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Blondiee1915: 3 months off lexapro - does it get better?


Blondiee1915

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Blondie, what time of day do you take Luvox? If in the morning, you might want to take it in the evening, you might be less fatigued during the day. To do this, move it an hour or two later each day.

 

It sounds to me like you have fatigue as a side effect of the drug. You said earlier you've had it ever since you started SSRIs.

 

Do you get at least a half-hour gentle exercise each day? That's important, too.

 

The MTHFR mutation probably isn't relevant. You can remedy low folate by eating a lot of fresh leafy green vegetables.

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

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Blondie, what time of day do you take Luvox? If in the morning, you might want to take it in the evening, you might be less fatigued during the day. To do this, move it an hour or two later each day.

 

It sounds to me like you have fatigue as a side effect of the drug. You said earlier you've had it ever since you started SSRIs.

 

Do you get at least a half-hour gentle exercise each day? That's important, too.

 

The MTHFR mutation probably isn't relevant. You can remedy low folate by eating a lot of fresh leafy green vegetables.

Hi Altostrata,

 

I switched a while ago to pm dose, but I still get fatigued. I do agree it is definitely drug induced. I think I do see a slight improvement in fatigue so that is a plus. For the gene mutation I take folic acid (methyl folate) I should be okay in that region. And I just started getting 30 mins a day of walk / light running. It actually helps me to fall asleep very quickly. It has been a month now on 37.5 mg . I think I am going to hold on for a bit longer and then start tapering .

 

Ty again for your suggestion

 

B

Edited by ChessieCat
corrected auto-correct error

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
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Hi Blondiee, thank you very much for sharing your switching experience in my thread! It helps a lot!

I'm guessing for meds made in the form of beads, it's the total weight for each capsule they measure, not the number of beads. I would think its quite difficult to have all beads web weight exactly the same.

This makes it challenging for those who taper by counting beads. Giving that you current dose is still at the high side, about 1/3 of the whole capsule, the error rate will be very small even the beads are not consistent.

I think what you did is the correct way, relying on the total number of beads in each capsule, the take the percentage based on total weight then translate it into number of beads.

I'm sorry you have to deal with this hassle everyday. Be very careful though, you may want to write out every step of the math to make sure.

Hope your day is ok.

Lex

Hi Lex -

 

Thank you for your feedback. It is annoying to count the beads but whatever I have to do to get off this med and get my old self back (I am thinking I would even be a better version of my old self after going through all this ) . I have a running excel spreadsheet with dates bead count and percentage dose ;)

 

Hope you are doing okay and getting some windows. thinning of you as I know how difficult it is to make a decision about switching . Hang in there it will be okay

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
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  • Moderator Emeritus

If you want to impress yourself, figure out how many beads you have already counted. Since last April, I've counted almost 34,000 of the little suckers.  The thought of that then would have sent me to bed with the covers over my head. Now I'm kind of proud of it. :D

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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Wowzie that is a lot of beads ! But yes you should be proud determination and moving forward. I was looking at all the beads in the bottle and thinking great thing I did not put all of them into my body .

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
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I had a glass of wine Saturday night . Big mistake . Felt so hungover exhausted and out of it next day. I also got this weird symptom Saturday night and now Sunday night where my arm during sleep kind of goes numb. Like an arm that fell asleep and I can't feel it. Not sure what to make of this . When I wake up and move around it goes back to normal .

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
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I had a glass of wine Saturday night . Big mistake . Felt so hungover exhausted and out of it next day. I also got this weird symptom Saturday night and now Sunday night where my arm during sleep kind of goes numb. Like an arm that fell asleep and I can't feel it. Not sure what to make of this . When I wake up and move around it goes back to normal .

Were you sleeping on it Blondiee?

Dose History: 19 Feb 2014 - Escitalopram 10mg daily June 2015 - Started taper, 5mg every other day July 2015 - 5mg every 2 days August 2015 - 5mg every 3 days September 2015 - 5mg every 4 days Sept 14th - Completed tapering, but at 7 weeks "drug free" I suffered serious WD symptoms as a consequence of "incorrect" tapering. Nov 25 2015 - Re-instated Cipralex @ 2.5mg daily. WD symptoms faded. Held at this dose and experienced "windows and waves". 12 Oct 2017 Reduced dose to 1.25mg. 13 Mar 2018 Reduced dose to 0.625mg (approx.). 16 April 2018 0mg. Windows and waves triggered by stress (IBS/reflux, headaches, sinus issues) Aug 2019 Mirena coil fitted 6 Jan 2020 MAJOR Wave hit 19 months following last dose (protracted WD).  Symptoms listed below Mar 2020 Mirena coil removal.

Therapy: Nov 15th 2016 Re-started therapy Jan 19th 2017 Started CBT Dec 2017 Started listening to Hypnotherapy CD (self-esteem). Nov 2019 Started couples therapy.

Supplements: "Bioglan" Biotic Balance Ultimate Flora 10 billion CFU, live Bacteria, Probiotic, suitable for Vegetarians, with Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Lactobacillus Rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium Longum"Pukka" Vitalise a unique blend of 30 energising botanicals.

Diet: 16 April 2018 Detox cleanse / anti-candida for 90 days. Jan 2020 Started "small plate" diet (i.e child size portions).

Exercise: Stretching, Yoga, Pilates, Spinning, Elliptical/upper body workout, walking.

Medical Test Results: 4 Jan 2017 Homeopathic Treatment starts 24 Feb 2017 Started weight loss program 24 Mar 2017 Naturopathic Treatment + anti-Candida diet started due to suspected Candida Related Complex (CRC). DETOXED for 7 weeks to "re-set" gut. April 2017 "Genova Diagnostics" Comprehensive Stool Analysis NEGATIVE; Full Blood Count (Normal) / Blood Cholesterol: 5.6 (Borderline) / Blood Sugar (Normal) / 28 Jun 2017 FSH 8.2 / 14 Nov 2017 FSH 17.7 Dec 2017 Blood Cholesterol: 3.9 (Normal) / Kidney Function (Normal) / Blood Sugar (Normal). December 2017 "Genova Diagnostics" Food panel allergy (bloodwork) analysis - a few "VERY LOW/VL" allergens; Mar 2018 "Genova Diagnostics" SIBO urine analysis: High Level of Yeast/fungal markers found in small intestine but NO SIBO.  April 2018 Thyroid (Normal) / Full Blood Count (Normal) / FSH (Normal). 16 April 2018 Started anti-Candida diet - 3 month protocol.   25 March 2020 All test results "Normal". CRP" 5 mg/L (normal range to 0-5 mg/L).

Symptoms:  Flu-like symptoms, anxiety, anhedonia, sinus headaches right-side (severe), IBS issues/reflux (severe)**, tinnitus, fatigue, inner tremor, nausea, chills/hot flushes, pounding heart, muscular issues including stiff left hip flexor, intense anger, PSSD (ongoing).  **Histhamine intolerance (suspected).

Major Life Events: 

Re-located to UK from Canada: Jan 2016

My father died: 5:05pm, Monday 5 Feb 2018 Last Lexapro dose: 16 April 2018 (its now been over a year since I quit ADs)  Moved house: Friday 23rd February 2018  "Divorced" toxic Mother: Monday 26 March 2018 Starting working again: 19 November 2018  Diagnosed with: 5th August 2021 PTSD/C-PTSD Diagnosed with: March 2022 Interstitial Cystitis (IC)/Painful bladder syndrome

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I had a glass of wine Saturday night . Big mistake . Felt so hungover exhausted and out of it next day. I also got this weird symptom Saturday night and now Sunday night where my arm during sleep kind of goes numb. Like an arm that fell asleep and I can't feel it. Not sure what to make of this . When I wake up and move around it goes back to normal .

Were you sleeping on it Blondiee?

I can't remember . Maybe ? I might have been in such a deep sleep and not realized it . Maybe I am freaking out for no reason just hope I am not having a heart attack .

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
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  • Moderator

My arm go to sleep, it really annoying.

 

It's because I sleep on it, that's probably what you did. :)

 

You would have other symptoms if you were having a heart attack. Don't worry about that.

 

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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I had a glass of wine Saturday night . Big mistake . Felt so hungover exhausted and out of it next day. I also got this weird symptom Saturday night and now Sunday night where my arm during sleep kind of goes numb. Like an arm that fell asleep and I can't feel it. Not sure what to make of this . When I wake up and move around it goes back to normal .

I had this too! My arm would go numb sometimes. It's WD. It went away. Also, I had a couple of glasses of wine on Sat as well. I miss going to dinner with friends and being active. I was feeling pretty good on Sat, so I decided to have 2 glasses of wine. Well yesterday I woke up and my pain, fatigue and burning skin were back. Yuck! 

Took 10 mg of Lexapro for 15 years. Started to taper in October 2015. Took last 1mg dose in March 2016. Started having side effects end of March 2016. Symptoms include: anxiety, heart palpitations, shaky, chronic fatigue, body feels like lead(so heavy), brain fog and dizziness and really bad pain especially on right side of body. 

 

Symptoms as of 10/18/16- Burning skin, widespread body pain, some insomnia, some fatigue, some brain fog, anxiety upon waking up, numbing and tremor in pinky and ring finger on left hand, cracking/popping/stiff joints. 

 

Symptoms as of 4/19/17- A little burning skin, muscle pain, FATIGUE, some brain fog, tremor in pinky and ring finger on left hand, cracking/popping/stiff joints, blurry vision, eye floaters, sciatica.

 

Symptoms as of 10/3/17- Physical symptoms-- Very little burning skin that comes and goes, some muscle and nerve pain that comes and goes, tremor in pinky and ring finger, muscle twitches, cortisol spike in the morning(heart palpitations), cracking/popping joints all those this has gotten a little better lately, blurry vision and eye floaters that come and go, sciatica(less intense now), fatigue which is still very bad but better than a year ago. Mental symptoms-- Depression, anxiety, hopelessness, lack of motivation or interest, brain fog(trouble focusing and concentrating), ruminating thoughts. All these come and go. 

 

 

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My arm go to sleep, it really annoying.

It's because I sleep on it, that's probably what you did. :)

You would have other symptoms if you were having a heart attack. Don't worry about that.

Take care,

Frogie xx

I guess I am overthinking this . Will see how it is tonight . Hope you are doing okay Frogie

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
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I had a glass of wine Saturday night . Big mistake . Felt so hungover exhausted and out of it next day. I also got this weird symptom Saturday night and now Sunday night where my arm during sleep kind of goes numb. Like an arm that fell asleep and I can't feel it. Not sure what to make of this . When I wake up and move around it goes back to normal .

 

I had this too! My arm would go numb sometimes. It's WD. It went away. Also, I had a couple of glasses of wine on Sat as well. I miss going to dinner with friends and being active. I was feeling pretty good on Sat, so I decided to have 2 glasses of wine. Well yesterday I woke up and my pain, fatigue and burning skin were back. Yuck!

Hi Chicago,

Ah so it could be WD too . Interesting . I also have these cramps in my feet and hands before I go to bed. I know that it WD but this not feeling arm thing was a bit freaky . How I miss being active and having drinks with friends and just enjoying myself and not thinking of the way I feel and WD and anxiety . I am still pretty tired today . I think I am going to cut liquor out until I feel much better . Hope you are doing okay

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
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  • Moderator

 

My arm go to sleep, it really annoying.

It's because I sleep on it, that's probably what you did. :)

You would have other symptoms if you were having a heart attack. Don't worry about that.

Take care,

Frogie xx

I guess I am overthinking this . Will see how it is tonight . Hope you are doing okay Frogie

Blondiee:

 

I apologize, I sure didn't spell very well. I was on oxycodone at the time I answered you.

 

I was just saying that my arm goes to sleep all the time because I sleep on it.

 

I pinched a nerve on the left side of my neck and my arm has been going to sleep since then. The chiropractor said to roll up a towel and put one under the small of my back and another one under my neck. It does seem to help.

 

If you were having a heart attack you would be having, shortness of breath, your heart would feel like it's doing flips and an elephant would be sitting on your chest. I think you're ok.

 

Just take it easy. I found that those icy hot patches help. I put them on my arm. It takes the pain away. Ibuprofen helps too.

 

I'm sorry I'm not much more help. I hope you feel better soon. :)

 

Take care,

Frogie

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 have a vitamin question. I had my vitamin b12 level tested and it came in a high range 1225. I take methyl CPG for my folic acid and it has high level of vitamin b12. I also take mitochondrial nrg to help with fatigue and that supplement also has high vitamin b12. Do you think I should stop taking these vitamins ? The thing is I struggle with fatigue/exhaustion constantly and taking the supplements I feel like help a bit. I also feel like my mood is okay overall and I believe vitamin b12 helps mood. Before my vitamin b levels were lower but now they seem high the acceptable range per lab up is be 200-1100 and I am above that . I also read that high vitamin b12 levels could indicate liver disease. I am pretty sure I don't have that and that lexapro caused my liver to be not functioning that well but I don't think I have a disease . Sorry for all the rambling . I guess my main question is should I be concerned and or stop taking my above mentioned vitamins ? I had a chiropractor visit and he gave me some herbs to take to help clean the liver it is called green dragon . Has anyone had any experiencing taking anything to help the liver ?

Any input appreciated

Later today I should update my signature listing all the supplements/vitamins I take

Ty very much

b

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
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My B12 tested high, though not as high as yours.  When I did a SpectraCell test it was actually quite low, and I have the MTHFR variation.  

 

The conclusion I come to is circulating B12 may be higher than in the cells, especially if your body has trouble processing it.

 

Perhaps stick to one B12 supplement if possible?  It's hard to narrow down cause-and-effect when there are so many variables.

On and off various medicines since 1989

2009:  Prescribed Lexapro 5mg and Abilify 5mg
2015:  discovered MTHFR snp, went on Walsh protocol, felt better

2016:  down to 2.5mg each of Lexapro and Abilify

2017:  down to .7mg of Abilify, obtained liquid form.

Currently at .4mg of Abilify

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My B12 tested high, though not as high as yours.  When I did a SpectraCell test it was actually quite low, and I have the MTHFR variation.  

 

The conclusion I come to is circulating B12 may be higher than in the cells, especially if your body has trouble processing it.

 

Perhaps stick to one B12 supplement if possible?  It's hard to narrow down cause-and-effect when there are so many variables.

 

I have the MTHFR gene too. I seriously wonder how many people going through WD have this gene. It would be an interesting study. Blondee, I agree with JJ33 about the B12 theory. I started taking a B12 supplement in the beginning of this process and was tested as well. It was showing up VERY high on tests. However, it could just be high in our blood since our bodies don't absorb it well. The theory is we aren't absorbing the supplement, so it shows as high on a blood test. Again, this is a theory and MY opinion, but I think since we have the MTHFR gene this could be why this happens. The best way to get those vitamins is through diet. I started juicing a month ago and I really think it has helped me. Juice or eat lots of dark leafy greens! Kale, spinach, bok choy, celery etc. Also, for B12 specifically, wild salmon, tuna, eggs and cottage cheese. Don't eat too much dairy though because it causes inflammation. As for the liver, prescription pills are soooo bad and hard on our livers. I think part of the reason we all feel so crappy is because our bodies are detoxing from the meds. 

Took 10 mg of Lexapro for 15 years. Started to taper in October 2015. Took last 1mg dose in March 2016. Started having side effects end of March 2016. Symptoms include: anxiety, heart palpitations, shaky, chronic fatigue, body feels like lead(so heavy), brain fog and dizziness and really bad pain especially on right side of body. 

 

Symptoms as of 10/18/16- Burning skin, widespread body pain, some insomnia, some fatigue, some brain fog, anxiety upon waking up, numbing and tremor in pinky and ring finger on left hand, cracking/popping/stiff joints. 

 

Symptoms as of 4/19/17- A little burning skin, muscle pain, FATIGUE, some brain fog, tremor in pinky and ring finger on left hand, cracking/popping/stiff joints, blurry vision, eye floaters, sciatica.

 

Symptoms as of 10/3/17- Physical symptoms-- Very little burning skin that comes and goes, some muscle and nerve pain that comes and goes, tremor in pinky and ring finger, muscle twitches, cortisol spike in the morning(heart palpitations), cracking/popping joints all those this has gotten a little better lately, blurry vision and eye floaters that come and go, sciatica(less intense now), fatigue which is still very bad but better than a year ago. Mental symptoms-- Depression, anxiety, hopelessness, lack of motivation or interest, brain fog(trouble focusing and concentrating), ruminating thoughts. All these come and go. 

 

 

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JJ33 & Chicago77 -

 

Thank you for your input. I agree that MTFHT mutation and the use of medication causes the body not to absorb things properly. I decided I am going to stick with the vitamin / supplement regime and see what happens. If I was not taking any supplements for B12 I would be nervous but since I do it probably caused the results to be on high end . I want to start juicing too. I just started exercising lightly even though I am so tired I make myself walk on a treadmill for 30 mins almost every day. And I listen to this app before bed called Calm. They have different series like 10 days of calming anxiety 21 days of stress free and so on . I paid subscription price for it but few meditations they have for free as well if anyone is interested.

 

I read this article how the MTFHT mutation can actually cause depression, anxiety and panic attacks . So I wonder if we had it since birth and the mental issues encountered were the result of that (plus some environment factors ) or if lexapro actually did cause this ...

 

Wishing everyone a good weekend !

 

b

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
Link to comment
  • Moderator

JJ33 & Chicago77 -

Thank you for your input. I agree that MTFHT mutation and the use of medication causes the body not to absorb things properly. I decided I am going to stick with the vitamin / supplement regime and see what happens. If I was not taking any supplements for B12 I would be nervous but since I do it probably caused the results to be on high end . I want to start juicing too. I just started exercising lightly even though I am so tired I make myself walk on a treadmill for 30 mins almost every day. And I listen to this app before bed called Calm. They have different series like 10 days of calming anxiety 21 days of stress free and so on . I paid subscription price for it but few meditations they have for free as well if anyone is interested.

I read this article how the MTFHT mutation can actually cause depression, anxiety and panic attacks . So I wonder if we had it since birth and the mental issues encountered were the result of that (plus some environment factors ) or if lexapro actually did cause this ...

Wishing everyone a good weekend !

b

Hi Blondiee:

 

I'm glad to hear you are exercising. I have a Pilates machine, and a stationary bike. They sit. Especially since I pinched this nerve.

 

I use the app Calm also, but it was free. Maybe I need to update.

 

Have a great day!

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

Link to comment

 

JJ33 & Chicago77 -

Thank you for your input. I agree that MTFHT mutation and the use of medication causes the body not to absorb things properly. I decided I am going to stick with the vitamin / supplement regime and see what happens. If I was not taking any supplements for B12 I would be nervous but since I do it probably caused the results to be on high end . I want to start juicing too. I just started exercising lightly even though I am so tired I make myself walk on a treadmill for 30 mins almost every day. And I listen to this app before bed called Calm. They have different series like 10 days of calming anxiety 21 days of stress free and so on . I paid subscription price for it but few meditations they have for free as well if anyone is interested.

I read this article how the MTFHT mutation can actually cause depression, anxiety and panic attacks . So I wonder if we had it since birth and the mental issues encountered were the result of that (plus some environment factors ) or if lexapro actually did cause this ...

Wishing everyone a good weekend !

b

Hi Blondiee:

I'm glad to hear you are exercising. I have a Pilates machine, and a stationary bike. They sit. Especially since I pinched this nerve.

I use the app Calm also, but it was free. Maybe I need to update.

Have a great day!

Take care,

Frogie xx

Hi Frogie !

Thank you for stopping by :) once you feel better I am sure you will use your exercise machine, you just need to get better first . How do you like that app ? I also had a free version and then decided to get a subscription to get more meditation variety

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
Link to comment

I decided to post a list of my symptoms. I think I got them all. It covers July 2016 through now. I withdrew completely in July reinstated lexapro in October at 5 mg switched to Luvox 50 mg in December and cut to Luvox 37.5 mg in January . Keeping track of this for my own information and perhaps someone can find this helpful and can relate as well

WD symptoms list:

Nausea - occasional, usually am

Headache - gone with reinstatement

Burning pinky finger

Ringing in the ears - constant

Fatigue - constant, at times debilitating and intense

Dizziness - constant, most annoying symptom along with fatigue

Vertigo episode - 2 major with spins and nausea with movement

Disbalance off equilibrium - constant very annoying

Muscle twitching - mild, not bothersome or noticeable (I hope)

Cold feet and hands - mostly gone

Burning heavy eyes - not as bad as a month ago

DP/DR - still there but improved with reinstatement

Detachment - still there but not as bad as before

Stiff muscles - neck and shoulders (not bad)

Blurry vision - still there and bad particularly at night

Flu like symptoms - still there but not as bad as before

Brain fog - some

Sensitive to light loud noise - some

Anxiety - still some mainly in the am and afternoon

Feeling of going crazy and racing thoughts - decreased, better after reinstating

Hair falling out stopped thankfully

Appetite all over the place

Lost weight

Feet hands and arm cramps while trying to fall asleep

Insomnia - started getting bad during month 3 after stopping the meds once reinstated insomnia is gone completely

Mood seems okay hopeful and determined

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
Link to comment

Thanks for sharing your list Blondiee!! I think it does help to keep track and revisit every few months. It helps me at least.  :) We have/had a lot of the same symptoms. The fatigue and brain fog are probably the most frustrating to me because it effects my daily life including work!! Ahhhh!!! Hopefully, we keep continuing to heal!  :D

Took 10 mg of Lexapro for 15 years. Started to taper in October 2015. Took last 1mg dose in March 2016. Started having side effects end of March 2016. Symptoms include: anxiety, heart palpitations, shaky, chronic fatigue, body feels like lead(so heavy), brain fog and dizziness and really bad pain especially on right side of body. 

 

Symptoms as of 10/18/16- Burning skin, widespread body pain, some insomnia, some fatigue, some brain fog, anxiety upon waking up, numbing and tremor in pinky and ring finger on left hand, cracking/popping/stiff joints. 

 

Symptoms as of 4/19/17- A little burning skin, muscle pain, FATIGUE, some brain fog, tremor in pinky and ring finger on left hand, cracking/popping/stiff joints, blurry vision, eye floaters, sciatica.

 

Symptoms as of 10/3/17- Physical symptoms-- Very little burning skin that comes and goes, some muscle and nerve pain that comes and goes, tremor in pinky and ring finger, muscle twitches, cortisol spike in the morning(heart palpitations), cracking/popping joints all those this has gotten a little better lately, blurry vision and eye floaters that come and go, sciatica(less intense now), fatigue which is still very bad but better than a year ago. Mental symptoms-- Depression, anxiety, hopelessness, lack of motivation or interest, brain fog(trouble focusing and concentrating), ruminating thoughts. All these come and go. 

 

 

Link to comment

Thanks for sharing your list Blondiee!! I think it does help to keep track and revisit every few months. It helps me at least.  :) We have/had a lot of the same symptoms. The fatigue and brain fog are probably the most frustrating to me because it effects my daily life including work!! Ahhhh!!! Hopefully, we keep continuing to heal!  :D

Yes i agree it is helpful keeping track of the symptoms . This is how I know it is not me but WD bc i never experienced the above symptoms prior to starting lexapro .

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
Link to comment

+ low voice occasionally + vivid dreams (subsided which is good )

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
Link to comment
  • 2 weeks later...

Another update: has been almost two months since being on 37.5 mg dose of Luvox. I started to notice that my tinnitus is a bit worse . Constant ringing in the ears and also feeling like my ears clogged almost or full . I had ENT appointment for my vertigo few weeks ago and it was fine so I assume it is WD related . My tiredness is a bit better. I still feel that body heaviness and exhaustion but it is improving a bit. Dizziness and off balance feeling is still persistent . Lately I started noticing my racing thoughts and fear pop in. I am concerned and trying to remain calm and just breathe and take a day at the time . But thoughts like will I get better how can I get through this and fear of loneliness and going anywhere like store yoga etc keep me scared . I have an exam coming up and I know some of the anxiety could be attributed to that .

 

I was also considering going up a bit maybe ? Do not know how much but I was on 50 mg of Luvox for a month and that was not much different from where I am now so not sure . Just want this ringing to stop and raising thought to ease. Is it probable that Luvox is not enough to ease some of the symptoms from lexapro since lexapro is more potent ? I also do not want to go back and increase and then be in the same place again . I am trying to listen to my body and see what to do but sometimes I just don't know .

 

Also I do not think the ringing in the ears is caused by Luvox . I went back to my notes to see when it started and it started in early December when I was still on 5 mg of lexapro before the switch to Luvox .

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
Link to comment

I found this information and now I am thinking maybe it is Luvox? http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/892-inner-ear-problems-drugs-that-can-damage-ears/?hl=%2Bluvox+%2Bears+%2Bringing

 

I did not have tinnitus coming off lexapro or being off lexapro.  In my notes I read that I started having ears ringing in December 2016 very mild before Luvox and then after switch to Luvox it increased.  So I am not sure what to think.  I have been holding for 2 months now maybe I can try to go down a bit to see what will happen? 

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
Link to comment
  • Moderator Emeritus

It's unlikely that increasing the dose of an anti-depressant such as Luvox will decrease a symptom of overstimulation/sensitization such as tinnitus, particularly when the tinnitus arose after stopping Lexapro.

 

Trying a decrease 5% or 10% of Luvox might be worth considering.

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

Link to comment

Hi scallywag,

 

Thank you for the suggestion . I agree I think I am going to do a reduction in a week or two. I read someone's comment in another thread how you have to decide if you can live with the symptom and I think I can . It bothers me a lot but if it is noisy around it is manageable . So I am going to suck it up and stick to the plan.

 

Yesterday was actually an okay day for me . I still had anxiety and dizziness and annoying tinnitus, but it was sunshine and my mood was better and I felt this weird happiness inside. I went on a treadmill for half an hour and felt much better after . Today I am exhausted and fatigue hit back like crazy . I am struggling to stay awake and my body is just so heavy. I also feel sore maybe too much exercise. But so thankful for yesterday and the peace I felt .

 

B

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
Link to comment
  • Moderator

Hi Blondiee:

 

Just thought I would drop by and see how you are doin?

 

I hope you are feeling better. :)

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

Link to comment

Hi Blondiee:

Just thought I would drop by and see how you are doin?

I hope you are feeling better. :)

Take care,

Frogie xx

Hi Frogie,

 

Thank you so much for stopping by . I am hanging in there . I just don't understand this intense fatigue . Is it WD is it the drug or is it stress/anxiety . I really hope it lifts . Today I am even more tired that it takes so much effort even to talk. Trying to make it though the work day .

 

Hope you are doing well

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
Link to comment
  • Moderator

 

Hi Blondiee:

Just thought I would drop by and see how you are doin?

I hope you are feeling better. :)

Take care,

Frogie xx

Hi Frogie,

Thank you so much for stopping by . I am hanging in there . I just don't understand this intense fatigue . Is it WD is it the drug or is it stress/anxiety . I really hope it lifts . Today I am even more tired that it takes so much effort even to talk. Trying to make it though the work day .

Hope you are doing well

Hi Blondiee:

 

It's probably a combination of all of it.

 

I'm back to being nauseous. Wasn't for 3 months and it hit me again. I don't understand mine either.

 

Are you still on Lexapro?

 

Hopefully we will both get through this and forget all about it. :)

 

Have a good day.

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

PREVIOUS medications and discontinuations: Have been on medications since 1996. 

 Valium, Gabapentin, Lamictal, Prilosec and Zantac from 2000 to 2015 with a fast taper by a psychiatrist.

 Liquid Lexapro Nov, 2016 to 31-March, 2019 Lexapro free!!! (total Lexapro taper was 4 years-started with pill form)

---CURRENT MEDICATIONS:Supplements:Milk Thistle, Metamucil, Magnesium Citrate, Vitamin D3, Levothyroxine 25mcg, Vitamin C, Krill oil.

Xanax 1mg 3x day June, 2000 to 19-September, 2020 Went from .150 grams (average weight of 1 Xanax) 3x day to .003 grams 3x day. April 1, 2021 went back on 1mg a day. Started tapering May 19, 2023. July 28, 2023-approximately .87mg. Dr. fast tapered me at the end and realized he messed up. Prescribe it again and I am doing "slower than a turtle" taper.

19-September, 2020 Xanax free!!! (total Xanax taper was 15-1/2 months-1-June, 2019-19-September, 2020)

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

Link to comment

Yea it could be a combination of all the above . I just need to accept it and carry on.

 

Sorry about your nausea. I get a bit of it usually in the morning and it is an annoying and uncomfortable symptom for sure . Have you tried ginger tea ?

 

I agree I just want us to feel better already

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
Link to comment

Hi guys,

 

Is there a topic with any success stories?  I need some encouragement.  I am struggling with this fatigue.  I am not sure if this is even fatigue or lethargy or body heaviness or depression even  or all of the above.  

 

I am naturally a happy person, was never diagnosed as depressed,  more on the anxious side.  Once I started switching SSRIs few years back I remember my shrink saying that I might be also depressed which I did not agree with. I want to do things go out, enjoy company etc but my body feels so heavy and just exhausted.  I feel like everything takes effort and energy just to get up and go somewhere.  I do not feel refreshed no matter how much I sleep.  Basically it is just this all over heaviness and the desire to lay down and either sleep or do nothing and simple tasks taking effort.  I wanted to see if anyone else experienced this and how long this lasted.  I know we are all different, but would like to hear advice on this.  I do know that my adrenals are exhausted so that could be some of that.  But can WD make you feel like this?  

 

I also started noticing feeling not present.  Like detached from the world almost.  I am not sure if this is DP/DR or what.  I remember I went to a therapist few months back and she said that it sounds like I have PTSD from being anxious all the time and stressed.  Is this even possible?  I thought something dramatic needs to happen in order to develop PTSD.  

 

I wanted to start my taper again, but I am not sure if this is a good idea now.  I am scarred that I was on lexapro for 7 years or so at the max dose and my fast taper back in May reinstatement and switch to Luvox is catching up to me and I do not know what to do.  

 

B. 

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
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  • Moderator Emeritus

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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Hey Blondiee, 

 

You aren't alone in the fatigue department. It's my worst symptom I have! I think it can be one for the last symptoms to leave. At least I'm hoping so. lol  :D  From what I've been reading and other people I've talked to A LOT of people have severe fatigue during WD. I literally was convinced I developed chronic fatigue system, which in a way I have, but that doesn't mean that it won't go away after WD. I believe our whole body is effected by WD. Liver, gut, brain, adrenals, muscles, etc. I felt tired while taking Lexparo, but nothing like this. I know exactly what you mean about not feeling refreshed no matter how much sleep you get. That's exactly how I am. I can sleep 8-10 hours straight and still feel exhausted and so tired. I'm just hoping as time goes by that my body will heal and I'll get back my energy!  :)

Took 10 mg of Lexapro for 15 years. Started to taper in October 2015. Took last 1mg dose in March 2016. Started having side effects end of March 2016. Symptoms include: anxiety, heart palpitations, shaky, chronic fatigue, body feels like lead(so heavy), brain fog and dizziness and really bad pain especially on right side of body. 

 

Symptoms as of 10/18/16- Burning skin, widespread body pain, some insomnia, some fatigue, some brain fog, anxiety upon waking up, numbing and tremor in pinky and ring finger on left hand, cracking/popping/stiff joints. 

 

Symptoms as of 4/19/17- A little burning skin, muscle pain, FATIGUE, some brain fog, tremor in pinky and ring finger on left hand, cracking/popping/stiff joints, blurry vision, eye floaters, sciatica.

 

Symptoms as of 10/3/17- Physical symptoms-- Very little burning skin that comes and goes, some muscle and nerve pain that comes and goes, tremor in pinky and ring finger, muscle twitches, cortisol spike in the morning(heart palpitations), cracking/popping joints all those this has gotten a little better lately, blurry vision and eye floaters that come and go, sciatica(less intense now), fatigue which is still very bad but better than a year ago. Mental symptoms-- Depression, anxiety, hopelessness, lack of motivation or interest, brain fog(trouble focusing and concentrating), ruminating thoughts. All these come and go. 

 

 

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Hey Blondiee, 

 

You aren't alone in the fatigue department. It's my worst symptom I have! I think it can be one for the last symptoms to leave. At least I'm hoping so. lol  :D  From what I've been reading and other people I've talked to A LOT of people have severe fatigue during WD. I literally was convinced I developed chronic fatigue system, which in a way I have, but that doesn't mean that it won't go away after WD. I believe our whole body is effected by WD. Liver, gut, brain, adrenals, muscles, etc. I felt tired while taking Lexparo, but nothing like this. I know exactly what you mean about not feeling refreshed no matter how much sleep you get. That's exactly how I am. I can sleep 8-10 hours straight and still feel exhausted and so tired. I'm just hoping as time goes by that my body will heal and I'll get back my energy!  :)

 

Hi Chicago, 

 

Thank you so much for stopping by :) I completely agree our whole body is affected by WD, liver adrenals and the brain for sure.  It is comforting to know I am not the only one because I recently started questioning and dwelling on this symptom and thinking is it me?  I did read on some thread how it is the last symptom to go as well.  I also read how our bodies heal when we sleep and since I sleep alot now days I guess this is good; better than insomnia for sure.  It is also hard to participate in anything.  My friends would say oh let's do happy hour or this or that and on Friday night last thing I want is to drink.  I basically just go home and relax.  Oye who knew this about lexapro.  I hope this fatigue will lift for both of us soon.  I got this light lamp at work as well to see if it helps.  I also think when it is sunny out it is much easier for me to get through the day,  it is like I am sensitive to this gloomy rainy weather.  

 

Hope you are doing well Chicago, stay strong :)

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
Link to comment

04/10 Luvox 25 mg PM, Nortriptyline 1 mg PM

03/08/19: Buspar 2.5 mg AM, 5 mg PM

01/01/19: Xanax 0.125 AM 5 times a week. Occasionally, 0.125 twice a day AM & noon

12/18 Armour Thyroid 60 mg (for hypothyroidism) 

 

Supplements: B Complex, B12 (adeno), multi-vitamin, D, Adrenal Cortex, iron

  • Lexapro 20 mg 2007 - 2013 with various attempts to stop
  • 2013 found a new Dr and started trying other meds: Prozac, Notryptoline, Effexor, Buspar, Gabapentin, Paxil, Nardil
  • Lexapro 15 mg 2015 - 04/2016
  • Vibryiid 10 - 15mg 05/16-06/16 
  • NO MEDS 07/16 - 10/31/16
  • Reinstated 10/31/16 at 2.5 mg lexapro, increased to 5 mg   
  • 1/13/17 switched to Luvox 50 mg before bed
  • 1/20/17 Luvox 37.5 mg PM
  • 12/18 Luvox 10 mg PM, Nortriptyline 2 mg (started Nortriptyline 06/17 at 10 mg)
Link to comment

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