Moderator Frogie Posted January 1, 2020 Moderator Share Posted January 1, 2020 ikam: It sounds like you are doing wonderful despite all the obstacles you’ve overcome. I’m very happy for you. Happy New Year! Take care, Frogie xx PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist. Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form) ---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil. Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper. 19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020) I am not a medical professional. The suggestions I make are based on personal experience. Link to comment
ikam Posted January 1, 2020 Author Share Posted January 1, 2020 1 hour ago, wantrelief said: Wow, ikam, you've been through so much and are doing so well with your taper - very inspiring and impressive!! Was there anything that you found helpful with getting through those stressful events? I have had so much trouble with stressful things upending me and always ended up updosing. Now citalopram is no longer working for me (I believe I am in some sort of tolerance situation) so no longer have that option. I am working on how I cope with anxiety/stress but would love to know if there was anything you found particularly helpful during those times? You will complete your intention of getting off of escitalopram this year, no doubt about it! Hmm... It was complicated and this time last year I crashed... I had multiple traumas... In situations of additional stress I had longer breaks in tapering... Unfortunatelly, when i crashed, I had to increase doxepin... What was helpful? Talking to friends, meditation and relaxation... I also took some stress related sick leave from work, as I was unable to cope with my life stresses... Actually, it may sound strange, that time the only aspect I was sure of and I felt in control over was my will to taper... But I was not oblivious, I listened to my body... I do not have any coping strategies I could suggest, apart from meditation... I think we all have our unique ways of coping... - 12.03.2021- doxepin- 50mg - 6.11.2020- 75mg - 16.10.2020- 100mg - 30.09.2020- doxepin- 125mg - May 2020, omeprazole 40mg switched to esomeprazole 20mg - 2012 re-started Doxepin 75mg, evening. Increased to 150mg - 2012, Atenolol 25mg, twice a day - 2016, Low dose of HRT in evening, Sandrena and Utrogestan - Long term of Nasal spray Otrivine - 2012, PPI Omeprazole 40mg-evening 24.10.2014- Started ESCITALOPRAM-first 5mg and then 10mg; due to the adverse symptoms reduced on 5.01.2015- Escitalopram- 2.5mg 22.07.2016- re-started reduction by 1% at a time. Completed tappering on 19.03.2020 😇 Link to comment
wantrelief Posted January 1, 2020 Share Posted January 1, 2020 Thank you for sharing more of your story and insights, ikam. It sounds like we use similar tools to deal with stress. It doesn't sound strange that you were sure of and had control over your will to taper. Your determination has paid off as you are almost done with the escitalopram. You should be so proud of all you've gotten through and accomplished. -1/06 - 3/07 Cymbalta. Fast taper (essentially CT); withdrawal symptoms after 4 mos (didn't realize was WD) -10/07: 100 mg Zoloft; 1 mg Klonopin - tapered off Klonopin after 4 mos. Several unsuccessful slow tapers of Zoloft; went up and down in dose a lot -Spring 2013 back on 1 mg Klonopin to counter WD symptoms; switched over 5-6 mos from Zoloft to 35 mg citalopram -Two attempts at slow tapering citalopram, always increased dose due to WD; also increased Klonopin to 1.25 mg in 2014, then to 1.5 mg in 2015 -8/17-9/17: After holding one year at 20 mg, feeling withdrawal symptoms due to stress - slowly increased to 25 mg. No change in symptoms after 6 months (? tolerance ?) - decided to start citalopram taper February 2018 (still on Klonopin 1.5 mg). Supplements: fish oil; magnesium; vitamin D3; curcumin Citalopram taper: 2/2018 - 12/2019: 25 mg - 11.03 mg I 2020: 10.89 mg - 7.9 mg I 2021: 7.8 mg - 5.26 mg I 2022: 5.2 mg - 3.36 mg I 2023: 3.3 mg - 1.47 mg 2024: 1/5/24: 1.44 mg; 1/19/24: 1.40 mg; 1/26/24: 1.37 mg; 2/2/24: 1.34 mg; 2/9/24: 1.31 mg; 2/23/24: 1.28 mg; 3/1/24: 1.25 mg; 3/8/24: 1.22 mg; 3/15/24: 1.19 mg; 3/29/24: 1.17 mg; 4/5/24: 1.14 mg; 4/13/24: 1.11 mg; 4/20/24: 1.09 mg Link to comment
ikam Posted January 1, 2020 Author Share Posted January 1, 2020 18 minutes ago, wantrelief said: Thank you for sharing more of your story and insights, ikam. It sounds like we use similar tools to deal with stress. It doesn't sound strange that you were sure of and had control over your will to taper. Your determination has paid off as you are almost done with the escitalopram. You should be so proud of all you've gotten through and accomplished. THANK YOU... It had been trial and error first, then the pattern emerged and I am more mindful of the way my body responds... I think what also helped was my knowledge and experience of autonomous nervous system... Sometimes I compare the symptoms in WD to the symptoms that are usually associated with PTSD, typical fight-flight and freeze... Our body under stress and in WD follows pattern of "fight-flight"... in my view... Look for autonomic nervous system by B. Rothschild, and then somatic trauma therapy... The tools to deal with both are similar... Feeling overwhelmed, having symptoms etc. happens in stress and trauma... For me WD is a type of trauma... Perhaps verging on PTSD... - 12.03.2021- doxepin- 50mg - 6.11.2020- 75mg - 16.10.2020- 100mg - 30.09.2020- doxepin- 125mg - May 2020, omeprazole 40mg switched to esomeprazole 20mg - 2012 re-started Doxepin 75mg, evening. Increased to 150mg - 2012, Atenolol 25mg, twice a day - 2016, Low dose of HRT in evening, Sandrena and Utrogestan - Long term of Nasal spray Otrivine - 2012, PPI Omeprazole 40mg-evening 24.10.2014- Started ESCITALOPRAM-first 5mg and then 10mg; due to the adverse symptoms reduced on 5.01.2015- Escitalopram- 2.5mg 22.07.2016- re-started reduction by 1% at a time. Completed tappering on 19.03.2020 😇 Link to comment
wantrelief Posted January 1, 2020 Share Posted January 1, 2020 What you are saying makes a lot of sense, ikam. I will check out the resources you mentioned - thank you! -1/06 - 3/07 Cymbalta. Fast taper (essentially CT); withdrawal symptoms after 4 mos (didn't realize was WD) -10/07: 100 mg Zoloft; 1 mg Klonopin - tapered off Klonopin after 4 mos. Several unsuccessful slow tapers of Zoloft; went up and down in dose a lot -Spring 2013 back on 1 mg Klonopin to counter WD symptoms; switched over 5-6 mos from Zoloft to 35 mg citalopram -Two attempts at slow tapering citalopram, always increased dose due to WD; also increased Klonopin to 1.25 mg in 2014, then to 1.5 mg in 2015 -8/17-9/17: After holding one year at 20 mg, feeling withdrawal symptoms due to stress - slowly increased to 25 mg. No change in symptoms after 6 months (? tolerance ?) - decided to start citalopram taper February 2018 (still on Klonopin 1.5 mg). Supplements: fish oil; magnesium; vitamin D3; curcumin Citalopram taper: 2/2018 - 12/2019: 25 mg - 11.03 mg I 2020: 10.89 mg - 7.9 mg I 2021: 7.8 mg - 5.26 mg I 2022: 5.2 mg - 3.36 mg I 2023: 3.3 mg - 1.47 mg 2024: 1/5/24: 1.44 mg; 1/19/24: 1.40 mg; 1/26/24: 1.37 mg; 2/2/24: 1.34 mg; 2/9/24: 1.31 mg; 2/23/24: 1.28 mg; 3/1/24: 1.25 mg; 3/8/24: 1.22 mg; 3/15/24: 1.19 mg; 3/29/24: 1.17 mg; 4/5/24: 1.14 mg; 4/13/24: 1.11 mg; 4/20/24: 1.09 mg Link to comment
ikam Posted January 1, 2020 Author Share Posted January 1, 2020 9 minutes ago, wantrelief said: What you are saying makes a lot of sense, ikam. I will check out the resources you mentioned - thank you! Good luck! There was one skill that was really helpful, this was distraction, concentration on something else, as the symptoms are like a wave, with the beginning, increase, kind of chaos, and then decrease.. Attracting to something else, dislocating from symptoms, helps in the perceived reduction... This has been the reason I stopped coming regurarly to this site and reading some the posts, as this was quite triggering in times and made things more difficult for me... I associated with symptoms more and expected difficulties... At done point I just got on with my protocol and life... But I would have had more problems in the beginning hadn't I found this site, and I am so grateful for this.. - 12.03.2021- doxepin- 50mg - 6.11.2020- 75mg - 16.10.2020- 100mg - 30.09.2020- doxepin- 125mg - May 2020, omeprazole 40mg switched to esomeprazole 20mg - 2012 re-started Doxepin 75mg, evening. Increased to 150mg - 2012, Atenolol 25mg, twice a day - 2016, Low dose of HRT in evening, Sandrena and Utrogestan - Long term of Nasal spray Otrivine - 2012, PPI Omeprazole 40mg-evening 24.10.2014- Started ESCITALOPRAM-first 5mg and then 10mg; due to the adverse symptoms reduced on 5.01.2015- Escitalopram- 2.5mg 22.07.2016- re-started reduction by 1% at a time. Completed tappering on 19.03.2020 😇 Link to comment
ikam Posted January 4, 2020 Author Share Posted January 4, 2020 Made another mistake, my doctor prescribed me fluconazole... Only when developed severe side effects I read about how dangerous this drug is. I think people are not aware, as thus is a drug that could be bought over the counter... I am still headachy today morning. Took this medication yestarday around 12...:( - 12.03.2021- doxepin- 50mg - 6.11.2020- 75mg - 16.10.2020- 100mg - 30.09.2020- doxepin- 125mg - May 2020, omeprazole 40mg switched to esomeprazole 20mg - 2012 re-started Doxepin 75mg, evening. Increased to 150mg - 2012, Atenolol 25mg, twice a day - 2016, Low dose of HRT in evening, Sandrena and Utrogestan - Long term of Nasal spray Otrivine - 2012, PPI Omeprazole 40mg-evening 24.10.2014- Started ESCITALOPRAM-first 5mg and then 10mg; due to the adverse symptoms reduced on 5.01.2015- Escitalopram- 2.5mg 22.07.2016- re-started reduction by 1% at a time. Completed tappering on 19.03.2020 😇 Link to comment
ikam Posted February 3, 2020 Author Share Posted February 3, 2020 I am on 6% of 2.5mg...Hopefully, I will be escitalopram free in 2-3 months When I started in 2014 I had never thought I would manage...it felt impossible... IT IS POSSIBLE! - 12.03.2021- doxepin- 50mg - 6.11.2020- 75mg - 16.10.2020- 100mg - 30.09.2020- doxepin- 125mg - May 2020, omeprazole 40mg switched to esomeprazole 20mg - 2012 re-started Doxepin 75mg, evening. Increased to 150mg - 2012, Atenolol 25mg, twice a day - 2016, Low dose of HRT in evening, Sandrena and Utrogestan - Long term of Nasal spray Otrivine - 2012, PPI Omeprazole 40mg-evening 24.10.2014- Started ESCITALOPRAM-first 5mg and then 10mg; due to the adverse symptoms reduced on 5.01.2015- Escitalopram- 2.5mg 22.07.2016- re-started reduction by 1% at a time. Completed tappering on 19.03.2020 😇 Link to comment
Moderator Frogie Posted February 3, 2020 Moderator Share Posted February 3, 2020 15 minutes ago, ikam said: I am on 6% of 2.5mg...Hopefully, I will be escitalopram free in 2-3 months When I started in 2014 I had never thought I would manage...it felt impossible... IT IS POSSIBLE! That’s awesome ikam. I hope you are doing well. Take care, Frogie xx PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist. Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form) ---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil. Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper. 19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020) I am not a medical professional. The suggestions I make are based on personal experience. Link to comment
ikam Posted February 4, 2020 Author Share Posted February 4, 2020 On 2/3/2020 at 2:00 PM, Frogie said: That’s awesome ikam. I hope you are doing well. Take care, Frogie xx Yes, i am Ok - 12.03.2021- doxepin- 50mg - 6.11.2020- 75mg - 16.10.2020- 100mg - 30.09.2020- doxepin- 125mg - May 2020, omeprazole 40mg switched to esomeprazole 20mg - 2012 re-started Doxepin 75mg, evening. Increased to 150mg - 2012, Atenolol 25mg, twice a day - 2016, Low dose of HRT in evening, Sandrena and Utrogestan - Long term of Nasal spray Otrivine - 2012, PPI Omeprazole 40mg-evening 24.10.2014- Started ESCITALOPRAM-first 5mg and then 10mg; due to the adverse symptoms reduced on 5.01.2015- Escitalopram- 2.5mg 22.07.2016- re-started reduction by 1% at a time. Completed tappering on 19.03.2020 😇 Link to comment
Moderator Frogie Posted February 4, 2020 Moderator Share Posted February 4, 2020 Just now, ikam said: Yes, i am Ok Great to hear😊 Take care, Frogie xx PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist. Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form) ---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil. Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper. 19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020) I am not a medical professional. The suggestions I make are based on personal experience. Link to comment
Jony Posted February 4, 2020 Share Posted February 4, 2020 Hi @ikam. How do you get these 1% drops? By using a scale? Morning Escitalopram 10 mg from 2005 to present Dec 10.17 reduced to 9 mg; reinstated 10 mg; Jan 2.18 9 mg; Fev 12.18 8 mg; Jan 30.20 5 mg; Feb 6.20 reinstated 6 mg Ethyl Loflazepate 2 mg from 2005 to present Night Mirtazapine 15 mg from 2015 to present (November reinforcement 30mg) Dec 8.17 15 mg Levomepromazine 25 mg started November 2017 8/12/2017 12.5 mg; 13/12/17 6.25 mg; 20/12/2017 3.125 mg; 23/12/2017 last 3.125 mg Clonazepam 2 mg started Nov. 2017 (occasionally) ; last week 2 mg; Dec 19.17 1 mg; Dec 21.17 1.5 mg ; Dec 22.17 2 mg; Jan 2.2018 1.9 mg; Jan 7.2018 3mg; Jan 8.18 2mg; Jan 16.18 1.8 mg; Jan 17.18 1.5 mg ; Jan 18.18 1.7 mg; Jan 19.18 1.6 mg; Fev 12.18 1.5 mg; Jan 30.20 0.5 mg Xanax XR 1 mg in subtitution of Ethyl Loflazepate 2mg (occasionally) Link to comment
ikam Posted February 12, 2020 Author Share Posted February 12, 2020 Liquid titration - 12.03.2021- doxepin- 50mg - 6.11.2020- 75mg - 16.10.2020- 100mg - 30.09.2020- doxepin- 125mg - May 2020, omeprazole 40mg switched to esomeprazole 20mg - 2012 re-started Doxepin 75mg, evening. Increased to 150mg - 2012, Atenolol 25mg, twice a day - 2016, Low dose of HRT in evening, Sandrena and Utrogestan - Long term of Nasal spray Otrivine - 2012, PPI Omeprazole 40mg-evening 24.10.2014- Started ESCITALOPRAM-first 5mg and then 10mg; due to the adverse symptoms reduced on 5.01.2015- Escitalopram- 2.5mg 22.07.2016- re-started reduction by 1% at a time. Completed tappering on 19.03.2020 😇 Link to comment
ikam Posted February 16, 2020 Author Share Posted February 16, 2020 Mixture of events, including dental extraction. Holding time... I have 5%left... I have noticed that what helps me most is distraction... There are many different symptoms that can be both related to WD and life events... Sometimes these events distract me from WD... Additional stress creates many symptoms that could be attributed to WD... Distracting and kind of ignoring helps me... This is similar to dealing with pain, when my mind gets "attracted" to pain, the pain is worse... If I have lots to do, I almost forget the pain... I am not saying it does not exist only that I concentrate on other aspects... All is interconnected... - 12.03.2021- doxepin- 50mg - 6.11.2020- 75mg - 16.10.2020- 100mg - 30.09.2020- doxepin- 125mg - May 2020, omeprazole 40mg switched to esomeprazole 20mg - 2012 re-started Doxepin 75mg, evening. Increased to 150mg - 2012, Atenolol 25mg, twice a day - 2016, Low dose of HRT in evening, Sandrena and Utrogestan - Long term of Nasal spray Otrivine - 2012, PPI Omeprazole 40mg-evening 24.10.2014- Started ESCITALOPRAM-first 5mg and then 10mg; due to the adverse symptoms reduced on 5.01.2015- Escitalopram- 2.5mg 22.07.2016- re-started reduction by 1% at a time. Completed tappering on 19.03.2020 😇 Link to comment
ikam Posted March 4, 2020 Author Share Posted March 4, 2020 3% - 12.03.2021- doxepin- 50mg - 6.11.2020- 75mg - 16.10.2020- 100mg - 30.09.2020- doxepin- 125mg - May 2020, omeprazole 40mg switched to esomeprazole 20mg - 2012 re-started Doxepin 75mg, evening. Increased to 150mg - 2012, Atenolol 25mg, twice a day - 2016, Low dose of HRT in evening, Sandrena and Utrogestan - Long term of Nasal spray Otrivine - 2012, PPI Omeprazole 40mg-evening 24.10.2014- Started ESCITALOPRAM-first 5mg and then 10mg; due to the adverse symptoms reduced on 5.01.2015- Escitalopram- 2.5mg 22.07.2016- re-started reduction by 1% at a time. Completed tappering on 19.03.2020 😇 Link to comment
Moderator Frogie Posted March 4, 2020 Moderator Share Posted March 4, 2020 1 hour ago, ikam said: 3% Awesome. You’re almost there! Hope you’re feeling ok.😊 Take care, Frogie xx PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist. Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form) ---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil. Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper. 19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020) I am not a medical professional. The suggestions I make are based on personal experience. Link to comment
ikam Posted March 8, 2020 Author Share Posted March 8, 2020 On 3/4/2020 at 5:17 PM, Frogie said: Awesome. You’re almost there! Hope you’re feeling ok.😊 Take care, Frogie xx Yes, I am OK. Nothing additional... It had taken more than 5 years, but successful, this is what matters... - 12.03.2021- doxepin- 50mg - 6.11.2020- 75mg - 16.10.2020- 100mg - 30.09.2020- doxepin- 125mg - May 2020, omeprazole 40mg switched to esomeprazole 20mg - 2012 re-started Doxepin 75mg, evening. Increased to 150mg - 2012, Atenolol 25mg, twice a day - 2016, Low dose of HRT in evening, Sandrena and Utrogestan - Long term of Nasal spray Otrivine - 2012, PPI Omeprazole 40mg-evening 24.10.2014- Started ESCITALOPRAM-first 5mg and then 10mg; due to the adverse symptoms reduced on 5.01.2015- Escitalopram- 2.5mg 22.07.2016- re-started reduction by 1% at a time. Completed tappering on 19.03.2020 😇 Link to comment
Junglechicken Posted March 8, 2020 Share Posted March 8, 2020 Well done Ikam!! You've been slow and steady, and pressed on despite very tough circumstances. A big achievement which you can be very proud of 🍾👍👍 Dose History: 19 Feb 2014 - Escitalopram 10mg daily June 2015 - Started taper, 5mg every other day July 2015 - 5mg every 2 days August 2015 - 5mg every 3 days September 2015 - 5mg every 4 days Sept 14th - Completed tapering, but at 7 weeks "drug free" I suffered serious WD symptoms as a consequence of "incorrect" tapering. Nov 25 2015 - Re-instated Cipralex @ 2.5mg daily. WD symptoms faded. Held at this dose and experienced "windows and waves". 12 Oct 2017 Reduced dose to 1.25mg. 13 Mar 2018 Reduced dose to 0.625mg (approx.). 16 April 2018 0mg. Windows and waves triggered by stress (IBS/reflux, headaches, sinus issues) Aug 2019 Mirena coil fitted 6 Jan 2020 MAJOR Wave hit 19 months following last dose (protracted WD). Symptoms listed below Mar 2020 Mirena coil removal. Therapy: Nov 15th 2016 Re-started therapy Jan 19th 2017 Started CBT Dec 2017 Started listening to Hypnotherapy CD (self-esteem). Nov 2019 Started couples therapy. Supplements: "Bioglan" Biotic Balance Ultimate Flora 10 billion CFU, live Bacteria, Probiotic, suitable for Vegetarians, with Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Lactobacillus Rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium Longum. "Pukka" Vitalise a unique blend of 30 energising botanicals. Diet: 16 April 2018 Detox cleanse / anti-candida for 90 days. Jan 2020 Started "small plate" diet (i.e child size portions). Exercise: Stretching, Yoga, Pilates, Spinning, Elliptical/upper body workout, walking. Medical Test Results: 4 Jan 2017 Homeopathic Treatment starts 24 Feb 2017 Started weight loss program 24 Mar 2017 Naturopathic Treatment + anti-Candida diet started due to suspected Candida Related Complex (CRC). DETOXED for 7 weeks to "re-set" gut. April 2017 "Genova Diagnostics" Comprehensive Stool Analysis NEGATIVE; Full Blood Count (Normal) / Blood Cholesterol: 5.6 (Borderline) / Blood Sugar (Normal) / 28 Jun 2017 FSH 8.2 / 14 Nov 2017 FSH 17.7 Dec 2017 Blood Cholesterol: 3.9 (Normal) / Kidney Function (Normal) / Blood Sugar (Normal). December 2017 "Genova Diagnostics" Food panel allergy (bloodwork) analysis - a few "VERY LOW/VL" allergens; Mar 2018 "Genova Diagnostics" SIBO urine analysis: High Level of Yeast/fungal markers found in small intestine but NO SIBO. April 2018 Thyroid (Normal) / Full Blood Count (Normal) / FSH (Normal). 16 April 2018 Started anti-Candida diet - 3 month protocol. 25 March 2020 All test results "Normal". CRP" 5 mg/L (normal range to 0-5 mg/L). Symptoms: Flu-like symptoms, anxiety, anhedonia, sinus headaches right-side (severe), IBS issues/reflux (severe)**, tinnitus, fatigue, inner tremor, nausea, chills/hot flushes, pounding heart, muscular issues including stiff left hip flexor, intense anger, PSSD (ongoing). **Histhamine intolerance (suspected). Major Life Events: Re-located to UK from Canada: Jan 2016 My father died: 5:05pm, Monday 5 Feb 2018 Last Lexapro dose: 16 April 2018 (its now been over a year since I quit ADs) Moved house: Friday 23rd February 2018 "Divorced" toxic Mother: Monday 26 March 2018 Starting working again: 19 November 2018 Diagnosed with: 5th August 2021 PTSD/C-PTSD Diagnosed with: March 2022 Interstitial Cystitis (IC)/Painful bladder syndrome Link to comment
Moderator Frogie Posted March 8, 2020 Moderator Share Posted March 8, 2020 1 hour ago, ikam said: Yes, I am OK. Nothing additional... It had taken more than 5 years, but successful, this is what matters... You’ve done really well despite everything you’ve been through. I’m very happy for you! Take care, Frogie xx PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist. Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form) ---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil. Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper. 19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020) I am not a medical professional. The suggestions I make are based on personal experience. Link to comment
ikam Posted March 12, 2020 Author Share Posted March 12, 2020 2% (it may sound strange, but in the time of my traumatic divorce process and other matters, my tappering protocol felt the most organised thing, something that felt more predictable than any external aspects of my life, moreover something that I was able to control and feel I was successful, and that it depended on me...) - 12.03.2021- doxepin- 50mg - 6.11.2020- 75mg - 16.10.2020- 100mg - 30.09.2020- doxepin- 125mg - May 2020, omeprazole 40mg switched to esomeprazole 20mg - 2012 re-started Doxepin 75mg, evening. Increased to 150mg - 2012, Atenolol 25mg, twice a day - 2016, Low dose of HRT in evening, Sandrena and Utrogestan - Long term of Nasal spray Otrivine - 2012, PPI Omeprazole 40mg-evening 24.10.2014- Started ESCITALOPRAM-first 5mg and then 10mg; due to the adverse symptoms reduced on 5.01.2015- Escitalopram- 2.5mg 22.07.2016- re-started reduction by 1% at a time. Completed tappering on 19.03.2020 😇 Link to comment
ikam Posted March 12, 2020 Author Share Posted March 12, 2020 It looks that I will be Escitalopram free in around 1.5 week! I think my next tapper should be on Doxepin, as this medication has lots of side effects, including acid reflux... So I hope decreasing or stopping doxepin may help with reflux and therefore tappering PPI may be easier... Doxepin also has impact on cholesterol. My GP wanted to put me on statins! I refused! Unsure how to deal with Capsules when tappering, I will need to look in the files here... I am now on 150mg...would it be possible to decrease by 25mg? - 12.03.2021- doxepin- 50mg - 6.11.2020- 75mg - 16.10.2020- 100mg - 30.09.2020- doxepin- 125mg - May 2020, omeprazole 40mg switched to esomeprazole 20mg - 2012 re-started Doxepin 75mg, evening. Increased to 150mg - 2012, Atenolol 25mg, twice a day - 2016, Low dose of HRT in evening, Sandrena and Utrogestan - Long term of Nasal spray Otrivine - 2012, PPI Omeprazole 40mg-evening 24.10.2014- Started ESCITALOPRAM-first 5mg and then 10mg; due to the adverse symptoms reduced on 5.01.2015- Escitalopram- 2.5mg 22.07.2016- re-started reduction by 1% at a time. Completed tappering on 19.03.2020 😇 Link to comment
Moderator Frogie Posted March 12, 2020 Moderator Share Posted March 12, 2020 11 minutes ago, ikam said: It looks that I will be Escitalopram free in around 1.5 week! I think my next tapper should be on Doxepin, as this medication has lots of side effects, including acid reflux... So I hope decreasing or stopping doxepin may help with reflux and therefore tappering PPI may be easier... Doxepin also has impact on cholesterol. My GP wanted to put me on statins! I refused! Unsure how to deal with Capsules when tappering, I will need to look in the files here... I am now on 150mg...would it be possible to decrease by 25mg? ikam: That is fantastic news! I’m very happy for you. I know nothing about Doxepin. I don’t even know what it is. But we have wonderful moderators that will be able to help you I’m sure. Just wanted to say you’re almost there😊 Take care, Frogie xx PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist. Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form) ---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil. Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper. 19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020) I am not a medical professional. The suggestions I make are based on personal experience. Link to comment
ikam Posted March 13, 2020 Author Share Posted March 13, 2020 15 hours ago, Frogie said: ikam: That is fantastic news! I’m very happy for you. I know nothing about Doxepin. I don’t even know what it is. But we have wonderful moderators that will be able to help you I’m sure. Just wanted to say you’re almost there😊 Take care, Frogie xx Thank you 😊 Doxepin is a tricyclic antidepressant... I will wait a bit before this change... - 12.03.2021- doxepin- 50mg - 6.11.2020- 75mg - 16.10.2020- 100mg - 30.09.2020- doxepin- 125mg - May 2020, omeprazole 40mg switched to esomeprazole 20mg - 2012 re-started Doxepin 75mg, evening. Increased to 150mg - 2012, Atenolol 25mg, twice a day - 2016, Low dose of HRT in evening, Sandrena and Utrogestan - Long term of Nasal spray Otrivine - 2012, PPI Omeprazole 40mg-evening 24.10.2014- Started ESCITALOPRAM-first 5mg and then 10mg; due to the adverse symptoms reduced on 5.01.2015- Escitalopram- 2.5mg 22.07.2016- re-started reduction by 1% at a time. Completed tappering on 19.03.2020 😇 Link to comment
Moderator Frogie Posted March 13, 2020 Moderator Share Posted March 13, 2020 10 minutes ago, ikam said: Thank you 😊 Doxepin is a tricyclic antidepressant... I will wait a bit before this change... that’s a very good idea to wait a while. congrat’s though, you’re almost done with the Lexapro 😊 Take care, Frogie xx PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist. Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form) ---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil. Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper. 19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020) I am not a medical professional. The suggestions I make are based on personal experience. Link to comment
ikam Posted March 15, 2020 Author Share Posted March 15, 2020 1% - 12.03.2021- doxepin- 50mg - 6.11.2020- 75mg - 16.10.2020- 100mg - 30.09.2020- doxepin- 125mg - May 2020, omeprazole 40mg switched to esomeprazole 20mg - 2012 re-started Doxepin 75mg, evening. Increased to 150mg - 2012, Atenolol 25mg, twice a day - 2016, Low dose of HRT in evening, Sandrena and Utrogestan - Long term of Nasal spray Otrivine - 2012, PPI Omeprazole 40mg-evening 24.10.2014- Started ESCITALOPRAM-first 5mg and then 10mg; due to the adverse symptoms reduced on 5.01.2015- Escitalopram- 2.5mg 22.07.2016- re-started reduction by 1% at a time. Completed tappering on 19.03.2020 😇 Link to comment
ikam Posted March 19, 2020 Author Share Posted March 19, 2020 100%down = 0mg! Long, but rewarding journey Lexapro free!!! It all started I think during Christmas 2014 when I ended up at A&E and...received no help, had to drastically cut down as I think I was close to serotonin syndrome... I still remember my fear and how helpful this group was. Thank you so much... That time I also stopped sleeping pills and antimigraine medication... Unfortunately when decreasing Lexapro I had to increase Doxepin... But it also related to as traumatic divorce... - 12.03.2021- doxepin- 50mg - 6.11.2020- 75mg - 16.10.2020- 100mg - 30.09.2020- doxepin- 125mg - May 2020, omeprazole 40mg switched to esomeprazole 20mg - 2012 re-started Doxepin 75mg, evening. Increased to 150mg - 2012, Atenolol 25mg, twice a day - 2016, Low dose of HRT in evening, Sandrena and Utrogestan - Long term of Nasal spray Otrivine - 2012, PPI Omeprazole 40mg-evening 24.10.2014- Started ESCITALOPRAM-first 5mg and then 10mg; due to the adverse symptoms reduced on 5.01.2015- Escitalopram- 2.5mg 22.07.2016- re-started reduction by 1% at a time. Completed tappering on 19.03.2020 😇 Link to comment
Junglechicken Posted March 19, 2020 Share Posted March 19, 2020 9 minutes ago, ikam said: 100%down = 0mg! Long, but rewarding journey Lexapro free!!! It all started I think during Christmas 2014 when I ended up at A&E and...received no help, had to drastically cut down as I think I was close to serotonin syndrome... I still remember my fear and how helpful this group was. Thank you so much... That time I also stopped sleeping pills and antimigraine medication... Unfortunately when decreasing Lexapro I had to increase Doxepin... But it also related to as traumatic divorce... Amazing Ikam, well done!! Soon you'll write your success story 🍾😊 Alto and her team of Mods are angels for sure. Hugs, JC Dose History: 19 Feb 2014 - Escitalopram 10mg daily June 2015 - Started taper, 5mg every other day July 2015 - 5mg every 2 days August 2015 - 5mg every 3 days September 2015 - 5mg every 4 days Sept 14th - Completed tapering, but at 7 weeks "drug free" I suffered serious WD symptoms as a consequence of "incorrect" tapering. Nov 25 2015 - Re-instated Cipralex @ 2.5mg daily. WD symptoms faded. Held at this dose and experienced "windows and waves". 12 Oct 2017 Reduced dose to 1.25mg. 13 Mar 2018 Reduced dose to 0.625mg (approx.). 16 April 2018 0mg. Windows and waves triggered by stress (IBS/reflux, headaches, sinus issues) Aug 2019 Mirena coil fitted 6 Jan 2020 MAJOR Wave hit 19 months following last dose (protracted WD). Symptoms listed below Mar 2020 Mirena coil removal. Therapy: Nov 15th 2016 Re-started therapy Jan 19th 2017 Started CBT Dec 2017 Started listening to Hypnotherapy CD (self-esteem). Nov 2019 Started couples therapy. Supplements: "Bioglan" Biotic Balance Ultimate Flora 10 billion CFU, live Bacteria, Probiotic, suitable for Vegetarians, with Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Lactobacillus Rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium Longum. "Pukka" Vitalise a unique blend of 30 energising botanicals. Diet: 16 April 2018 Detox cleanse / anti-candida for 90 days. Jan 2020 Started "small plate" diet (i.e child size portions). Exercise: Stretching, Yoga, Pilates, Spinning, Elliptical/upper body workout, walking. Medical Test Results: 4 Jan 2017 Homeopathic Treatment starts 24 Feb 2017 Started weight loss program 24 Mar 2017 Naturopathic Treatment + anti-Candida diet started due to suspected Candida Related Complex (CRC). DETOXED for 7 weeks to "re-set" gut. April 2017 "Genova Diagnostics" Comprehensive Stool Analysis NEGATIVE; Full Blood Count (Normal) / Blood Cholesterol: 5.6 (Borderline) / Blood Sugar (Normal) / 28 Jun 2017 FSH 8.2 / 14 Nov 2017 FSH 17.7 Dec 2017 Blood Cholesterol: 3.9 (Normal) / Kidney Function (Normal) / Blood Sugar (Normal). December 2017 "Genova Diagnostics" Food panel allergy (bloodwork) analysis - a few "VERY LOW/VL" allergens; Mar 2018 "Genova Diagnostics" SIBO urine analysis: High Level of Yeast/fungal markers found in small intestine but NO SIBO. April 2018 Thyroid (Normal) / Full Blood Count (Normal) / FSH (Normal). 16 April 2018 Started anti-Candida diet - 3 month protocol. 25 March 2020 All test results "Normal". CRP" 5 mg/L (normal range to 0-5 mg/L). Symptoms: Flu-like symptoms, anxiety, anhedonia, sinus headaches right-side (severe), IBS issues/reflux (severe)**, tinnitus, fatigue, inner tremor, nausea, chills/hot flushes, pounding heart, muscular issues including stiff left hip flexor, intense anger, PSSD (ongoing). **Histhamine intolerance (suspected). Major Life Events: Re-located to UK from Canada: Jan 2016 My father died: 5:05pm, Monday 5 Feb 2018 Last Lexapro dose: 16 April 2018 (its now been over a year since I quit ADs) Moved house: Friday 23rd February 2018 "Divorced" toxic Mother: Monday 26 March 2018 Starting working again: 19 November 2018 Diagnosed with: 5th August 2021 PTSD/C-PTSD Diagnosed with: March 2022 Interstitial Cystitis (IC)/Painful bladder syndrome Link to comment
wantrelief Posted March 19, 2020 Share Posted March 19, 2020 Congratulations, Ikam! You've done such an amazing job of tapering even whilst going through stressful times. -1/06 - 3/07 Cymbalta. Fast taper (essentially CT); withdrawal symptoms after 4 mos (didn't realize was WD) -10/07: 100 mg Zoloft; 1 mg Klonopin - tapered off Klonopin after 4 mos. Several unsuccessful slow tapers of Zoloft; went up and down in dose a lot -Spring 2013 back on 1 mg Klonopin to counter WD symptoms; switched over 5-6 mos from Zoloft to 35 mg citalopram -Two attempts at slow tapering citalopram, always increased dose due to WD; also increased Klonopin to 1.25 mg in 2014, then to 1.5 mg in 2015 -8/17-9/17: After holding one year at 20 mg, feeling withdrawal symptoms due to stress - slowly increased to 25 mg. No change in symptoms after 6 months (? tolerance ?) - decided to start citalopram taper February 2018 (still on Klonopin 1.5 mg). Supplements: fish oil; magnesium; vitamin D3; curcumin Citalopram taper: 2/2018 - 12/2019: 25 mg - 11.03 mg I 2020: 10.89 mg - 7.9 mg I 2021: 7.8 mg - 5.26 mg I 2022: 5.2 mg - 3.36 mg I 2023: 3.3 mg - 1.47 mg 2024: 1/5/24: 1.44 mg; 1/19/24: 1.40 mg; 1/26/24: 1.37 mg; 2/2/24: 1.34 mg; 2/9/24: 1.31 mg; 2/23/24: 1.28 mg; 3/1/24: 1.25 mg; 3/8/24: 1.22 mg; 3/15/24: 1.19 mg; 3/29/24: 1.17 mg; 4/5/24: 1.14 mg; 4/13/24: 1.11 mg; 4/20/24: 1.09 mg Link to comment
Moderator Frogie Posted March 20, 2020 Moderator Share Posted March 20, 2020 2 hours ago, ikam said: 100%down = 0mg! Long, but rewarding journey Lexapro free!!! It all started I think during Christmas 2014 when I ended up at A&E and...received no help, had to drastically cut down as I think I was close to serotonin syndrome... I still remember my fear and how helpful this group was. Thank you so much... That time I also stopped sleeping pills and antimigraine medication... Unfortunately when decreasing Lexapro I had to increase Doxepin... But it also related to as traumatic divorce... Congratulations! Now you’re on your way to recovery 😊 Take care, Frogie xx PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist. Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form) ---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil. Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper. 19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020) I am not a medical professional. The suggestions I make are based on personal experience. Link to comment
mdwstrx Posted March 20, 2020 Share Posted March 20, 2020 Congratulations on a well earned victory! 🙌 Prayers for continued healing. Md🌼 1997 Prozac ?mg 1991 Sertraline ?mg 2002 Escitalopram 10 mg 2018 2.5 mg - stopped by Dr./Reinstated, up-dosed to 7.5 mg 04/19 Began BM slide @7.5 mg CURRENT 0.32 mg 🌼 "If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth." Mark 9:23 Link to comment
Nsr99 Posted March 29, 2020 Share Posted March 29, 2020 ikam What a journey! I read your story, amazing what you went through. WD is no fun. Perseverance is the key. It took you almost 6 years to taper to zero!!!. As for me, I have been Cipralex-free for 4 years now. Doing better, but not there yet. My WD is not as severe as it used to be. All along I have tried to avoid taking supplements, as they exacerbate my WD. I want to talk to you about an issue that has been bothering me. I have been complaining of fatigue, and just recently, my blood analysis shows low iron which explains my fatigue, FERRITIN (5), and it should be 30 and more. My Hemoglobin is also low HGB is 11, and it should be more than 13. so the doctor told me that this is known as iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and prescribed to me iron tables; its name is: Ferrose F (100mg Ferric Hydroxide Polymaltose Complex / 350 mcg Follic Acid), and started taking them on March 13. I increased the dose to two tables per day a week later, per another doctor's advice. I started feeling not good, it somehow affected me. my mood now is not that good, as it used to be, and this has slightly affected my sleep as well. I started feeling a little bit cold, a symptom that I had at the initial stages of my WD! I believe iron tables have agitated my nervous system!! ikam, I think you are an expert now on iron, anemia. I have a number of questions, and would appreciate your input: 1. if I persist and continue taking iron supplements, will my mood be better? 2. What if I take the iron through IV instead of waiting for months for the iron tables to increase my iron? 3. if I increase FERRITIN through IV, faster than tables, will things be OK and fatigue will go away? Will the IV also agitate my WD symptoms? 4. What test should I do to determine the cause of iron malabsoprption? I did not notice anything regarding internal bleeding!! ikam, I am waiting for your advice as it will help me a lot. Take care 2010-2016 Cipralex 25mg October 31, 2015: Started tapering March 29, 2016: 0 mg Cipralex 2016: severe withdrawal symptoms. Link to comment
ikam Posted April 2, 2020 Author Share Posted April 2, 2020 On 3/29/2020 at 1:52 PM, Nsr99 said: ikam What a journey! I read your story, amazing what you went through. WD is no fun. Perseverance is the key. It took you almost 6 years to taper to zero!!!. As for me, I have been Cipralex-free for 4 years now. Doing better, but not there yet. My WD is not as severe as it used to be. All along I have tried to avoid taking supplements, as they exacerbate my WD. I want to talk to you about an issue that has been bothering me. I have been complaining of fatigue, and just recently, my blood analysis shows low iron which explains my fatigue, FERRITIN (5), and it should be 30 and more. My Hemoglobin is also low HGB is 11, and it should be more than 13. so the doctor told me that this is known as iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and prescribed to me iron tables; its name is: Ferrose F (100mg Ferric Hydroxide Polymaltose Complex / 350 mcg Follic Acid), and started taking them on March 13. I increased the dose to two tables per day a week later, per another doctor's advice. I started feeling not good, it somehow affected me. my mood now is not that good, as it used to be, and this has slightly affected my sleep as well. I started feeling a little bit cold, a symptom that I had at the initial stages of my WD! I believe iron tables have agitated my nervous system!! ikam, I think you are an expert now on iron, anemia. I have a number of questions, and would appreciate your input: 1. if I persist and continue taking iron supplements, will my mood be better? 2. What if I take the iron through IV instead of waiting for months for the iron tables to increase my iron? 3. if I increase FERRITIN through IV, faster than tables, will things be OK and fatigue will go away? Will the IV also agitate my WD symptoms? 4. What test should I do to determine the cause of iron malabsoprption? I did not notice anything regarding internal bleeding!! ikam, I am waiting for your advice as it will help me a lot. Take care I cannot suggest anything as I am not in a medical profession. I remember that after all the tests done, including colonoscopy and endoscopy, they gave me permission for intravenous iron, as I cannot take it orally. And yes I got much better... No extra symptoms in terms of WD... But I also think that not everything is WD... In my view there are many symptoms simply associated with the autonomic nervous system requiring time to balance itself... In my view there is a symptom overlap, such as i was never able to establish if my symptoms related to severe stress or WD... Although in the beginning I definetely suffered from WD and adverse reactions... In the UK they do not offer any intravenous iron until they do all pre-investigations... Sorry, I cannot answer all your questions. I think it is always best to check it out with your doctor...? Are you in UK? Ikam - 12.03.2021- doxepin- 50mg - 6.11.2020- 75mg - 16.10.2020- 100mg - 30.09.2020- doxepin- 125mg - May 2020, omeprazole 40mg switched to esomeprazole 20mg - 2012 re-started Doxepin 75mg, evening. Increased to 150mg - 2012, Atenolol 25mg, twice a day - 2016, Low dose of HRT in evening, Sandrena and Utrogestan - Long term of Nasal spray Otrivine - 2012, PPI Omeprazole 40mg-evening 24.10.2014- Started ESCITALOPRAM-first 5mg and then 10mg; due to the adverse symptoms reduced on 5.01.2015- Escitalopram- 2.5mg 22.07.2016- re-started reduction by 1% at a time. Completed tappering on 19.03.2020 😇 Link to comment
Nsr99 Posted April 2, 2020 Share Posted April 2, 2020 35 minutes ago, ikam said: I cannot suggest anything as I am not in a medical profession. I remember that after all the tests done, including colonoscopy and endoscopy, they gave me permission for intravenous iron, as I cannot take it orally. And yes I got much better... No extra symptoms in terms of WD... But I also think that not everything is WD... In my view there are many symptoms simply associated with the autonomic nervous system requiring time to balance itself... In my view there is a symptom overlap, such as i was never able to establish if my symptoms related to severe stress or WD... Although in the beginning I definetely suffered from WD and adverse reactions... In the UK they do not offer any intravenous iron until they do all pre-investigations... Sorry, I cannot answer all your questions. I think it is always best to check it out with your doctor...? Are you in UK? Ikam Thank you for your response. I understand that one should always seek medical help from certified professionals such as doctors. I just wanted to compare oral iron with IV. I am taking the iron tablets. It causes uncomfortable feelings, like feeling sick and cold. However, such feelings are not persistent, they are intermittent. I was hoping that if I take IV iron that I would not have to go through this. I am in Saudi Arabia. We have excellent professional medical system. I was supposed to see an internist regarding my iron levels. but due to corona virus, they closed all outpatient clinics, and cancelled all appointments. So, I am forced to take the tables for the time being to improve my fatigue situation, until such time life goes back to normal and I am able to see a doctor. Thank you. 2010-2016 Cipralex 25mg October 31, 2015: Started tapering March 29, 2016: 0 mg Cipralex 2016: severe withdrawal symptoms. Link to comment
ikam Posted April 3, 2020 Author Share Posted April 3, 2020 On 4/2/2020 at 5:05 PM, Nsr99 said: Thank you for your response. I understand that one should always seek medical help from certified professionals such as doctors. I just wanted to compare oral iron with IV. I am taking the iron tablets. It causes uncomfortable feelings, like feeling sick and cold. However, such feelings are not persistent, they are intermittent. I was hoping that if I take IV iron that I would not have to go through this. I am in Saudi Arabia. We have excellent professional medical system. I was supposed to see an internist regarding my iron levels. but due to corona virus, they closed all outpatient clinics, and cancelled all appointments. So, I am forced to take the tables for the time being to improve my fatigue situation, until such time life goes back to normal and I am able to see a doctor. Thank you. I guess if you can take tablets it is good... I cannot take them at all, as I have some stomach problems... I hear that people start feeling better in around 1 month... I cannot really compare as I was never able to continue with the tablets Intravenous iron does not cause stomach problems... - 12.03.2021- doxepin- 50mg - 6.11.2020- 75mg - 16.10.2020- 100mg - 30.09.2020- doxepin- 125mg - May 2020, omeprazole 40mg switched to esomeprazole 20mg - 2012 re-started Doxepin 75mg, evening. Increased to 150mg - 2012, Atenolol 25mg, twice a day - 2016, Low dose of HRT in evening, Sandrena and Utrogestan - Long term of Nasal spray Otrivine - 2012, PPI Omeprazole 40mg-evening 24.10.2014- Started ESCITALOPRAM-first 5mg and then 10mg; due to the adverse symptoms reduced on 5.01.2015- Escitalopram- 2.5mg 22.07.2016- re-started reduction by 1% at a time. Completed tappering on 19.03.2020 😇 Link to comment
Nsr99 Posted April 3, 2020 Share Posted April 3, 2020 27 minutes ago, ikam said: I guess if you can take tablets it is good... I cannot take them at all, as I have some stomach problems... I hear that people start feeling better in around 1 month... I cannot really compare as I was never able to continue with the tablets Intravenous iron does not cause stomach problems... Thank you for your reply and encouragement. 2010-2016 Cipralex 25mg October 31, 2015: Started tapering March 29, 2016: 0 mg Cipralex 2016: severe withdrawal symptoms. Link to comment
ikam Posted May 9, 2020 Author Share Posted May 9, 2020 Doing well without lexapro... - 12.03.2021- doxepin- 50mg - 6.11.2020- 75mg - 16.10.2020- 100mg - 30.09.2020- doxepin- 125mg - May 2020, omeprazole 40mg switched to esomeprazole 20mg - 2012 re-started Doxepin 75mg, evening. Increased to 150mg - 2012, Atenolol 25mg, twice a day - 2016, Low dose of HRT in evening, Sandrena and Utrogestan - Long term of Nasal spray Otrivine - 2012, PPI Omeprazole 40mg-evening 24.10.2014- Started ESCITALOPRAM-first 5mg and then 10mg; due to the adverse symptoms reduced on 5.01.2015- Escitalopram- 2.5mg 22.07.2016- re-started reduction by 1% at a time. Completed tappering on 19.03.2020 😇 Link to comment
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