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Frogie: how to taper off Lexapro and Xanax?


Frogie

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I do understand how much our furry friends mean to us especially going through WD - they are such a comfort.  

 

I don't think the Spanish will have ready made applesauce but we have a German supermarket here that might have it. I will check it out.

 

Sorry to hear you have family troubles - that will make Brownie even more dear to you.

 

Have you thought of getting another little dog  or would that be too much for you or would Brownie not like it? We always kind of overlapped our dogs so that when the worst happened we had another that still needed our love and attention. Just a thought.

 

It will soon be October Frogie but the waiting is hell I know. All you can do is keep as busy as possible to make the time go quickly.

 

Flowers xxx

15 yrs on 20 to 30 mgs CITALOPRAM.  MAY 2014 Increased to 40 mgs per day.SEPT/NOV 2014 tapered in 6 weeks down to 10 mgs as per Dr instructions due to violent nightmares/palpitations.Given Noctamid (lormetazepam) to help with anxiety. On average took 2mg per day for 8 weeks.No taper was advised.DEC 2014 WD severe. Nervous tic in eyes and limbs, muscle pain,fluct  temp, weakness, dep and anxiety, nausea, giddy, unstable when walking. Different Dr suggested taking 20mgs CIT. BROMAZEPAM 3mgs up to 3 x daily for anxiety.DEC 9 2014 Updose CIT to 30mgs. Only taking BROMAZEPAM in emergency.DEC 31 2014 Settling at 30mg CIT - helping with depression. No Brom for 2wks.Found SA.APR 2015 Trying to stabilise on 30mgs CIT.  JAN 2016 Started Cit Taper reducing by 5% per month.  28.5 mgs 
FEB  Taper held bereavement. APR Taper resumed 27mgs . MAY 25.50 mgs .  JUNE 24 mgs .  JULY I stupidly mixed up my BP meds with CIT. Consequently took no CIT for 3 days and doubled my BP meds. Waiting for the fallout....Holding for a while until any chance of repercussions have abated. SEPT taper resumed to  22.5 mgs . OCT 21 mgs .NOV 19.95 mgs DEC crashed. 2017: FEB 3rd updose to 20.5 mgs to try to stabilise.FEB.switched over to 75mgs of Venlafaxine XR for 3 weeks.Too stimulating so switching back to Cit. 12 March 37.5 Ven and 20 Cit. 21 March 18mg Ven 20mg Cit. 4 April 9mg Ven 20mg Cit. Xanax .50mg when needed.  13 April 0 mgs Ven, 20mg Citalopram. Xanax .50 mg per day. 5 May reinstated a small amount of Ven to stabilize  1 mg twice a day. 20 mg Citalopram at night. Xanax .25 mg twice per day.Other Meds: Losartan (BP)Started 1993 at  50 mgs at night.  Seretide (Asthma) Started 1996 at 1 puff twice a day. Jan 2019 Antibiotic Ceclor 500mgs twice a day for bronchitis and  Atrovent 2ml capsules twice a day for asthma. Finished the course of both Jan 17. 

XANAX  Jan 27  - Feb 3 2019 Failed Valium Crossover.   Feb 14 2019  Updosed Xanax by .0625  Feb 17 2019 Decreased Xanax by .0625. Back to .50mg daily.  Update Xanax 28.2.20 tapered to .1250 mg 8am .25 mg midnight. Update Xanax 11.8.21 tapered to .25 mg at night. 

Current Meds 28.2.19: CITALOPRAM  20mg  taken at midnight. VENLAFAXINE  .9 mg twice a day at 8am and 10pm.  XANAX .50 mg split into 4 doses per day. 10am .0625mg / 2pm .1250mg/ 6pm .0625mg / midnight .25mg.Update 10.8.22 .25 mg at night.  LOSARTAN 50 mgs taken at midnight.  SERETIDE 1 puff taken at 8am and 10pm.   7.7.19 VENLAFAXINE UPDATE: Started tapering 10% every 4 weeks. Currently .4 mg twice a day at 8am and 10 pm.  2.9.19 .36 mg x 2. 1.10.19  .32 mg x 2. 26.11.19 .29 mg x2. 26.12.19 .26 mg  x 2. 23.1.20  .23 mg x 2.  20.2.20 .21 mg x2.20.3.20  .19 mg x 2. 21.4.20 .17 mg x 2. 19.5.20 .13 mg x 2.  18.6.20 .11mg  x 2 .18.7.20.10 mg x 2.1.9.20.09 mg x 2. 30.9. 20 .08 mg x 2. 1.11.20 .07 mg x 2.  2.12.20 .06 mg x 2.  8.1.21 .05 mg x 2.  4.2.21 .04 mg x 2. 9.3.21 .03 mgx2.  7.4.21  .02 mg x 2.  9.5.21 .01 mg x 2.  21.6.21 .01 mg x 1.  11.8.21 ZERO!

 

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  • Moderator
22 minutes ago, Flowers said:

I do understand how much our furry friends mean to us especially going through WD - they are such a comfort.  

 

I don't think the Spanish will have ready made applesauce but we have a German supermarket here that might have it. I will check it out.

 

Sorry to hear you have family troubles - that will make Brownie even more dear to you.

 

Have you thought of getting another little dog  or would that be too much for you or would Brownie not like it? We always kind of overlapped our dogs so that when the worst happened we had another that still needed our love and attention. Just a thought.

 

It will soon be October Frogie but the waiting is hell I know. All you can do is keep as busy as possible to make the time go quickly.

 

Flowers xxx

Our furry babies are our family. They give us unconditional love. They don't know any other.

 

I had a little male chihuahua. He passed away 8 years ago of epilepsy.

 

I won't be able to ever "replace" my Brownie. She's that special. I don't want another dog when she's gone. My fiancé has a cat, but she doesn't have much to do with me.

 

Just another weekend, and it will be time to take her in. I hope it's good news, that she will be ok for a couple more years. Guess time will tell.

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Mentor

Frogie,  you will find out more soon. Not soon enough, I know. I am hoping for the very best for Brownie. Fingers crossed and prayers. 

Xoxo

RS

 

I am not a health professional in any way.  I do not give medical advice.   Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a professional medical practitioner.

 

NEW INFORMATION FOR GABAPENTIN TAPER

April 29, 2022 900 mg to 800 mg (11%), May 29, 2022 800 to 700 mg (12.5%), June 20, 2022 700 to 650mg (8%), July 20, 2022 650 to 575 (12%), August 20,  575 to 500 (13%),  Sept 20, 2020 500 to 475mg (5%) Nov 7, 2022 475 to 425 (11%), Nov 21, 2022 500mg

Medications: Gabapentin, Prednisone 1.5mg a day, Cortisol Inhaler daily. 

HISTORY FOR ZOLOFT TAPER

Feb. 2016 to June 2016  - Was on 150mg Zoloft.  Put on Gabapentin at 900mg a day in 2016 due to antidepressant withdrawal. 

Quit Zoloft (Sertraline) June  2016,  reinstated 50mg of Zoloft July 2016.  From July 2016  to October 2016 went from 50 mg down 2.3 mg. I up-dosed in November 2016 to 12.5 mg. Held there until January 2017 when I started a much slower taper.

STARTING SENSIBLE  ZOLOFT TAPERING USING GUIDELINES FROM THIS SITE

Dec. 10 2016  - switched to Liquid Zoloft (Sertraline) @ 12.5 mg.   Jan. 4, 2020 1.875 mg (6.3%). Jan. 25, 2020 1.75 mgFeb. 29, 2020 1.625mg (7.10%).  Apr. 4, 2020 1.5 mg.  May 9, 2020 1.375 mg.  June 6, 2020 1.25 mg. (9.10%).  July 4, 2020 1.125 mg. (10%).  August 15, 2020 1.0 mg.  Oct 24, 2020 .875 mg.  Nov. 28, 2020 .75mgJan 16, 2021 .685mg (8.7%).  Feb 13, 2021 .62mg. March 12, 2021 .56mg.  May 1, 2021 .375mg.  May 29, 2021 .25mg. June 26, 2021 .0125mg. July 25, 2021 .065mg. August 22, 2021 .048mg.  October 2, 2021 .043mg.  October 10, 2021 .038mg.  October 23, 2021 .035mg.  October 30, 2021 .032mg.  Nov. 13, 2021 .030 mg.  Dec 4, 2021 .0285 mg.  Dec 11, 2021 .0265 mg. Dec 18, 2021 .0246 mg. Dec 25, 2021 .023mg. Jan 1, 2022. 0 mg. OFF COMPLETELY

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  • Moderator
7 minutes ago, RachelSusan said:

Frogie,  you will find out more soon. Not soon enough, I know. I am hoping for the very best for Brownie. Fingers crossed and prayers. 

Xoxo

RS

Thanks RS:

 

You have no idea how much I appreciate you being so kind.

 

Everyone is so kind to me right now, and you don't even know me.

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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Hi Frogie

 

Bananagrams is a game like scrabble but not like scrabble.   I had never heard of it - I did a companionship call this morning and we just played this game.  If you Google it you will find details out.  This client is very distressed and she finds it relaxing to play various games.  I found it relaxing too.  Any sort of games seem very old fashioned but I think they have their uses as a distraction.

 

Glad you are doing OK.  Even if I stick at 18 mg I am staying on this site to keep up to date with current views and the lives of my Internet friends - all of which really helps me.

 

Everyone should have pjamma days.

 

Glad brownie is doing better - pets are so important and don't hurt us like people do. 

 

Joy

 

Jan 2023 to July 2023 250mg quetiapine

Tapered off quetiapine again over 2 months - now weight problem

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22 minutes ago, joy2730 said:

Hi Frogie

 

Bananagrams is a game like scrabble but not like scrabble.   I had never heard of it - I did a companionship call this morning and we just played this game.  If you Google it you will find details out.  This client is very distressed and she finds it relaxing to play various games.  I found it relaxing too.  Any sort of games seem very old fashioned but I think they have their uses as a distraction.

 

Glad you are doing OK.  Even if I stick at 18 mg I am staying on this site to keep up to date with current views and the lives of my Internet friends - all of which really helps me.

 

Everyone should have pjamma days.

 

Glad brownie is doing better - pets are so important and don't hurt us like people do. 

 

Joy

I will google that game, sounds like it might be fun. 

 

I'm glad you are staying on the forum. I really like talking to all of you. I hope if you stay at 18 will help you. I hate for you to go up anymore.

 

i have at least 1-2 pj days a week. That's not good. I need to get dressed.

 

I think Brownie is better, but I'm not getting my hopes up until we see the vet. Pets give us unconditional love, and I know I'm going to lose her. She's 16, I just never prepared myself.

 

Glad you are doing ok. I'm a wreck, but oh well.

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Mentor

Frogie,

Everybody is kind to you because YOU are kind to to everybody.  And we do know you.  I think we all get a sense of what each other is like on this website.  I think the kindness you are being shown is because people understand love of a beloved family member like Brownie, and just because of how you treat others.   Forgie you are clearly valued by everybody here.

xo

 

I am not a health professional in any way.  I do not give medical advice.   Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a professional medical practitioner.

 

NEW INFORMATION FOR GABAPENTIN TAPER

April 29, 2022 900 mg to 800 mg (11%), May 29, 2022 800 to 700 mg (12.5%), June 20, 2022 700 to 650mg (8%), July 20, 2022 650 to 575 (12%), August 20,  575 to 500 (13%),  Sept 20, 2020 500 to 475mg (5%) Nov 7, 2022 475 to 425 (11%), Nov 21, 2022 500mg

Medications: Gabapentin, Prednisone 1.5mg a day, Cortisol Inhaler daily. 

HISTORY FOR ZOLOFT TAPER

Feb. 2016 to June 2016  - Was on 150mg Zoloft.  Put on Gabapentin at 900mg a day in 2016 due to antidepressant withdrawal. 

Quit Zoloft (Sertraline) June  2016,  reinstated 50mg of Zoloft July 2016.  From July 2016  to October 2016 went from 50 mg down 2.3 mg. I up-dosed in November 2016 to 12.5 mg. Held there until January 2017 when I started a much slower taper.

STARTING SENSIBLE  ZOLOFT TAPERING USING GUIDELINES FROM THIS SITE

Dec. 10 2016  - switched to Liquid Zoloft (Sertraline) @ 12.5 mg.   Jan. 4, 2020 1.875 mg (6.3%). Jan. 25, 2020 1.75 mgFeb. 29, 2020 1.625mg (7.10%).  Apr. 4, 2020 1.5 mg.  May 9, 2020 1.375 mg.  June 6, 2020 1.25 mg. (9.10%).  July 4, 2020 1.125 mg. (10%).  August 15, 2020 1.0 mg.  Oct 24, 2020 .875 mg.  Nov. 28, 2020 .75mgJan 16, 2021 .685mg (8.7%).  Feb 13, 2021 .62mg. March 12, 2021 .56mg.  May 1, 2021 .375mg.  May 29, 2021 .25mg. June 26, 2021 .0125mg. July 25, 2021 .065mg. August 22, 2021 .048mg.  October 2, 2021 .043mg.  October 10, 2021 .038mg.  October 23, 2021 .035mg.  October 30, 2021 .032mg.  Nov. 13, 2021 .030 mg.  Dec 4, 2021 .0285 mg.  Dec 11, 2021 .0265 mg. Dec 18, 2021 .0246 mg. Dec 25, 2021 .023mg. Jan 1, 2022. 0 mg. OFF COMPLETELY

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  • Moderator
10 hours ago, RachelSusan said:

Frogie,

Everybody is kind to you because YOU are kind to to everybody.  And we do know you.  I think we all get a sense of what each other is like on this website.  I think the kindness you are being shown is because people understand love of a beloved family member like Brownie, and just because of how you treat others.   Forgie you are clearly valued by everybody here.

xo

Oh RS:

 

You are making me cry. I try so hard to be kind and considerate to other people, because we are all going through the same thing here and it s***s! Some of us are worse than others. Some people on here don't have any WD symptoms (lucky them). Then there is me that is sick almost every morning I get up. 

 

I hope your symptoms ease soon. It's no fun being nauseous.

 

Most of mine is nerve related. Everything that's gone on latley, I'm surprised I'm not crazy, lol...

 

Thanks for the kind words.

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

(((((Frogie and Brownie)))))))

 

Hope it all goes well next week. 

 

2 hours ago, Frogie said:

Some people on here don't have any WD symptoms (lucky them).

I just always assume that other people on here(and elsewhere) ARE going through WD symptoms(or dealing with something equally perplexing).  I mean we don't know really what's what for others.  I mean I do that too.........comparing sometimes..........what works best for me usually is doing it the opposite way.........just being grateful.........I mean many here and elsewhere don't even have adequate shelter, or barely enough money to get by, or anybody at all around(I'm always jealous of the married.....lol......like it's easier with husband or something.....I mean it can be financially, or not......yet not always emotionally)..........  I think it's like that old Native American story where the elder grandfather spoke to his son about the 2 wolves that live inside of us all........it's the one that you focus on that lives and thrives.........something like that.  For me anyway........if all I focus on is W/D, W/D, W/D and my problems and why, why, why me, me, me..........well then that's all I have going on all of the time and that's sure not how I want to be.  Not to say I am doing great right now........yet I finally get it or am in that place where I CAN choose and decide what I focus on.

 

I guess I am just disappointed in myself today.........I was going to head on up to the "Spirit Dance" and take another woman along.........and oh.......go out to breakfast with another friend.  Then I woke up this morning and did all the what ifs again........doh.........so canceled, canceled.  These are women I've met through AA and we all pretty much depend on each other to keep us going right.  Soooo......I blew it.  Maybe just a meeting today.  I like being alone sometimes way too, too much.  I'm not too great on the action part yet or even just getting into motion.

 

So proud of you for getting on out and doing service too Frogie.  That's what it's all about as well.  Healing.  I can't say I have done too much in that regard lately in the formal sense.  I'm pretty good at the smiles and patience with others and lending an ear..........yet do need to do more myself to get out of myself........that's when the light comes in for me.........and I can shine again.  Then life just goes smoother.

 

Anyway.......I've gotten really good at the canceling and staying stuck........not working well for me or healing at all to say the least......

 

 

Love,peace,healing/recovery, and growth at any age......

 

manymoretodays

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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  • Moderator
4 hours ago, manymoretodays said:

(((((Frogie and Brownie)))))))

 

Hope it all goes well next week. 

 

I just always assume that other people on here(and elsewhere) ARE going through WD symptoms(or dealing with something equally perplexing).  I mean we don't know really what's what for others.  I mean I do that too.........comparing sometimes..........what works best for me usually is doing it the opposite way.........just being grateful.........I mean many here and elsewhere don't even have adequate shelter, or barely enough money to get by, or anybody at all around(I'm always jealous of the married.....lol......like it's easier with husband or something.....I mean it can be financially, or not......yet not always emotionally)..........  I think it's like that old Native American story where the elder grandfather spoke to his son about the 2 wolves that live inside of us all........it's the one that you focus on that lives and thrives.........something like that.  For me anyway........if all I focus on is W/D, W/D, W/D and my problems and why, why, why me, me, me..........well then that's all I have going on all of the time and that's sure not how I want to be.  Not to say I am doing great right now........yet I finally get it or am in that place where I CAN choose and decide what I focus on.

 

I guess I am just disappointed in myself today.........I was going to head on up to the "Spirit Dance" and take another woman along.........and oh.......go out to breakfast with another friend.  Then I woke up this morning and did all the what ifs again........doh.........so canceled, canceled.  These are women I've met through AA and we all pretty much depend on each other to keep us going right.  Soooo......I blew it.  Maybe just a meeting today.  I like being alone sometimes way too, too much.  I'm not too great on the action part yet or even just getting into motion.

 

So proud of you for getting on out and doing service too Frogie.  That's what it's all about as well.  Healing.  I can't say I have done too much in that regard lately in the formal sense.  I'm pretty good at the smiles and patience with others and lending an ear..........yet do need to do more myself to get out of myself........that's when the light comes in for me.........and I can shine again.  Then life just goes smoother.

 

Anyway.......I've gotten really good at the canceling and staying stuck........not working well for me or healing at all to say the least......

 

 

Love,peace,healing/recovery, and growth at any age......

 

manymoretodays

Hi manymoretodays:

 

I can completely understand you getting up this morning and cancelling. I sat here, all alone, except for Brownie for 4 years. One friend (if that's what you call her), she lives across the street from me but I only talk to her maybe a couple times a month. She's a senior and there is stuff for seniors to do in this horrible town I live in, but nothing, and I mean nothing for me to do. My fiancé works 7:00am-5:30pm mon-fri and then has things around the house to catch up on the weekend. So, I don't see a lot of him. 

 

I would google anything and everything that was wrong with me. I had this cancer and that cancer, drove my dr crazy! He finally told me I needed to get out and do something. But leave Brownie when she's sick? OMG! What was he thinking? His nurse has connections with this place I'm volunteering for. She left the room for a minute, while I sat there sobbing with a nervous breakdown to the dr (you will have to read my thread to see everything that's happened). Quick summary, July the sewer collapsed, then I had to have  3 teeth pulled and my partial broke the 1st day I had it. Got that fixed. I had a friend (she was only 47) pass away, and now my dog is sick. Oh, and last week I dropped my Pilates machine on my foot. Not broken, thank goodness. But banged up and ugly. She came back into the room handed me a name, and told me to go talk to her. She will get me going Volunterring.

 

My dr said if I wanted to continue to do as well as I am doing, then I needed to get out for just a couple of hours here and there. Or he was going to put me back on 10mg Lexapro. That wasn't happening.

 

So, I started last week. In the thrift store 16 miles away from home. I helped take all the clothes down for the month, then they donate them to a church. Then we got new clothes and started hanging and hanging and hanging. I did that for 4 hours this week and barely made a dent. But it made me feel good. I was giving back to the community, but I was getting out of the house and meeting people. The people I work with are very nice so far. They were so surprised when I came back the second day. They said most people don't come back after the 1st day.

 

I have really rambled. But at least I know I'm in WD, I know most people on this site are in WD. But I love the people I talk to on the site. They are good friends even though we live all over the world, we can count on each other when we have problems. We understand each other, to a certain degree anyways.

 

And yes, Brownie made it without me. The vet told me she's old (16) and not going to live forever, I just sat and sobbed. She's my everything. But she's on meds. She's gained a pound, and is eating, and even barking. It's not killing either one of us to be away from each other for 4 hours a week (I think it is), but if she's going to go, I can be here, or be gone, it's going to happen and that's when I will need EVERYONE on this site!

 

You are really an inspiration to me. You do what needs to be done in life. And you live life. You travel. I don't .

 

I hope you are doing well. I've rambled enough. Have a great weekend. :)

 

Thanks for thinking of my baby. I hope she can hang on a couple more years without pain or suffering. I can't watch that. 😭😭😭 My heart is broken💔💔💔

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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Frogie you are doing so well, coping with Brownie being ill and going out volunteering.  I think it is a wise move and if it prevents you from going back up to 10 mg then that is a good non drug coping strategy.

 

Are you at volunteering on Monday's, if so it is a structured start to the week.  Hope you have told your new colleagues/new friends all about Brownie.  Everyone loves to hear about a pet.  Even those who don't have pets.

 

I think your doctor has been wise to suggest you get out and about a bit more.  I can't see people's signatures at the moment, am I right in thinking you are on a dose of citalopram below 10 mg and valium (diazepam) but I am guessing!

 

Take care and well done you.

 

Joy

 

Jan 2023 to July 2023 250mg quetiapine

Tapered off quetiapine again over 2 months - now weight problem

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  • Moderator
4 hours ago, joy2730 said:

Frogie you are doing so well, coping with Brownie being ill and going out volunteering.  I think it is a wise move and if it prevents you from going back up to 10 mg then that is a good non drug coping strategy.

 

Are you at volunteering on Monday's, if so it is a structured start to the week.  Hope you have told your new colleagues/new friends all about Brownie.  Everyone loves to hear about a pet.  Even those who don't have pets.

 

I think your doctor has been wise to suggest you get out and about a bit more.  I can't see people's signatures at the moment, am I right in thinking you are on a dose of citalopram below 10 mg and valium (diazepam) but I am guessing!

 

Take care and well done you.

 

Joy

Thanks Joy:

 

I'm trying to do the best I can for me, my fiancé, our cat Shady and Brownie.

 

I found last week my back was sore after working. But I'm used to just sitting. It will get better.

 

I've told everyone about Brownie. They think that I'm doing really well. I enjoy going to volunteer. Like I said it gets me out of the house and I can socialize with people.

 

I volunteer on Wed and Thurs for 9:00am-11:00am. Time really goes fast. 

 

Im on 6.4mg Lexapro and 1mg Xanax 4 times a day. I'm not going up or looking back. I'm moving forward.

 

Hope you have a great day.

 

It's football day today and NASCAR! 

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

Link to comment

Frogie,

 

I have been following your post and hope you continue to get better. I've stopped watching football since my team moved to LA. I used to watch NASCAR but have not found the time in a couple of years. I cheer for a driver who graduated from my high school a year behind me. He's done very well for himself.

 

Keep up the good work and I will be cheering for you.

 

PW

Current Medications:

1. Celexa 20 mg/day.  Tapered to 19 mg/day 9/16 - 10/2/2017.  Back to 20 mg/day on 10/3/2017.

2. Lamotrigine 100 mg/day for 3 years (mood stabilizer) followed by 100 mg/2x daily for 3 years (6 years total).

3. Neurontin (Gabapentin) 600 mg/2x daily for 3 years.

 

Note: I took Valium 5 mg/3x day as needed for 2+ years (anxiety). My last dose was on June 23, 2017.

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  • Moderator
1 hour ago, PinballWizard said:

Frogie,

 

I have been following your post and hope you continue to get better. I've stopped watching football since my team moved to LA. I used to watch NASCAR but have not found the time in a couple of years. I cheer for a driver who graduated from my high school a year behind me. He's done very well for himself.

 

Keep up the good work and I will be cheering for you.

 

PW

Thanks PW:

 

I will start following you. 

 

My favorite driver was Jeff Gordon, but he retired. Now I have mixed emotions between, Kyle Bush and Truex. 

 

I love football. My teams are the Broncos and the Seahawks.

 

I'm glad I made a new friend that we can help each other. I'm doing the best I can with all the obstacles going on in my life right now.

 

I will be cheering for you too.

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Moderator

BRONCOS!!! BRONCOS!!!!!

20 years on Paxil starting at 20mg and working up to 40mg. Sept 2011 started 10% every 6 weeks taper (2.5% every week for 4 weeks then hold for 2 additional weeks), currently at 7.9mg. Oct 2011 CTed 15oz vodka a night, to only drinking 2 beers most nights, totally sober Feb 2013.

Since I wrote this I have continued to decrease my dose by 10% every 6 weeks (2.5% every week for 4 weeks and then hold for an additional 2 weeks). I added in an extra 6 week hold when I hit 10mg to let things settle out even more. When I hit 3mgpw it became hard to split the drop into 4 parts so I switched to dropping 1mgpw (pill weight) every week for 3 weeks and then holding for another 3 weeks.  The 3 + 3 schedule turned out to be too harsh so I cut back to dropping 1mgpw every 4 weeks which is working better.

Final Dose 0.016mg.     Current dose 0.000mg 04-15-2017

 

"It's also important not to become angry, no matter how difficult life is, because you can loose all hope if you can't laugh at yourself and at life in general."  Stephen Hawking

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  • Moderator
2 hours ago, brassmonkey said:

BRONCOS!!! BRONCOS!!!!!

 I knew you were smart! Lol...

 

What do you think of the quarterback?

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Moderator

I think he's a bit green but has some good potential.  Seems to throw pretty well, he had a few problems yesterday, but connects most of the time.  I like the way he will make a decision to run when an opportunity shows itself.  I think that after loosing Payton it's going to take several years or rebuilding, but they did better than I expected last year and are off to a good start this year.

20 years on Paxil starting at 20mg and working up to 40mg. Sept 2011 started 10% every 6 weeks taper (2.5% every week for 4 weeks then hold for 2 additional weeks), currently at 7.9mg. Oct 2011 CTed 15oz vodka a night, to only drinking 2 beers most nights, totally sober Feb 2013.

Since I wrote this I have continued to decrease my dose by 10% every 6 weeks (2.5% every week for 4 weeks and then hold for an additional 2 weeks). I added in an extra 6 week hold when I hit 10mg to let things settle out even more. When I hit 3mgpw it became hard to split the drop into 4 parts so I switched to dropping 1mgpw (pill weight) every week for 3 weeks and then holding for another 3 weeks.  The 3 + 3 schedule turned out to be too harsh so I cut back to dropping 1mgpw every 4 weeks which is working better.

Final Dose 0.016mg.     Current dose 0.000mg 04-15-2017

 

"It's also important not to become angry, no matter how difficult life is, because you can loose all hope if you can't laugh at yourself and at life in general."  Stephen Hawking

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  • Moderator
8 minutes ago, brassmonkey said:

I think he's a bit green but has some good potential.  Seems to throw pretty well, he had a few problems yesterday, but connects most of the time.  I like the way he will make a decision to run when an opportunity shows itself.  I think that after loosing Payton it's going to take several years or rebuilding, but they did better than I expected last year and are off to a good start this year.

I think he will do much better than Lynch. He is green, like you said, but look at what we said about Elway. I think give him a couple years and he might take us somewhere. He is good and not afraid to run if he needs too. We have something in common!

 

Only if I could get to 0.00 like you, I would be a happy camper. Then Xanax :(

 

How are you feeling almost 6 months off? Hope well.

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Moderator

You'll get there Frogie, just a matter of time.  Yea, 6 months in a couple of weeks.  I'm much improved from when I took the jump, but still having my "days".  Been in a bit of a wave for the past several weeks, but that is feeling like it's starting to lift.  Post jump recovery is a pretty uncharted place, so it's all a learning experience.  Life has decided this is a good time to start kicking me around a bit, that's going to take some dealing with on the acceptance front.  All told things are going pretty well ATM.  Thanks for asking.

20 years on Paxil starting at 20mg and working up to 40mg. Sept 2011 started 10% every 6 weeks taper (2.5% every week for 4 weeks then hold for 2 additional weeks), currently at 7.9mg. Oct 2011 CTed 15oz vodka a night, to only drinking 2 beers most nights, totally sober Feb 2013.

Since I wrote this I have continued to decrease my dose by 10% every 6 weeks (2.5% every week for 4 weeks and then hold for an additional 2 weeks). I added in an extra 6 week hold when I hit 10mg to let things settle out even more. When I hit 3mgpw it became hard to split the drop into 4 parts so I switched to dropping 1mgpw (pill weight) every week for 3 weeks and then holding for another 3 weeks.  The 3 + 3 schedule turned out to be too harsh so I cut back to dropping 1mgpw every 4 weeks which is working better.

Final Dose 0.016mg.     Current dose 0.000mg 04-15-2017

 

"It's also important not to become angry, no matter how difficult life is, because you can loose all hope if you can't laugh at yourself and at life in general."  Stephen Hawking

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  • Moderator
6 minutes ago, brassmonkey said:

You'll get there Frogie, just a matter of time.  Yea, 6 months in a couple of weeks.  I'm much improved from when I took the jump, but still having my "days".  Been in a bit of a wave for the past several weeks, but that is feeling like it's starting to lift.  Post jump recovery is a pretty uncharted place, so it's all a learning experience.  Life has decided this is a good time to start kicking me around a bit, that's going to take some dealing with on the acceptance front.  All told things are going pretty well ATM.  Thanks for asking.

I know I'll get there, just a slow process.

 

I hope I do as well as you when I'm off this horrific stuff. I don't have any WD symptoms except nausea, and it only lasts a few days, so hopefully I'll do ok. I've never had a wave, but I guess I should never say never.

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Mentor

Hey Frogie,

Great news.  After two months of me having nausea it has stopped.  It started to decrease on Friday and Saturday night I said, wow, I just realized I only had a little nausea Saturday morning. I had no nausea Sunday nothing, and today no nausea.  A few tremors here and there and a few sweats, but NO nausea.  I know you of all people little appreciate what that means.  I was taking the Meclazine for it, which helped quite a bit, but not 100%. I don't know how long this window will last, but I'll take it.

Please tell me how Brownie is doing.  I know you haven't gone back to the vet yet but I still  would love to hear how she is doing with her eating, her weight, her energy and so on.

xo

RS

 

I am not a health professional in any way.  I do not give medical advice.   Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a professional medical practitioner.

 

NEW INFORMATION FOR GABAPENTIN TAPER

April 29, 2022 900 mg to 800 mg (11%), May 29, 2022 800 to 700 mg (12.5%), June 20, 2022 700 to 650mg (8%), July 20, 2022 650 to 575 (12%), August 20,  575 to 500 (13%),  Sept 20, 2020 500 to 475mg (5%) Nov 7, 2022 475 to 425 (11%), Nov 21, 2022 500mg

Medications: Gabapentin, Prednisone 1.5mg a day, Cortisol Inhaler daily. 

HISTORY FOR ZOLOFT TAPER

Feb. 2016 to June 2016  - Was on 150mg Zoloft.  Put on Gabapentin at 900mg a day in 2016 due to antidepressant withdrawal. 

Quit Zoloft (Sertraline) June  2016,  reinstated 50mg of Zoloft July 2016.  From July 2016  to October 2016 went from 50 mg down 2.3 mg. I up-dosed in November 2016 to 12.5 mg. Held there until January 2017 when I started a much slower taper.

STARTING SENSIBLE  ZOLOFT TAPERING USING GUIDELINES FROM THIS SITE

Dec. 10 2016  - switched to Liquid Zoloft (Sertraline) @ 12.5 mg.   Jan. 4, 2020 1.875 mg (6.3%). Jan. 25, 2020 1.75 mgFeb. 29, 2020 1.625mg (7.10%).  Apr. 4, 2020 1.5 mg.  May 9, 2020 1.375 mg.  June 6, 2020 1.25 mg. (9.10%).  July 4, 2020 1.125 mg. (10%).  August 15, 2020 1.0 mg.  Oct 24, 2020 .875 mg.  Nov. 28, 2020 .75mgJan 16, 2021 .685mg (8.7%).  Feb 13, 2021 .62mg. March 12, 2021 .56mg.  May 1, 2021 .375mg.  May 29, 2021 .25mg. June 26, 2021 .0125mg. July 25, 2021 .065mg. August 22, 2021 .048mg.  October 2, 2021 .043mg.  October 10, 2021 .038mg.  October 23, 2021 .035mg.  October 30, 2021 .032mg.  Nov. 13, 2021 .030 mg.  Dec 4, 2021 .0285 mg.  Dec 11, 2021 .0265 mg. Dec 18, 2021 .0246 mg. Dec 25, 2021 .023mg. Jan 1, 2022. 0 mg. OFF COMPLETELY

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  • Moderator
13 minutes ago, RachelSusan said:

Hey Frogie,

Great news.  After two months of me having nausea it has stopped.  It started to decrease on Friday and Saturday night I said, wow, I just realized I only had a little nausea Saturday morning. I had no nausea Sunday nothing, and today no nausea.  A few tremors here and there and a few sweats, but NO nausea.  I know you of all people little appreciate what that means.  I was taking the Meclazine for it, which helped quite a bit, but not 100%. I don't know how long this window will last, but I'll take it.

Please tell me how Brownie is doing.  I know you haven't gone back to the vet yet but I still  would love to hear how she is doing with her eating, her weight, her energy and so on.

xo

RS

Hi RS:

 

I'm really glad you aren't nauseous anymore! Super news. Just remember that could be one of your symptoms when you taper. It's mine. That's why I take it so slow, and everything that's going on makes me nauseous. It's nerves and WD with me. But usually when I taper I get nauseous for a few days. 

 

Brownie seems to be eating better. She actually ate some of her dry food today. I leave a little bowl out for her all the time. But she's getting like cujo when it's time to give her her meds. Good thing she doesn't have but a couple of teeth left lol.. (Poor baby). She's wanted to go outside the last few days and she stands and barks, which she wasn't doing.

 

At the vet she weighed 5.3. I weighed her today and my scale says 6 pounds. Still not where she was when she got sick. She did weigh 7.3, but she has gained. I've weighed her a couple of times and my scale says 6 pounds every time.

 

I hope she's getting better, but I also have to face reality. She's 16, but chihuahuas do live sometimes to be 20, so let's pray she does without suffering or in pain. I really need her while living in this horrible place.

 

Thanks for caring. It means a lot.

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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  • Moderator Emeritus
On 9/30/2017 at 3:40 PM, Frogie said:

Hi manymoretodays:

 

I can completely understand you getting up this morning and cancelling. I sat here, all alone, except for Brownie for 4 years. One friend (if that's what you call her), she lives across the street from me but I only talk to her maybe a couple times a month. She's a senior and there is stuff for seniors to do in this horrible town I live in, but nothing, and I mean nothing for me to do. My fiancé works 7:00am-5:30pm mon-fri and then has things around the house to catch up on the weekend. So, I don't see a lot of him. 

 

I would google anything and everything that was wrong with me. I had this cancer and that cancer, drove my dr crazy! He finally told me I needed to get out and do something. But leave Brownie when she's sick? OMG! What was he thinking? His nurse has connections with this place I'm volunteering for. She left the room for a minute, while I sat there sobbing with a nervous breakdown to the dr (you will have to read my thread to see everything that's happened). Quick summary, July the sewer collapsed, then I had to have  3 teeth pulled and my partial broke the 1st day I had it. Got that fixed. I had a friend (she was only 47) pass away, and now my dog is sick. Oh, and last week I dropped my Pilates machine on my foot. Not broken, thank goodness. But banged up and ugly. She came back into the room handed me a name, and told me to go talk to her. She will get me going Volunterring.

 

My dr said if I wanted to continue to do as well as I am doing, then I needed to get out for just a couple of hours here and there. Or he was going to put me back on 10mg Lexapro. That wasn't happening.

 

So, I started last week. In the thrift store 16 miles away from home. I helped take all the clothes down for the month, then they donate them to a church. Then we got new clothes and started hanging and hanging and hanging. I did that for 4 hours this week and barely made a dent. But it made me feel good. I was giving back to the community, but I was getting out of the house and meeting people. The people I work with are very nice so far. They were so surprised when I came back the second day. They said most people don't come back after the 1st day.

 

I have really rambled. But at least I know I'm in WD, I know most people on this site are in WD. But I love the people I talk to on the site. They are good friends even though we live all over the world, we can count on each other when we have problems. We understand each other, to a certain degree anyways.

 

And yes, Brownie made it without me. The vet told me she's old (16) and not going to live forever, I just sat and sobbed. She's my everything. But she's on meds. She's gained a pound, and is eating, and even barking. It's not killing either one of us to be away from each other for 4 hours a week (I think it is), but if she's going to go, I can be here, or be gone, it's going to happen and that's when I will need EVERYONE on this site!

 

You are really an inspiration to me. You do what needs to be done in life. And you live life. You travel. I don't .

 

I hope you are doing well. I've rambled enough. Have a great weekend. :)

 

Thanks for thinking of my baby. I hope she can hang on a couple more years without pain or suffering. I can't watch that. 😭😭😭 My heart is broken💔💔💔

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

 

Hi Frogie,

 

Hey.......I don't mind the rambling.  I'm still pretty stuck.  Not doing a whole lot of living or traveling.  Not a whole lot of confidence or motivation at this time.  It's been about 2 mos. now so hoping something gives soon.  I've been up since way too early and hoping that when it warms up a bit more I can take a walk.  Maybe nap until then. 

 

Looks like the neighbors behind me chopped some trees down that were planted a few decades ago by my father outlaw.  The neighbors are renters though and it's okay really.  Kind of sad.  There still is one set of trees between our fences for summer privacy.  I'm just hoping they will call me and possibly move some more of the debris(tree trimmings) before they put their fence back up.  Also I can see Lone Peak better so that's a plus.  It's just that it's my property as far as I know..........and I am a bit miffed that they wouldn't contact me and let me know or something to that effect.  I have a lot of expectations of common neighborly decency that aren't always met.  On the good side maybe I can hire their workers for some further trimming and fence repair on my side.  So hard to care about much but hoping for some interaction with them today. 

 

I'm still isolating quite a bit but mananging.  Short lived tear bursts.  That kind of thing.  Bored yet unmotivated.  Financial worries but not I suppose as I have retirement funds to cash in as needed.  I'm really just doing as little as possible.  Sad........not horribly so..........maybe lonely..........that's nothing new though either.  And not a whole lot to give right now to others.......hollow inside.    So........I could use a few prayers or universal good intentions or virtual hugs that I find my way back to a bit more joy and contentment.  Learning how to live again is tough.

 

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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  • Mentor

Frogie,

It's Saturday and I know you went to the Vet today. I'm checking in to see how it went.  No pressure, when you feel up to it I would like to hear how you are doing.  Just know that I am thinking about you and sweet Brownie.  My fingers are crossed that you got good news, but know that I am here for you whatever the news and whenever you need support.

xo

RS

 

I am not a health professional in any way.  I do not give medical advice.   Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a professional medical practitioner.

 

NEW INFORMATION FOR GABAPENTIN TAPER

April 29, 2022 900 mg to 800 mg (11%), May 29, 2022 800 to 700 mg (12.5%), June 20, 2022 700 to 650mg (8%), July 20, 2022 650 to 575 (12%), August 20,  575 to 500 (13%),  Sept 20, 2020 500 to 475mg (5%) Nov 7, 2022 475 to 425 (11%), Nov 21, 2022 500mg

Medications: Gabapentin, Prednisone 1.5mg a day, Cortisol Inhaler daily. 

HISTORY FOR ZOLOFT TAPER

Feb. 2016 to June 2016  - Was on 150mg Zoloft.  Put on Gabapentin at 900mg a day in 2016 due to antidepressant withdrawal. 

Quit Zoloft (Sertraline) June  2016,  reinstated 50mg of Zoloft July 2016.  From July 2016  to October 2016 went from 50 mg down 2.3 mg. I up-dosed in November 2016 to 12.5 mg. Held there until January 2017 when I started a much slower taper.

STARTING SENSIBLE  ZOLOFT TAPERING USING GUIDELINES FROM THIS SITE

Dec. 10 2016  - switched to Liquid Zoloft (Sertraline) @ 12.5 mg.   Jan. 4, 2020 1.875 mg (6.3%). Jan. 25, 2020 1.75 mgFeb. 29, 2020 1.625mg (7.10%).  Apr. 4, 2020 1.5 mg.  May 9, 2020 1.375 mg.  June 6, 2020 1.25 mg. (9.10%).  July 4, 2020 1.125 mg. (10%).  August 15, 2020 1.0 mg.  Oct 24, 2020 .875 mg.  Nov. 28, 2020 .75mgJan 16, 2021 .685mg (8.7%).  Feb 13, 2021 .62mg. March 12, 2021 .56mg.  May 1, 2021 .375mg.  May 29, 2021 .25mg. June 26, 2021 .0125mg. July 25, 2021 .065mg. August 22, 2021 .048mg.  October 2, 2021 .043mg.  October 10, 2021 .038mg.  October 23, 2021 .035mg.  October 30, 2021 .032mg.  Nov. 13, 2021 .030 mg.  Dec 4, 2021 .0285 mg.  Dec 11, 2021 .0265 mg. Dec 18, 2021 .0246 mg. Dec 25, 2021 .023mg. Jan 1, 2022. 0 mg. OFF COMPLETELY

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Dear Frogie

 

RS has said it all really but just wanted you to know I am thinking of you too. 

 

Let us know how things went when you can.

 

Love from Flowers xxx

 

 

15 yrs on 20 to 30 mgs CITALOPRAM.  MAY 2014 Increased to 40 mgs per day.SEPT/NOV 2014 tapered in 6 weeks down to 10 mgs as per Dr instructions due to violent nightmares/palpitations.Given Noctamid (lormetazepam) to help with anxiety. On average took 2mg per day for 8 weeks.No taper was advised.DEC 2014 WD severe. Nervous tic in eyes and limbs, muscle pain,fluct  temp, weakness, dep and anxiety, nausea, giddy, unstable when walking. Different Dr suggested taking 20mgs CIT. BROMAZEPAM 3mgs up to 3 x daily for anxiety.DEC 9 2014 Updose CIT to 30mgs. Only taking BROMAZEPAM in emergency.DEC 31 2014 Settling at 30mg CIT - helping with depression. No Brom for 2wks.Found SA.APR 2015 Trying to stabilise on 30mgs CIT.  JAN 2016 Started Cit Taper reducing by 5% per month.  28.5 mgs 
FEB  Taper held bereavement. APR Taper resumed 27mgs . MAY 25.50 mgs .  JUNE 24 mgs .  JULY I stupidly mixed up my BP meds with CIT. Consequently took no CIT for 3 days and doubled my BP meds. Waiting for the fallout....Holding for a while until any chance of repercussions have abated. SEPT taper resumed to  22.5 mgs . OCT 21 mgs .NOV 19.95 mgs DEC crashed. 2017: FEB 3rd updose to 20.5 mgs to try to stabilise.FEB.switched over to 75mgs of Venlafaxine XR for 3 weeks.Too stimulating so switching back to Cit. 12 March 37.5 Ven and 20 Cit. 21 March 18mg Ven 20mg Cit. 4 April 9mg Ven 20mg Cit. Xanax .50mg when needed.  13 April 0 mgs Ven, 20mg Citalopram. Xanax .50 mg per day. 5 May reinstated a small amount of Ven to stabilize  1 mg twice a day. 20 mg Citalopram at night. Xanax .25 mg twice per day.Other Meds: Losartan (BP)Started 1993 at  50 mgs at night.  Seretide (Asthma) Started 1996 at 1 puff twice a day. Jan 2019 Antibiotic Ceclor 500mgs twice a day for bronchitis and  Atrovent 2ml capsules twice a day for asthma. Finished the course of both Jan 17. 

XANAX  Jan 27  - Feb 3 2019 Failed Valium Crossover.   Feb 14 2019  Updosed Xanax by .0625  Feb 17 2019 Decreased Xanax by .0625. Back to .50mg daily.  Update Xanax 28.2.20 tapered to .1250 mg 8am .25 mg midnight. Update Xanax 11.8.21 tapered to .25 mg at night. 

Current Meds 28.2.19: CITALOPRAM  20mg  taken at midnight. VENLAFAXINE  .9 mg twice a day at 8am and 10pm.  XANAX .50 mg split into 4 doses per day. 10am .0625mg / 2pm .1250mg/ 6pm .0625mg / midnight .25mg.Update 10.8.22 .25 mg at night.  LOSARTAN 50 mgs taken at midnight.  SERETIDE 1 puff taken at 8am and 10pm.   7.7.19 VENLAFAXINE UPDATE: Started tapering 10% every 4 weeks. Currently .4 mg twice a day at 8am and 10 pm.  2.9.19 .36 mg x 2. 1.10.19  .32 mg x 2. 26.11.19 .29 mg x2. 26.12.19 .26 mg  x 2. 23.1.20  .23 mg x 2.  20.2.20 .21 mg x2.20.3.20  .19 mg x 2. 21.4.20 .17 mg x 2. 19.5.20 .13 mg x 2.  18.6.20 .11mg  x 2 .18.7.20.10 mg x 2.1.9.20.09 mg x 2. 30.9. 20 .08 mg x 2. 1.11.20 .07 mg x 2.  2.12.20 .06 mg x 2.  8.1.21 .05 mg x 2.  4.2.21 .04 mg x 2. 9.3.21 .03 mgx2.  7.4.21  .02 mg x 2.  9.5.21 .01 mg x 2.  21.6.21 .01 mg x 1.  11.8.21 ZERO!

 

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  • Moderator

Hi RS and Flowers:

 

Thanks so much for caring and wondering how it went.

 

Brownies liver enzymes are still high, in the 300's, but came down from 2000, which is good news. Her kidney enzymes are a little high, but she said that's old age. She's 16. The vet said her heart is very strong and no fluid in her lungs. Great news.

 

The vet said to take her off her meds. Watch her to see if she's still eating and drinking good and if she's acting like herself. If she does ok, we will keep her off, otherwise, we will put her back on. I asked the vet how long she has to live. She said it could be a day, a week, 2 years, only Brownie and God knows. I've been praying a lot.

 

She gained 1.2 pounds. That's good.

 

Now I'm just a mess. I've got a bad stomach ache and running to the bathroom every 5-10 minutes. I don't know if I've caught something or if it's just nerves. I haven't been around people, until I started Volunterring, except the store. I'm wondering if I picked something up from there. There have been some people that I work with out sick last week.  And I can't get warm. They said we have a chance of snow tomorrow, less than an inch.

 

So that's about it. If everyone can just pray that Brownie pulls through without her meds. It's not fun giving it to her.

 

Again, thanks for caring.

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

Link to comment
7 minutes ago, Frogie said:

Hi RS and Flowers:

 

Thanks so much for caring and wondering how it went.

 

Brownies liver enzymes are still high, in the 300's, but came down from 2000, which is good news. Her kidney enzymes are a little high, but she said that's old age. She's 16. The vet said her heart is very strong and no fluid in her lungs. Great news.

 

The vet said to take her off her meds. Watch her to see if she's still eating and drinking good and if she's acting like herself. If she does ok, we will keep her off, otherwise, we will put her back on. I asked the vet how long she has to live. She said it could be a day, a week, 2 years, only Brownie and God knows. I've been praying a lot.

 

She gained 1.2 pounds. That's good.

 

Now I'm just a mess. I've got a bad stomach ache and running to the bathroom every 5-10 minutes. I don't know if I've caught something or if it's just nerves. I haven't been around people, until I started Volunterring, except the store. I'm wondering if I picked something up from there. There have been some people that I work with out sick last week.  And I can't get warm. They said we have a chance of snow tomorrow, less than an inch.

 

So that's about it. If everyone can just pray that Brownie pulls through without her meds. It's not fun giving it to her.

 

Again, thanks for caring.

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

 

 

 

Frogie,

 

Your gut troubles are down to the stress of all that you're going through.

 

I've had a lot of gut issues recently and they are all emotionally related.

 

Praying that Brownie pulls through and that you start feeling better too.

 

JC xxx

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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  • Mentor

Hi Frogie,

 

From what you say it sounds like things are definitely moving in the right direction for Brownie.  I've got my fingers crossed that it continues this way. I love hearing that she has gained back some of her weight.

 

I'm sorry to hear that you aren't feeling well. I hope whatever is wrong with your stomach clears up quickly. You've been though a lot of things, let's hope this stomach problem is the last of all of these things. As for Lexapro, I know you are holding.  Are you in a window or a wave with it?  I've been holding since August 5, currently in a wave but hoping it goes away soon.

 

xo

RS

 

 

 

I am not a health professional in any way.  I do not give medical advice.   Discuss any decisions about your medical care with a professional medical practitioner.

 

NEW INFORMATION FOR GABAPENTIN TAPER

April 29, 2022 900 mg to 800 mg (11%), May 29, 2022 800 to 700 mg (12.5%), June 20, 2022 700 to 650mg (8%), July 20, 2022 650 to 575 (12%), August 20,  575 to 500 (13%),  Sept 20, 2020 500 to 475mg (5%) Nov 7, 2022 475 to 425 (11%), Nov 21, 2022 500mg

Medications: Gabapentin, Prednisone 1.5mg a day, Cortisol Inhaler daily. 

HISTORY FOR ZOLOFT TAPER

Feb. 2016 to June 2016  - Was on 150mg Zoloft.  Put on Gabapentin at 900mg a day in 2016 due to antidepressant withdrawal. 

Quit Zoloft (Sertraline) June  2016,  reinstated 50mg of Zoloft July 2016.  From July 2016  to October 2016 went from 50 mg down 2.3 mg. I up-dosed in November 2016 to 12.5 mg. Held there until January 2017 when I started a much slower taper.

STARTING SENSIBLE  ZOLOFT TAPERING USING GUIDELINES FROM THIS SITE

Dec. 10 2016  - switched to Liquid Zoloft (Sertraline) @ 12.5 mg.   Jan. 4, 2020 1.875 mg (6.3%). Jan. 25, 2020 1.75 mgFeb. 29, 2020 1.625mg (7.10%).  Apr. 4, 2020 1.5 mg.  May 9, 2020 1.375 mg.  June 6, 2020 1.25 mg. (9.10%).  July 4, 2020 1.125 mg. (10%).  August 15, 2020 1.0 mg.  Oct 24, 2020 .875 mg.  Nov. 28, 2020 .75mgJan 16, 2021 .685mg (8.7%).  Feb 13, 2021 .62mg. March 12, 2021 .56mg.  May 1, 2021 .375mg.  May 29, 2021 .25mg. June 26, 2021 .0125mg. July 25, 2021 .065mg. August 22, 2021 .048mg.  October 2, 2021 .043mg.  October 10, 2021 .038mg.  October 23, 2021 .035mg.  October 30, 2021 .032mg.  Nov. 13, 2021 .030 mg.  Dec 4, 2021 .0285 mg.  Dec 11, 2021 .0265 mg. Dec 18, 2021 .0246 mg. Dec 25, 2021 .023mg. Jan 1, 2022. 0 mg. OFF COMPLETELY

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  • Moderator
9 minutes ago, RachelSusan said:

Hi Frogie,

 

From what you say it sounds like things are definitely moving in the right direction for Brownie.  I've got my fingers crossed that it continues this way. I love hearing that she has gained back some of her weight.

 

I'm sorry to hear that you aren't feeling well. I hope whatever is wrong with your stomach clears up quickly. You've been though a lot of things, let's hope this stomach problem is the last of all of these things. As for Lexapro, I know you are holding.  Are you in a window or a wave with it?  I've been holding since August 5, currently in a wave but hoping it goes away soon.

 

xo

RS

 

 

Hi RS:

 

I'm in a great window right now. But I really think it has a lot to do with me actually getting out and doing something, instead of just sitting here all day long. But I'm not ready to taper, with all of this going on.

 

I hope you have a HUGE window open soon!

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

Link to comment
  • Moderator
7 minutes ago, Junglechicken said:

 

Frogie,

 

Your gut troubles are down to the stress of all that you're going through.

 

I've had a lot of gut issues recently and they are all emotionally related.

 

Praying that Brownie pulls through and that you start feeling better too.

 

JC xxx

Thanks JC:

 

I think it's all stress related too. Everything that has happened, and now leaving the house to volunteer 2 days a week. There were a couple people out last week sick where I volunteer, but it's not the same as me. I can't get warm, have a slight headache, and running to the bathroom every 5-10 minutes. Not fun.

 

Hope you feel better soon.

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

Link to comment

I think its a lot colder now anyway, we have our winter duvet on the bed and the nights are closing in once again.

 

Headache could be stress too, and the upset stomach - nerves can cause that easily.  Been there a lot lately.

 

If its a bug, drink lots of water, rest; and whatever is causing it will get flushed out of your system soon enough.

 

JC xxx

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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  • Moderator
1 minute ago, Junglechicken said:

I think its a lot colder now anyway, we have our winter duvet on the bed and the nights are closing in once again.

 

Headache could be stress too, and the upset stomach - nerves can cause that easily.  Been there a lot lately.

 

If its a bug, drink lots of water, rest; and whatever is causing it will get flushed out of your system soon enough.

 

JC xxx

Thanks JC:

 

I think it's stress, or I would be worse.

 

I hope both of us heal quickly and we can go on with what we need to do.

 

Thanks for caring.

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

Link to comment

Well, I get told exactly that a lot by my ND, but have to start believing it, LOL!

 

TC,

JC xxx

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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Just now, Junglechicken said:

Well, I get told exactly that a lot by my ND, but have to start believing it, LOL!

 

TC,

JC xxx

I get told that from my fiancé a lot.

 

We are in the same boat lol...

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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Hi Frogie

 

So sorry you are having tummy troubles but you have been through a big ordeal with Brownie.

 

So pleased that things seem to be better with her and hope you are able to settle down a little now and get well yourself.

 

Sending love and hugs

 

Flowers xxx 

 

 

15 yrs on 20 to 30 mgs CITALOPRAM.  MAY 2014 Increased to 40 mgs per day.SEPT/NOV 2014 tapered in 6 weeks down to 10 mgs as per Dr instructions due to violent nightmares/palpitations.Given Noctamid (lormetazepam) to help with anxiety. On average took 2mg per day for 8 weeks.No taper was advised.DEC 2014 WD severe. Nervous tic in eyes and limbs, muscle pain,fluct  temp, weakness, dep and anxiety, nausea, giddy, unstable when walking. Different Dr suggested taking 20mgs CIT. BROMAZEPAM 3mgs up to 3 x daily for anxiety.DEC 9 2014 Updose CIT to 30mgs. Only taking BROMAZEPAM in emergency.DEC 31 2014 Settling at 30mg CIT - helping with depression. No Brom for 2wks.Found SA.APR 2015 Trying to stabilise on 30mgs CIT.  JAN 2016 Started Cit Taper reducing by 5% per month.  28.5 mgs 
FEB  Taper held bereavement. APR Taper resumed 27mgs . MAY 25.50 mgs .  JUNE 24 mgs .  JULY I stupidly mixed up my BP meds with CIT. Consequently took no CIT for 3 days and doubled my BP meds. Waiting for the fallout....Holding for a while until any chance of repercussions have abated. SEPT taper resumed to  22.5 mgs . OCT 21 mgs .NOV 19.95 mgs DEC crashed. 2017: FEB 3rd updose to 20.5 mgs to try to stabilise.FEB.switched over to 75mgs of Venlafaxine XR for 3 weeks.Too stimulating so switching back to Cit. 12 March 37.5 Ven and 20 Cit. 21 March 18mg Ven 20mg Cit. 4 April 9mg Ven 20mg Cit. Xanax .50mg when needed.  13 April 0 mgs Ven, 20mg Citalopram. Xanax .50 mg per day. 5 May reinstated a small amount of Ven to stabilize  1 mg twice a day. 20 mg Citalopram at night. Xanax .25 mg twice per day.Other Meds: Losartan (BP)Started 1993 at  50 mgs at night.  Seretide (Asthma) Started 1996 at 1 puff twice a day. Jan 2019 Antibiotic Ceclor 500mgs twice a day for bronchitis and  Atrovent 2ml capsules twice a day for asthma. Finished the course of both Jan 17. 

XANAX  Jan 27  - Feb 3 2019 Failed Valium Crossover.   Feb 14 2019  Updosed Xanax by .0625  Feb 17 2019 Decreased Xanax by .0625. Back to .50mg daily.  Update Xanax 28.2.20 tapered to .1250 mg 8am .25 mg midnight. Update Xanax 11.8.21 tapered to .25 mg at night. 

Current Meds 28.2.19: CITALOPRAM  20mg  taken at midnight. VENLAFAXINE  .9 mg twice a day at 8am and 10pm.  XANAX .50 mg split into 4 doses per day. 10am .0625mg / 2pm .1250mg/ 6pm .0625mg / midnight .25mg.Update 10.8.22 .25 mg at night.  LOSARTAN 50 mgs taken at midnight.  SERETIDE 1 puff taken at 8am and 10pm.   7.7.19 VENLAFAXINE UPDATE: Started tapering 10% every 4 weeks. Currently .4 mg twice a day at 8am and 10 pm.  2.9.19 .36 mg x 2. 1.10.19  .32 mg x 2. 26.11.19 .29 mg x2. 26.12.19 .26 mg  x 2. 23.1.20  .23 mg x 2.  20.2.20 .21 mg x2.20.3.20  .19 mg x 2. 21.4.20 .17 mg x 2. 19.5.20 .13 mg x 2.  18.6.20 .11mg  x 2 .18.7.20.10 mg x 2.1.9.20.09 mg x 2. 30.9. 20 .08 mg x 2. 1.11.20 .07 mg x 2.  2.12.20 .06 mg x 2.  8.1.21 .05 mg x 2.  4.2.21 .04 mg x 2. 9.3.21 .03 mgx2.  7.4.21  .02 mg x 2.  9.5.21 .01 mg x 2.  21.6.21 .01 mg x 1.  11.8.21 ZERO!

 

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16 minutes ago, Flowers said:

Hi Frogie

 

So sorry you are having tummy troubles but you have been through a big ordeal with Brownie.

 

So pleased that things seem to be better with her and hope you are able to settle down a little now and get well yourself.

 

Sending love and hugs

 

Flowers xxx 

 

 

 Thanks Flowers:

 

I'm sure it's just nerves and will settle down soon.

 

We are going to try to take Brownie off all the meds. As long as she eats and acts "normal", the vet wants to see her in 4 months. So I have to watch her and make sure she is eating and drinking.

 

Thanks for thinking of me.

 

Hope you are feeling well.

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

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

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

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

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

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

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

I am not a medical professional.

The suggestions I make are based on personal experience.

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