 100 mgs. The more I lowered the meds, the better I felt. I am currently considering weaning completely off the Zoloft, but have so many concerns. It is my hope to continue to learn as much as I can about "surviving antidepressants" to be able to survive without them.Sunflower Edited November 14, 2016 by scallywag tags 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus areyouthere Posted June 16, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted June 16, 2014 Hi Sunflower and welcome. How long have you been on the 100 mgs. of Zoloft and how are you feeling now? Please put a more detailed timeline of what drugs you were on, at what dose , and the length of time and method you used to taper them to your current doses. Most of that information could be included in your signature. The directions for how to do that are here. You will get lots of support here from very experienced and knowledgeable people. RU PS. You are very smart to hold at 100 mgs. and not change anything until we get more details of your situation. Good job!! Fall 1995 xanax, zoloft. switched to Serzone 1996- spring 2003serzone/ xanax/ lightbox. b]Fall 2003- Fall 2004? Lexapro 10 mg. Light box /4 mg. xanax.[/b] 2004 - Fall of 2009 10 mg Lex, 150 mg Wellbutrin XL % 4 mg xanax November 2009- Sept. 2011 10 mg lex., 300 Well. XL, 4 mg Xanax [/b Sept.2012- July 2012 20 mg Lex 300 Well. XL, 4 mg Xanax My mantra " go slow & with the flow " 3/2/13.. Began equal dosing 5 Xs /day xanax, while simultaneously incorporating a 2.5 % drop ( from 3.5 mg/day to 3.4 mg/day) 4/6/13 dropped from 300 mg. Wellbutrin XL to 150 mg. Difficult but DONE! Down to 3.3 mg xanax/ day / 6/10/13 3 mg xanax/day; 7/15/2013 2.88mg xanax/day. 10/ 1/2013...... 2.5 mg xanax… ( switched to tablets again) WOO HOO!!!!!! Holding here… cont. with Lexapro. 1/ 2/2014.. tapered to 18mg ( by weight) of a 26 mg ( by weight) pill of 20 mg tab. lexapro. goal is 13mg (by weight OR 10 mg by ingredient content) and STOPPED. Feeling very down with unbalanced, unpredictable WD symptoms. 1/2/2014- ??? Taking a brain-healing break from tapering anything after actively tapering something for 1.5 years. So… daily doses as of 2/2/2014: 18 mg by weight Lex, 150 mg Well. XL, 2.5 mg xanax, down from 26 mg by weight Lex., 300 mg well. XL, 4 mg xanax in August, 2012. I'll take it. 5/8/14 started equivalent dose liquid./ tabs. 5/13/14 1.5 % cut. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Petunia Posted June 16, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted June 16, 2014 Welcome Sunflower, Thank you for sharing your story with us and I'm glad you have been feeling better since lowering your medications. As areyouthere wrote, its a good idea to hold at 100mg for a while, because it sounds like you have recently been through a lot of changes. I also have similar questions and if you could provide a few more details, that would be helpful. Filling out your signature section is a good way to do that. Here are our tips for tapering off Zoloft: http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1441-tips-for-tapering-off-zoloft-sertraline/?hl=%2Btips+%2Bfor+%2Btapering+%2Boff+%2Bzoloft We recommend reducing by 10% per month, if you read through the link, it will give you more information and options of how to do this. But please make sure you are feeling good, symptom free and stable before starting. Are you currently experiencing any symptoms? 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 Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Jemima Posted June 16, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted June 16, 2014 Welcome, Sunflower. You've come to the best place on the Web for information and support in your withdrawal. 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 RazorIntroduction: 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. Link to comment
sunflower Posted June 27, 2014 Author Share Posted June 27, 2014 Hi Areyouthere, Thanks for the welcome, feedback and advice about putting my med hx on my signature. Unfortunately, I can't find my 2012 med journal so I don't have the exact date when I began the Zoloft taper. 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
sunflower Posted June 27, 2014 Author Share Posted June 27, 2014 Hi Petu, thanks for the warm welcome and your feedback. I put my med hx on my signature as you and Areyouthere suggested. I hope it's clear enough. Unfortunately I can't find my med hx for 2012 so I can't indicate exactly when I began my Z taper. You asked if I am experiencing any symptoms and it just so happens that I am. However, I'm not sure if it's from lowering the Z to 100 mgs back in February or the fact that I took it late a couple of times last month. I find that any little change in time schedule can cause wd symptoms. I also started a new batch of Z which also causes me problems some times. I am very sensitive to meds and ANY changes in mgs or schedule affects me. Since I took it late and started the new batch in May I have been having night sweats, nausea, chills, crying jags/depression, stomach upset, and headaches. Any insight/feedback would be great. Thanks, Sunflower 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
sunflower Posted June 27, 2014 Author Share Posted June 27, 2014 Hi... Found some Z tapering hx...edited my signature. 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted June 28, 2014 Administrator Share Posted June 28, 2014 Welcome, sunflower. Is your new batch of Zoloft a different brand from the kind you were taking before? 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. Link to comment
sunflower Posted June 28, 2014 Author Share Posted June 28, 2014 Dear Altostrata, No they are the same brand I typically use. I make sure of that when I pick script from pharmacy because I've had trouble with other brands. Sunflower 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
Administrator Altostrata Posted June 28, 2014 Administrator Share Posted June 28, 2014 It's more likely that your nervous system was sensitized by the decrease in February, and got hurt by the inconsistent dosing last month. It might be best for you to hold for a while at this dosage and let your nervous system settle down. 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. Link to comment
sunflower Posted June 29, 2014 Author Share Posted June 29, 2014 Hi Altostrata, Thanks for the feedback. I agree and as you suggest, I'm planning to hold still for awhile. Sunflower 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
sunflower Posted June 29, 2014 Author Share Posted June 29, 2014 Dear Altostrata, Is there anywhere on the site where a journal of wd sxs/good days, etc can be kept? Thanks! Sunflower 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Petunia Posted June 30, 2014 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted June 30, 2014 You can use this thread as your journal Sunflower. 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 Link to comment
sunflower Posted June 30, 2014 Author Share Posted June 30, 2014 Thanks for the info Petu! 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
NewMe Posted June 30, 2014 Share Posted June 30, 2014 Hi Sunflower Wishing you all the success. This forum is a great support system. Going through peri, too. It will pass in time - keep posting and reach out when you need support I'M A WEANER! atavan PRN ,Paxil approx 20 yrs ago for major depression Switched to Klonopin PRN through to current Paxil wore out Changed to Effexor Depakote added enormous weight gain - flat affect - led to depression - dropped depakote Dropped Effexor, changed to Paxil PDoc added mixed salts amphetamines for ADHD - took for 2 yrs - was ok at first but had to cut as symptoms too intense - then the crash was too much. STOPPED Vyvanse started in 2013 (APRIL) - more smooth than IR amphetamine tabs---Have not used vyvanse daily in full amt since May 2013 Paxil CT withdrawal 10/2012 Klonopin CT WD Switched Klonopin to Xanax prn - too strong WD CT from XANAX after taking for a while - it was awful but can be done if you hold on! Back to Klonopin PRN - working very hard to avoid taking it at all. Effexor 37.5 started 02/2013, 75mg by 03/2013, 150mg by 05/2012 (approx) Effexor 150mg 3/10/2014 Microtaper -3beads 3/11/2014-4beads ,3/12/14 - 5, 3/13/14 -6, 3/15/14 - 7, 3/18 - 8, 3/22 - 10, 3/24 - 12, 4/6 - 13, 4/7 - 14, 4/11 - 16 - on 4/19 ran out of brand took generic. Bad move. Back on brand on 4/20 and updosed 2 beads. 5/1 - 15, 5/6 - 16, 5/9 -17, 55/10 -17, 5/15 -18, 5/21 -19, 5/24 -20, 6/3 - 21, 6/6 -23, 6/13 -24,6/19- 25, 6/21 -26, 6/25 -27 6/28 -28, 6/29 -30, 7/3 -34, 7/8 -35, 7/17 -36, 7/30 -41,7/31 -42, 8/2 -43, 8/3 -44, 8/5 -45, 8/14 -48, 8/26-50, 9/24 -53, 10/24 -55, 12/1 -57, (lost the tally sheet, thus taper info for some of it), 4/19-63, 4/26-64, 4/30-65 Switched to wt reduction - now @ -.068, 7/14 -.070, August 2015 -.074, between Sept & October 10 -.077, Nov. -.078(feeling great), -.090 as of 1/10/16, down to -.101 since January 2016 (it is now 6/24/16), -.105 as of 8/13/16 Ladies, please don't underestimate the possibility of perimenopause. The symptoms can be similar to, may intensify & in some cases mimic protracted w/d from ssri's & benzo's. Link to comment
sunflower Posted January 11, 2015 Author Share Posted January 11, 2015 Hi fellow Survivors: I don't know what to do! I am so down and scared right now. I have not continued my taper because I continue to have days and weeks where I feel great and then times when I feel soooo horrible! Not feeling as sick as back in 2010 when the Z was increased to 200 mgs and the Klonopin and Remeron added, but close to it at times. Scared to go to a doc and tell them how I'm feeling because they will want to increase/add meds and I have been there and don't want to repeat that cycle ever again. I feel so bad for my older daughter who has to deal with my crying and venting. Sunflower 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
sunflower Posted January 13, 2015 Author Share Posted January 13, 2015 Dear SA, Although I have not continued my Zoloft taper because I felt the need to completely stabilize before continuing, I am once again dealing with a number of symptoms. I believe these symptoms are due the fact that there have been a number of times that I have taken the Z late and back in November I changed the time I take the Z from 10:00 am to 8:00 am so that it's easier for me to remember to take it on time. I'm not sure but I wonder if this has also affected the way I'm feeling physically and emotionally. Six weeks from changing the time I began to experience what I believe are some WD symptoms so I will be journaling and charting them here to see if when I continue my taper a pattern develops. 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
sunflower Posted January 14, 2015 Author Share Posted January 14, 2015 January 4th...anxiety; night sweats January 5th...good day January 6th...down; nauseous in am; good evening January 7th...depression, lack of appetite, chills; overall really bad day January 8th...ok day January 9th...crying jags, chills, nauseous, insomnia January 10th..,insomnia (woke at 3ish), crying jags...depression, sweats, chills...hopelessness January 11th...crying jags, anxiety, depression, hopelessness January 12th...insomnia (woke at 3ish), depression, chills, anxiety, sweats January 13th...insomnia (woke at 3ish), depression on and off all day., anxiety, chills 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
sunflower Posted January 15, 2015 Author Share Posted January 15, 2015 January 13th...irritability January 14th...MUCH BETTER DAY, insomnia (woke up around 4ish), slight anxiety in am...slightly down, chills. SWEATS, SEVERE DEPRESSION, OBSSESSIVE THOUGHTS GREATLY REDUCED. 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus mammaP Posted January 15, 2015 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted January 15, 2015 Glad you are feeling better Sunflower, this is the way it goes, windows and waves. http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/82-the-windows-and-waves-pattern-of-recovery/ You are right to hold your dose for now, until you have stabilised then restart your taper. I hope this window stays open for you. **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 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 Link to comment
sunflower Posted January 16, 2015 Author Share Posted January 16, 2015 Hi Mammap, Thanks for your feedback and encouragement! Sunflower 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
sunflower Posted January 16, 2015 Author Share Posted January 16, 2015 January 15th...insomnia (woke at 4:30 am), slight anxiety in am; however, overall good day. 6:00 pm developed really bad dizziness.. 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus dalsaan Posted January 16, 2015 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted January 16, 2015 Your going well, good to see you journaling what's happening for you. Take care Dalsaan Please note - I am not a medical practitioner and I do not give medical advice. I offer an opinion based on my own experiences, reading and discussion with others.On Effexor for 2 months at the start of 2005. Had extreme insomnia as an adverse reaction. Changed to mirtazapine. Have been trying to get off since mid 2008 with numerous failures including CTs and slow (but not slow enough tapers)Have slow tapered at 10 per cent or less for years. I have liquid mirtazapine made at a compounding chemist. Was on 1.6 ml as at 19 March 2014. Dropped to 1.5 ml 7 June 2014. Dropped to 1.4 in about September. Dropped to 1.3 on 20 December 2014. Dropped to 1.2 in mid Jan 2015. Dropped to 1 ml in late Feb 2015. I think my old medication had run out of puff so I tried 1ml when I got the new stuff and it seems to be going ok. Sleep has been good over the last week (as of 13/3/15). Dropped to 1/2 ml 14/11/15 Fatigue still there as are memory and cognition problems. Sleep is patchy but liveable compared to what it has been in the past. DRUG FREE - as at 1st May 2017 >My intro post is here - http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/2250-dalsaan Link to comment
sunflower Posted January 17, 2015 Author Share Posted January 17, 2015 1-1615 insomnia...woke up at 4:30 am anxiety better dizziness improved after doing some exercises for middle ear; however still somewhat light headed continue to feel down on and off throughout day, but depression has improved Chills, sweats, crying jags, obsessive thoughts, irritability have decreased 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
sunflower Posted January 18, 2015 Author Share Posted January 18, 2015 1-17-15 Insomnia...4:30 wake up am anxiety better Dizziness has improved greatly Continue to feel down throughout the day; feelings of hopelessness (been on Zoloft) for so many years, will I really be able to get off of it???) 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
sunflower Posted January 19, 2015 Author Share Posted January 19, 2015 1-18-15 Insomnia...woke at 4:30 am am anxiety really bad; feelings of dread Feeling down throughout the day 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
sunflower Posted January 21, 2015 Author Share Posted January 21, 2015 1-19-15 Insomnia...woke at 2:30 Am anxiety better Felt down almost all day 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
sunflower Posted January 21, 2015 Author Share Posted January 21, 2015 Edit to 1-19-15...insomnia..,woke at 4:30ish 1-20-15 Really bad insomnia...woke at 2:30 and could not go back to sleep Chills, malaise (overall sick feeling) Psychological sxs somewhat better Better evening 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
sunflower Posted January 22, 2015 Author Share Posted January 22, 2015 1-21-15 Decided to lower the Zoloft a very small amount by filing it down because my body has been feeling like it did when I was poly drugged; like it's too much for my system. Had a good night's sleep...thank The Lord! I know it has nothing to do with decreasing Z because lowered it after this occurred. Better day...anxiety, physical symptoms down Felt down and a some anxiety in pm Went to bed at 10:00 and woke at 1:30 am...was able to go back to sleep until 4:30 am Feelings of dread/anxiety. 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
sunflower Posted January 23, 2015 Author Share Posted January 23, 2015 1-22-15 Some insomnia...woke at 1:30, but went back to sleep until 4ish Feelings of dread/anxiety upon awakening Anxiety improved throughout day Feeling down on and off throughout day Perserverstive thoughts improved Many of the physical symptoms have improved e.g., malaise, sweats, etc) Good pm 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
sunflower Posted January 24, 2015 Author Share Posted January 24, 2015 1-23-15 Good night's sleep...thank The Lord! Anxiety in am; improved during day, but still there Down throughout day Some chills throughout day Ok pm 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
sunflower Posted January 25, 2015 Author Share Posted January 25, 2015 01-24-15 Good night's sleep...thank The Lord. Am anxiety not so severe, but there. Chills in am Ok day. 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
sunflower Posted January 26, 2015 Author Share Posted January 26, 2015 01-25-15 Insomnia...woke at 4:30ish...woke up in a sweat Am anxiety and depression pretty high...8 Anxiety throughout day...suddenly stopped at 4ish...really weird Lack of appetite Ok pm 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
sunflower Posted January 27, 2015 Author Share Posted January 27, 2015 01-2615 Insomnia...woke at 4:30ish Am anxiety Anxiety throughout day...again suddenly stopped around 6:30ish today Bad headache around 5ish-until went to bed Decided to take an Epsom salt foot bath to try the effects of magnesium on my system 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
Moderator Emeritus Petunia Posted January 28, 2015 Moderator Emeritus Share Posted January 28, 2015 Thanks for posting regular updates sunflower. Did you find the Epsom salt foot bath helpful? 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 Link to comment
sunflower Posted January 28, 2015 Author Share Posted January 28, 2015 Hi Petunia, Not sure yet about the Epsom Sats footbaths. They are relaxing for sure and I think they help me sleep more soundly; however, I'm still dealing with the 3:30-4:30 wake up calls . I have also found that the am anxiety has not been as bad. I also put some ES in my water yesterday and it decreased my anxiety throughout the day, but I felt really irritable. Maybe some underlying anxiety. I am going to increase the ES to 1/2 teaspoon instead of 1/4 teaspoon to see if I notice a difference. I'm also thinking of purchasing the magnesium glyicinate to give it a try in small doses. Sunflower 1998-2010. Zoloft 100 mgs. 3/2010. Switched to generic Z and began not to feel well. 7/2010. Estrogen patch added which caused severe depression. 8/2010 to 10/2010. Zoloft increased from 100 mgs to 200 mgs., Klonopin .25 mgs in am; .50 mgs pm; Remeron .25 mgs. added by new doc 1/2011. Began tapering K; last dose of K 7/2011. 11/2011 Began Remeron taper; last dose of R 1/2012 (Tapered K & R by dry cutting) 1/2013 Began tapering Z from 200 mgs to 100 mgs by dry cutting 3/2013. Experiencing wd sx...took break 9/2013. Down to 150 mgs. 2/2014 - Present. 100 mgs Z 1-21-15. Began dry cutting 100 mgs. Link to comment
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now