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mammaP

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Today I am in absolute despair, can't even find words. Head is filled with tears that won't come out 

and can't even get dressed. 

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Sometimes if I can just drag myself into the shower, when I'm feeling like that, it gives me a goal and makes me feel like I've accomplished something. And then I have to get dressed. And maybe that's enough.

 

I'm so sorry for your suffering...

Started on Prozac and Xanax in 1992 for PTSD after an assault. One drug led to more, the usual story. Got sicker and sicker, but believed I needed the drugs for my "underlying disease". Long story...lost everything. Life savings, home, physical and mental health, relationships, friendships, ability to work, everything. Amitryptiline, Prozac, bupropion, buspirone, flurazepam, diazepam, alprazolam, Paxil, citalopram, lamotrigine, gabapentin...probably more I've forgotten. 

Started multidrug taper in Feb 2010.  Doing a very slow microtaper, down to low doses now and feeling SO much better, getting my old personality and my brain back! Able to work full time, have a full social life, and cope with stress better than ever. Not perfect, but much better. After 23 lost years. Big Pharma has a lot to answer for. And "medicine for profit" is just not a great idea.

 

Feb 15 2010:  300 mg Neurontin  200 Lamictal   10 Celexa      0.65 Xanax   and 5 mg Ambien 

Feb 10 2014:   62 Lamictal    1.1 Celexa         0.135 Xanax    1.8 Valium

Feb 10 2015:   50 Lamictal      0.875 Celexa    0.11 Xanax      1.5 Valium

Feb 15 2016:   47.5 Lamictal   0.75 Celexa      0.0875 Xanax    1.42 Valium    

2/12/20             12                       0.045               0.007                   1 

May 2021            7                       0.01                  0.0037                1

Feb 2022            6                      0!!!                     0.00167               0.98                2.5 mg Ambien

Oct 2022       4.5 mg Lamictal    (off Celexa, off Xanax)   0.95 Valium    Ambien, 1/4 to 1/2 of a 5 mg tablet 

 

I'm not a doctor. Any advice I give is just my civilian opinion.

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My heart goes out to you mammaP, I hope things improve.

 

I've had chronic pain for 15 years in my lower back and arms. I was able to alleviate over 90% of the pain by simply reading a book and therapy. It's a stress related condition called TMS (Tension Myositis Syndrome). Dr.John Sarno discovered it and has written a few books on it. I'd recommend the books to anyone suffering from chronic pain. I believe it's the same thing as clinical depression, except it manifests itself as chronic pain instead. The underlying reasons are the same.

 

cheers

On Effexor since February 2003; Mar/2012 - dropped from 150mg to 131mg; Apr/2012 - 112.5mg; Jul.2/2012 - 94mg;
Oct.21/2012 - 75mg - first started noticing withdrawal symptoms; Nov.16/2012 - 56mg; Dec.11/2012- 37.5mg; Jan.5/2013 - 19mg; Jan.22/2013 - 22.5mg (withdrawal too strong); Jan.23/2013 - 37.5mg (MUCH worse; very sick)
Jan.24/2013 - 30mg; May 26/2013 - 27mg (started 10% method - too much)

Dec.25/2013 - 27.3mg (no relief after 7 month hold; slow updose)

Mar.6/2014 - 37.5mg (3.5 year hold, no improvement);

Nov.2/2017 - 2.5% drop/36.6mg; Nov.30/2017 - 4% drop/35.1mg; Dec.28/2017 - 6% drop/33mg; Jan.25,/2018 - 8% drop/30.4mg; Feb.22/2018 - Held at 30.4mg; Mar. 22/2018 - 10% drop/27.4mg; Apr.19/2018 - 10% drop/24.7mg; May 17/2018 - 5%/23.5mg; Nov.21/2018 - 1.7% drop/23.1mg; Dec.19/2018 - 1.7%/22.7mg; Jan.23/2019 - 2.6%/22.1mg; Feb.27/2019 - 3.6% drop/21.3mg..holding...considering slow updose back to full dose

 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Thanks Rhi, I felt exactly the same this morning but thought about what you said and took a shower.

You are right, when you have stripped off and are standing in the altogether you HAVE to get dressed!

I looked for pj's and gave myself a stern talking to, I was exhausted and had to rest awhile but am now

dressed and considering going to the shops. 

I was at rock bottom for a while, but a bit better now. I think I had awful anxiety too, sweating and dizzy,

nauseous too.

I don't understand this, all the way down to 4 beads and now I can't seem to get better. Updosing isn't an

option, 5 beads made me feel ill.

 

Maybe my heart is too broken right now. All I want to do is cry but even though tears are there they won't

flow. I miss family so much it physically hurts. 

 

Drugslave, my pain is arthritic but there is an element of tension there too, the body tenses against pain

causing more pain so I will look at the TMS, thank you. 

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Today I woke up and didn't want to die. Not that I ever want to die really but the suicidal thoughts 

were overwhelming. I think yesterday was one of the worst days ever for those feelings but today,

at least for now I feel fine and the window is OPEN. I just hope it stays open for a few days at least,

preferably a month or 2 before I attempt another taper.  I feel calm inside and am enjoying the birds

singing instead of wanting to shoot them all to shut them up. 

 

I have an appointment with my gp this afternoon and will be asking him for liquid efexor and explaining

my taper. I don't know how he will be about it as he told me to skip every other day and be off in 6 weeks.

That was over a year ago and I'm still getting scripts filled so he will be thinking I gave up. Time to 

educate him I think. I'm glad I feel calmer because my conversation will be much different to the one I 

would have had if I saw him yesterday! He's a very nice man and listens to what I say so I'm hopeful he

will give me what I need. If not I will tell him that if I don't get the liquid then want the pills and will be making

my own, nicely of course! 

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Another calm day today. I am exhausted after a short walk to the shops and in pain but I went there

and back then sat outside with my (good) neighbour for a coffee. I hired a lady to come in once a week and

clean for me, she came today and is worth her weight in gold. She is lovely and does heaps of 

stuff for me, just once a week for 2 hours and she makes a huge difference.  My neighbour (bad) has his

alcoholic girlfriend in, they were in the shop collecting their alcohol and were already staggering around at 3.00pm

so tonight is going to be another noisy one, they are already arguing and it usually hots up until windows are 

being smashed and violence starts.. I spoke to them calmly and asked them to please argue quietly!

They apologised profusely  and promised to be quiet but I won't hold my breath!

The other neighbour is an elderly lady who doesn't mince her words and really told them off, I was actually

quite embarrassed at how insulting she was, I wouldn't DARE speak to someone like that, especially when they

are fuelled with alcohol  :blink:

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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MammaP, I read your post about seeing your dr. Huge congratulations for handling it calmly yet assertively! Even more so given your suffering at the hands of "authority figures." Hope the liquid works really well!

1st round Prozac 1989/90, clear depression symptoms. 2nd round Prozac started 1999 when admitted to dr. I was tired. Prozac pooped out, switch to Cymbalta 3/2006. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder due to mania 6/2006--then I was taken abruptly off Cymbalta and didn't know I had SSRI withdrawal. Lots of meds for my intractable "bipolar" symptoms.

Zyprexa started about 9/06, mostly 5mg. Tapered 4/12 through12/29/12

Wellbutrin. XL 300 mg started 1/07, tapered 1/18/13 through 7/8/13

Oxazepam mostly continuously since 6/06, 30mg since 12/12, tapered 1.17.14 through 8.26.15

11/06 Lithium 600mg twice daily, 2.2.14 400mg TID DIY liquid, 2.12.14 1150mg, 3.2.14 1100mg, 3.18.14 1075mg, 4/14 updose to 1100mg, 6.1.14 900 mg capsules 7.8.14 810mg, 8.17.14 725mg, 8.24.24 700mg...10.22.14 487.5mg, 3.9.15 475mg, 4.1.15 462.5mg 4.21.15 450mg 8.11.15 375mg, 11.28.15 362.5mg, back to 375mg four days later, 3.4.16 updose to 475 (too much going on to risk trouble)

9/4/13 Toprol-XL 25mg daily for sudden hypertension, tapered 11.12.13 through 5.3.14, last 10 days or so switched to atenolol

7.4.14 Started Walsh Protocol

56 years old

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Thanks meime, I'm going to wait till my next drop to start the liquid I think, it will last longer that way

and I might not have to go for more! Neighbours were fighting again as expected but thankfully

one of them walked out at 2am so at least it went quiet for a few hours. All quiet down there tonight so hopefully

it will be a peaceful night. Felt a bit flat today and upset.

I have been looking at houses and there were 3 possibilities.

 

Turns out one is in a bad area, 1 is a council property and was being sub let by the tenant (very naughty and illegal)

and the last one is 2 storeys so that option is out too. Probably not the right time anyway and if I did get one I would no

doubt be in a terrible tizzy, lol. It's so easy to get fired up with positive things on a good day but sadly they don't always

last long enough to carry a decision through! When I moved in here 18 months ago I was fine when I viewed it, but by the moving date

was terribly ill and rushed to hospital with septicaemia . I was in there for 6 weeks and my family had to do the moving 

for me. My daughter was moving herself at the same time and my son had just started his new business, also his

marriage ended at the same time too and they were travelling 80 miles round trip to visit me in hospital

so it was a nightmare time for them. 

 

Saying all that has made me think I definitely need to wait, can't put them through all that again! 

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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Crumbs mammaP, finding places to live is so difficult :( And it sounds like where you are now is really difficult too. I'm glad to hear you have a good neighbour ...

 

How would you move? A removal firm?

Started citalopram May 12, from 10 to 40 mg/d over 2 months

 

Wanted to come off in May 13 and did it too quickly: decrease from 40 to 0 mg/d over 2 weeks; WD from then onwards, increasing in intensity to be unbearable at 4 weeks later;  reinstated 10 mg/d for 2 days (WD severity halved); reinstated 20 mg/d (initial WD symptoms decreased but not gone entirely until after 8 weeks)

 

Started 5--7% taper: Aug 13: 19 mg/d, mild WD on day 3; thereafter none notable; Nov 13: 18 mg/d, no WD; Dec 13: 17 mg/day, no WD for 3 weeks, then (at Christmas) tearfulness; Jan 14: 16.7 mg/d, Apr 14: 15.7 mg/d, Jun 14: 14.5 mg/d; Jul 14: 13.5 mg/d (6.9% reduction), Aug 14: 12.5 mg/d (7.4% reduction)

 

Sharing experience makes a difference

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Hi Katie, wow, removal van would be a luxury, lol. More like a transit and a few trips, hehe. 

I want to move nearer to the hospital and airport OR south nearer one of my daughters.

She has been asking me to go there for years, that's 500 miles away though near Oxford

and finding affordable housing there is just about impossible. I found a nice bungalow online

then discovered it's a really rough area. It isn't just the neighbour here that is the problem 

really, There is a beautiful garden but I can't sot in it or potter about in it because it's at the

back down a hill so I'm really missing being able to get out into the sun and do a bit of gardening.

I want to be more independant once I've finished tapering and get out more, it would be good

to take myself for hospital appointments too, it's an 80 miles round trip to one and 100 for the other

and I always have to get someone to take me. I tried the bus once and was really ill with the journey

so it would be better to be closer. That area  is very expensive too. I could get a disabled or retirement

flat but I want my grandchildren to be able to come for a sleepover, that's important to me.

 

Something will come up, just have to get some really good ear plugs for now. 

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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Hi mammap I hope you are feeling a bit better?

 

Katie pointed me in your direction re getting liquid version of meds... I'm on cipralex now not Effexor but I'm currently on lowest dose tablet so I want to switch to the liquid version for tapering. The problem is the gp I'm going to see on Tuesday gave me misinformation as you had previously been given with regards to coming off AD. He told me I could drop immediately from 10mg to 5mg, take that for few weeks then stop completely. This led me to have what I assumed at the time was a relapse in my depression, I now know thanks to this forum this was more likely withdrawal from tapering too fast. I was just wondering if you could give me any tips on how to handle the doc- was your doc willing to listen to your concerns and prescribe the liquid version ok?

 

Also I can totally sympathise with you over your noisy neighbours- the couple in the house behind us have parties regularly with music blasting outside til early hours- almost a nightly thing now with the public hols here in Northern Ireland (as well as the amazing sunshine we are having)... My partner keeps threatening to go round and tell them to knock it off but I don't want bad feelings with neighbours and don't want it to get any worse or there to be any violence... It's just such a shame yours have driven you to consider moving home!

 

Gems X

Oct10 - Mar11 fluoxetine (increased over this time 10mg-40mg)

Mar11 - Jun11 escitalopram (10mg)

Jun11 - Nov11 escitalopram (20mg)

Nov11- Jan12 escitalopram (15mg)

Jan12 - Feb13 escitalopram (10mg)

Feb13 - May13 escitalopram (5mg)

May13 - Jun13 venlafaxine (75mg)

Cold turkey for 1-2wks in Jun13

End Jun13 back on escitalopram (5mg) to stabilise then start taper...

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Hi Gems, the thing to remember when you ask the doctor is that he is infallable, and what he 

says is the absolute truth  :rolleyes: . I told mine that I tried it his way and the withdrawal was horrendous.

I said I know that some people come off successfully that way but unfortunately I am not one of them. 

I had previously been to the chemist and asked the pharmacist if liquid was available and explained to 

her what I wanted to do. She said it was and that it would be the best way to titrate. I told the doctor 

that I'd spoken to the pharmacist and what she had said.  I made a huge effort and chose my words

carefully so he didn't think I was going over his head

 

. I told him that I had read that some anti depressants

were available in liquid form and wondered if it would help me so I had asked the pharmacist while I was in 

the shop. I said I know it might be expensive but that I was prepared to pay for it if need be. ( If it is licensed

in the uk then it will be normal prescription charge In Scotland scripts are free) I told him it was difficult to

get the dose right at lower  doses and the liquid would be more accurate. 

I would tell your doctor that you  are ready to start tapering and if possible you would like the liquid

as you feel it would be better for you that way after your experience coming off venlafaxine. 

I had already been tapering for over a year before I asked for the liquid and he couldn't get his head around that at all

and couldn't see why I couldn't just stop! I thanked him very much when he handed it to me and told him I really appreciated

it. He is not one I want to fall out with when I need him on side. I felt like telling him a few truths but was a really good girl

and kept quiet, lol.  When I'm off and doing well without meds, THEN I'll tell him the difference a slow taper makes.

 

Hope you get your liquid without too much trouble Gems. 

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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Thanks for the tips mammap!

 

I might actually call into the chemist before my appt to check it is available. I get very frustrated if the doc start to dismiss my concerns and usually end up in tears out of frustration. Hopefully this won't happen if I keep calm and follow your advice above. When I cry they think I'm relapsing and usually end up increasing my dose... Deep breaths and improving my communication skills are necessary I think...

 

Thanks again, keep well

 

Gems X

Oct10 - Mar11 fluoxetine (increased over this time 10mg-40mg)

Mar11 - Jun11 escitalopram (10mg)

Jun11 - Nov11 escitalopram (20mg)

Nov11- Jan12 escitalopram (15mg)

Jan12 - Feb13 escitalopram (10mg)

Feb13 - May13 escitalopram (5mg)

May13 - Jun13 venlafaxine (75mg)

Cold turkey for 1-2wks in Jun13

End Jun13 back on escitalopram (5mg) to stabilise then start taper...

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  • Moderator Emeritus

QUESTION FOR ALTO.    

 

I accidentally took a full capsule of 75mg efexor 36 hours ago, Within a couple of hours felt 

like really withdrawal had ramped up, sweats, flushes, zaps, headache, all that I've been feeling

but intensified in a huge way. I didn't realise for 12 hours what it was then just waited for it to pass

and have been in bed most of the time since. Now I feel more nauseous than usual but much better

but still feel the withdrawal. Now I'm wondering if what I thought was withdrawal is actually side effects

which have been a bit problematic and I couldn't understand why I haven't stabilised again after going back

to 4 beads from 3 last month. Do you suggest sticking at 4 for a bit longer, and will that accidental lapse

affect my taper?  Thanks for reading. 

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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  • Administrator

mammaP, I can't say what's going on. Theoretically, the higher amount of Effexor XR will affect you for 5 half-lives, roughly 5 days, before it "washes out."

 

I would figure on going back to 4 beads, but it's impossible to tell whether you will feel the same at 4 beads as you did before.

 

If the higher amount of Effexor XR makes you feel better, my guess is you may wish to stabilize on more than 4 beads. But your entire nervous system ecology may be different, resulting from this big jump.

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

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

All postings © copyrighted.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Thanks Alto, that explains a lot, When I said felt better I meant better than the first 24 hours. Still feeling much  worse than before I took the big one but better than the first day. I didn't realise it stayed so long and wondered why I feel so agitated and sick. Hope I haven't messed things up too much, I've come a long way to be messing it up now. Can't believe I did that.   :(

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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Hi MammaP - I've been following your thread and am so sorry for everything you've been going through.  I lack the knowledge and experience to offer any advice but I did want you to know that I'm thinking about you and wishing you well on your journey.

2000 - Paxil Cr 12.5mg

2005 - Tapered. Reinstated at 25 mg. Back to 12.5

6/13 - Quit Paxil C/T.  Start 5 mg Klonopin.

7/13 - 4 weeks Paxil free.  1-1/2 weeks Klonopin free.

7/13 - Reinstated 2.0 mg of Paxil Liquid

8/14 - Decreased to 1.8 then 1.6

9/14 - Back to 1.8

9/7/14 - Back to 2.0

2/2/15 - Decreasing 10% per month currently at 1.44 mg

 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Thank you Dixie, it's lovely of you and much appreciated. Everyone here has made this so much easier to 

go through.  Hope your taper is going well for you.  :)

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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I can't bear this heat, it's awful. It isn't even sunny today but still far too hot for me at 30d .  

It isn't usual to get heat like this here in North Scotland and I am happy with that. I never go abroad in summer.

Most people are loving it but I'm just one grumpy lady  :mad:

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

My accidental OD seems to have passed now thank goodness! It was a bad few days and actually felt like 

withdrawal, which is very similar to the first side effects when I started them. 

 

It has taught me something though, and that is that 20 years ago when I was in and out of hospital my very worst

symptoms that led to me being sectioned and given ECT were absolutely drug related and paroxetine was the worst offender.

I had the same symptoms again this week and was so close to ending it all. I feel incredibly sad and angry that I have lost 20 years

to psychiatric drugs and that my children lost their mother to them. I can't even say that I'm going to get better because now I am crippled with arthritis and actually wondering if

the drugs had a contributing factor to this too. I was very fit and used to swim a lot and walked everywhere, was a keen gardener and 

did lots of DIY including fitting kitchens and showers! I worked and had an active social life and was an active member of our congregation. Now I live alone, barely see anyone and get out maybe 2 times a week to the shops nearby. I can't drive very far

because my brain isn't alert enough and can't walk more than a hundred yards or so. 

I do feel a bit more positive today though, and my brain feels a bit clearer so hopefully I am stabilising again. 

I hope everyone else is having a tolerable day or a good nights sleep, depending where you are. The sun is shining again here in 

Scotland and I am going to go for a little walk and sit outside awhile. 

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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I am so glad you are doing better today.  Taking a walk sounds like a great idea.  I always feels so much better after I do.  My head is feeling a little less lightheaded today so I just might join you in a walk although we don't currently have sunny skies.  It is another dreary cloudy day.  I am so tired of this weather - it certainly doesn't help when you already feel down.

 

Take care and continue to get better.  Hugs  ;)

2000 - Paxil Cr 12.5mg

2005 - Tapered. Reinstated at 25 mg. Back to 12.5

6/13 - Quit Paxil C/T.  Start 5 mg Klonopin.

7/13 - 4 weeks Paxil free.  1-1/2 weeks Klonopin free.

7/13 - Reinstated 2.0 mg of Paxil Liquid

8/14 - Decreased to 1.8 then 1.6

9/14 - Back to 1.8

9/7/14 - Back to 2.0

2/2/15 - Decreasing 10% per month currently at 1.44 mg

 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Quite enjoyed my little walk yesterday but felt ill on the way back and had to concentrate on every step to 

get back.  It is so hot here and we just aren't used to it! Was in pain all morning and slept this afternoon

then walked to the garage to get the car out. It's  only around 80 yards away but a very steep slope and

difficult. I had to put the car across the street because I have an appointment with physio tomorrow and 

if my legs are too painful won't be able to get the car out and would miss the appointment! I try and park

on the street most of the time but sometimes there are no spaces and I have to put it in the garage. 

 

When I got there it was covered in pigeon poop so I gave it a hose down. I enjoyed playing with the hose

and got soaked, lol.  When I lived in the country I would wash my car in the rain, in my pyjamas and pink

wellies. The rain softened the dirt and loosened it, so it didn't take any effort to sponge it down and then

the rain helped to rinse off the suds. I must have looked a sight in my pink pyjamas and pink wellies washing

the car while it's pouring with rain but it worked for me and was much easier than washing it and scrubbing away

while the sun's shining! And there was no point getting dressed only to get soaked, much better to get it done and

then get shwered and dressed! Of course I can't do that now I live on the high street, I'd be carted off and locked up  :lol:

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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Great story MammaP!  Glad you were able to get out and go for a walk.

2000 - Paxil Cr 12.5mg

2005 - Tapered. Reinstated at 25 mg. Back to 12.5

6/13 - Quit Paxil C/T.  Start 5 mg Klonopin.

7/13 - 4 weeks Paxil free.  1-1/2 weeks Klonopin free.

7/13 - Reinstated 2.0 mg of Paxil Liquid

8/14 - Decreased to 1.8 then 1.6

9/14 - Back to 1.8

9/7/14 - Back to 2.0

2/2/15 - Decreasing 10% per month currently at 1.44 mg

 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Went for my physio appointment this afternoon. He was asking me about my general health, ticking boxes

and of course they included dizzyness? sweating? headaches? fever? pins and needles?etc etc. I ticked

them all then said that I've been taking an ant depressant but am now tapering it because of all the side

effects. He was so sweet, looked like he was just out of college, handsome with lovely dark eyes and 

reminded me of my grandson., which is why his ears weren't ringing  after suggesting that I speak to my gp 

 

"there are many new and very effective anti depressants available now and he might be able to

prescribe one of them for you" !!!

 

:rolleyes:

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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Oh, mammaP, your humour is so wry! Keep on gigglng if you can, if that is what you are doing, because for me at least you are a wonderous survivor and I at least am giggling. Our weather is unusally hot and humid and uncomfortable, and can only be survived with water. I believe in a pre-soak!!!

 

I think I've put out my bins early one morning in a short nightie (quickly nipping back inside out of sight)

 

Shame shame shame our health practitioners don't listen... But then again, even my counsellor doesn't listen or comprehend .....

Started citalopram May 12, from 10 to 40 mg/d over 2 months

 

Wanted to come off in May 13 and did it too quickly: decrease from 40 to 0 mg/d over 2 weeks; WD from then onwards, increasing in intensity to be unbearable at 4 weeks later;  reinstated 10 mg/d for 2 days (WD severity halved); reinstated 20 mg/d (initial WD symptoms decreased but not gone entirely until after 8 weeks)

 

Started 5--7% taper: Aug 13: 19 mg/d, mild WD on day 3; thereafter none notable; Nov 13: 18 mg/d, no WD; Dec 13: 17 mg/day, no WD for 3 weeks, then (at Christmas) tearfulness; Jan 14: 16.7 mg/d, Apr 14: 15.7 mg/d, Jun 14: 14.5 mg/d; Jul 14: 13.5 mg/d (6.9% reduction), Aug 14: 12.5 mg/d (7.4% reduction)

 

Sharing experience makes a difference

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Yesterday I went to my physio appointment, took some junk to recycling and went to the

little supermarket for a few things. Then sat by the beach awhile . It was a good day but tiring. 

Didn't sleep very well, maybe 2 hours which is not unusual for me, and felt really ill all day.

A lot of pain, exhausted and very stiff. Went back to bed after lunch and have done nothing

today. It would be really good not to have to pay for a good day with a bad one. 

Just hope tomorrow is a good one.

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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Hi MammaP. This heat would get anyone. Glad to hear you have a beach close by. Mine keeps me sane. TG it's summer! I hope tomorrow is better for you.

Started citalopram May 12, from 10 to 40 mg/d over 2 months

 

Wanted to come off in May 13 and did it too quickly: decrease from 40 to 0 mg/d over 2 weeks; WD from then onwards, increasing in intensity to be unbearable at 4 weeks later;  reinstated 10 mg/d for 2 days (WD severity halved); reinstated 20 mg/d (initial WD symptoms decreased but not gone entirely until after 8 weeks)

 

Started 5--7% taper: Aug 13: 19 mg/d, mild WD on day 3; thereafter none notable; Nov 13: 18 mg/d, no WD; Dec 13: 17 mg/day, no WD for 3 weeks, then (at Christmas) tearfulness; Jan 14: 16.7 mg/d, Apr 14: 15.7 mg/d, Jun 14: 14.5 mg/d; Jul 14: 13.5 mg/d (6.9% reduction), Aug 14: 12.5 mg/d (7.4% reduction)

 

Sharing experience makes a difference

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  • Moderator Emeritus

I was visiting with a friend of mine tonight whose parents live in England (southern, I think) and she said it was over 96 degrees F there when she talked with them on the phone yesterday, which is apparently unheard of! It's been hot here too, highs close to 100 F, but that's not terribly unusual here, I'm told. Anyway, my sympathies are with you in the heat!

 

Also I want to say that I very much relate to everything you're saying about losing 20 years of your life, and in particular the years when your children were growing up.  It's not just a tragedy, it's a travesty.  I know it's not much consolation, but you're not alone.

Started on Prozac and Xanax in 1992 for PTSD after an assault. One drug led to more, the usual story. Got sicker and sicker, but believed I needed the drugs for my "underlying disease". Long story...lost everything. Life savings, home, physical and mental health, relationships, friendships, ability to work, everything. Amitryptiline, Prozac, bupropion, buspirone, flurazepam, diazepam, alprazolam, Paxil, citalopram, lamotrigine, gabapentin...probably more I've forgotten. 

Started multidrug taper in Feb 2010.  Doing a very slow microtaper, down to low doses now and feeling SO much better, getting my old personality and my brain back! Able to work full time, have a full social life, and cope with stress better than ever. Not perfect, but much better. After 23 lost years. Big Pharma has a lot to answer for. And "medicine for profit" is just not a great idea.

 

Feb 15 2010:  300 mg Neurontin  200 Lamictal   10 Celexa      0.65 Xanax   and 5 mg Ambien 

Feb 10 2014:   62 Lamictal    1.1 Celexa         0.135 Xanax    1.8 Valium

Feb 10 2015:   50 Lamictal      0.875 Celexa    0.11 Xanax      1.5 Valium

Feb 15 2016:   47.5 Lamictal   0.75 Celexa      0.0875 Xanax    1.42 Valium    

2/12/20             12                       0.045               0.007                   1 

May 2021            7                       0.01                  0.0037                1

Feb 2022            6                      0!!!                     0.00167               0.98                2.5 mg Ambien

Oct 2022       4.5 mg Lamictal    (off Celexa, off Xanax)   0.95 Valium    Ambien, 1/4 to 1/2 of a 5 mg tablet 

 

I'm not a doctor. Any advice I give is just my civilian opinion.

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  • Moderator Emeritus

It is never so hot here in Scotland Rhi, rarely we have a 'heatwave' that gets up to the low 80s but not

like this for days and weeks. Last night it rained and there was a storm, the sound of the rain was

music to my ears! Never thought I would say that!  It's not good that any of us have had wasted years

but it is good to know we're not alone. Now my daughter is starting the same journey and it fills me with

horror and dread. I just pray that she will listen to me and taper properly when she decides it's time.

She did CT a few  months ago which led to a meltdown and going back on, believing that she needs them

to keep her sane.  :(

 

I didn't sleep again last night and am attempting to make a no-sew blackout blind. It doesn't get really

 dark here in summer and there's too much light. I have been wearing a sleep mask but it's been irritating

me lately so hopefully tonight the room will be in total blackout and I'll be able to get some much needed zzzzzzzs.

 

Hi MammaP. This heat would get anyone. Glad to hear you have a beach close by. Mine keeps me sane. TG it's summer! I hope tomorrow is better for you.

Where do you stay Katie? I am in Banffshire too, small world eh?  ;)

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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... Now my daughter is starting the same journey and it fills me with horror and dread. ..

Where do you stay Katie? I am in Banffshire too, small world eh?  ;)

 

MammaP

 

TG my daughter isn't taking meds, but at 18 she has more worries and more responsibilities and also the insomnia that I didn't have at her age. So, d*mn, I've not managed to break the pattern for the next generation. Too soon to tell how her younger bros are going to be ...

 

I'm right on the Banffshire coast, which isn't too big! If you really wanna know exactly, I'll message you privately :)

Started citalopram May 12, from 10 to 40 mg/d over 2 months

 

Wanted to come off in May 13 and did it too quickly: decrease from 40 to 0 mg/d over 2 weeks; WD from then onwards, increasing in intensity to be unbearable at 4 weeks later;  reinstated 10 mg/d for 2 days (WD severity halved); reinstated 20 mg/d (initial WD symptoms decreased but not gone entirely until after 8 weeks)

 

Started 5--7% taper: Aug 13: 19 mg/d, mild WD on day 3; thereafter none notable; Nov 13: 18 mg/d, no WD; Dec 13: 17 mg/day, no WD for 3 weeks, then (at Christmas) tearfulness; Jan 14: 16.7 mg/d, Apr 14: 15.7 mg/d, Jun 14: 14.5 mg/d; Jul 14: 13.5 mg/d (6.9% reduction), Aug 14: 12.5 mg/d (7.4% reduction)

 

Sharing experience makes a difference

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  • Moderator Emeritus

After a day of exhaustion following my little jaunt, yesterday was a good day. I made a big fresh fruit salad and put it into jars

in the fridge, they look really good and organised sitting in the door looking all posh. Then I knocked up a blackout blind

with blackout lining and suction cups. Great idea but it fell down! Also had friends round for coffee and my star cleaning

lady came in too so a very good day.

 

Today it's back to weepy and exhausted.  :(

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Absolutely fed up and sick of life as it is. Can't do anything right. Have good ideas and intentions and always goes pear shaped. 

I post things then realise it just doesn't sound right or get carried away and write an indecipherable story. Not just here,

it's typical of me with my broken brain.  It's the same with conversations. what is in my head isn't what comes from my mouth. 

Think I'll just give up and go live in a tree in the forest, if I can manage to climb it that is! 

Seriously, I feel like moving back into the country, locking my door and shutting the world out. Don't need shops now with the internet

so would never have to speak to a human being again......ever. 

 

A huge thunderstorm has broken out, with huge HAILSTONES!!! This is Scotland!

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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  • Administrator

mammaP, you're too hard on yourself. You're a valued contributor to this community.

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

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

All postings © copyrighted.

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mammaP, I think you get your words out just fine. All to say,  I get what you're saying. I do know what you mean about writing -- it can take me ages if I start back deleting/rewriting/ adding in, so I get very annoyed with myself. Yeah, take it easy.

 

Trees in forests fall down!! And don't have running water!

 

I was 20 miles west of you with my in laws this pm. The thunderstorm hit  us 3 hours after you!! Cool huh :D

Started citalopram May 12, from 10 to 40 mg/d over 2 months

 

Wanted to come off in May 13 and did it too quickly: decrease from 40 to 0 mg/d over 2 weeks; WD from then onwards, increasing in intensity to be unbearable at 4 weeks later;  reinstated 10 mg/d for 2 days (WD severity halved); reinstated 20 mg/d (initial WD symptoms decreased but not gone entirely until after 8 weeks)

 

Started 5--7% taper: Aug 13: 19 mg/d, mild WD on day 3; thereafter none notable; Nov 13: 18 mg/d, no WD; Dec 13: 17 mg/day, no WD for 3 weeks, then (at Christmas) tearfulness; Jan 14: 16.7 mg/d, Apr 14: 15.7 mg/d, Jun 14: 14.5 mg/d; Jul 14: 13.5 mg/d (6.9% reduction), Aug 14: 12.5 mg/d (7.4% reduction)

 

Sharing experience makes a difference

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Hi MammaP,

 

Alto is right, you are too hard on yourself. Your posts are enjoyable reading. 

 

It is extreme weather we are having this summer, I think. Here in Denmark it has been terribly hot also. I find it very hard to handle, especially at night. And at the same time the daylight comes on so early still that all in all it is difficult to get enough sleep. Of course, the cortisol spikes don't help!

 

I hope you are feeling better. (Maybe the hailstorm made the temperature a lttle more tolerable?)

Alopam (benzodiazepine) first prescribed 1994
Akarin (citalopram) from 2002

Mirtazepine for about 2 months for insomnia in 2003 or 2004
Changed from Akarin to Effexor 2005
Started Nexium 2005
Changed from Effexor to Akarin 2006
Stopped Alopam after slow tapering 2006
Changed from Akarin to Cipralex 2006
Started Seroquel (quetiapine) 2006
Changed from Nexium to Omeprazol 2006
Started tramadol 2008
Started pramipexole for restless legs syndrome 2008
Stopped Seroquel after quick tapering 2009
Stopped tramadol 2011
Stopped Omeprazol August 2012
Stopped Cipralex (escitalopram) (after an appr 6 weeks taper) on Oct 13, 2012
Reinstated Cipralex 5 mg on May 18 - on May 22 went down to 2.5 mg Cipralex - June 1 down to 2 mg Cipralex, oral drops - June 26 down to 1.20 mg - July 27 updosed to 1,30 mg - Sept 14 down to 1,00 mg of own tablet liquid - Oct 20 down to 0,90 mg

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  • Moderator Emeritus

Aww thank you, there's been family stuff going on and it's been a case of who said what.

A few months ago I said some things when I was completely stressed out. I rarely speak my mind,

it just isn't worth it when it's just a difference of opinion. Everyone is entitled to an opinion but

sometimes it's best to keep it to yourself.  I didn't that time and have been punished ever since. 

I've apologised again and again but keep getting different things thrown at me, from my religion to 

the baby drawing stars on the coffee table. I have a feeling that there is more to it and I am the

punchbag. I can't cope with it any more, it's been making me ill. I've said we must put it behind us 

or they can disown me but I won't be punished any longer. Others in the family say and do much much

more and it's soon forgotten, then starts again days later. I try and keep the peace but one slip 

and it's grown out of proportion. They talk to each other and have a moan that turns into a witch hunt

that's what it feel like for me anyway. 

Thanks for being here. 

**I am not a medical professional, if in doubt please consult a doctor with withdrawal knowledge.

 

 

Different drugs occasionally (mostly benzos) 1976 - 1981 (no problem)

1993 - 2002 in and out of hospital. every type of drug + ECT. Staring with seroxat

2002  effexor. 

Tapered  March 2012 to March 2013, ending with 5 beads.

Withdrawal April 2013 . Reinstated 5 beads reduced to 4 beads May 2013

Restarted taper  Nov 2013  

OFF EFFEXOR Feb 2015    :D 

Tapered atenolol and omeprazole Dec 2013 - May 2014

 

Tapering tramadol, Feb 2015 100mg , March 2015 50mg  

 July 2017 30mg.  May 15 2018 25mg

Taking fish oil, magnesium, B12, folic acid, bilberry eyebright for eye pressure. 

 

My story http://survivingantidepressants.org/index.php?/topic/4199-hello-mammap-checking-in/page-33

 

Lesson learned, slow down taper at lower doses. Taper no more than 10% of CURRENT dose if possible

 

 

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