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ikam: tapering escitalopram


ikam

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This is wonderful news, ikam - I am so happy for 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

 

 

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Good to hear, ikam. What drugs are you taking now?

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

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

All postings © copyrighted.

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On 5/9/2020 at 10:15 PM, Altostrata said:

Good to hear, ikam. What drugs are you taking now?

-150mg doxepin in evening

- 25mg Atenolol twice a day

- 40mg omeprasole in evening

- Sandrena and Utrogestan in evening

 

I have not figured out what next, especially that the time is extremaly stressful... 

I am also supposed to move house and start new job in July... Moving 400miles, so a big move, which was supposed to happen two weeks ago but was stopped by the lockdown... 

On 5/9/2020 at 5:11 PM, wantrelief said:

This is wonderful news, ikam - I am so happy for you!

Thank you. This feels really good 😊

- 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 😇

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On 5/9/2020 at 9:16 AM, ikam said:

Doing well without lexapro... 

Great news!

 

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.

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  • Administrator

What are Sandrena and Utrogestan?

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

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

All postings © copyrighted.

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12 hours ago, Altostrata said:

What are Sandrena and Utrogestan?

HRT

- 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 😇

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  • Administrator

How long have you been taking Sandrena and Utrogestan? Please note in your signature. How are you feeling?

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

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

All postings © copyrighted.

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3 years... I am thinking about stopping at some point, but I think this needs to happen after I move to my new place and job... 

 

I am feeling OK in terms of aftermath of tappering Escitalopram

But of course, traumatised by COVID-19. 

I have been stopped from moving house and starting my new job... 

Hopefully I will manage this time... 

- 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 😇

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  • 2 weeks later...

Unsure what next step to take? 

My GP just upped my dose of omeprasole, ad I have had a severe reflux for over on month... Nothing helps for it... 

Do instead of lowering the dose, I have a higher dose... 

Don't know what to do??? 

- 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 😇

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  • 2 weeks later...

Omeprazole has been changed to esomeprazole. 

Is this possible that I have WD from omeprazole? 

Especially increased sweating and tiredness... 

- 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 😇

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3 minutes ago, ikam said:

Omeprazole has been changed to esomeprazole. 

Is this possible that I have WD from omeprazole? 

Especially increased sweating and tiredness... 

I found the answer:

https://mentalhealthdaily.com/2018/04/30/omeprazole-withdrawal-symptoms/

- 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 😇

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  • 4 weeks later...

Had to cut doxepin by 25mg due to severe orthostatic hypotension. Better now, hopefully I will not have too difficult WD symptoms... 

So I am taking now 125mg.

- 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 😇

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18 minutes ago, ikam said:

Had to cut doxepin by 25mg due to severe orthostatic hypotension. Better now, hopefully I will not have too difficult WD symptoms... 

So I am taking now 125mg.

I hope you continue to heal.

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.

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I am OK, no dizziness anymore, felt really horrible when each time I was getting up I had my BP dropping significantly... 

- 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 😇

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2 hours ago, ikam said:

I am OK, no dizziness anymore, felt really horrible when each time I was getting up I had my BP dropping significantly... 

I hope you continue to feel better.

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.

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  • 3 weeks later...

Managed to cut doxepin to 100mg, feeling better than on a higher dose

- 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 😇

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  • Moderator
4 hours ago, ikam said:

Managed to cut doxepin to 100mg, feeling better than on a higher dose

Great news!

 

Always good to hear from 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.

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  • 3 weeks later...

75mg doxepin... 

I read that doxepin increases gerd, I have had it severe for over half a year... 

Nothing helps. PPI have stopped controlling this. Each night wake up few times with severe reflux... 

 

Last night was better... 

 

I also slept better. This is Intruiging as I sleep better on a lower dose of doxepin. This used to be my experience in the past as well... 

 

I have been escitalopram free for 143days! No major problems. Actually much better, more settled... 

I have also reduced stress level significantly... 😊 Moved house two months ago (400miles) to a better area in UK. Started new job, which also feels better... 

I am beginning to be on top of my finances as well... 😊 

- 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 😇

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  • Moderator Emeritus
38 minutes ago, ikam said:

Each night wake up few times with severe reflux

 

Have you tried raising the top of your bed?  Or a wedge?

 

https://www.wikihow.com/Relieve-Acid-Reflux-with-a-Raised-Bed

 

https://bestpillowsleepers.com/best-wedge-pillow/

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *

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

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

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

 VIDEO:   Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome and its Management

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Yes, I have done this already... Thank you... 

- 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 😇

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  • 2 months later...

I tried to reduce PPI, meaning wanted to take it every second day. I was advised to take Hcl betaine on the days when I don't rake ppi. 

 

So, last night I woke up with severe avid reflux...had problems with sleeping and I was sweating a lot, today I feel pretty anxious... 

 

Could this be from just one day of being ppi free, can betaine have impact as well... 

 

Sorry to talk about PPI but I know that there are some of us who managed to wean themselves... 

- 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 😇

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OK, I have just found it! I really need to prepare myself better. I somehow feel that betaine did not help... https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/topic/4361-tips-for-tapering-off-stomach-acid-blockers-or-ppis-esomeprazole-lansoprazole-omeprazole/

- 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 😇

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  • Moderator Emeritus
7 hours ago, ikam said:

betaine

 

tmg-trimethylglycine-betaine

 

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *

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

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

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

 VIDEO:   Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome and its Management

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9 hours ago, ChessieCat said:

If betaine speeds up the metabolic process it may affect the way medication is metabolised? 

Am I correct? 

If yes, it may alter the impact of meds on the body? 

This would explain my symptoms... 

I definetely associate this with betaine... 

- 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 😇

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  • 1 month later...

Feeling exhausted, so much has happened in the past 10years! 

+ managed to stop escitalopram... 

+ managing to tapper doxepin 

 

Dealing with extreme exhaustion... 

Cannot separate only one trigger, but if has been worse since tappering doxepin... 

Perhaps, I have been tappering too fast, although I have no other symptoms than tiredness... 

My most recent decrease has been from 100mg to 75mg...

Feeling pretty calm, my concentration is much better, feeling more tuned and alive... 

But, extremely tired... 

 

But this could be associated with the major changes in my life in the past half a year-- moved house to a different part of country, moved house, started a new job... 

 

So, 

Am I tired because of tappering doxepin or because of adjustment and dealing with other adverse events??? 

- 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 😇

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Hello, I will begin tapering Doxepin in Jan and was wondering if you sleep less since dropping your dose? Congratulations on tapering Escitalopram!!! 

Aug 2018 - Olanzapine 35mg, Lithium 900 mg’s.  October 2018 Olanzapine cold turkey. Institutionalized   Nov 2018 - 40 mg’s Olanzapine, 900 mg’s lithium, Trazadone 100 mg’s  Feb 2019 CT’d lithium, prescribed Quetiapine 200, Lithium 900 mg’s  June 2019 fast taper of lithium, chronic insomnia, Monthly shot of Invega sustenna ,100 mg’s of Doxepin.  August 2019 Doxepin CT Oct 2019 last shot of Invega sustenna Dec 2019  re-administered Doxepin 150 mgs

4/27/20 started smoking marijuana 5/27/20 - Stopped Doxepin 150 mg’s 6/5/20 - 200 mg’s of Doxepin, 7/6/20 - 175 mg’s of Doxepin 8/18/20 - 150mgs of doxepin.

12/2/20 145 mg’s Doxepin 1/9/21 135 Doxepin 3/2/21 120 mgs Doxepin 4/29/21 110 mgs Doxepin 5/21/21 120 mgs Doxepin

7/26/21 110 mgs Doxepin 9/15/07 100 mgs Doxepin

 

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  • Moderator Emeritus
On 11/19/2020 at 11:27 PM, ikam said:

My most recent decrease has been from 100mg to 75mg

 

Please update your drug signature with the date and dose whenever you make a change.  Doing this means that we don't have to search through your posts trying to find the information.

 

Thank you.

 

Account Settings – Create or Edit a signature

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *

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

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

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

 VIDEO:   Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome and its Management

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  • Moderator Emeritus

From the Tips for Tapering Doxepin topic:

 

On 3/2/2013 at 6:47 AM, Altostrata said:

Reduce by 10% per month to start
The 10% rule holds for doxepin, just like other psychiatric drugs: Reduce by 10% per month, calculated on the last dosage. (The amount of the reduction gets progressively smaller.)

 

It might be time to do a long hold and then reduce by less next time you make a reduction.

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *

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

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

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

 VIDEO:   Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome and its Management

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On 11/21/2020 at 8:19 AM, ChessieCat said:

From the Tips for Tapering Doxepin topic:

 

 

It might be time to do a long hold and then reduce by less next time you make a reduction.

Thank you for suggesting yo update my signature, I have realised that I have tapered a bit too fast. I will hold for longer on 75mg.

I feel settled, no major problems, sleeping better and no headaches anymore... 

 

- 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 😇

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On 11/21/2020 at 6:11 AM, Sarita said:

Hello, I will begin tapering Doxepin in Jan and was wondering if you sleep less since dropping your dose? Congratulations on tapering Escitalopram!!! 

Hi Sarita, I sleep better at night and get up much fresher and earlier than before. I am also more alert and able to concentrate during the day. 

What is your protocol? Are you tappering from capsules and if yes what type of cuts you make? 

 

- 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 😇

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First of all, thank you so much for reaching out, it is appreciated more than you know 🙏 My problem is that I didn’t know what stopping my meds cold turkey was doing to my nervous system. All I knew is how horrible the meds they were giving me made me feel. I just wanted off so the last 2.5 years I have abruptly stopped my meds 5 times. I am only on Doxepin now but I am petrified that due to the damage I have caused, in the last 2.5 years, I will not be able to sleep without it. I am currently taking 150 mg capsules. I spoke to the psychiatrist I am seeing now and he wanted to drop my dose from 150 to 125. I told him about the 10% taper and asked him if I could drop 10 mg’s to start with and hold for 6 weeks. I am just so scared. I was once experiencing withdrawal symptoms from abruptly stopping lithium and the place that helps with my services (Emergence Health Network) the nurse practitioner put me on a monthly shot of Invega Sustenna, rather than helping me with my withdrawal symptoms. They thought I was having a manic episode, but I wasn’t, I was just going bat **** crazy because of Zero sleep for days!!! I didn’t know it at the time but I was experiencing WD symptoms and the Chronic Insomnia did not ease up at all. I went 5 days with 0 sleep. 

Aug 2018 - Olanzapine 35mg, Lithium 900 mg’s.  October 2018 Olanzapine cold turkey. Institutionalized   Nov 2018 - 40 mg’s Olanzapine, 900 mg’s lithium, Trazadone 100 mg’s  Feb 2019 CT’d lithium, prescribed Quetiapine 200, Lithium 900 mg’s  June 2019 fast taper of lithium, chronic insomnia, Monthly shot of Invega sustenna ,100 mg’s of Doxepin.  August 2019 Doxepin CT Oct 2019 last shot of Invega sustenna Dec 2019  re-administered Doxepin 150 mgs

4/27/20 started smoking marijuana 5/27/20 - Stopped Doxepin 150 mg’s 6/5/20 - 200 mg’s of Doxepin, 7/6/20 - 175 mg’s of Doxepin 8/18/20 - 150mgs of doxepin.

12/2/20 145 mg’s Doxepin 1/9/21 135 Doxepin 3/2/21 120 mgs Doxepin 4/29/21 110 mgs Doxepin 5/21/21 120 mgs Doxepin

7/26/21 110 mgs Doxepin 9/15/07 100 mgs Doxepin

 

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I am taking three 50 mg capsules once at bedtime. When I start to taper I was thinking maybe dropping from 150 to 140 and hold for 6 weeks

Aug 2018 - Olanzapine 35mg, Lithium 900 mg’s.  October 2018 Olanzapine cold turkey. Institutionalized   Nov 2018 - 40 mg’s Olanzapine, 900 mg’s lithium, Trazadone 100 mg’s  Feb 2019 CT’d lithium, prescribed Quetiapine 200, Lithium 900 mg’s  June 2019 fast taper of lithium, chronic insomnia, Monthly shot of Invega sustenna ,100 mg’s of Doxepin.  August 2019 Doxepin CT Oct 2019 last shot of Invega sustenna Dec 2019  re-administered Doxepin 150 mgs

4/27/20 started smoking marijuana 5/27/20 - Stopped Doxepin 150 mg’s 6/5/20 - 200 mg’s of Doxepin, 7/6/20 - 175 mg’s of Doxepin 8/18/20 - 150mgs of doxepin.

12/2/20 145 mg’s Doxepin 1/9/21 135 Doxepin 3/2/21 120 mgs Doxepin 4/29/21 110 mgs Doxepin 5/21/21 120 mgs Doxepin

7/26/21 110 mgs Doxepin 9/15/07 100 mgs Doxepin

 

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How about starting some relaxation/meditation before going to sleep, so when you start decreasing you will have a strategy that helps? But you need to practice every night...

- 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 😇

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Thank you for the advise, I will work on my sleep hygiene and add some breathing techniques to help with my anxiety. I appreciate your words very much!

Aug 2018 - Olanzapine 35mg, Lithium 900 mg’s.  October 2018 Olanzapine cold turkey. Institutionalized   Nov 2018 - 40 mg’s Olanzapine, 900 mg’s lithium, Trazadone 100 mg’s  Feb 2019 CT’d lithium, prescribed Quetiapine 200, Lithium 900 mg’s  June 2019 fast taper of lithium, chronic insomnia, Monthly shot of Invega sustenna ,100 mg’s of Doxepin.  August 2019 Doxepin CT Oct 2019 last shot of Invega sustenna Dec 2019  re-administered Doxepin 150 mgs

4/27/20 started smoking marijuana 5/27/20 - Stopped Doxepin 150 mg’s 6/5/20 - 200 mg’s of Doxepin, 7/6/20 - 175 mg’s of Doxepin 8/18/20 - 150mgs of doxepin.

12/2/20 145 mg’s Doxepin 1/9/21 135 Doxepin 3/2/21 120 mgs Doxepin 4/29/21 110 mgs Doxepin 5/21/21 120 mgs Doxepin

7/26/21 110 mgs Doxepin 9/15/07 100 mgs Doxepin

 

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In my experience meditation helps, but everybody is different. I have been using IRest program, they have some free resources. This program has been developed for PTSD veterans... 

- 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 😇

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  • 1 month later...

10 months free!!! 😏 

I have had no additional symptoms from successfully tappering escitalopram... 

 

Preparing for next step with doxepin, 77days since last decrease... 

 

But firstly, I will have Covid-19 vaccination on Sunday, don't know what to expect... Hopefully, it will be just like a flu vaccine... 

- 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 😇

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