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PluckyPony: Tapering Abilify


PluckyPony

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Hi Everyone! I consider myself the Kimmy Schmidt of internet forums, having been in seclusion for so long, but I grew tired of hiding :ph34r: . My disastrous dance with Big Pharma started in 2006, when I began hearing voices after months of anxiety and panic over a very traumatizing experience. Cops handcuffed me and placed me in four point restraints after I started screaming in public. The good young Doc at the local hospital they shipped me to gave me Zyprexa, never once asking if I had a family history of diabetes. I DC the drug after a week and about 5-6 months later I had another episode.

 

2007-2011 A true blur. 4 hospitalizations (two in 2007, one in 2008 and the last in 2011). Three months of sleeplessness due to Zyprexa withdrawal (someone in my life at that time told me that their family member discontinued cocaine in 3 days after years of abuse and I should due the same with Zyprexa - huge mistake), lost many friends due to neglecting their needs and my own, and a crazy amount of weight gain. My voices pestered me to the brink of despair. Yet, I still held on...

 

2011-2015 The breakthrough years. Switched from Zyprexa to Abilify without major impact on my sleep. Started working again although, not employed at this moment. After a spiritual breakthrough and addressing the demons of my past, I am on my way to permanently breaking up with Big Pharma. I attribute this breakthrough to trusting God and the guiding spirits, reading stories from those who have triumphed or in the process of triumphing over psyche drugs, and seeking support from family (although they still believe in the medical model of my so-called condition). Critical Psychiatry sites that delve into the rampant fraud and fear-mongering present in modern US Psychiatry also provided an alternative narrative to the chemical imbalance-broken forever label that my pdocs dumped on me.

 

For the first time in years, hope blooms in my heart and mind. Will I be the same pre-drug woman? No and in many respects, I don't want to be. Those years in spite of the intensity of emotion that I felt and the warm and love in my heart, I could not take care of myself or establish healthy boundaries. Now I do a much better job of that. I don't eat as much sugar, and I have cut out caffeine and alcohol completely. I'm grateful for the victories, great and small.

 

I want to document this journey for my brothers and sisters in the struggle and build community, because I believe in the healing power of relationships and knowledge sharing over BigPharma's so-called quickfixes. Also, I understand that I need to do the work on my own, to self-care regardless of my situation. A balancing act, for sure.

 

Towards a drug-free me and a brighter tomorrow.

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Hi PuckyPony , nice to meet you , and welcome to the site.

Sounds like you've been through the mill a few times , but are in a pretty good place now.

 

How long have you been on 8mg of Abilify?

This site recommends decreases of no more than 10% , or it can become too destabilizing.  Particularly at lower doses.

So to go from 10mg to 8mg is a 20% drop.  What symptoms are you having at the moment?

 

Try reading   

Why taper by 10% of my dosage?

and

How to make a liquid from tablets or capsules

 

You'll get lots of support and information here , welcome aboard.

 

Best wishes ,  Fresh

If you click FOLLOW at the top right , you'll receive an email each time someone posts.

1987-1997 pertofran , prothiaden , Prozac 1997-2002 Zoloft 2002-2004 effexor 2004-2010 Lexapro 40mg

2010-2012Cymbalta 120mg

Sept. 2012 -decreased 90mg in 6months. Care taken over by Dr Lucire in March 2013 , decreased last 30mg at 2mg per week over 3 months. July 21 , 2013- last dose of Cymbalta

Protracted withdrawal syndrome kicked in badly Jan.2014 Unrelenting akathisia until May 2014. Voluntary hosp. admission. Cocktail of Seroquel, Ativan and mirtazapine and I was well enough to go home after 14 days. Stopped all hosp. meds in next few months.

July 2014 felt v.depressed - couldn't stop crying. Started pristiq 50mg. Felt improvement within days and continued to improve, so stayed on 50mg for 8 months.

Began taper 28 Feb. 2015. Pristiq 50mg down to 45mg. Had one month of w/d symptoms. Started CES therapy in March. No w/d symptoms down to 30mg.

October 2015 , taking 25mg Pristiq. Capsules compounded with slow-release additive.

March 2016 , 21mg

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  • Moderator Emeritus

 

For the first time in years, hope blooms in my heart and mind. Will I be the same pre-drug woman? No and in many respects, I don't want to be. Those years in spite of the intensity of emotion that I felt and the warm and love in my heart, I could not take care of myself or establish healthy boundaries. Now I do a much better job of that. I don't eat as much sugar, and I have cut out caffeine and alcohol completely. I'm grateful for the victories, great and small.

 

I want to document this journey for my brothers and sisters in the struggle and build community, because I believe in the healing power of relationships and knowledge sharing over BigPharma's so-called quickfixes. Also, I understand that I need to do the work on my own, to self-care regardless of my situation. A balancing act, for sure.

 

Towards a drug-free me and a brighter tomorrow.

Welcome PluckyPony,

 

I love your approach to your recovery. You sound balanced in your expectations, thoughtful and courageous. All key ingredients for success. You have done a great job getting to where you are now. I'm sure you will find this to be a community that can walk with you the rest of the way.

 

Fresh has given you the key links. As she pointed out, we make dose drops on a percentage of previous drop basis, otherwise you are making bigger cuts as you go down.

 

Have a read of the links Fresh has provided and if you have any questions come back here to ask them

 

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

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  • Administrator

Welcome, PluckyP.

 

For more detail about tapering Abilify, see Tips for tapering off aripiprazole (Abilify)

 

As you've had what might have been interpreted as psychosis symptoms in the past, you'll want to be very careful going off, as withdrawal itself can trigger such symptoms. By slow tapering, you can control this and avoid going to the hospital, where your plan to go off drugs will certainly be set back.

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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Hi PuckyPony , nice to meet you , and welcome to the site.

Sounds like you've been through the mill a few times , but are in a pretty good place now.

 

How long have you been on 8mg of Abilify?

This site recommends decreases of no more than 10% , or it can become too destabilizing.  Particularly at lower doses.

So to go from 10mg to 8mg is a 20% drop.  What symptoms are you having at the moment?

 

Try reading   

Why taper by 10% of my dosage?

and

How to make a liquid from tablets or capsules

 

You'll get lots of support and information here , welcome aboard.

 

Best wishes ,  Fresh

If you click FOLLOW at the top right , you'll receive an email each time someone posts.

 

Thank you so much Fresh. Have been on 8mg for 4 weeks. In terms of symptoms, my menstration flowed much heavier and longer than usual, and I had one lackluster night of rest yesterday.  Prior to today, I have been sleeping more than usual, but still able to do daily chores and engage in self-care 85% of the time (far better than the 20% average I had during the height of my atypical anti-psychotic use).  I read the links that you posted and decided to hold for 6 months at 8mg of Abilify, taper at 10% from 8mg, and give myself at least 3 years to wean myself off of the drug.

 

 

For the first time in years, hope blooms in my heart and mind. Will I be the same pre-drug woman? No and in many respects, I don't want to be. Those years in spite of the intensity of emotion that I felt and the warm and love in my heart, I could not take care of myself or establish healthy boundaries. Now I do a much better job of that. I don't eat as much sugar, and I have cut out caffeine and alcohol completely. I'm grateful for the victories, great and small.

 

I want to document this journey for my brothers and sisters in the struggle and build community, because I believe in the healing power of relationships and knowledge sharing over BigPharma's so-called quickfixes. Also, I understand that I need to do the work on my own, to self-care regardless of my situation. A balancing act, for sure.

 

Towards a drug-free me and a brighter tomorrow.

Welcome PluckyPony,

 

I love your approach to your recovery. You sound balanced in your expectations, thoughtful and courageous. All key ingredients for success. You have done a great job getting to where you are now. I'm sure you will find this to be a community that can walk with you the rest of the way.

 

Fresh has given you the key links. As she pointed out, we make dose drops on a percentage of previous drop basis, otherwise you are making bigger cuts as you go down.

 

Have a read of the links Fresh has provided and if you have any questions come back here to ask them

 

Dalsaan

 

 

Thank you for the encouragement Dalsaan.  It took years of enduring hell (some of my own making) to get to this point of wanting to live again. Gossip's "Move in the Right Direction" has become my de-facto theme song :D . "Never say never, starting over, it's not perfect, but it's getting closer".

Welcome, PuckyP.

 

For more detail about tapering Abilify, see Tips for tapering off aripiprazole (Abilify)

 

As you've had what might have been interpreted as psychosis symptoms in the past, you'll want to be very careful going off, as withdrawal itself can trigger such symptoms. By slow tapering, you can control this and avoid going to the hospital, where your plan to go off drugs will certainly be set back.

 I agree, Alto. Within the next 6 months, I'm going to find out how I can get all the materials necessary to make a suspension out of Abilify (can't believe they discontinued the liquid version). Hopefully, I can hold on 8mg for that duration of time.

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Wow, PluckyPony, you sure are plucky :)  It's just so good to read your latest post and see how you've taken everything on board so quickly.  Move to the head of the class!!

 

The hold you are planning will do amazing things for you, both during the hold and in the rest of your taper after that.  Holds are healing.  There is very good discussion about holds here:  http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/2364-the-slowness-of-slow-tapers/ 

 

It sounds like you are coping with the withdrawal symptoms?  Just keep checking in here and let us know if you aren't. 

 

Is lovely to meet you - I'm glad you've found your way here for some support.

Hugs,

KarenB

2010  Fluoxetine 20mg.  2011  Escitalopram 20mg.  2013 Tapered badly and destabilised CNS.  Effexor 150mg. 

2015 Begin using info at SurvivingAntidepressants.  Cut 10% - bad w/d 2 months, held 1 month. 

Micro-tapering: four weekly 0.4% cuts, hold 4 weeks (struggling with symptoms).

8 month hold.

2017 Micro-tapering: four weekly 1% cuts, hold 4 weeks (symptoms almost non-existent).

2020 Still micro-tapering. Just over 2/3 of the way off effexor. Minimal symptoms, - and sleeping well.
Supplements: Fish oil, vitamin C, iron, oat-straw tea, nettle tea.

2023 Now on 7 micro-beads of Effexor. Minimal symptoms but much more time needed between drops.

 'The possibility of renewal exists so long as life exists.'  Dr Gabor Mate.

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Wow, PluckyPony, you sure are plucky :)  It's just so good to read your latest post and see how you've taken everything on board so quickly.  Move to the head of the class!!

 

The hold you are planning will do amazing things for you, both during the hold and in the rest of your taper after that.  Holds are healing.  There is very good discussion about holds here:  http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/2364-the-slowness-of-slow-tapers/

 

It sounds like you are coping with the withdrawal symptoms?  Just keep checking in here and let us know if you aren't. 

 

Is lovely to meet you - I'm glad you've found your way here for some support.

Hugs,

KarenB

 

 

Super grateful for the warm welcome, Karen.  The site amazes me with the wealth of knowledge and support provided.  Read Rhi's post on slow tapers and became inspired to do the same.  In the last three attempts that I have made to DC Abilify, I became obsessed with becoming independent of pdocs as quickly as possible, rather than sustained emotional and neurological healing. Fortunately, I am not in that place anymore, despite being assigned to a particular guy who I don't really gel with and keeps heaping more labels on me.  I will give this journey all the time and resources that I can afford.

 

In terms of sleep, last night the electric head feeling subsided a bit and gave way to peaceful rest, for about 6.5 hours.  I am grateful to God for that because I really didn't know if I needed to go back to 10mg or ride it out for a couple of weeks. Right now, the electric forehead pressure bubbles at the surface, but I'm hoping for the best.

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

So good to hear Plucky,

 

It sounds like you've really clicked into what you need to do.  Rhi is utterly inspiring isn't she? 

 

Maybe you can think of your pdoc as a man who writes stuff in his office, but who - in reality - has no influence over you.  If you don't like a label, you don't accept it.  You make the decisions about you, and decide what happens to you.  You can direct your path from here on in - that 'sustained emotional and neurological healing' that you spoke of (beautiful phrase). 

 

I've built myself a nest with feathers and twigs.  Each feather or twig is a helpful tool or aspect of my life that I've woven into a strong nest.  Together, the many things support me when things are hard.  Examples of my twigs are yoga, meditation, fish-oil, counseling, epsom-salt baths - I've got a big collection of little things. 

 

Have you been to the non-drug techniques for emotional symptoms thread?  It's my favourite on s/a. 

2010  Fluoxetine 20mg.  2011  Escitalopram 20mg.  2013 Tapered badly and destabilised CNS.  Effexor 150mg. 

2015 Begin using info at SurvivingAntidepressants.  Cut 10% - bad w/d 2 months, held 1 month. 

Micro-tapering: four weekly 0.4% cuts, hold 4 weeks (struggling with symptoms).

8 month hold.

2017 Micro-tapering: four weekly 1% cuts, hold 4 weeks (symptoms almost non-existent).

2020 Still micro-tapering. Just over 2/3 of the way off effexor. Minimal symptoms, - and sleeping well.
Supplements: Fish oil, vitamin C, iron, oat-straw tea, nettle tea.

2023 Now on 7 micro-beads of Effexor. Minimal symptoms but much more time needed between drops.

 'The possibility of renewal exists so long as life exists.'  Dr Gabor Mate.

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So good to hear Plucky,

 

It sounds like you've really clicked into what you need to do.  Rhi is utterly inspiring isn't she? 

 

Maybe you can think of your pdoc as a man who writes stuff in his office, but who - in reality - has no influence over you.  If you don't like a label, you don't accept it.  You make the decisions about you, and decide what happens to you.  You can direct your path from here on in - that 'sustained emotional and neurological healing' that you spoke of (beautiful phrase). 

 

I've built myself a nest with feathers and twigs.  Each feather or twig is a helpful tool or aspect of my life that I've woven into a strong nest.  Together, the many things support me when things are hard.  Examples of my twigs are yoga, meditation, fish-oil, counseling, epsom-salt baths - I've got a big collection of little things. 

 

Have you been to the non-drug techniques for emotional symptoms thread?  It's my favourite on s/a. 

 

Karen, Rhi's the bee's knees.  She makes a really beautiful case for the long holds.  I initially feared that the longer I stayed on the drug regardless of dosage, the harder it will be to get off.  After reading some of the posts on SA, my fears have dissipated for the most part.

 

He's so...whatever.  You make absolute sense. He's the guy who writes 'scripts, that's it.     

 

Very fortunate to have a nest of support built with spiritual practice, counseling, among others. I love the radical mental wellness community/support that I found on SA as well.

 

I read a post on being able to read as well as address the pain of others without freaking out and turning inwards; it takes strength and true empathy to be able to console and empower in such a loving fashion.  The team amazes me and I am thankful.

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

radical mental wellness

 

Yeehaaa!! 

2010  Fluoxetine 20mg.  2011  Escitalopram 20mg.  2013 Tapered badly and destabilised CNS.  Effexor 150mg. 

2015 Begin using info at SurvivingAntidepressants.  Cut 10% - bad w/d 2 months, held 1 month. 

Micro-tapering: four weekly 0.4% cuts, hold 4 weeks (struggling with symptoms).

8 month hold.

2017 Micro-tapering: four weekly 1% cuts, hold 4 weeks (symptoms almost non-existent).

2020 Still micro-tapering. Just over 2/3 of the way off effexor. Minimal symptoms, - and sleeping well.
Supplements: Fish oil, vitamin C, iron, oat-straw tea, nettle tea.

2023 Now on 7 micro-beads of Effexor. Minimal symptoms but much more time needed between drops.

 'The possibility of renewal exists so long as life exists.'  Dr Gabor Mate.

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  • 3 months later...

After a month of hiccups, my sleeping patterns finally normalized.  I found the energy to do things that I have neglected and began to sloooooowly lose weight.  Had a visit with my new P-doc, who I flippantly dubbed Uncle Creepy.  Uncle Creepy said some very unprofessional things that rattled me, but after speaking with a very kind peer supporter, I realized that my fears and discomfort were not irrational. Uncle Creepy truly sucks.  I decided to continue with Uncle Creepy because he prescribed the dosage I requested without putting up a fight.  Yay.  In 5 days or so, I will taper down to 7 milligrams and hold for 6 months or more. A bit faster than the 10%, but that's what I can safely afford to do right now. If you have the resources to taper at 10% per dose, please do it!

 

I find that talking to peer supporters more than increasing the dose during a mini voice hearing crisis really helped me. The two I spoke with deeply understood what I experienced and truly listened; I appreciated their comforting words.  However, self soothing in a healthy manner without becoming overly dependent on other people is a skill that I want to master. I find that this forum has been helpful outlet in that regard, the act of seeing my feelings in written words can be healing.

 

To a better, drug free tomorrow.

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Hi Plucky ,,, are you going from 8mg to 7mg?

 

Here's a thought ... what if you drop to 7.5mg for 3 months , then 7mg for 3 months? The smaller

drop will be far less disruptive for your system.

 

Particularly given that you've just had a month of interrupted sleep , it's not wise to make a big drop so soon.

1987-1997 pertofran , prothiaden , Prozac 1997-2002 Zoloft 2002-2004 effexor 2004-2010 Lexapro 40mg

2010-2012Cymbalta 120mg

Sept. 2012 -decreased 90mg in 6months. Care taken over by Dr Lucire in March 2013 , decreased last 30mg at 2mg per week over 3 months. July 21 , 2013- last dose of Cymbalta

Protracted withdrawal syndrome kicked in badly Jan.2014 Unrelenting akathisia until May 2014. Voluntary hosp. admission. Cocktail of Seroquel, Ativan and mirtazapine and I was well enough to go home after 14 days. Stopped all hosp. meds in next few months.

July 2014 felt v.depressed - couldn't stop crying. Started pristiq 50mg. Felt improvement within days and continued to improve, so stayed on 50mg for 8 months.

Began taper 28 Feb. 2015. Pristiq 50mg down to 45mg. Had one month of w/d symptoms. Started CES therapy in March. No w/d symptoms down to 30mg.

October 2015 , taking 25mg Pristiq. Capsules compounded with slow-release additive.

March 2016 , 21mg

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Hi Plucky ,,, are you going from 8mg to 7mg?

 

Here's a thought ... what if you drop to 7.5mg for 3 months , then 7mg for 3 months? The smaller

drop will be far less disruptive for your system.

 

Particularly given that you've just had a month of interrupted sleep , it's not wise to make a big drop so soon.

 

Hi Fresh,

 

I totally agree with you. I can ask Uncle Creepy if he will re-write it for the pharmacist to compound.  If my insurer refuses to pay for the compounding, I cannot really afford the tools necessary to safely compound on my own at this time.

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

1987-1997 pertofran , prothiaden , Prozac 1997-2002 Zoloft 2002-2004 effexor 2004-2010 Lexapro 40mg

2010-2012Cymbalta 120mg

Sept. 2012 -decreased 90mg in 6months. Care taken over by Dr Lucire in March 2013 , decreased last 30mg at 2mg per week over 3 months. July 21 , 2013- last dose of Cymbalta

Protracted withdrawal syndrome kicked in badly Jan.2014 Unrelenting akathisia until May 2014. Voluntary hosp. admission. Cocktail of Seroquel, Ativan and mirtazapine and I was well enough to go home after 14 days. Stopped all hosp. meds in next few months.

July 2014 felt v.depressed - couldn't stop crying. Started pristiq 50mg. Felt improvement within days and continued to improve, so stayed on 50mg for 8 months.

Began taper 28 Feb. 2015. Pristiq 50mg down to 45mg. Had one month of w/d symptoms. Started CES therapy in March. No w/d symptoms down to 30mg.

October 2015 , taking 25mg Pristiq. Capsules compounded with slow-release additive.

March 2016 , 21mg

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You're welcome!  He's so... :o

 

Thank you for the links.  I couldn't muster the courage to ask Uncle Creepy to increase the script, but luckily I still have more Abilify left so I think I can do it on my own once I get the other materials. 

 

The sleeplessness took place in mid-December and lasted until early January.  I blame the holiday drinking more than the drop, although it could be both. Sigh, I can't hold my liquor :blush: .

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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  • 2 weeks later...
  • Moderator Emeritus

Wow, Plucky!

 

You've been through a lot, but you've certainly learned from it!

 

Do you communicate with any Voice Hearer's Network?  https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/voice-hearers

 

You might also enjoy Shades of Awakening, where they / we talk about the Spiritual Emergency and the lessons learned, wisdom gained, and tempering of our beings that come from these "other states."  http://www.shadesofawakening.com/

 

Keep rocking your wellness!

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

 

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

 

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

 

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


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

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

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

 

 

I have been psych drug FREE since 1 Feb 2016!

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Wow, Plucky!

 

You've been through a lot, but you've certainly learned from it!

 

Do you communicate with any Voice Hearer's Network?  https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/voice-hearers

 

You might also enjoy Shades of Awakening, where they / we talk about the Spiritual Emergency and the lessons learned, wisdom gained, and tempering of our beings that come from these "other states."  http://www.shadesofawakening.com/

 

Keep rocking your wellness!

 

Super grateful for the links, Jan.  I've never been an active part of an online voice hearers group; I will definitely check it out. 

 

The term spiritual emergency truly resonates with me. Rather than embrace p-doc terminology to describe my experience, I sought to define the crisis based on what others in the struggle have endured.  It makes more sense to me. 

 

On April 12th, I started the next dose and with the exception of a very slight case of electric head, I feel okay. Liquor avoidance and cleaner eating has helped a great deal, but the real test will be 2 months from now.  I hope the withdrawal symptoms will continue to be pretty mild for the duration of the taper.

 

Congrats on being pharma free! Incredibly inspiring.

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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Sleep hasn't deteriorated, thank goodness.  The real test will be two months from now.  Had a binge fest for the past 3 days.  Unfortunately, I'm one of those types that benefits from food limitations, as "balanced eating" doesn't compute without it.

 

I find myself racked with doubt about the future, but I saw hope in the form of children of all hues creating art on a balmy Californian day.  Working together and having fun.  It amazed me, and for a fleeting moment, I felt joy.  

 

I'm still coming to grips with Uncle Creepy and what I should do for future visits.  I don't want to be alone in his office...

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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P.P.   What a lovely image .  :)   Seeing hope , like that must have been very uplifting . 

but I saw hope in the form of children of all hues creating art on a balmy Californian day.  Working together and having fun.  It amazed me, and for a fleeting moment, I felt joy.  

 

Take care with your taper. As you have said in your Sig, " slow & steady"  is key . It's great that you sleep  - a definite plus for healing .

Ali

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

 

                                                  Psych Drug - free since May 2014
.
         

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P.P.   What a lovely image .  :)   Seeing hope , like that must have been very uplifting . 

but I saw hope in the form of children of all hues creating art on a balmy Californian day.  Working together and having fun.  It amazed me, and for a fleeting moment, I felt joy. 

 

Take care with your taper. As you have said in your Sig, " slow & steady"  is key . It's great that you sleep  - a definite plus for healing .

Ali

 

 

Hi Ali, 

 

The drop to 7mg will be my last lazy taper; I really don't want to aggravate myself more than I should.  I actually feel lethargic and sleep a lot, even during the weeks when I avoided sugar. It concerns me, but not to the point where I am consumed by it.

 

I volunteered at an Earth Day event; the people and the scene there truly did uplift my spirit.  It reminded me that this life, filled with pain and unfairness, can still produce lovingkindness in many forms and ways.

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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  • Moderator Emeritus
I'm still coming to grips with Uncle Creepy and what I should do for future visits.  I don't want to be alone in his office...

In NZ we can request a nurse be present when we visit the doctor - is this a possibility for you?  Otherwise I'd recommend taking a close friend or family member. 

 

In view of the long term, perhaps you could shop around for another doctor, but only stop seeing your current doc once you find another who'll prescribe.

 

So nice to hear you talk about the beautiful things in this life.

2010  Fluoxetine 20mg.  2011  Escitalopram 20mg.  2013 Tapered badly and destabilised CNS.  Effexor 150mg. 

2015 Begin using info at SurvivingAntidepressants.  Cut 10% - bad w/d 2 months, held 1 month. 

Micro-tapering: four weekly 0.4% cuts, hold 4 weeks (struggling with symptoms).

8 month hold.

2017 Micro-tapering: four weekly 1% cuts, hold 4 weeks (symptoms almost non-existent).

2020 Still micro-tapering. Just over 2/3 of the way off effexor. Minimal symptoms, - and sleeping well.
Supplements: Fish oil, vitamin C, iron, oat-straw tea, nettle tea.

2023 Now on 7 micro-beads of Effexor. Minimal symptoms but much more time needed between drops.

 'The possibility of renewal exists so long as life exists.'  Dr Gabor Mate.

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I'm still coming to grips with Uncle Creepy and what I should do for future visits.  I don't want to be alone in his office...

In NZ we can request a nurse be present when we visit the doctor - is this a possibility for you?  Otherwise I'd recommend taking a close friend or family member. 

 

In view of the long term, perhaps you could shop around for another doctor, but only stop seeing your current doc once you find another who'll prescribe.

 

So nice to hear you talk about the beautiful things in this life.

 

 

Oddly enough, in California, women can request a female nurse presence during a gynecological exam if the doctor is male.  I'm not too sure if I have similar rights with my p-doc. However, I do have the right to bring a relative or advocate to my p-doc follow-up and exams, which I will definitely do for the next visit. 

 

Thank you for the warm words, Karen.  American Psychiatry has robbed me of many things, but I won't let it rob me of hope.

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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  • 1 month later...

Began having sleeping problems, in addition to slight anxiety and "brain pressure" (like something is weighing my brain down a bit-not the zaps) two days ago.  It's more annoying than intolerable at this stage, so I'm not going to re-instate. I didn't think the jump from 8mg to 7mg would cause it, but it did.  My body wants me to know that I must move slower than Uncle Creepy wants. The first line of defense will be camomile tea and no computer/television use 1 hr prior to bed time.

 

The lack of sleep placed me in slight despair about the future and my ability to achieve my dreams without being medicated.  However, I crawled out of the despair trap by being patient, having hope that it will be restored to decent levels, and gratitude that I actually got some sleep and woke up slightly more refreshed than usual (I sleep like a log and still feel tired prior to this latest bout of sleep problems).

 

I did feel some weird tingle on my lips/minor muscle spams around the eye area, but that quickly faded.

 

Would like to know if anyone has any experience with generic liquid Abilify and if they are finally distributing it in the US? 

Edited by PluckyPony

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Sounds like you are managing this really well PP.  As well as having made the bigger reduction, it could also be a wave - which will pass again.  I see in your sig. you are planning on holding till mid Sept - great idea. 

 

I'll let someone else answer about Abilify - it's not something I know about.

 

Karen

2010  Fluoxetine 20mg.  2011  Escitalopram 20mg.  2013 Tapered badly and destabilised CNS.  Effexor 150mg. 

2015 Begin using info at SurvivingAntidepressants.  Cut 10% - bad w/d 2 months, held 1 month. 

Micro-tapering: four weekly 0.4% cuts, hold 4 weeks (struggling with symptoms).

8 month hold.

2017 Micro-tapering: four weekly 1% cuts, hold 4 weeks (symptoms almost non-existent).

2020 Still micro-tapering. Just over 2/3 of the way off effexor. Minimal symptoms, - and sleeping well.
Supplements: Fish oil, vitamin C, iron, oat-straw tea, nettle tea.

2023 Now on 7 micro-beads of Effexor. Minimal symptoms but much more time needed between drops.

 'The possibility of renewal exists so long as life exists.'  Dr Gabor Mate.

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Hi Karen,

 

Last night felt slightly rougher than the day before; only managed to get 4hrs as opposed to 5hrs like Saturday. However, I still woke up slightly rested; what a strange paradox!   I managed to take a nap today (wouldn't have been able to function without it) and fell into real sleep for about an hour. Grateful for whatever I can get during this time.

 

After the September hold, I'm going to taper as per SA guidelines, but have shorter holding periods if my mind can tolerate it (No less than 3 months).

 

Thank you for mentioning the possibility of it being a wave.  Gotta ride it until I safely reach the shore.

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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Actually slept for a total of 7hrs last night plus this morning. Yay!  Wave is slowly heading to shore.  I did cheat and eat a whole bowl of sticky rice yesterday night and this morning.  Too much of that could knock anyone out. :P

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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  • 3 weeks later...

I've been binging like crazy, eating way too much sugar and chocolate.  It's beginning to impact my sleep a bit.  Still holding on 7mg of Abilify, spending most of my time hermitting, minimizing contact with the world.  The lazy and lack of self care began to manifest itself; I gave in a bit, but the emotional despair that brought it on has slightly abated. Yay. My head still feels weird, but no brain zaps.

 

The movie Cloud Atlas rocks, flaws and all. Kinda random, but I felt more human watching that film and bawling like a child towards the end, than I have in the last two months since I reduced my meds.

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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So, all in all, are you noticing improvement?  Even if only slight?  Hope so. 

 

I remember reading years ago about things you can eat and do to help prevent cravings.  Can't recall it now, but perhaps google will have some ideas?  Might be worth looking into as sugar can affect how well you do all sorts of things. 

 

Hope you are still feeling 'plucky',

Karen

2010  Fluoxetine 20mg.  2011  Escitalopram 20mg.  2013 Tapered badly and destabilised CNS.  Effexor 150mg. 

2015 Begin using info at SurvivingAntidepressants.  Cut 10% - bad w/d 2 months, held 1 month. 

Micro-tapering: four weekly 0.4% cuts, hold 4 weeks (struggling with symptoms).

8 month hold.

2017 Micro-tapering: four weekly 1% cuts, hold 4 weeks (symptoms almost non-existent).

2020 Still micro-tapering. Just over 2/3 of the way off effexor. Minimal symptoms, - and sleeping well.
Supplements: Fish oil, vitamin C, iron, oat-straw tea, nettle tea.

2023 Now on 7 micro-beads of Effexor. Minimal symptoms but much more time needed between drops.

 'The possibility of renewal exists so long as life exists.'  Dr Gabor Mate.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Just a quick pop-in after reading your post, Plucky, and Karen's. 

 

I recall reading that chocolate cravings can be a signal from the body for magnesium. There are other ways to get the Mg, but none as tasty as chocolate.  I've noticed that my chocolate and sugar cravings have reduced considerably since I started supplementing consistently with fish oil and magnesium, and eating protein at every meal.

This is not medical advice. Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a knowledgeable medical practitioner.
1997-1999 Effexor; 2002-2005 Effexor XR 37.5 mg linear taper, dropping same #beads/week with bad results

Cymbalta 60 mg 2012 - 2015; 2016: 20 mg to 7 mg exact doses and dates in this post; 2017: 6.3 mg to  0.0 mg  Aug. 12; details here


scallywag's Introduction
Online spreadsheet for dose taper calculations and nz11's THE WORKS spreadsheet

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So, all in all, are you noticing improvement?  Even if only slight?  Hope so. 

 

I remember reading years ago about things you can eat and do to help prevent cravings.  Can't recall it now, but perhaps google will have some ideas?  Might be worth looking into as sugar can affect how well you do all sorts of things. 

 

Hope you are still feeling 'plucky',

Karen

Hi Karen,

 

In terms of emotional bluntedness, that has subsided. I can laugh and cry, so that makes me happy.  My sleep patterns feel tolerable; steadily stabilizing with bouts of sleeplessness (less than 4hrs) once in a while (it happened 3 times in past 40 days or so). But I think the emotional control, which didn't really exist when I took massive doses of Abilify, has returned some what.  I feel less afraid of addressing issues, and general meanness doesn't make me an incoherent mess.

 

In terms of the sugar/gluten craving, that's pure Abilify, especially since I began to take it everyday.  Prior to the taper, I skipped my medication, especially at the higher doses.  With strict adherence--for me--came the return of the nastier side effect of compulsive eating. Only tapering to a lower dose can truly stop it.

 

I have hope that I can do this, the roadmap to psychiatric freedom and will to endure exists. 

 

Still plucky ;)!

 

 

 

Just a quick pop-in after reading your post, Plucky, and Karen's. 

 

I recall reading that chocolate cravings can be a signal from the body for magnesium. There are other ways to get the Mg, but none as tasty as chocolate.  I've noticed that my chocolate and sugar cravings have reduced considerably since I started supplementing consistently with fish oil and magnesium, and eating protein at every meal.

 

Hi Scallywag,

 

I crave the sugar in the chocolate more than the chocolate itself.  Had a huge bag of leftover chocolate Halloween candy and raided it for my sugar fix.  Sorry for not being clear about that.  It will dissipate over time as the dose decreases.  I just hope my body will not give up on me before I get to that point :wacko: .

Edited by PluckyPony

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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  • 1 month later...

Hi everyone!  Quick update.  Managing my sleep issues and the binge eating has abated a bit.  Finally working!  Holding on 7mg until this Fall. More hopeful than ever.  Thank you to my SA family for being there during my unplucky days.

 

Listened to excerpts of bipolarized: rethinking mental illness ( http://www.bipolarizedthemovie.com/ ) over the radio.  Wonderful documentary on the medicalization of the human condition. 

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Well that's a plucking good update :).  Well done on keeping going for the long-haul. 

2010  Fluoxetine 20mg.  2011  Escitalopram 20mg.  2013 Tapered badly and destabilised CNS.  Effexor 150mg. 

2015 Begin using info at SurvivingAntidepressants.  Cut 10% - bad w/d 2 months, held 1 month. 

Micro-tapering: four weekly 0.4% cuts, hold 4 weeks (struggling with symptoms).

8 month hold.

2017 Micro-tapering: four weekly 1% cuts, hold 4 weeks (symptoms almost non-existent).

2020 Still micro-tapering. Just over 2/3 of the way off effexor. Minimal symptoms, - and sleeping well.
Supplements: Fish oil, vitamin C, iron, oat-straw tea, nettle tea.

2023 Now on 7 micro-beads of Effexor. Minimal symptoms but much more time needed between drops.

 'The possibility of renewal exists so long as life exists.'  Dr Gabor Mate.

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Well that's a plucking good update :).  Well done on keeping going for the long-haul. 

 

Thanks, Karen! *Hugs* 

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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  • 1 month later...

I officially started 6.3mg of Abilify and it feels so empowering to finally take my health into my own hands. My sleep has been pretty consistent (except during my period) and more restful.  Plus, I don't experience the perpetual Abili-rage I used to feel anymore.  I'm in it for the long haul.

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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I experienced a nausea spell that finally abated today.  Making incredibly strong fresh ginger tea and eating the boiled leftovers helped a great deal.

2006-2009 Zyprexa and Wellbutrin (dc Wellbutrin cold turkey, dc Zyprexa cold turkey with disastrous results) 2009-2010 Transitioned from Zyprexa to Abilify 2010-2015 Reduced from 20 mg of Abilify to 8mg. Cold turkeyed once during this period but finally learned my lesson.  12/2015 -  8mg of Abilify.  04/15/ 2016 -  7mg of Abilify. 09/15/2016 - 6.3mg of Abilify.  11/2016 - 5.7 mg of Abilify.  11/30/2016 - 5.1mg of Abilify. 01/2017 - 4.6mg of Abilify,  02/2017 - 4.1 of Abilify, 03/2017 - 3.8 of Abilify, 04/2017 - 3.4 of Abilify, 05/2017 - 3.0mg of Abilify, 07/2017 2.7mg of Abilify, 8/2017 2.5mg to 2.3 of Abilify , 9/2017 2mg to 1.8mg of Abilify, 10/2017 400mg of Abilify Maintena, unknown amounts of paroxine (sp), geodon and unknown benzo (forced), 11/2017 Abilify 6.0mg , 12/2017 Abilify 5.5 , 1/2018 Abilify 5.0mg, 3/2018 Abilify 4.5mg, 10/2018-1/2020 Abilify 15-20mg, other inpatient drugs, in and out of the hospital at this time, given tons of nonsense that I don't remember,  1/13/2021 - 3/31/2022, Abilify Maintena ?, Haldol Deca (injectable)250mg, Cogentin 5mg, Tergetol ? (inpatient), 4/2022 - 2/22/2023 Haldol Deca 200mg,  March 25th, 2023  Done! Last injection in February!!!! I am finally free after more than 16 years of psychiatry!  Let's Goooooooooooo! 

 

It's always darkest before dawn.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Glad you found something that helped that rough spot. When you're up to it, would you post your ginger tea proportions in one of our threads on nausea? It will probably help others to see someone's actual report of success and how much fresh ginger was used.

Digestive problems: Nausea, etc.

What to do for dizziness, queasiness, nausea

This is not medical advice. Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a knowledgeable medical practitioner.
1997-1999 Effexor; 2002-2005 Effexor XR 37.5 mg linear taper, dropping same #beads/week with bad results

Cymbalta 60 mg 2012 - 2015; 2016: 20 mg to 7 mg exact doses and dates in this post; 2017: 6.3 mg to  0.0 mg  Aug. 12; details here


scallywag's Introduction
Online spreadsheet for dose taper calculations and nz11's THE WORKS spreadsheet

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