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Skin issues: hives, acne, dryness, itching etc.


Maybe

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I have some skin and hair issues, apparently, I wasn't linking them to my meds until now. I was reading comments in here: http://rxisk.org/complex-withdrawal/and I think now that my skin also seems affected.

First, I'm 27 and still having problems with blackheads. I used to have them in "T zone" (forehead, nose, chin) - now they're all over my face, neck, on the back, arms and cleavage, it became like this about two years ago. My skin is quite oily, yet at the same time it looks kinda artificial up close, kinda like a silicone. I found enzyme peeling, fish colagen and raspberry stone oil helpful.

As for hair - I've learned that hair won't react to dying if an owner takes psychotic meds. I can't tell that myself, I wasn't dying my hair for years now, it is said, however, that hairdressers noticed that some time ago. I can tell my hair still react to herbs - I'm using camomile brew to accent my natural blonde. Coconut oil also makes the color lighter. Another thing - I'm treating my hair with great care and careful conditioning, but they're just so arid... I had to cut them short after a year of trying to get them better.

I am of course aware that this is cosmetic, not quite serious problem, but still it's irritating... My lion's mane was always my looks asset, I could share with three other people and still have plenty on my head. Now I have a hedgehog style hair :]

I don't want much with life. I want it leave me alone.

 

Medical history:

2005 - 2006 – diagnosis: OCD. Meds: sertraline (Setaloft), from 30 mg to 120 mg. Side effects: insomnia, anorexia (psychic inabillity to eat), obesity; some sleep medication (don't remember the name), side effects: halucination. 2007 – sertraline withdrawal by myself. Reducing the dose slowly (120 mg – 90 mg – 60 mg – 30 mg – 0 mg). Felt great for about a year. 2008 – diazepam, taking ocasionally if needed. 2010 – paroxetine (Seroxat, then: Parogen) for OCD. From 20 mg to 40 mg. Side effects: none. Piracetamum (Memotropil), side effects: general weakness. Withdrawal of piracetamum: after two years (none withdrawal syndrome). 2016 – attempt to withdraw paroxetine. Severe depression after month and a half. Insomnia, nervousness, loss of weight. Suicide thoughts. Returning to paroxetine in march. From 10 mg to 20 mg. Side effects: sudden suicide thoughts, serotonine syndrome, panic attacks. Other meds: Clonazepam 0,5 mg for three days (benzodiazepam), side effects: none; Alprazolamum (Xanax): from 0,25 mg to 0,5 mg; side effects: obstruction, acne, period stoppage. Withdraw after a month, side effects: one-day lasting histeria; Trazodonum (Trittico CR): from 75 mg to 25 mg. Side effects: somnolance. 2016, June – dropping the dose of paroxetine from 40 mg to 30 mg. Side effects: mood swings. Withdrawing Trazodonum from 25 mg to 0 mg. Side effects: wide mood swings and fretfulness for about a week; too rapid, don't recommend. Went back to 25 mg of trazodone and 40 mg of paroxetine. 2016, July - dropped trazodone by 10 %, went back to 25 mg after two weeks (cause: depresion). 2016, October - 10% paroxetine drop, leaving trazodone at 25 mg. 2016, November - second 10% paroxetine drop. 2017, October - 25 mg of paroxetine, 25 mg of trazodone. Boredom. Tired. No hope, no joy. For now.

Suplements: vitamins – C (600 mg), D3 (4500 IU), K2 (6400 IU), B15 (50 mg); hawaiian spirulina; fish collagen; fish oil (1 spoon); probiotic; magnesium (50 mg), selenium (200 mcg); flaxseed (1-2 spoons/day); minced milk thistle (1 spoon/day).

Diet: mostly vegan, gluten-free due to doctor's advice. Drinks: water, green tea, cistus incantus.

Books I recommendYour Body Many Cries for Water by Fereydoon Batmanghelidj; Hidden Therapies by Jerzy Zięba; Deadly Medicine and Organized Denial by Peter C. Gøtzsche; The Microbiom Solution by Robynne Chutkan; Urban Shaman and Mastering Your Hidden Self  by Serge Kahili King.

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I also have hives/acne around my torso. My skin is absolutely wrecked.

 

Having never had spots in my life, I am now dealing with multiple skin issues. I still have eczema but on my arms.

 

I have had a bright red chin for years now, and despite using a powerful steroid gel, it isn't disappearing fast enough.

 

They can only be attributed to changes in hormonal levels because of ADs.

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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OMG me too. My doc introduced me to bleach baths which helped ALOT. I tried tumeric and fish oil and they were both SUPER BAD for my skin and sleep, respectively. I am two weeks off now so lets see how this goes.

Prescribed Lexapro in 2003 and switched to Cipramil (5-10mg per day) 2004 with Lamictal.

Stopped Lamictal cold turkey with no withdrawals in 2014 with support of a Paleo diet. 

2003-2015 Cipramil only: 5mg 21 Dec 15: 2.5mg 28 Dec 15: 2.25mg 4 Jan 16: 1.575mg 10 Jan 16: 1.1025 11 Jan 16: 0.7875 25 Jan 16: 0.9, 1 Feb: 0.8, 8 Feb 0.75, 15 Feb 0.5, 29 Feb 0.25, 21 March 0.17, 4 April: 0.10, 25 April 0.05, 8 May 2016 0.05, 15 May 2016 NIL 21 June 2016 0.1, 5 Sep 16: 0.2 7 Sep 16: 0.15 16 Sep 16: 0.075 3 Oct 16: 0.015 17 October: 0.015, 14 Nov 2016: Reinstate 0.005, 26 Dec 16 0.0045, 2 Jan 17 0.004, 20 Feb 17 0.003, 3 Apr 17 0.002, 22 May 17 NIL. 

Supplements/Lifestyle: Low oxalate diet. Christian music all the time! B12 drops, Broccoli sprouts, Integra Nutritionals Gemmune IB, Zinc drops, Tresos Natal, Spatone Healing rooms: https://www.facebook.com/FODaustralia/videos and http://sydneyheal.com/service/time-and-location/

 

 

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  • 2 months later...

Is acne a side effect of high doses of Prozac? :(

Edited by KarenB
merged similar topics
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  • Moderator Emeritus

I've just done a quick google search on "antidepressant + acne" and other people have been asking the same question so it would seem that the answer might be yes.

 

If you are planning on tapering off your Prozac, please create an Intro/Update topic.  We will be able to answer your questions about your own situation as well as support you during your taper.

* NO LONGER ACTIVE on SA *

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

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

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

 VIDEO:   Antidepressant Withdrawal Syndrome and its Management

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I've been searching but can't seem to find out if it's stress induced acne so coincidence or if Prozac actually causessss the acne

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  • Moderator Emeritus

The patient information sheet/pamphlet lists know side effects.

 

Link to FDA required patient information for Prozac.

 

You can also see the same information on the Prozac Side Effects page at drugs[dot]com

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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  • 5 weeks later...

The acne I had has finally gone, leaving me with just eczema to keep under control.

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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  • 2 months later...
  • Moderator Emeritus

Just a warning, doctors may be excited about some new psoriasis drugs that have achieved "approval"

 

Dr. Healy curates (and possibly writes) on Rxisk:

 

Recently approved for use downunder (avoid if at all possible) new drugs for psoriasis (if you see a doctor, s/he might be very excited about these):

 

https://rxisk.org/are-you-aware-siliq-can-cause-suicide/

https://rxisk.org/otezla-birth-defects-and-suicide/

https://rxisk.org/youll-come-a-taltzing-matilda-with-me

 

Dr. Healy says:

 

Brodalumab, aka Siliq, Apremilast, aka Otezla, and Daliresp. Prepare to hear a lot more about Phosphodiesterase antagonists and drugs acting on Interleukin 17 or 23. 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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


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

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

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

 

 

I have been psych drug FREE since 1 Feb 2016!

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  • 2 months later...

I've been suffering from eczema etc., for well over a year now......its on my face, neck, shoulders, scalp, arms and hands.

 

I think its a combination of hormonal changes, stress, lowered immune system, allergies.

 

Been utter hell, but I'm getting better at coping with it now.

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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  • 3 months later...

I was just diagnosed with Dermatographia.  I am wondering if this is a withdrawal symptom.  I have been off Prozac for a little over two years.

 

In the end of August I started having itchy hands and feet, which I still have now.  Then in the end of September I started feeling itchy all over.  I was wondering if it was seasonal allergies so I started taking Zyrtec, it helped but made me tired.  I started to notice that when I would scratch that I would develop red lines and welts where I scratched. 

 

I went to the doctor yesterday and she said there was no know cause for the Dermatographia.  She said to take a antihistamine to help with the itching. 

 

I am extremely frustrated because I am tired of things being wrong with me.

 

I was just wondering if anyone else has experience this before.  If so, did it get better or go away?

Discontinued Fluoxetine cold turkey after taking it for 12 years. Stopped taking Fluoxetine in August 2015.

My current withdrawal symptoms: Itchy skin, smell hallucination, hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, and anxiety. 

Synthroid for hypothyroidism.

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  • 1 month later...

Hello all, I'm currently off Lexapro after a slow taper, took my last minuscule dose over Thanksgiving. I am currently dealing with all-over body itching that worst on my feet, on my scalp and in my armpits. The itching came out of nowhere around Halloween when I was still on Lexapro. I am not totally sure that what I am dealing with is WD related, since it's not like the itching started after I took my last dose - it was there towards the end of my taper. I'm wondering, for people on this thread who have dealt with skin issues, if they cropped up during the taper (especially at the end?) or ONLY once the medication was stopped? Please weigh in. Thanks!

6/2015: 10 mg Lexapro generic + 100 mg Seroquel following episode of severe insomnia.

12/15 - 2/16: self-tapered Lexapro (no Dr. supervision) too rapidly: 3 weeks at 7.5 mg, 3 weeks at 5 mg, 3 weeks at 2.5 mg then off. NO W/D SYMPTOMS.

3/16 (about two weeks after final dose): bad insomnia again. Tried to hold out. Failed.

5/1/16: Saw psych. He said relapse and put me back on 5 mg Lex + 50 mg Seroquel to be reduced as Lexapro takes effect. I now believe it was only W/D. Dr. wanted me to updose, but after finding this site I decided to stabilize at 5 mg and start tapering at a later date.

Supplements: Magnesium citrate, fish oil, probiotics (from food not from pills)

Month of 7/16: Tapered off Seroquel: 1 week 20 mg, 1 week 15 mg, 1 week 10 mg, 1 week 5 mg. No problems sleeping throughout this process. Stopped Seroquel several days ago (7/21?) and sleep has been mostly good, some bad.

Reinstated 5 mg Seroquel 7/25 and stabilized my sleep.

9/1/16: Started tapering generic escitalopram liquid: 4.5 mg  :D

6/1/17: No longer taking seroquel for sleep. Escitalopram liquid down to .9 mg  :D

6/10/17: .8 mg

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Hello all, I'm currently off Lexapro after a slow taper, took my last minuscule dose over Thanksgiving. I am currently dealing with all-over body itching that worst on my feet, on my scalp and in my armpits. The itching came out of nowhere around Halloween when I was still on Lexapro. I am not totally sure that what I am dealing with is WD related, since it's not like the itching started after I took my last dose - it was there towards the end of my taper. I'm wondering, for people on this thread who have dealt with skin issues, if they cropped up during the taper (especially at the end?) or ONLY once the medication was stopped? Please weigh in. Thanks!

6/2015: 10 mg Lexapro generic + 100 mg Seroquel following episode of severe insomnia.

12/15 - 2/16: self-tapered Lexapro (no Dr. supervision) too rapidly: 3 weeks at 7.5 mg, 3 weeks at 5 mg, 3 weeks at 2.5 mg then off. NO W/D SYMPTOMS.

3/16 (about two weeks after final dose): bad insomnia again. Tried to hold out. Failed.

5/1/16: Saw psych. He said relapse and put me back on 5 mg Lex + 50 mg Seroquel to be reduced as Lexapro takes effect. I now believe it was only W/D. Dr. wanted me to updose, but after finding this site I decided to stabilize at 5 mg and start tapering at a later date.

Supplements: Magnesium citrate, fish oil, probiotics (from food not from pills)

Month of 7/16: Tapered off Seroquel: 1 week 20 mg, 1 week 15 mg, 1 week 10 mg, 1 week 5 mg. No problems sleeping throughout this process. Stopped Seroquel several days ago (7/21?) and sleep has been mostly good, some bad.

Reinstated 5 mg Seroquel 7/25 and stabilized my sleep.

9/1/16: Started tapering generic escitalopram liquid: 4.5 mg  :D

6/1/17: No longer taking seroquel for sleep. Escitalopram liquid down to .9 mg  :D

6/10/17: .8 mg

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Maybe both.......during the taper and then after the medication is stopped. 

 

I got an extreme itching once when very briefly on Wellbutrin........the all over body type of itching and it felt like there were bugs or something under my skin.........I also felt very agitated at the time(?akathesia).  It did seem to resolve once I was completely off the Wellbut........  Chances are I had recently come off another medication so was probably in acute W/D as well.

 

On the Lexapro...........it's been over 3 years now since I've been completely off of that.  And I do, somewhat seasonally, especially in the fall..........get what I call extrasensitive itching.........scalp, armpits, sensitive to synthetic fabrics.........stuff like that.  And then it's gone again.  Just weird.  I do usually switch hygiene products and try and switch to just loose cotton clothing as much as possible.  I take oatmeal baths, which really help as well(I don't dunk my head though).  I'm just thankful it doesn't last forever.  And it does seem to go with a bit of a more intense change in mood, for me.........anxious/obsessive/withdrawn. 

 

I have a friend who I actually laugh about it with........she gave me some of that sugar scrub to help with my yearly molting/exfoliation phase.  I think sometimes it hits in the Spring as well.

 

Best,

mmt

Late 2023- gone to emeritus status, inactive, don't @ me, I can check who I've posted on, and I'm not really here like I used to be......thanks.

Started with psycho meds/psychiatric care circa 1988.  In retrospect, and on contemplation, situational overwhelm.

Rounding up to 30 years of medications(30 medication trials, poly-pharmacy maximum was 3 at one time).

5/28/2015-off Adderal salts 2.5mg. (I had been on that since hospital 10/2014)

12/2015---just holding, holding, holding, with trileptal/oxcarb at 75 mg. 1/2 tab at hs.  My last psycho med ever!  Tapered @ 10% every 4 weeks, sometimes 2 weeks to

2016 Dec 16 medication free!!

Longer signature post here, with current supplements.

Herb and alcohol free since 5/15/2016.  And.....I quit smoking 11/2021. Lapsed.  Redo of quit smoking 9/28/2022.  Can you say Hallelujah?(took me long enough)💜

None of my posts are intended as medical advice.  Please discuss any decisions about your medical care with a knowledgeable medical provider.  My success story:  Blue skies ahead, clear sailing

 

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On ‎10‎/‎12‎/‎2017 at 9:04 PM, LexAdvice said:

Hello all, I'm currently off Lexapro after a slow taper, took my last minuscule dose over Thanksgiving. I am currently dealing with all-over body itching that worst on my feet, on my scalp and in my armpits. The itching came out of nowhere around Halloween when I was still on Lexapro. I am not totally sure that what I am dealing with is WD related, since it's not like the itching started after I took my last dose - it was there towards the end of my taper. I'm wondering, for people on this thread who have dealt with skin issues, if they cropped up during the taper (especially at the end?) or ONLY once the medication was stopped? Please weigh in. Thanks!

 

Mine were triggered by severe stress.

 

They lasted for over a year and subsided.

 

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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  • Petunia changed the title to Skin issues: hives, acne, dryness, itching etc.
  • 5 months later...

I am 19 months in protracted WD and experience different types of skin issues. My concern right now has to do with skin rashes. I have many different types of them all over. Never had this problem in my life till AD WD. One of the rashes I have is an itching, burning, stinging, tingling rash on an area of my body that received radiation therapy many, many years ago. I just read on the Net that radiation dermatitis can occur years after treatments end.

 

I saw two doctors in the last two days. The first said it is postherpetic (healed shingles) neuralgia, but I don't buy that diagnosis as this rash has not gone away at all in the last two months. Besides the second doctor I saw said that in no way is my rash shingles--current or post. She really didn't know what type of rash it is and has referred me to a specialist, but my appointment isn't for another 2.5 weeks.

 

All of my skin has become extremely fragile since I've been in WD, and I know that radiation permanently changes the skin. For these reasons I'm thinking this rash might have something to do with radiation therapy. Has anyone had a rash in a previously radiated area of their body?

 

Thank you!

 

Callie

Lexapro: 2004-2010; Effexor XR 225 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017

Abilify 5 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017; Buspirone 60 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Trazadone 100 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Xanax: as needed; Fast taper

 

 

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  • 2 weeks later...
On 11/4/2018 at 3:18 AM, Callie said:

 

I saw two doctors in the last two days. The first said it is postherpetic (healed shingles) neuralgia, but I don't buy that diagnosis as this rash has not gone away at all in the last two months. Besides the second doctor I saw said that in no way is my rash shingles--current or post. She really didn't know what type of rash it is and has referred me to a specialist, but my appointment isn't for another 2.5 weeks.

 

All of my skin has become extremely fragile since I've been in WD, and I know that radiation permanently changes the skin. For these reasons I'm thinking this rash might have something to do with radiation therapy. Has anyone had a rash in a previously radiated area of their body?

 

Thank you!

 

Callie

I have had shingles recently - which hasn't gone away over the last 2 months.  Been back to doc several times for it plus the itching.  I notice you were told your itching was phn whereas today at docs she said my itching is not phn but just the aching and pain is phn!

 

I have not had radiation but been struggling with itching for many years now and only got severe with shingles.  Docs answer is ANOTHER A/D.

 

Back to different doc today who has prescribed a steriod cream.

 

What is happening with your itching????  Any answers.?

1995-2007      20mg Aropax/Paxil for pain.  Years of up and down doses

2008                Endep, Lexapro and then Esipram (hell!) CT (oh dear!)

2009                20mg Aropax.  Tried skipping doses for a year (more hell!)

                        2010                10mg.  10% taper.  Lasted 4 months. Crashed again

2011                5% taper. 9mg-7mg (hell got even worse!)

2012                2.5% taper.  6.6mg – 5.6mg (worser still & unbearable)

2013                5% taper.  Big mistake.  5.5mg – 4.6mg  (even worserer)

2014                2.5% taper.  4.9mg – 4.5mg;    2015 2.5% taper 4.4 - 4.0mg

2016                2.5% taper.  3.9mg  Feb 3.8   Mar 3.7  May 3.6   Jul 3.5

2017                2.5% taper.  Jan 3.4;   Mar 3.35;  Apr 3.3; Oct 3; Dec 2.9;

2018                2.5% taper. Jan 2.8; Mar 2.7; Mar: 2.75; Jun 2.7; Aug 2.6; Oct 2.5; Nov 2.4; Dec 2.3

2019                Jan 2.2; Feb 2.1;

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What do people find helps for constant, irritating itching all over?

1995-2007      20mg Aropax/Paxil for pain.  Years of up and down doses

2008                Endep, Lexapro and then Esipram (hell!) CT (oh dear!)

2009                20mg Aropax.  Tried skipping doses for a year (more hell!)

                        2010                10mg.  10% taper.  Lasted 4 months. Crashed again

2011                5% taper. 9mg-7mg (hell got even worse!)

2012                2.5% taper.  6.6mg – 5.6mg (worser still & unbearable)

2013                5% taper.  Big mistake.  5.5mg – 4.6mg  (even worserer)

2014                2.5% taper.  4.9mg – 4.5mg;    2015 2.5% taper 4.4 - 4.0mg

2016                2.5% taper.  3.9mg  Feb 3.8   Mar 3.7  May 3.6   Jul 3.5

2017                2.5% taper.  Jan 3.4;   Mar 3.35;  Apr 3.3; Oct 3; Dec 2.9;

2018                2.5% taper. Jan 2.8; Mar 2.7; Mar: 2.75; Jun 2.7; Aug 2.6; Oct 2.5; Nov 2.4; Dec 2.3

2019                Jan 2.2; Feb 2.1;

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Hi, grandmaD

 

I was away for a week and didn't check my messages.

 

On 11/12/2018 at 11:30 PM, grandmaD said:

What is happening with your itching????  Any answers.?

I'm going to see a specialist tomorrow as I have to make sure that the rash and itching isn't recurrent cancer as those are symptoms of IBC (Inflammatory Breast Cancer). Over the last couple of weeks, I've applied Benadryl cream on the area twice a day, and the rash and itching are fading. I also stopped eating pears. Now I don't know if it's the Benadryl, the pears, both, or something else that have eased the rash and itch. It does seem, however, that I'm not as itchy all over as I was when eating pears every day, so maybe pears are the culprit.

 

Thanks for answering my post, grandmaD! I'll let you know what I find out from the specialist tomorrow.

 

Callie

 

 

Lexapro: 2004-2010; Effexor XR 225 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017

Abilify 5 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017; Buspirone 60 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Trazadone 100 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Xanax: as needed; Fast taper

 

 

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Callie, how did you get on?

 

I've been back yet again to doc for severe itching.  I thought it was related to the shingles, despite the fact the itching was everywhere and anywhere, all over.

 

This is the 3rd doc I've seen with this issue.  She said the shingles rash is gone so is strictly not shingles anymore but the aches and pain is constant still after several months now.  It is now called "post herpatic neuralgia".

 

I suspect this is why the previous 2 docs wanted to put me on another a/d - perhaps knowing it is going on for a long time .... but I'm still battling this one, hoping it will suddenly improve and/or go away.

 

As for the itching, she wrote a script for a steroid ointment.  The relief was overnight and absolutely amazing.  I only used it for a few days and the itching has returned now and then, but only mild.

 

The funny thing is that when I was telling my daughter, she said she has a similar itch everywhere and she suggested I use a moisturiser on a daily basis, twice a day to start, which I have done and I think this has contributed to the relief in a big way.

1995-2007      20mg Aropax/Paxil for pain.  Years of up and down doses

2008                Endep, Lexapro and then Esipram (hell!) CT (oh dear!)

2009                20mg Aropax.  Tried skipping doses for a year (more hell!)

                        2010                10mg.  10% taper.  Lasted 4 months. Crashed again

2011                5% taper. 9mg-7mg (hell got even worse!)

2012                2.5% taper.  6.6mg – 5.6mg (worser still & unbearable)

2013                5% taper.  Big mistake.  5.5mg – 4.6mg  (even worserer)

2014                2.5% taper.  4.9mg – 4.5mg;    2015 2.5% taper 4.4 - 4.0mg

2016                2.5% taper.  3.9mg  Feb 3.8   Mar 3.7  May 3.6   Jul 3.5

2017                2.5% taper.  Jan 3.4;   Mar 3.35;  Apr 3.3; Oct 3; Dec 2.9;

2018                2.5% taper. Jan 2.8; Mar 2.7; Mar: 2.75; Jun 2.7; Aug 2.6; Oct 2.5; Nov 2.4; Dec 2.3

2019                Jan 2.2; Feb 2.1;

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Good to hear back from you, grandmaD!

 

Yes, I went to the specialist, and she did a skin punch biopsy. I won't get the results until next week. One good thing is that she highly doubts my rash is IBC. She said it could be dermatitis and that can be determined by the lab.

 

Sounds like itching is tormenting both of us. For me, it was one of the first symptoms I developed after the doctor tapered me too quickly off the drugs. Back then, I never got a rash. Now I itch everywhere, just like in the beginning, but some areas with rashes and some without. About a month after my fast taper I went on a low-histamine diet for a couple of months, and the itching stopped. Till today I still avoid most histamine foods. I'd say about two months ago the itching started up again though, and it's driving me insane.

 

I'm thinking two things about my itching. One, my symptoms started with itching, and maybe I've gone full circle. Maybe my symptoms will end then, stopping like they started. Two, perhaps drug toxins are being released from my body through my skin causing the itching. It's possible neither of these theories apply. Who knows!!??!!

 

One thing I'd like to know, grandmaD, is your skin different now in WD than it was before? Mine is. It stings and burns constantly on my arms and hands and is extremely hypersensitive to touch and temperature. It often turns red from the lightest touch, and the skin on my palms dents and reddens when holding anything for the shortest amount of time. The skin on my fingers are most often pruny-looking, like I've been in the water too long. I also get dermatographia (skin writing). Lastly, I end up bleeding and have scratch marks from itching on my arms, shoulders, back, and legs only, even though I itch and scratch just about everywhere. Never in my life have I ever experienced any type of skin issues until I was tapered too quickly off of the nasty drugs.

 

It sounds as if you have gotten some relief, and I sincerely hope that that continues for you, also that you heal completely. No one in this world deserves the anguish that any of us are going through.

 

Callie

Lexapro: 2004-2010; Effexor XR 225 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017

Abilify 5 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017; Buspirone 60 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Trazadone 100 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Xanax: as needed; Fast taper

 

 

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  • 8 months later...

I know this thread is years old but here’s my story

 

i come from a family of perfect skin, not a single cousin sibling etc has ever had even a single pimple as far as I can tell and that was me up until I came off Zoloft, it’s been 7 years of protracted withdrawal and every day is another pimple, I can feel they come on when I become psychotic or have extreme stress, I have them all over my back and face, and the insane thing is after years they have formed bad scars all over my face. This is 100 percent from Zoloft and this is what I’ve learned

 

we have been victims of the largest mental health experiment in history and our voices will not be heard because the masses don’t know it’s going on, it’s a silent war , and in a silent war shouting out won’t get you anywhere, we must mobilize, organize, and change. This is actually a civil rights movement more than anything else, we have had war waged against or bodies and our minds and our only way of fighting back is never giving up on trying to change the pharmaceutical industry and the holocaust they have brought upon the planet. This may sound hyperbolic , but these shootings in the media lately , I’m convinced all of them are on ssris or coming off , convinced, so yes holocaust isn’t an inappropriate word to use . 

 

I beg all of you fellow psychiatric warriors to realize your path is going to be one of activism and your fulfillment will come from solidarity with those who are oppressed . There you will find purpose, and there you can rise above the noise of this wicked world . 

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  • 3 weeks later...

I’ve been in protracted withdrawal for 7 years. Everyone in my family has perfect skin including me until now. I was 17 when I started Zoloft, I came off at 21. Am 28 now and for every single day of those 7 years I was in protracted I had at least 6-7 pimples on my skin. It’s clearing up super slowly now as my other symptoms are clearing as well, but it’s very slow with windows and waves and I believe I’m months away from full recovery. My pimples always accompanied other symptoms like panic, gut issues, seizures etc....now my skin is filled with scars all over it, only person in my entire family like this. It’s not only disheartening, it’s made me realize once this journey is over, another journey dealing with how to manage my scars will begin. These drugs have never left me alone, and even when I recover I won’t be left alone by the damage they’ve done. I’m suicidal , but I know killing myself wont rectify anything, in fact I have no idea what awaits me after death, no idea at all, so why kill yourself? Seems like I’m stuck, and all I have left is my anger, my anger for the adults who did this to me, the authorities who misguided me, and the entire profit driven industry of big pharma. What’s insane is how little people know about this, and how long these drugs will effect you, I would have never believed such a nightmare is possible. At least I know if I ever am sent to hell, I’ll be prepared for anything that comes my w ay

 

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  • 3 weeks later...
On 2/17/2012 at 6:49 PM, ladybug said:

Yes! I had PERFECT skin my whole life. Even during puberty I only got a few pimples. In 2006 (I was 26 years old) is when I started tapering from 37.5mg. My skin slowly started to break out and the lower in dose I got the worse it got. At one point I could count 15 active pimples at one time! Even worse is for every single pimple I get a post inflammatory hyperpigmentation scar that last several months to over a year! My skin was covered in dark marks from all the pimples. Even worse than that the other day I was plucking my eyebrows by a lamp and as I turned my face in certain direction a shadow was cast over my face and it was bumpy as if I had some indented scars! This is after I have finally gotten my acne under control using a Benzoyl Peroxide regimen every day. I still have a lot of marks that I am trying to get rid of with weekly lactic acid peels. Bottom line: WD has absolutely messed up my skin. If I truly do have indented scars those won't ever go away. Yet another reason I hate this poison.

Hey I know you wrote this 7 years ago and are probably healed by now, I hope. But I am in a very similar situation, a family of perfect skin, including me, but I’ve had acne for years due to withdrawal and have scars all over my face now, I’m still in withdrawal and it’s getting worse , the pimples always come when I have seizures or spasms and anger problems or hallucinations , my body is completely dysfunctional. My question is, did it ever get better , or do you scars now for life? I’ll understand if you don’t use the site any longer and don’t answer , but would love to know, it’s ruining my life worrying about when I finally get past withdrawal I’ll be permanently  scarred from it, literally. It’s entirely not genetic since not a single person in my family has ever gotten pimples . 

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On 11/12/2018 at 11:34 PM, grandmaD said:

What do people find helps for constant, irritating itching all over?

Oatmeal baths.  Aveeno makes a 100% colloidal oatmeal product that you dissolve in bath water and soak in it.  I had horrible pruritus a few years ago with no discernible cause.  My doctor suggested this and it was very soothing.  

 

I also used sunburn gels and sprays when it was intolerable.

1994  Venlafaxine XR 300mg, 2003 tapered, 2004 off briefly back to 37.5 then 75mg, held, June 2019 up to  150mg, Aug.12 tapered down to 112.5mgs, Oct. 21, 2019 96mg;  Dec. 8, 2019  90mg, Jan. 8 2020 81mg, Feb. 4, 75mg; April 17, 2023 37.5mg

2003/2004? Diazepam 10mg/bedtime

2013 Lyrica 300mg to 25mg; April 6, 2020 17mg; April 28, <5mg; May 7, 2020 Lyrica 0 mg!

2013 Tramadol 50mg tablets, 200mg/day divided

2005? Trazodone 50mg bedtime, Feb. 12, 2020 40mg, March 7, 25mg; Oct 1 20mg;  0mg!

2009? Zolpidem 5mg at bedtime. Nov. 9, 2019 Zolpidem 0 mg! 

1990? Omeprazole 20mg in morning.

2010? Levothyroxine 75mcg morning

2011? Liothyronine 5mcg morning

1999? Buspirone 30mg twice a day  August 2019 15mg once a day,  Oct.21, 2019 2.5mg evening  Oct. 25, 2019 Buspirone 0 mg!

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  • 1 month later...
  • Administrator

If you get itching, hives, or a rash during withdrawal, it's possible that withdrawal hypersensitivity extends to your skin. Try techniques to reduce contact allergy reactions such as switch to hypoallergenic detergent, hypoallergenic soap, hypoallergenic lotions and creams. Do not use scents or scented products on your skin.

 

Out of hypersensitivity, you can develop a sun allergy as well.

 

If you get itching, hives, or a rash while taking a drug or starting a drug, it could mean you are allergic to the drug. If this is so, symptoms will usually get worse shortly after you take the drug. This means the dosage needs to be reduced or stopped. Allergic reactions to drugs can be dangerous.

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

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

All postings © copyrighted.

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On 11/23/2018 at 2:07 PM, Callie said:

Good to hear back from you, grandmaD!

 

Yes, I went to the specialist, and she did a skin punch biopsy. I won't get the results until next week. One good thing is that she highly doubts my rash is IBC. She said it could be dermatitis and that can be determined by the lab.

 

Sounds like itching is tormenting both of us. For me, it was one of the first symptoms I developed after the doctor tapered me too quickly off the drugs. Back then, I never got a rash. Now I itch everywhere, just like in the beginning, but some areas with rashes and some without. About a month after my fast taper I went on a low-histamine diet for a couple of months, and the itching stopped. Till today I still avoid most histamine foods. I'd say about two months ago the itching started up again though, and it's driving me insane.

 

I'm thinking two things about my itching. One, my symptoms started with itching, and maybe I've gone full circle. Maybe my symptoms will end then, stopping like they started. Two, perhaps drug toxins are being released from my body through my skin causing the itching. It's possible neither of these theories apply. Who knows!!??!!

 

One thing I'd like to know, grandmaD, is your skin different now in WD than it was before? Mine is. It stings and burns constantly on my arms and hands and is extremely hypersensitive to touch and temperature. It often turns red from the lightest touch, and the skin on my palms dents and reddens when holding anything for the shortest amount of time. The skin on my fingers are most often pruny-looking, like I've been in the water too long. I also get dermatographia (skin writing). Lastly, I end up bleeding and have scratch marks from itching on my arms, shoulders, back, and legs only, even though I itch and scratch just about everywhere. Never in my life have I ever experienced any type of skin issues until I was tapered too quickly off of the nasty drugs.

 

It sounds as if you have gotten some relief, and I sincerely hope that that continues for you, also that you heal completely. No one in this world deserves the anguish that any of us are going through.

 

Callie

Hi Callie 

did your itchy skin go away ? Did you take anything for it ? 

I have been suffering from the same 

 

Nov 2018 Pregabalin 2x50 mg a day to help with Paxil WD. Aug 2019 2 x 25mg a day, April 2020 45mg, May 40mg, June 35mg, July 30mg, end July 25mg, Aug 24mg, June 2021 14mg, Jan 2022 14mg (2x7mg a day), Oct 10mg, Nov 5mg, December 25th 2022 0mg 🎈

 

Oct 2004 - Oct 2018 Paxil 20 mg, Nov 15mg, Dec 10mg,  Feb 2019 7.5mg crashed, Feb 8.5mg, Nov 8mg, March 2020 7.2mg, April 6.5mg, May 5.9mg, June 5.4mg, July 4.8mg, Dec 4.5mg, Jan 2021 4mg, Feb 3.6mg, March 3.2mg, April 2.9mg, Aug 2.7mg, Sept 2.4mg, Oct 2.2mg, Nov 2mg, Dec 1.8mg, Feb 2022 1.6mg, March 1.4mg, April 1.2mg, May 1.0mg, June 0.8mg, July 0.6mg, Aug 0.4mg, Sep 0.2mg, October 6th 2022 0mg  🎈

 

December 25th 2022 drug free 

 

these dates are approximate 

 

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Hello, Longroadhome,

 

I've been in protracted WD now for over 31 months, and yes, for quite a while, I had no itching whatsoever. Then a few months back, I'd say it was late August, itching resurfaced. I noticed it is a symptom I deal with now in waves. For me, no topical anti-itch products do a thing and neither do antihistamines. I don't think a low-histamine diet eases itching either. Early on I thought it did, but I added high-histamine foods back to my diet and had absolutely no itching for many, many months.

 

I cope with itching by first accepting it instead of getting all frazzled over it. I know it will pass. It does until the next wave, plus I know it will go away for good some day. So that's the psychological part of it. As for physically dealing with it, I quit scratching. Instead I just press my fingernail into the itch, and it goes away. Scratching somehow perpetuates the itch for me while pressing on it calms it down. Weird, isn't it? I guess it takes unusual measures to cope with this unusual disease. Yes, to me, that's what AD WD is--a disease.

 

Well, I want you to know I'll be thinking of you today, Longroadhome, and praying for you, too. Time heals all wounds. Keep that thought.

 

Callie

Lexapro: 2004-2010; Effexor XR 225 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017

Abilify 5 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017; Buspirone 60 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Trazadone 100 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Xanax: as needed; Fast taper

 

 

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2 hours ago, Callie said:

Hello, Longroadhome,

 

I've been in protracted WD now for over 31 months, and yes, for quite a while, I had no itching whatsoever. Then a few months back, I'd say it was late August, itching resurfaced. I noticed it is a symptom I deal with now in waves. For me, no topical anti-itch products do a thing and neither do antihistamines. I don't think a low-histamine diet eases itching either. Early on I thought it did, but I added high-histamine foods back to my diet and had absolutely no itching for many, many months.

 

I cope with itching by first accepting it instead of getting all frazzled over it. I know it will pass. It does until the next wave, plus I know it will go away for good some day. So that's the psychological part of it. As for physically dealing with it, I quit scratching. Instead I just press my fingernail into the itch, and it goes away. Scratching somehow perpetuates the itch for me while pressing on it calms it down. Weird, isn't it? I guess it takes unusual measures to cope with this unusual disease. Yes, to me, that's what AD WD is--a disease.

 

Well, I want you to know I'll be thinking of you today, Longroadhome, and praying for you, too. Time heals all wounds. Keep that thought.

 

Callie

Can’t thank you enough Callie for your reply . your symptoms   to the finest detail are a replica of mine and it makes me feel sooooo much better knowing it’s not here for good !!! 

Nov 2018 Pregabalin 2x50 mg a day to help with Paxil WD. Aug 2019 2 x 25mg a day, April 2020 45mg, May 40mg, June 35mg, July 30mg, end July 25mg, Aug 24mg, June 2021 14mg, Jan 2022 14mg (2x7mg a day), Oct 10mg, Nov 5mg, December 25th 2022 0mg 🎈

 

Oct 2004 - Oct 2018 Paxil 20 mg, Nov 15mg, Dec 10mg,  Feb 2019 7.5mg crashed, Feb 8.5mg, Nov 8mg, March 2020 7.2mg, April 6.5mg, May 5.9mg, June 5.4mg, July 4.8mg, Dec 4.5mg, Jan 2021 4mg, Feb 3.6mg, March 3.2mg, April 2.9mg, Aug 2.7mg, Sept 2.4mg, Oct 2.2mg, Nov 2mg, Dec 1.8mg, Feb 2022 1.6mg, March 1.4mg, April 1.2mg, May 1.0mg, June 0.8mg, July 0.6mg, Aug 0.4mg, Sep 0.2mg, October 6th 2022 0mg  🎈

 

December 25th 2022 drug free 

 

these dates are approximate 

 

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On 11/8/2019 at 12:33 PM, Callie said:

Hello, Longroadhome,

 

I've been in protracted WD now for over 31 months, and yes, for quite a while, I had no itching whatsoever. Then a few months back, I'd say it was late August, itching resurfaced. I noticed it is a symptom I deal with now in waves. For me, no topical anti-itch products do a thing and neither do antihistamines. I don't think a low-histamine diet eases itching either. Early on I thought it did, but I added high-histamine foods back to my diet and had absolutely no itching for many, many months.

 

I cope with itching by first accepting it instead of getting all frazzled over it. I know it will pass. It does until the next wave, plus I know it will go away for good some day. So that's the psychological part of it. As for physically dealing with it, I quit scratching. Instead I just press my fingernail into the itch, and it goes away. Scratching somehow perpetuates the itch for me while pressing on it calms it down. Weird, isn't it? I guess it takes unusual measures to cope with this unusual disease. Yes, to me, that's what AD WD is--a disease.

 

Well, I want you to know I'll be thinking of you today, Longroadhome, and praying for you, too. Time heals all wounds. Keep that thought.

 

Callie

Callie are you still on ADs now ? 

Nov 2018 Pregabalin 2x50 mg a day to help with Paxil WD. Aug 2019 2 x 25mg a day, April 2020 45mg, May 40mg, June 35mg, July 30mg, end July 25mg, Aug 24mg, June 2021 14mg, Jan 2022 14mg (2x7mg a day), Oct 10mg, Nov 5mg, December 25th 2022 0mg 🎈

 

Oct 2004 - Oct 2018 Paxil 20 mg, Nov 15mg, Dec 10mg,  Feb 2019 7.5mg crashed, Feb 8.5mg, Nov 8mg, March 2020 7.2mg, April 6.5mg, May 5.9mg, June 5.4mg, July 4.8mg, Dec 4.5mg, Jan 2021 4mg, Feb 3.6mg, March 3.2mg, April 2.9mg, Aug 2.7mg, Sept 2.4mg, Oct 2.2mg, Nov 2mg, Dec 1.8mg, Feb 2022 1.6mg, March 1.4mg, April 1.2mg, May 1.0mg, June 0.8mg, July 0.6mg, Aug 0.4mg, Sep 0.2mg, October 6th 2022 0mg  🎈

 

December 25th 2022 drug free 

 

these dates are approximate 

 

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Hello, Longroadhome!

 

No, I'm not on ADs. I took my last AD on April 2, 2017, and have been in WD ever since. Long story short: Doctors had me on way too many drugs, for way too many years, and then took me off of them way too fast. I often think that I never needed any of the drugs in the first place.

 

Are you tapering, CT'd, or FT'd? Sometimes I don't think any of it makes any difference. It appears to me that taperers suffer just as much as CTers and FTers.

 

Callie

Lexapro: 2004-2010; Effexor XR 225 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017

Abilify 5 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017; Buspirone 60 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Trazadone 100 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Xanax: as needed; Fast taper

 

 

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40 minutes ago, Callie said:

Hello, Longroadhome!

 

No, I'm not on ADs. I took my last AD on April 2, 2017, and have been in WD ever since. Long story short: Doctors had me on way too many drugs, for way too many years, and then took me off of them way too fast. I often think that I never needed any of the drugs in the first place.

 

Are you tapering, CT'd, or FT'd? Sometimes I don't think any of it makes any difference. It appears to me that taperers suffer just as much as CTers and FTers.

 

Callie

Thanks for prompt reply Callie.

i tapered too quick and messed with meds when I should have waited to stabilise . now in severe WD. 

 

Has your WD symptoms improved with time and what symptoms did you have ? 

 

I agree its way to easy to give out generic ten a penny drugs to cure all ills!!! 

Nov 2018 Pregabalin 2x50 mg a day to help with Paxil WD. Aug 2019 2 x 25mg a day, April 2020 45mg, May 40mg, June 35mg, July 30mg, end July 25mg, Aug 24mg, June 2021 14mg, Jan 2022 14mg (2x7mg a day), Oct 10mg, Nov 5mg, December 25th 2022 0mg 🎈

 

Oct 2004 - Oct 2018 Paxil 20 mg, Nov 15mg, Dec 10mg,  Feb 2019 7.5mg crashed, Feb 8.5mg, Nov 8mg, March 2020 7.2mg, April 6.5mg, May 5.9mg, June 5.4mg, July 4.8mg, Dec 4.5mg, Jan 2021 4mg, Feb 3.6mg, March 3.2mg, April 2.9mg, Aug 2.7mg, Sept 2.4mg, Oct 2.2mg, Nov 2mg, Dec 1.8mg, Feb 2022 1.6mg, March 1.4mg, April 1.2mg, May 1.0mg, June 0.8mg, July 0.6mg, Aug 0.4mg, Sep 0.2mg, October 6th 2022 0mg  🎈

 

December 25th 2022 drug free 

 

these dates are approximate 

 

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21 hours ago, Longroadhome said:

Has your WD symptoms improved with time and what symptoms did you have ? 

 

I just want to quickly let you know that, yes, there has been much improvement for me, but I still have quite a ways to go. I know though, without a doubt, that I will completely heal from this. You will, too; that's a certainty. Patience and perseverance are going to get us to that end.

 

In regard to my symptoms, it'll take some time for me to reply to that as I have experienced so many of them. I will post my skin issues on this topic page and the rest under my signature. I will let you know when the posts are done.

 

Callie

 

 

 

 

Lexapro: 2004-2010; Effexor XR 225 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017

Abilify 5 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017; Buspirone 60 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Trazadone 100 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Xanax: as needed; Fast taper

 

 

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39 minutes ago, Callie said:

 

I just want to quickly let you know that, yes, there has been much improvement for me, but I still have quite a ways to go. I know though, without a doubt, that I will completely heal from this. You will, too; that's a certainty. Patience and perseverance are going to get us to that end.

 

In regard to my symptoms, it'll take some time for me to reply to that as I have experienced so many of them. I will post my skin issues on this topic page and the rest under my signature. I will let you know when the posts are done.

 

Callie

 

 

 

 

Thank you Callie

much appreciated. 

I’m not long into my journey and it’s pretty scary so I appreciate reading about people such as yourself who are getting better . 

Good luck to you and I will wait for your post. 

Regards LRH

Nov 2018 Pregabalin 2x50 mg a day to help with Paxil WD. Aug 2019 2 x 25mg a day, April 2020 45mg, May 40mg, June 35mg, July 30mg, end July 25mg, Aug 24mg, June 2021 14mg, Jan 2022 14mg (2x7mg a day), Oct 10mg, Nov 5mg, December 25th 2022 0mg 🎈

 

Oct 2004 - Oct 2018 Paxil 20 mg, Nov 15mg, Dec 10mg,  Feb 2019 7.5mg crashed, Feb 8.5mg, Nov 8mg, March 2020 7.2mg, April 6.5mg, May 5.9mg, June 5.4mg, July 4.8mg, Dec 4.5mg, Jan 2021 4mg, Feb 3.6mg, March 3.2mg, April 2.9mg, Aug 2.7mg, Sept 2.4mg, Oct 2.2mg, Nov 2mg, Dec 1.8mg, Feb 2022 1.6mg, March 1.4mg, April 1.2mg, May 1.0mg, June 0.8mg, July 0.6mg, Aug 0.4mg, Sep 0.2mg, October 6th 2022 0mg  🎈

 

December 25th 2022 drug free 

 

these dates are approximate 

 

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Hello, Longroadhome!

Here is a list of the skin issues that I have dealt with or still am dealing with in AD WD. Never had any of this in my life until my FT off of the drugs.

Sensations

Itching (Insatiable itching subsided months ago. Still have itching that comes in waves.)

Sparking sensations on arms (Went away months ago.)

Burning (Intensity has eased but still very uncomfortable, especially on arms.)

Stinging (Intensity has eased but still very uncomfortable, especially on arms.)

Stabbing (Gone)

Feeling that arms are wrapped in cactus plants (Gone)

Frozen to the bone (Felt this in my arms and hands. Now occasionally, only my hands.)

Light touches cause tickly sensation that goes directly into my head.

 

Hypersensitivity

Mostly affects fingers, hands, and arms

Extremely smooth, textureless things feel normal

Anything with the slightest texture feels like sandpaper, burlap, etc.

Perhaps tactile sensory filtering gates in my brain are always open.

 

Rashes/Skin Eruptions (Easing up on these)

Hives

Single, itchy eruptions that look just like mosquito bites

Rash erupted in 2018 on skin that had received radiation therapy over 20 years ago. This rash completely disappeared but came back recently with less intensity. It’s disappearing again.

Two very rough textured rashes. One on my arm is gone. One on leg is still there. These last for months.

 

Appearance

Fingers are most often pruny looking

Tight looking skin on palms of hands

Dermatographia

Some things like dental floss and eating utensils leave red indents on my fingers and palms that last for hours.

 

There’s probably more than this, and I can go into a heck of a lot of detail about it all. I figured I’d keep it short. If you questions though, just let me know. I still have to update my signature page with all my symptoms past and present. I’ll let you know when that’s done.

 

What symptoms are you having, Longroadhome, with skin or other?

 

Healing thoughts to you,

 

Callie

Lexapro: 2004-2010; Effexor XR 225 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017

Abilify 5 mg.: May 2010 - April 2017; Buspirone 60 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Trazadone 100 mg.: 2004 - April 2017; Xanax: as needed; Fast taper

 

 

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Itching itching , expletive here,  itching ... After a few weeks of dosage cuts.

1999:  Paroxetine (20mg). Age 16. 2007-2008: Fluoxetine (Prozac) for 1.5 years (age 25) Citalopram 20mg 2002-2005, 2009: Escitalopram (20mg), 2 weeks, (age 26) (adverse  reaction)/*Valium 5mg/Temazepam 10mg 2010: Mirtazipine (Remeron)( do not remember dosage) 2010, 5 months.                     2010-2017: Citalopram (20mg) (age 27 to 34) 2016: i.1st Sept- 31st Oct Citalopram 10mg , ii.1st November 2017-30th November 2017, Citalopram 5mg iii.1st December 2017- 4th February 2018, Citalopram 0mg, iv.5th February 2018- March 2018 Citalopram 5mg (10mg every other day) 28th February- tried titration of 5mg ( some adverse effects)

2018: 1st March 2018- 1st June Citalopram 10 mg (tablet form) /started titration 8mg , then 7 mg.2018: June 15th- 10th July Citalopram 10 mg pill every other day 2018: 10th July - 13th Sept Citalopram- 0mg  (CBD oil first month of 0mg, passiflora on and off) 2018 13th Sept Citalopram  2mg ,  approx 16th Sept 4mg , approx 25th Sept 6mg held.  2019: 11 Feb 19: 7mg (instant bad rxn) 12 Feb 19 6mg held 1 May 19 5.4mg held 5 Oct 19 5.36mg 22 Oct 19 5.29mg 30 Oct 19 5.23mg 4/NOV/19 5.18mg 12 Nov 19 5.08mg 20 Nov 19 4.77mg 7 May 22 2.31mg 17/09/2023 0.8mg

(Herbal/Supplements since 1st September: Omega Fish Oil 1200mg, 663mg of EPA- 2 tablets a day, magnesium and magnesium bath salts)

I did not die, and yet I lost life’s breath
- Dante
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