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jr1985: Effexor / venlafaxine taper


jr1985

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I don't know what happened to me last night but ever since I've had this hot feeling in certain parts of my body and my head feels strange and I have a kind of mental restlessness. Now my whole body feels restless. Is this what akathisia really is? The thing I had before which I thought was akathisia may have only been paresthesia. Now I'm scared. :(

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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Note this started before I updated or took seroquel.

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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I feel kind of guilty for updosing, but I've had nothing but problems ever since I made that 5% cut. I'll try holding on 37.5mg to see if I stabilize. I'm just really terrified of becoming suicidal and making an attempt again. My parents have been put through enough in life without me adding more to their stress. My parents lost a baby before I was born, which you never really get over, then they found out my sister can't have kids, so she's going through the adoption process, which is very very stressful. Then there's all my problems on top of those things. I just want to be better for them, so they have one less thing to worry about. :(

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

I feel kind of guilty for updosing, but I've had nothing but problems ever since I made that 5% cut. I'll try holding on 37.5mg to see if I stabilize. I'm just really terrified of becoming suicidal and making an attempt again. My parents have been put through enough in life without me adding more to their stress. My parents lost a baby before I was born, which you never really get over, then they found out my sister can't have kids, so she's going through the adoption process, which is very very stressful. Then there's all my problems on top of those things. I just want to be better for them, so they have one less thing to worry about. :(

 

When you are ready to taper again, how about coming down .1 mg at a time. Do a micro taper so the symptoms don't hit, you are in control.

As always, LISTEN TO YOUR BODY! A proud supporter of the 10% (or slower) rule.

 

Requip - 3/16 ZERO  Total time on 25 years.

 

Lyrica: 8/15 ZERO Total time on 7 or 8 yrs.

BENZO FREE 10/13 (started tapering 7/10)  Total time on 25 years.

 

Read my intro thread here, and check the about me section.  "No matter how cynical you get, it's almost impossible to keep up." Lily Tomlin

 

 

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I'm terrified I'll never stablilize and I'll be stuck in hell forever.

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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It seems my insomnia is caused by same problem as cinephile - my brain shocks me awake just as I'm about to drift off to sleep. Hoping the updose will take care of it. When will I know if it's going to help? 4 days?

 

I tried taking Nytol (diphenhydramine) but it isn't strong enough. 25mg Seroquel knocked me out but I don't like the idea of using this too much. I know the risks of antipsychotics, but it should be safe if I'm only using a tiny amount every once in a while? Last time I used it was back in February/March.

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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Hi jr

 

I didn't want to hog electrons thread.

 

I just wanted to say that Mind seems to be very knowledgable with the dangers of these drugs and I was quite pleasently surprised they only use medication as a last resort.

 

They have some good booklets on m/h I have purchased a few.

 

Jr I truly wish you find relief soon

 

Debbie x

17 years on seroxat/paxil CT off - thought I was dying luckily found this site. 21st May 2012 12mg seroxat

Stable - Tapered Diazepam slowish.1st June 10mg Seroxat

2nd June 1mg Diazepam.15th June 9mg seroxat

2nd July Changed to 2.5[ml liquid diazepam]2mg=5ml. 16th July 2ml Liquid Diazepam

2nd August 8mg/4ml Seroxat/Paxil 2nd August 1.5 ml Diazepam

18th Aug 2012 1ml Diazepam 1st - 5th Sept 0.5

Diazepam Free!

13th Oct 7mg/3.5ml seroxat - 26 Jan 2013 3.25ml/6.5mg-Mar 3ml-April 2.7ml-May 2.5ml

01/07/14 very slow taper over the last year now on 0.5 ml of liquid Seroxat ......November 14 Seroat Free!!!!!!!

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Hi jr

 

I didn't want to hog electrons thread.

 

I just wanted to say that Mind seems to be very knowledgable with the dangers of these drugs and I was quite pleasently surprised they only use medication as a last resort.

 

They have some good booklets on m/h I have purchased a few.

 

Jr I truly wish you find relief soon

 

Debbie x

 

Thanks Debbie. I don't feel just as bad, hopefully the updosing is beginning to work.

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Hi jr

 

You don't need to feel guilty for up dosing and don't feel that you must rush either. I held at one dose for three months before I tapered again. Sometimes it takes a while for our brain and CNS to 'catch up'. I don't know if you are logging your symptoms on a daily basis, but this can be a great tool in letting you know if your system is truly ready for a new taper.

 

Stop beating yourself, you are human. Things will get better, don't give up hope. Just try to make sure you have stabilized before you taper and hold as long as you need to.

 

I hope you feel better soon. {{{hugs}}}

 

Love,

 

Tezza

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Jr,

 

I did post on electrons thread how to get to the booklet on the Mind website

 

So happy to feel you are a bit better

 

Debbie x

17 years on seroxat/paxil CT off - thought I was dying luckily found this site. 21st May 2012 12mg seroxat

Stable - Tapered Diazepam slowish.1st June 10mg Seroxat

2nd June 1mg Diazepam.15th June 9mg seroxat

2nd July Changed to 2.5[ml liquid diazepam]2mg=5ml. 16th July 2ml Liquid Diazepam

2nd August 8mg/4ml Seroxat/Paxil 2nd August 1.5 ml Diazepam

18th Aug 2012 1ml Diazepam 1st - 5th Sept 0.5

Diazepam Free!

13th Oct 7mg/3.5ml seroxat - 26 Jan 2013 3.25ml/6.5mg-Mar 3ml-April 2.7ml-May 2.5ml

01/07/14 very slow taper over the last year now on 0.5 ml of liquid Seroxat ......November 14 Seroat Free!!!!!!!

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Hear not feel - wrong word lol

17 years on seroxat/paxil CT off - thought I was dying luckily found this site. 21st May 2012 12mg seroxat

Stable - Tapered Diazepam slowish.1st June 10mg Seroxat

2nd June 1mg Diazepam.15th June 9mg seroxat

2nd July Changed to 2.5[ml liquid diazepam]2mg=5ml. 16th July 2ml Liquid Diazepam

2nd August 8mg/4ml Seroxat/Paxil 2nd August 1.5 ml Diazepam

18th Aug 2012 1ml Diazepam 1st - 5th Sept 0.5

Diazepam Free!

13th Oct 7mg/3.5ml seroxat - 26 Jan 2013 3.25ml/6.5mg-Mar 3ml-April 2.7ml-May 2.5ml

01/07/14 very slow taper over the last year now on 0.5 ml of liquid Seroxat ......November 14 Seroat Free!!!!!!!

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Dear jr1985

 

I just want to offer you some words of encouragement. When you are feeling really bad, when it seems so bad that you don't think you can take it. Try to remember that you have felt that way before and that it got better. It's hard to do that because you are being forced to feel that way because of the withdrawals, but you just have to wait and then you can make plans and steel yourself for the next move.

 

Good luck lots of people here hoping the best for you.

Lexapro

2009: 2 mg daily

2012: 1 mg daily

24 June   1.000 mg

05 July     0.920 mg

21 July     0.920 mg

07 Sep     0.800 mg

19 Oct      0.700 mg

29 Nov     0.600 mg

2013

11 Jan.    0.500 mg

14 Mar     0.350 mg

02 Apr     0.30 mg

12 May    0.20 mg

07 July     0.15 mg

21 Aug    0.09 mg

04 Sept   0.05 mg

02 Oct     0.00 mg

These things passed and so will this of mine.

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Thanks everyone, it means a lot that you took the time to reply to me. :)

 

So the plan is to stay on 37.5mg until I feel stable, however long that might take, then consider jumping to Prozac once I feel ok. I think the symptoms I have now are due to "neurological instability", rather than being garden variety side effects, so I think the safest option is to stay still until I reach some level of stability.

 

I wonder if all the dose changes I've been making is basically causing the same problems as the "alternate dosing" taper.

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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Seroquel the night before a 9 hour shift = bad idea! I was sooo drowsy in the morning. I thought I was going to fall asleep in work, but luckily it seems to be gradually wearing off.

 

No more seroquel for me, I probably would have felt better without it even if I hadn't slept.

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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Woke up with akathisia this morning. The kind where you have to keep moving your legs to get relief. Why do I still have this months after reinstatement? Is it all the dose changes, do you think?

 

It's so frustrating that I felt almost normal a couple of weeks ago, but now it's back with a vengeance.

 

Anyone have an advice on supplements, etc for relief? I've tried magnesium and propranolol, but the only thing that helped was diphenhydramine (Benadryl, Nytol). Problem is it also makes you drowsy. What about glycine?

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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After reading that Vitamin B6 may help with akathisia, I went out and bought some. About 15 minutes after taking 50mg I noticed an improvement! The tingling is still there but not as bad. Of course, it could just be coincidence/placebo, so I'll try taking it for a week or so to see if it lasts.

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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I think the tremors, tingling, akathisia, etc are actually side effects from the Effexor.

 

Firstly, it started AFTER I reinstated the drug.

 

Secondly, it seemed to get worse after I updosed to 37.5mg.

 

I noticed after I dropped 5% it seemed to ease up a bit before returning. Is it possible that dropping the dose disrupts the action of the drug, so side effects disappear for a while, but after stability is re-established, they return?

 

The good news is my sleep seems to have improved after up dosing.

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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Ok last week I got a letter from my GP surgery saying they were changing my brand of venlafaxine XL from Rodomel XL to Vensir XL. I assume is less expensive. Is this something I should be worried about?

 

It's the same drug and all, but I'm worried I won't tolerate it due to different release mechanisms or something (no idea if they actually are different).

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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  • Administrator

It's probably a different generic brand. Phone them and tell them of your concerns.

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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I don't think I'll bother phoning them cos I know what they'll say - "it's the same drug!!". Aw well, I have enough of the old one to last for a couple of weeks, plus I saved all the extra beads after weighing them.

 

I have felt better over the past couple of days, and thats without the B6.

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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The feeling in my arms and legs is now more like the hot burning sensation I had before. Still don't know if it's a w/d wave or reinstatement side effect, but I think I'm starting to lean more towards side effect. I think it's important to know where the symptoms are coming from, because I don't want to drop if they're w/d related, as it could make things worse. But if they are side effects, then holding just causes needless suffering.

 

I'm having second thoughts about the Prozac switch. My nerves have become hypersensitive since w/d, so it could be very risky - I've had akathisia since reinstating, which is now mild, but Prozac is known to cause akathisia. Maybe I should try 2.5% drops before considering Prozac?

 

I know ultimately the decision is up to me, but I'd like to hear everyone's opinion on what I should do. It helps to get other perspectives before making a decision.

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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  • Administrator

I would try 2.5% drops first, for the reason that you might be sensitive to Prozac.

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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  • Moderator Emeritus

Hi jr,

 

I'm sorry I haven't replied to you before. I've been posting from a cell and unfortunately I missed a LOT by using it. I've just recently began using a tablet and am still in awe at how much I was missing. I was unable to add a signature or see anyone else's signature. I feel like I owe everyone an apology. It was the only way I could join in for the time being.

 

I know where you're coming from about WDs or side effects but don't know how to advise you on it, hopefully Alto or one of the other admins will be able to give you some good advice. This whole journey of tapering can be so confusing and frustrating, not to mention downright scary at times.

 

I'm just trying to "pay it forward" and offer support to everyone that I can. I know I'm not a lot of help, but I'm here and I care. I care about everyone on the forum because we all share the same trial in some way or another.

 

I hope to someday REALLY be able to " pay it forward".

 

Love,

 

Tezza

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Thank you tezza :)

 

Tbh, I was hoping to switch to Prozac as I thought it would be easier and faster to taper from. But a guy on another forum switched from Effexor to Prozac and he claimed his w/d got much worse. I suspect the switch sensitised him even more, making w/d more troublesome.

 

It's going to take me about 5 years to taper 2.5% every 5 weeks or so. :( I can't believe it's going to take so long... I knew Effexor had a bad rep when it came to w/ d but I'd now idea just how bad it could be.

 

I'm wondering if I actually will be able to go faster. Symptoms that I thought were w/d may actually be side effects, and I wonder if I'm sensitive to sugar now too, which could explain my suicidal episode after my 5% drop. I'd been pigging out on chocolate and ice cream (it was Queen's Diamond Jubilee), then something happened that upset me and I started feeling suicidal.

 

Regardless, I'm going to hold on 37.5mg for at least another week before trying a 2.5% drop.

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Thank you tezza :)

 

Tbh, I was hoping to switch to Prozac as I thought it would be easier and faster to taper from. But a guy on another forum switched from Effexor to Prozac and he claimed his w/d got much worse. I suspect the switch sensitised him even more, making w/d more troublesome.

 

jr.. You can always find an opposing point of view when you search, and his history would be different than yours. What was Alto's advice? That is what I'd stick with. If you decide to take another course of action, run it by her so you don't risk going off on a tangent.

As always, LISTEN TO YOUR BODY! A proud supporter of the 10% (or slower) rule.

 

Requip - 3/16 ZERO  Total time on 25 years.

 

Lyrica: 8/15 ZERO Total time on 7 or 8 yrs.

BENZO FREE 10/13 (started tapering 7/10)  Total time on 25 years.

 

Read my intro thread here, and check the about me section.  "No matter how cynical you get, it's almost impossible to keep up." Lily Tomlin

 

 

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  • Administrator

I'm sorry, jr, Effexor can be very difficult to withdraw from. You're caught in a difficult situation. Perhaps at a certain point, when your dosage is decreased appreciably, the side effects will go away.

 

I'm not sure what else to suggest. There's a very active psychiatric survivor's movement in Ireland http://www.mindfreedomireland.com/new/index.php , perhaps they might know of a doctor who can help you with a switch to Prozac or perhaps Celexa (???). (If you do find such a doctor, please let us know for our list of doctors.)

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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Thank you tezza :)

 

Tbh, I was hoping to switch to Prozac as I thought it would be easier and faster to taper from. But a guy on another forum switched from Effexor to Prozac and he claimed his w/d got much worse. I suspect the switch sensitised him even more, making w/d more troublesome.

 

jr.. You can always find an opposing point of view when you search, and his history would be different than yours. What was Alto's advice? That is what I'd stick with. If you decide to take another course of action, run it by her so you don't risk going off on a tangent.

 

Front what I can tell the guy was on 300mg Effexor. He tapered to 18.75mg, then switched to 5mg Prozac. He was having w/d or side effects, not sure, so he updosed to 10mg and it made him ill. So I guess it is different to my situation. I was always on a much lower dose than he was, and he basically doubled the dose by going up to 10mg (37.5mg Effexor). So perhaps I'd be more likely to tolerate it.

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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Ok I guess my options are -

 

A) Taper Effexor - I know how it affects me, but w/d can be a nightmare

 

B) switch to Prozac - w/d may be easier but I risk an adverse reaction

 

C) Taper Effexor as much as possible, then switch to Prozac - since I would require a smaller dose of Prozac, an adverse reaction would be less likely to occur.

 

I mostly want to switch to Prozac because I might be able to taper faster. Why do I want to taper faster? Well I'm starting my psychology degree in September and I'm convinced that the medication contributed towards my difficulties at university. So the lower the dose I'm on the less likely I will have side effects that may hinder my ability to study. I wonder if there are ways t boost concentration, motivation, etc without Ritalin? I know excerise and meditation can help with this, is there anything else?

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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This is a difficult decision, jr. It wouldn't be easy for any of us.

 

Why don't you try to find a doctor to confer with through MindFreedom? It may be a wild goose chase, but you might find a good one.

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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Well I think I should at least try the 2.5% drops and see how it goes. Do you think option C is the safest bet? That is, taper as much as I can on the Effexor, then jump ship if/when I cant tolerate it anymore? For instance, if I manage to drop to 18.75mg via 2.5% drops, then hit trouble. I could jump to 2.5-5mg Prozac?

 

I'm not sure about finding a doctor, if they're from Southern Ireland ("The Republic"), then I wouldn't be covered on the nhs and I'd have to see them privately. Plus I'm not convinced they'd do any more than what we're doing - making a best guess.

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

tapering off by September even on Prozac is probably a bit ambitious..

you might find on a lower dose of effexor that your concentration is better than at the higher dose anyway..

Started in 2000 - On 150mg most of the time, (but up to 225mg at highest dose for 6 months in the beginning)
Reduced off easily first time - but got depressed (not too much anxiety) 6 months later
Back on effexor for another 9 months.
Reduced off again with no immediate w/d - suddenly got depressed and anxious ++ again 3 or 4 months later.
Back on effexor - this time for 3 years
Reduced off over a month - 6 weeks later terrible anxiety - back on.
Rinse and repeat 4 more times - each time the period before the anxiety comes back got shorter and shorter
Jan - July 2012 75mg down to 37.5mg;, 8/3/12 - 35mg. 8/25/12 - 32mg. 9/11- 28mg, 10/2 - 25mg, 10/29 - 22mg, 11/19 - 19.8mg; 12/11 - 17m,
1/1- 15.5mg; 1/22 -14mg, 2/7 14.9mg, 2/18 - 17.8mg - crashed big time: back to 75mg where i sat for 2 years....

4th  March 2015 - 67.5mg;   31st March - 60mg;  24th April - 53mg; 13th May - 48mg; 26th May - 45mg;  9th June - 41mg; 1 July- 37.5mg; 20 July - 34mg; 11 August - 31mg; 1st Sept - 28mg;  1st Dec - 25.8mg;  28th Dec - 23.2mg; 23rd Jan-21.9mg; Feb 7th- 21mg; March 1st - 20.1mg, March 30th - 18mg

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tapering off by September even on Prozac is probably a bit ambitious..

you might find on a lower dose of effexor that your concentration is better than at the higher dose anyway..

 

Of course, but I thought if I got a bit further down by exam time I'd be ok. I think you're right about the lower Effexor dose.

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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FFS I can't make up my mind. If I tried a small bit of Prozac, and had a bad reaction to it, then I could just stop taking it and taper from the Effexor, right?

 

I just keep thinking about how awful even a 5% drop was...

 

If I stay on 37.5mg for a good while, is there a chance my nervous system will become less sensitive to the SSRI's again, and so I'd be less likely to have an adverse reaction?

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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  • Administrator

You might try a 2.5% drop first and see how that goes. Maybe it will be more tolerable. If it works, you don't have to worry about the Prozac. If it doesn't, then the risk-benefit of switching to Prozac is more attractive.

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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Good idea alto, thank you for your patience and support. :)

 

I'm beginning to think the akathisia is a side effect rather than w/d - I think it appeared after I reinstated; I had a brief window where it completely disappeared after I dropped 5%; it seemed to get worse after I updosed. Perhaps I could use it as a marker of stability, rather than a sign that I'm still unstable after dropping.

 

I was going to make my first 2.5% drop on Monday. Do you think this is ok or should I hold on 37.5mg for longer?

2003-2011: Paroxetine,Citalopram,Effexor; Aug/Sept 2011: Effexor to Mirtazapine; Oct 2011: C/T Mirtazapine back to Effexor; Nov/Dec 2011: Fast Tapered Effexor - w/d hell; Feb 2012: Reinstated Effexor 37.5mg; June 2012: Dropped to 35.6mg; Jan 2016: Propranolol 2.5mg per day for general anxiety; Feb 2016: Finasteride 0.25mg per week to slow hair loss; 18th May - 8th June 2019: Started Vyvanse 7.5mg and increased by 7.5mg weekly to 30mg (lowest “therapeutic” dose for adults).; 21st June 2019 - 12th July: Cross tapered from venlafaxine brand Rodomel to Efexor (1/4 > 1/2 > 3/4 weekly before ditching Rodomel); 13th July 2019: Cut Vyvanse dose to 15mg; 15th July 2019: Akathisia returned after years of being free; 16th July 2019: Went back up to Vyvanse 30mg

Supplements: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Zinc, Phosphatidylserine 

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  • Administrator

How have your symptoms changed since you updosed? Any progress over time?

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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