Frogie: how to taper off Lexapro and Xanax?

[scallywag]

If your doctor prescribes additional medications or changes in dosage, ask questions:

• Why this medication?
• What are the adverse effects of this med?
• Will this interact with other medications I'm on?
• What do you think about starting with a partial dosage for a few days and then increase it in steps to the full dosage?
• etc.

[Frogie]

Aside from experience that shows slowly tapering has a lower risk of creating symptoms, all anybody has is best guesses about CNS recovery.There has been insufficient funding to research this because most research is done by pharmaceutical manufacturers. They are interested in getting products approved for sale, not in helping people successfully stop buying their products.

On your withdrawal, you are not having any symptoms, am I correct saying this?

Are you W/D with pills or liquid?

Thanks...

Frogie

Edited November 19, 2016 by scallywag
moved from TweetyRose intro

[Frogie]

If your doctor prescribes additional medications or changes in dosage, ask questions:

 

• Why this medication?
• What are the adverse effects of this med?
• Will this interact with other medications I'm on?
• What do you think about starting with a partial dosage for a few days and then increase it in steps to the full dosage?
• etc.

Ok thanks Scallywag:

I'm really nervous that is what they are going to want to do. I want something "as simple as possible" so I'm not stuck for another few years. I can taper off after the 1st of the year if everything goes well. Any suggestions? I'm just trying to get my ducks in a row.

Thanks...

Frogie xx

[O2bhappy]

Frogie -

 

I hope the stomach pain is just another withdrawal symptom.  It is weird because when my stomach hurts it actually makes my lower back hurt.  I will lay on a heating pad and that helps with the lower back pain. 

 

Please let me know how your doctor appointment goes on Tuesday.  Are you going to a gastro doctor?  My first gastro appointment was in Nov 2015.  After that appointment I had a test to see if I had delayed gastric emptying, which I did.  Then in Jan 2016 I had an endoscopy and it showed I had acid reflux.  I ended up on a several month course of Nexium.  It seems to help very little.  I weaned myself off it and my nausea was worse.  I hope you get some answers from your appointment. 

[Frogie]

Frogie -

 

I hope the stomach pain is just another withdrawal symptom.  It is weird because when my stomach hurts it actually makes my lower back hurt.  I will lay on a heating pad and that helps with the lower back pain. 

 

Please let me know how your doctor appointment goes on Tuesday.  Are you going to a gastro doctor?  My first gastro appointment was in Nov 2015.  After that appointment I had a test to see if I had delayed gastric emptying, which I did.  Then in Jan 2016 I had an endoscopy and it showed I had acid reflux.  I ended up on a several month course of Nexium.  It seems to help very little.  I weaned myself off it and my nausea was worse.  I hope you get some answers from your appointment.

 

Hi:

No it's with a regular dr. But I will let you know how it goes.

I'm sure there is nothing wrong with my stomach. I had a cat scan, and it talked about everything in my abdominal cavity. If there was something wrong it would have said.

I've been on Prilosec probably close to 10 years. I want off. I tried but the rebound was sooooo bad I had to start back on them.

Can you give me any suggestions how to get off of thematic? That would be great.

I wish it was Tuesday lol...

Take care,

Frogie xx

[scallywag]

 

Aside from experience that shows slowly tapering has a lower risk of creating symptoms, all anybody has is best guesses about CNS recovery.There has been insufficient funding to research this because most research is done by pharmaceutical manufacturers. They are interested in getting products approved for sale, not in helping people successfully stop buying their products.

On your withdrawal, you are not having any symptoms, am I correct saying this?

Are you W/D with pills or liquid?

Thanks...

Frogie

 

I have had few, if any, withdrawal symptoms . I am counting beads to taper my dose.

Edited November 20, 2016 by scallywag
moved from TweetyRose's intro

[Frogie]

 

 

Aside from experience that shows slowly tapering has a lower risk of creating symptoms, all anybody has is best guesses about CNS recovery.There has been insufficient funding to research this because most research is done by pharmaceutical manufacturers. They are interested in getting products approved for sale, not in helping people successfully stop buying their products.

 

On your withdrawal, you are not having any symptoms, am I correct saying this?

Are you W/D with pills or liquid?

Thanks...

Frogie

I have had few, if any, withdrawal symptoms . I am counting beads to taper my dose.

That is awesome Scallywag. I'm really happy for you.

I can't count beads, mine is a pill. But I have a very accurate scale.

I have another appt with my dr tues.

I'm going through a phase where I don't want to leave the house now.

Take care,

Frogie xx

[Frogie]

Well, I have been nauseous every morning for the last week.

I thought maybe it was my Lexapro since that's the only thing different that I take during the day.

I didn't take my Lexapro at the same time this morning, guess what still nauseous.

And now I don't want to leave the house. My fiancé made me yesterday to get the rest of thanksgiving dinner. I ran through the store as fast as I could so I could go home.

Also this morning I feel like just sitting here and cry. I never do that.

I have another appt with my dr Tuesday. Any ideas?

Thanks...

 

P.S. My liver panel is perfect. That's a good thing

[bubble]

Hello Frogie,

 

although things are still hard for you, you seem a lot calmer than you first came here and you managed to stick with the plan and not changed the doses in response to symptoms. These are all very good things which will be of great benefit to you in the long run.

 

I've read through a few of your last posts. First off all, are you familiar with the windows and waves pattern? It is normal that during stabilization we feel worsening of symptoms for no particular reason (other than that being the way in which our CNS heals and repairs itself). It's very important to stay calm in such period and not do anything rash. Going to doctors and complain about symptoms is one such things.

 

It is only to be expected they will do pretty much the only thing they know: take out prescription pad and mess with drugs, add others, etc. Even if they do that you can still refuse politely and say for instance that you would want to wait for a bit longer to see how things develop or try some non-drug methods. (My sleep specialist was fine with that because she wanted to do something to help me with my very bad insomnia of 5 months. When I told her that she didn't feel pressured to do something herself (add other drugs, change my current drugs). I also added that any changes make me feel lot worse). My insomnia resolved on its own after over 5 months.

 

So, yes: withdrawal can take many months to resolve. You exposed your brain through a majo trauma of a very fast taper in September. It's been (only) a month and a half on a steady dose. It is really to be expected that things will take longer than that to sort themselves out. You say in your signature: it takes as long as it takes. I'm trying to illustrate with my experience that it can take many months. But it happens. Rushing the process usually makes things worse and lasts longer.

 

As Scally said, it would be very hard to say what is causing nausea. Reading your signature one would say it is a (stubborn) withdrawal symptom for you which first appeared as a result of aggressive cutting of Lexapro.  As much as it is unpleasant you can make it less horrible by deciding to tolerating it as an unwelcome guest: accepting its temporary presence but not focusing too much on it. The great thing is that it usually goes away by noon! So it means you are free after noon. We all have that one horrible symptom that plagues us: for some it is insomnia, for other morning dread or akathisia... Very often the only answer is to learn to live with them until they go away...

 

What symptoms make you not want to leave house? (I don't want to leave the house for months but I must go to work so have no choice really. And when I do I just stay at home or stay in bed). If you have a choice, it might be good and accept that and just stay at home if this is something that your brain needs. Follow that symptom and others for a few days. See what happens with them. Put them on paper. (And leave them there to do something else). Maybe preparing Thanksgiving dinner is too much for you. Many people with healthy CNS-es find holidays stressful. Be gentle with yourself. Learn something about yourself. One day (or week) of increased symptoms won't do you harm.

 

It could be just a wave compounded by holiday anxiety. Also, we become very sensitive to what we eat. It would be good to pay more attention to how you react to certain foods and see if there is something that makes your symptoms worse and then avoid it. Have you looked into any gut healing diets?

 

When seeing the doctors bear in mind that this is your body and your life so you should be entitled to have the last say. But this can only happen if you take responsibility for your wellbeing and symptoms.

 

I hope you start feeling better soon and keep up the good work of keeping things steady. I have no doubt it will pay off. You see how that liver scare blew away and you might have done something rash that would've set you back... So when in doubt wait and see what happens. And look into non-drug ways of dealing with symptoms and building your inner resilience so that you can be stronger than them.

[O2bhappy]

Frogie -

 

When I was on Nexium I was on 80mg.  I took 40mg in the morning and 40mg in the evening.  When I started to taper off I went from 40mg twice a day to 40mg once a day.  It was a little rough because I did start experiencing more nausea.  I stayed on 40mg for two weeks.  Then I went to 20mg for two weeks.  After the two weeks was up I went on Prilosec for two weeks and then I was done.  My nausea was really bad after that and I thought I would have to go back on Nexium but I was determine to stay off the Nexium.  The doctor did say coming off the Nexium can cause rebound nausea and that is what I was experiencing.  I went off all stomach medicine in May. 

 

I would suggest if and when you decide to come off Prilosec to take it slow.  Since you have been on them a long time it might take you longer to taper. 

 

Have you tried Aloe Vera juice for the nausea?  My friend recommended it for me and I did try it, but I am not sure it helped. Can't hurt to try and maybe it will give you some relief. 

[Frogie]

Hello Frogie,

 

although things are still hard for you, you seem a lot calmer than you first came here and you managed to stick with the plan and not changed the doses in response to symptoms. These are all very good things which will be of great benefit to you in the long run.

 

I've read through a few of your last posts. First off all, are you familiar with the windows and waves pattern? It is normal that during stabilization we feel worsening of symptoms for no particular reason (other than that being the way in which our CNS heals and repairs itself). It's very important to stay calm in such period and not do anything rash. Going to doctors and complain about symptoms is one such things.

 

It is only to be expected they will do pretty much the only thing they know: take out prescription pad and mess with drugs, add others, etc. Even if they do that you can still refuse politely and say for instance that you would want to wait for a bit longer to see how things develop or try some non-drug methods. (My sleep specialist was fine with that because she wanted to do something to help me with my very bad insomnia of 5 months. When I told her that she didn't feel pressured to do something herself (add other drugs, change my current drugs). I also added that any changes make me feel lot worse). My insomnia resolved on its own after over 5 months.

 

So, yes: withdrawal can take many months to resolve. You exposed your brain through a majo trauma of a very fast taper in September. It's been (only) a month and a half on a steady dose. It is really to be expected that things will take longer than that to sort themselves out. You say in your signature: it takes as long as it takes. I'm trying to illustrate with my experience that it can take many months. But it happens. Rushing the process usually makes things worse and lasts longer.

 

As Scally said, it would be very hard to say what is causing nausea. Reading your signature one would say it is a (stubborn) withdrawal symptom for you which first appeared as a result of aggressive cutting of Lexapro. As much as it is unpleasant you can make it less horrible by deciding to tolerating it as an unwelcome guest: accepting its temporary presence but not focusing too much on it. The great thing is that it usually goes away by noon! So it means you are free after noon. We all have that one horrible symptom that plagues us: for some it is insomnia, for other morning dread or akathisia... Very often the only answer is to learn to live with them until they go away...

 

What symptoms make you not want to leave house? (I don't want to leave the house for months but I must go to work so have no choice really. And when I do I just stay at home or stay in bed). If you have a choice, it might be good and accept that and just stay at home if this is something that your brain needs. Follow that symptom and others for a few days. See what happens with them. Put them on paper. (And leave them there to do something else). Maybe preparing Thanksgiving dinner is too much for you. Many people with healthy CNS-es find holidays stressful. Be gentle with yourself. Learn something about yourself. One day (or week) of increased symptoms won't do you harm.

 

It could be just a wave compounded by holiday anxiety. Also, we become very sensitive to what we eat. It would be good to pay more attention to how you react to certain foods and see if there is something that makes your symptoms worse and then avoid it. Have you looked into any gut healing diets?

 

When seeing the doctors bear in mind that this is your body and your life so you should be entitled to have the last say. But this can only happen if you take responsibility for your wellbeing and symptoms.

 

I hope you start feeling better soon and keep up the good work of keeping things steady. I have no doubt it will pay off. You see how that liver scare blew away and you might have done something rash that would've set you back... So when in doubt wait and see what happens. And look into non-drug ways of dealing with symptoms and building your inner resilience so that you can be stronger than them.

Thanks Bubble:

 

I really appreciate you answering me in such detail.

 

I was talking to my fiancé this morning about just wanting to cry and stay home. He said I haven't done that for almost a year, so maybe something is healing and I need to leave it alone. Today is my oldest sons birthday and I won't see him, that could be the crying spell too.

 

I'm looking forward to Thanksgiving. I get to see my uncle for a few days. My fiancé does the cooking so I don't worry about that.

 

I'm going to the dr Tuesday for something else, but I am going to mention what's going on. I've had 2 Drs fight my insurance for liquid Lexapro and they have turned it down both times. Maybe 3rd times a charm? Scallywag said if they want to change my meds to ask a lot of questions. Maybe I've "pooped" out on Lexapro. I've been taking it for 10-12 years.

 

Lexapro is the only different thing I take in the morning, I was trying to figure out my nausea. I eat basically the same things everyday. Just between pork or chicken for dinner. Otherwise it's the same.

 

I have a neighbor that I see a couple times a week. She is a real mess. Her husband killed himself in front of her about 3 years ago and no one will be her friend. I live in a town of about 660 people, so it's really hard to make friends. Could she be "rubbing" off on me? My therapist said she thought it was good to at least have her. I just don't allow her to talk about it when I'm there. We do other things.

 

I don't want to leave the house because I don't want to get dressed. Such a hassle. I take a shower and put my pjs back on (clean ones). And sit and watch tv. There are no stores except an Ace, small grocery store and like a convenient store that sells gas. You have to drive 16 miles to a Shopko, 2 dollar stores or Safeway. You can only go there so many times. I really miss home. I lived 35 miles north of Denver, CO. Born and raised there. But now I'm 200 miles away. I now live 50 miles from Goodland, Kansas. In the flat farming community. There is nothing here.

 

Maybe I need to adjust my meds because of my living situation. What do you think?

 

I don't know what else to do. I just feel lost...

 

Thanks,

Frogie xx

[Frogie]

Hi:

 

Thanks for the suggestions.

 

I thought when I go off, I would do it like antidepressants. 10% a month and see how that goes. If I do ok, I can always go a little faster.

 

I'll have to try the aloe juice, but doesn't it give you diarrhea? I don't need that lol...

 

Thanks again,

Frogie xx

[bubble]

If meds are the only thing that you can look to when faced with a challenging life situations then you will never come off of them... We are a site for people who have concluded that for very many reasons drugs are not an answer and want to come off of them. That means developing other set of skills to address the difficulties that led us to start taking the drugs in the first place.

 

We don't advise people on taking more of drugs or other drugs or adjusting drugs for difficult life situations. There are other forums for that. If I were you I would look into ways of how to make my present life situation more pleasant without drugs. There are so many things people can do these days online: take courses, therapies...there are hobbies to take up, exercise programs one can do at home to improve fitness and wellbeing and so on and so on.

[Frogie]

If meds are the only thing that you can look to when faced with a challenging life situations then you will never come off of them... We are a site for people who have concluded that for very many reasons drugs are not an answer and want to come off of them. That means developing other set of skills to address the difficulties that led us to start taking the drugs in the first place.

 

We don't advise people on taking more of drugs or other drugs or adjusting drugs for difficult life situations. There are other forums for that. If I were you I would look into ways of how to make my present life situation more pleasant without drugs. There are so many things people can do these days online: take courses, therapies...there are hobbies to take up, exercise programs one can do at home to improve fitness and wellbeing and so on and so on.

No I want off of Lexapro, then my PPI, then you will be there (I hope) for my Xanax. As you can see, I've gone off 3 already.

That's why I don't go to my psychiatrist anymore, he was always changing the dosage every month. But is it true you can "poop out" on lexapro? I've heard some people say yes and some say no. Could you give me a website for therapies? That would interest me a lot. I have a Pilates machine and a stationary bike. I try to use them. They are very easy exercises on the body. My therapist looked at your site and was very impressed. She thinks this will help me a lot. Now that I've calmed down and she is helping me with skills. I'm just in a "funk". I'll get out of it. Thanks for talking to me bubble

[bubble]

Its good to hear that. You got me worried there

 

I wouldn't worry about poop out in your situation. There is no doubt that what you are going through is a consequance of WD. You were taking Lexapro (and quite a few of other drugs) for a long time. You cut it abruptly and that triggered WD symptoms.

 

Our Chessiecat compiled a whole selection of very helpful things. Check out her website (scroll down to Self help when you click on information link : http://adwithdrawal.weebly.com/information-links.html

 

She also started a great thread on journaling: http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/13250-journaling-journalling-writing-therapy-therapeutic-writing/#entry251583

 

There are a lot of resources here: http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1067-free-online-cognitive-behavior-therapy-lessons/?hl=%2Bcognitive+%2Bbehavior+%2Btherapy

[Frogie]

Its good to hear that. You got me worried there

 

I wouldn't worry about poop out in your situation. There is no doubt that what you are going through is a consequance of WD. You were taking Lexapro (and quite a few of other drugs) for a long time. You cut it abruptly and that triggered WD symptoms.

 

Our Chessiecat compiled a whole selection of very helpful things. Check out her website (scroll down to Self help when you click on information link : http://adwithdrawal.weebly.com/information-links.html

 

She also started a great thread on journaling: http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/13250-journaling-journalling-writing-therapy-therapeutic-writing/#entry251583

 

There are a lot of resources here: http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/1067-free-online-cognitive-behavior-therapy-lessons/?hl=%2Bcognitive+%2Bbehavior+%2Btherapy

Oh bubble:

No worries I have calmed down a lot and met some great people on here going through the same thing as me.

 

It is true. I did W/D from 3 meds really quickly and then Lexapro in 1/2 in less tha 6 weeks, so I guess I could still be going through W/D? That's why I'm doing NOTHING until after the 1st of the year. Letting my body rest. Then it should be ready. I don't know if I should do my PPI 1st, or Lexapro? I know for a fact that Xanax is last.

 

I'll check out Chessiecats site. I do journal a lot and I color a lot. It does help.

 

I really appreciate you staying in contact with me. You reassure me that it's normal how I feel and I'll be ok.

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

[Anja]

"I tried a bracelet that had a plastic circle on it. You put it on the pressure point on your wrist. Women that are pregnant use them. It didn't help me at all, but I'm sure it would help other people."

 

Frogie: Yes, I have the bracelets, they don't help a TON, but they do seem to 'take off the edge' for me. This could be placebo effect, but I'll do anything if I think it helps. My acupuncturist told me that I had them in the wrong position (2 finger widths down the wrist is what the package said), but she said 4 finger widths...I found for me the 2 finger widths is better, but if you wanted to try them again, you may want to try the 4 finger widths down to see if it helps, if you haven't.

 

I've ordered these peppermint capsules: http://www.weilvitaminadvisor.com/digestive_comfortbecause I was feeling desperate. They haven't come yet so I haven't tried them.

 

My nausea has mysteriously let up in the past few days, but I still get it in the mornings until after I eat, or if I become hungry even in the slightest, but I am feeling gratitude that it's better.

 

Oh, other small things I did in pregnancy when I was super nauseous were: chew gum, sip lemon water, and use those nausea lollipops (come in a lot of flavors, not just ginger).

 

I really hope that you are getting some relief.

[Frogie]

"I tried a bracelet that had a plastic circle on it. You put it on the pressure point on your wrist. Women that are pregnant use them. It didn't help me at all, but I'm sure it would help other people."

 

Frogie: Yes, I have the bracelets, they don't help a TON, but they do seem to 'take off the edge' for me. This could be placebo effect, but I'll do anything if I think it helps. My acupuncturist told me that I had them in the wrong position (2 finger widths down the wrist is what the package said), but she said 4 finger widths...I found for me the 2 finger widths is better, but if you wanted to try them again, you may want to try the 4 finger widths down to see if it helps, if you haven't.

 

I've ordered these peppermint capsules: http://www.weilvitaminadvisor.com/digestive_comfortbecause I was feeling desperate. They haven't come yet so I haven't tried them.

 

My nausea has mysteriously let up in the past few days, but I still get it in the mornings until after I eat, or if I become hungry even in the slightest, but I am feeling gratitude that it's better.

 

Oh, other small things I did in pregnancy when I was super nauseous were: chew gum, sip lemon water, and use those nausea lollipops (come in a lot of flavors, not just ginger).

 

I really hope that you are getting some relief.

Ok I'll try the 4 fingers down instead of the 2 fingers on the wristband.

 

I bought some of the suckers, they help a little bit, but don't take away the nausea like I was hoping.

 

I'll have to try the peppermint. Maybe that will help.

 

You are lucky yours has let up. Maybe it will rub off on me lol.

 

I go to the dr for something else tomorrow, I'm going to mention the nausea and see what they have to say.

 

Thanks for the suggestions.

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

[O2bhappy]

Frogie -

 

I wanted to wish you good luck at the doctor today. 

[Frogie]

Frogie -

 

I wanted to wish you good luck at the doctor today.

 

Thanks

You have no idea how much that makes me feel!

I'll let you know when I get home

Take care,

Frogie xx

[Frogie]

I just found out through my insurance company that they will pay for the generic liquid Lexapro.

I'm not tapering until the 1st of the year, but I have an appt with the dr today.

Should I get it now, and if I do, can I start taking it now?

 

Thanks for whoever can answer me

 

Frogie xx

[scallywag]

I would want to transfer as little of my money to the drug manufacturer as possible. Keeping your dose constant, you can gradually switch over to the liquid by taking ¼ of your dose as liquid, then ½, then ¾, then all of it as liquid. 

[Frogie]

I would want to transfer as little of my money to the drug manufacturer as possible. Keeping your dose constant, you can gradually switch over to the liquid by taking ¼ of your dose as liquid, then ½, then ¾, then all of it as liquid.

 

Ok that's what I will do.

Thanks for the info Scallywag

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

[scallywag]

Frogie, would you update your signature so that your current dosage situation is clear? It's best to omit symptoms because they change over time. Here's what I worked out from your signature:

 

Previous medications and discontinuations:
Zoloft, 1997 - 1999, switch to Paxil
Paxil, 1999-2000, switch to Lexapro
Gabapentin, 900mg,  2010-2015: tapered of 9 weeks, last dose Sept. 2015, no symptoms
Lamictal, 300 mg, 2009-2015, taper of 6 weeks, last dose Oct 2015, no symptoms
Valium, 40 mg, 2008-2015, tapered of 8 weeks, last dose Dec 2015, no symptoms

 

Current medications: Holding all meds at least until January 2016, maybe longer, to let my body heal before tapering again.
Lexapro
2000 - March 2016: 20 mg
tapering attempts:
March-April 2016: decreased from 20 mg - 10 mg over 6-8 weeks
6/8/16: 10 mg - 9mg from 10 on Lexapro became very nauseated so went back to 10mg
6/13/16: incrased back to 10 mg
9-11-16: 10 mg - 7.5 mg,  on Dr's advice

9-25-16: 7.5 mg - 5mg , had severe symptoms
10-5-16 updosed to 10mg
Xanax, 3 mg in 4 split doses, 2008-present
Prilosec 40mg
8/28/16 started 25% taper, had issues so stopped tapering stomach issues.
10-1-16 (approx) returned to 20mg a.m. + 15mg p.m.
Zantac , 300mg only "as needed.

Zofran 4mg for nausea; only take it when nausea is unbearable.
Carafate 1mg (anti-ulcer med) 4x a day as needed. Prescribed but not taking it.

Supplements: 150 mg Mag chloride, 400IU Vitamin E, 350mg Krill Oil, Milk Thistle, Probiotic
 

 

 

 

For the record, here's how your signature looks as of today, 22-Nov-2016:

 

1997 Zoloft switched to in 1999 Paxil switched to in 2000-present Lexapro
Tried to go down to 9mg from 10 on Lexapro 6/8/16 became very nauseated so went back to 10mg 6/13/16 holding until no more nausea then going to try again. I went down from 20 to 10 over about 6-8 weeks starting in March 2016. Still nauseous. Been nauseous since June 2016. Wondering if the 10mg isn't "working" for me?
The dr. did give me 4mg zofran so I wouldn't suffer too much. Don't take unless it's unbearable.
Carafate 1mg 4x a day as needed. Don't take.
2010-2015 900mg Gabepentn tapered off in 9 weeks no symptoms - I think it was July to September 2015
2009-2015 300mg Lamictal tapered off in 6 weeks no symptoms - I think it was September to October 2015
2008-2015 40mg Valium tapered off in 8 weeks no symptoms - I think it was October to December 2015
2008-present 1mg Xanax 4 times a day - usually only take 3mg a day.
150 Magnesium chloride, 400IU Vitamin E, 350mg Omega Krill Oil, Milk Thistle for liver problem, Probiotic
40mg Prilosec - started 25% taper 8/28/16 upset stomach, emotional - Stopped tapering stomach issues.Went back to 20mg morning and 15mg night on 10-1-16 (I think). Holding until 2nd week of January 2017 then trying another taper.
300mg Zantac only "as needed. I don't drink alcohol. Took Drs advise tapered Lexapro from 10mg to 7.5mg on 9-11-16 to 5mg 9-25-16, had major meltdown on 10-5-16 went back to 10mg Lexapro and holding for a few months before trying to taper again. Going to take my time learned a very valuable lesson. "It takes as long as it takes". Your body will know what to do.
Dr.appt 11-7-16, blood work showed liver panel all normal. Dr still wants me to take milk thistle. Holding all meds until at least 1st of the year if not longer to let my body heal. Then start taper again. Still nauseous every morning?

[Frogie]

Frogie, would you update your signature so that your current dosage situation is clear? It's best to omit symptoms because they change over time. Here's what I worked out from your signature:

 

Previous medications and discontinuations:Zoloft, 1997 - 1999, switch to PaxilPaxil, 1999-2000, switch to LexaproGabapentin, 900mg,  2010-2015: tapered of 9 weeks, last dose Sept. 2015, no symptomsLamictal, 300 mg, 2009-2015, taper of 6 weeks, last dose Oct 2015, no symptomsValium, 40 mg, 2008-2015, tapered of 8 weeks, last dose Dec 2015, no symptoms

 

Current medications: Holding all meds at least until January 2016, maybe longer, to let my body heal before tapering again.Lexapro

2000 - March 2016: 20 mgtapering attempts:

March-April 2016: decreased from 20 mg - 10 mg over 6-8 weeks

6/8/16: 10 mg - 9mg from 10 on Lexapro became very nauseated so went back to 10mg

6/13/16: incrased back to 10 mg

9-11-16: 10 mg - 7.5 mg,  on Dr's advice

9-25-16: 7.5 mg - 5mg , had severe symptoms

10-5-16 updosed to 10mgXanax, 3 mg in 4 split doses, 2008-presentPrilosec 40mg

8/28/16 started 25% taper, had issues so stopped tapering stomach issues.

10-1-16 (approx) returned to 20mg a.m. + 15mg p.m.Zantac , 300mg only "as needed.

Zofran 4mg for nausea; only take it when nausea is unbearable.Carafate 1mg (anti-ulcer med) 4x a day as needed. Prescribed but not taking it.

Supplements: 150 mg Mag chloride, 400IU Vitamin E, 350mg Krill Oil, Milk Thistle, Probiotic

...

Scallywag:

 

You did it so perfectly can you copy and paste it?

 

I have an iPad and they aren't friendly with cut and paste.

 

Thanks

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

[scallywag]

I don't have access to change your signature.  Only you do.

 

I don't use Apple products. You'll have to do a web search to find how to copy and paste on an ipad. There's probably at least a few youtube videos.

[Frogie]

I don't have access to change your signature.  Only you do.

 

I don't use Apple products. You'll have to do a web search to find how to copy and paste on an ipad. There's probably at least a few youtube videos.

Ok thanks...

Also, if there are more than 12 lines I won't be able to post it all?

 

Thanks,

Frogie

[scallywag]

It's formatted in a way that is consistent with the 12 line limit.  Your current sig displays as many more lines than 12.

[Frogie]

It's formatted in a way that is consistent with the 12 line limit.  Your current sig displays as many more lines than 12.

I wasn't aware of that.

I will fix it tomorrow.

Thanks for your help Scallywag

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

[Frogie]

Hi Scallywag:

 

Went to the dr yesterday (for other things).

I called my insurance company and the liquid Lexapro is actually cheaper than the pills. I would have never thought that.

I talked to my dr about the Lexapro. The dr gave me a prescription for it with a years worth of refills.

I'm going to start it the 1st of the year, but it's waiting for me!

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

[JanCarol]

Sounds like you are doing really well, Frogie!

 

It is my belief that your rapid taper of Lexapro, a very strong drug, set off your nausea reaction, and like Bubble said, it may be your personal cross to bear during withdrawal.

 

I don't know enough about the stomach meds, other than to say that they affect the way that your Lexapro is absorbed, so tapering them could affect your lexapro, too.  It may be simpler to start with the lex in January.

 

That's great news about your liver and the liquid lexapro.  

 

It sounds like your first taper, then, will not be a taper at all, but taking a month or so to convert over to 10 mg liquid lexapro, as per Scally's instructions.  Please take your time doing this; people get reactions changing form as well as dose - so when you start in January (provided your symptoms are settled by then) - follow the 1/4 liquid+3/4 tablet for at least a week before moving to 1/2 liquid+1/2 tablet.  When you get to all liquid, wait a month before starting to taper it.  You will be tempted to start sooner, but it is wiser to wait until you shake out the change from tablet to liquid before tapering.

 

I hope you see the sun today!

[Frogie]

Sounds like you are doing really well, Frogie!

 

It is my belief that your rapid taper of Lexapro, a very strong drug, set off your nausea reaction, and like Bubble said, it may be your personal cross to bear during withdrawal.

 

I don't know enough about the stomach meds, other than to say that they affect the way that your Lexapro is absorbed, so tapering them could affect your lexapro, too.  It may be simpler to start with the lex in January.

 

That's great news about your liver and the liquid lexapro.  

 

It sounds like your first taper, then, will not be a taper at all, but taking a month or so to convert over to 10 mg liquid lexapro, as per Scally's instructions.  Please take your time doing this; people get reactions changing form as well as dose - so when you start in January (provided your symptoms are settled by then) - follow the 1/4 liquid+3/4 tablet for at least a week before moving to 1/2 liquid+1/2 tablet.  When you get to all liquid, wait a month before starting to taper it.  You will be tempted to start sooner, but it is wiser to wait until you shake out the change from tablet to liquid before tapering.

 

I hope you see the sun today!

I'm still nauseous in the morning. The dr thinks my meds are fighting each other because I take them all at once. So I'm going to try taking 1 then waiting, then taking another and see if that works.

 

I didn't know there was that big of a change between the liquid and pills, so I'm going to follow scallywags instructions.

 

But I'll make it.

 

Take care,

Frogie xx

[Frogie]

 

Frogie, would you update your signature so that your current dosage situation is clear? It's best to omit symptoms because they change over time. Here's what I worked out from your signature:

 

Previous medications and discontinuations:

Zoloft, 1997 - 1999, switch to Paxil

Paxil, 1999-2000, switch to Lexapro

Gabapentin, 900mg,  2010-2015: tapered of 9 weeks, last dose Sept. 2015, no symptoms

Lamictal, 300 mg, 2009-2015, taper of 6 weeks, last dose Oct 2015, no symptoms

Valium, 40 mg, 2008-2015, tapered of 8 weeks, last dose Dec 2015, no symptoms

 

Current medications: Holding all meds at least until January 2016, maybe longer, to let my body heal before tapering again.

Lexapro

2000 - March 2016: 20 mg

tapering attempts:

March-April 2016: decreased from 20 mg - 10 mg over 6-8 weeks

6/8/16: 10 mg - 9mg from 10 on Lexapro became very nauseated so went back to 10mg

6/13/16: incrased back to 10 mg

9-11-16: 10 mg - 7.5 mg,  on Dr's advice

9-25-16: 7.5 mg - 5mg , had severe symptoms

10-5-16 updosed to 10mg

Xanax, 3 mg in 4 split doses, 2008-present

Prilosec 40mg

8/28/16 started 25% taper, had issues so stopped tapering stomach issues.

10-1-16 (approx) returned to 20mg a.m. + 15mg p.m.

Zantac , 300mg only "as needed.

Zofran 4mg for nausea; only take it when nausea is unbearable.

Carafate 1mg (anti-ulcer med) 4x a day as needed. Prescribed but not taking it.

Supplements: 150 mg Mag chloride, 400IU Vitamin E, 350mg Krill Oil, Milk Thistle, Probiotic

 

 

 

 

For the record, here's how your signature looks as of today, 22-Nov-2016:

 

1997 Zoloft switched to in 1999 Paxil switched to in 2000-present Lexapro

Tried to go down to 9mg from 10 on Lexapro 6/8/16 became very nauseated so went back to 10mg 6/13/16 holding until no more nausea then going to try again. I went down from 20 to 10 over about 6-8 weeks starting in March 2016. Still nauseous. Been nauseous since June 2016. Wondering if the 10mg isn't "working" for me?

The dr. did give me 4mg zofran so I wouldn't suffer too much. Don't take unless it's unbearable.

Carafate 1mg 4x a day as needed. Don't take.

2010-2015 900mg Gabepentn tapered off in 9 weeks no symptoms - I think it was July to September 2015

2009-2015 300mg Lamictal tapered off in 6 weeks no symptoms - I think it was September to October 2015

2008-2015 40mg Valium tapered off in 8 weeks no symptoms - I think it was October to December 2015

2008-present 1mg Xanax 4 times a day - usually only take 3mg a day.

150 Magnesium chloride, 400IU Vitamin E, 350mg Omega Krill Oil, Milk Thistle for liver problem, Probiotic

40mg Prilosec - started 25% taper 8/28/16 upset stomach, emotional - Stopped tapering stomach issues.Went back to 20mg morning and 15mg night on 10-1-16 (I think). Holding until 2nd week of January 2017 then trying another taper.

300mg Zantac only "as needed. I don't drink alcohol. Took Drs advise tapered Lexapro from 10mg to 7.5mg on 9-11-16 to 5mg 9-25-16, had major meltdown on 10-5-16 went back to 10mg Lexapro and holding for a few months before trying to taper again. Going to take my time learned a very valuable lesson. "It takes as long as it takes". Your body will know what to do.

Dr.appt 11-7-16, blood work showed liver panel all normal. Dr still wants me to take milk thistle. Holding all meds until at least 1st of the year if not longer to let my body heal. Then start taper again. Still nauseous every morning?

 

I tried to change my signature page and it saiys I can't because I have more than 12 lines?

[scallywag]

Try this version

 

Previous medications and discontinuations: Zoloft, 1997 - 1999; switch to Paxil, 1999-2000, switch to Lexapro // Gabapentin, 900mg,  2010-2015: tapered of 9 weeks, last dose Sept. 2015, no symptoms // Lamictal, 300 mg, 2009-2015, taper of 6 weeks, last dose Oct 2015, no symptoms //Valium, 40 mg, 2008-2015, 8-week taper, last dose Dec 2015, no symptoms
Current medications:  Carafate 1mg (anti-ulcer med) 4x a day as needed. Prescribed but not taking it.
Lexapro: 2000 - March 2016: 20 mg; Mar-Apr 2016: 8 week taper 20 mg - 10 mg;  8-June 9mg; 13-June10 mg; 11-Sep 7.5 mg; 25-Sep 5 mg; 5 Oct 10mg;
Xanax, 3 mg in 4 split doses, 2008-present
Prilosec 40mg; 28- Aug started 25% taper; 1-Oct  20mg a.m. + 15mg p.m.
For nausea as needed: Zantac , 300mg only "as needed. Zofran 4mg for nausea; only take it when nausea is unbearable.
Supplements: 150 mg Mag chloride, 400IU Vitamin E, 350mg Krill Oil, Milk Thistle, Probiotic

[Frogie]

Try this version

 

Previous medications and discontinuations: Zoloft, 1997 - 1999; switch to Paxil, 1999-2000, switch to Lexapro // Gabapentin, 900mg,  2010-2015: tapered of 9 weeks, last dose Sept. 2015, no symptoms // Lamictal, 300 mg, 2009-2015, taper of 6 weeks, last dose Oct 2015, no symptoms //Valium, 40 mg, 2008-2015, 8-week taper, last dose Dec 2015, no symptomsCurrent medications:  Carafate 1mg (anti-ulcer med) 4x a day as needed. Prescribed but not taking it.Lexapro: 2000 - March 2016: 20 mg; Mar-Apr 2016: 8 week taper 20 mg - 10 mg;  8-June 9mg; 13-June10 mg; 11-Sep 7.5 mg; 25-Sep 5 mg; 5 Oct 10mg;Xanax, 3 mg in 4 split doses, 2008-presentPrilosec 40mg; 28- Aug started 25% taper; 1-Oct  20mg a.m. + 15mg p.m.For nausea as needed: Zantac , 300mg only "as needed. Zofran 4mg for nausea; only take it when nausea is unbearable.Supplements: 150 mg Mag chloride, 400IU Vitamin E, 350mg Krill Oil, Milk Thistle, Probiotic

Thanks! I will in a few minutes. Really appreciate it

[Frogie]

Thanks scallyway it worked!!

 

Have a great day!

 

Take care,

Frogie xx