[fmza]

Hi Hairy,

When you first tapered off lex, and struggled, and went back on, how long was it between your last pill and when you reinstated?

Did you feel better after reinstating?

i took my last pill in feb after 8 yrs on celexa, then lexapro, and i am in the throes of the worst depression and insomnia ever. the dr has me on drugs to get me to sleep and i just can't deal with the anxiety and depression.

the problem is, if this was a normal situation, i would tough it out like i should.

but i am getting married in 2 months (Postponing is not an option), so i need to do something asap to get back on my feet.

has anyone had any sucess reinstating after months of being off? i would only want to go back on temporarily and then do a slow taper.

anyone who can offer advice, please help. julia, aunty, erin

thank you

[Hairyarmadillo]

Originally Posted by fmza

Hi Hairy,

When you first tapered off lex, and struggled, and went back on, how long was it between your last pill and when you reinstated?

Did you feel better after reinstating?

i took my last pill in feb after 8 yrs on celexa, then lexapro, and i am in the throes of the worst depression and insomnia ever. the dr has me on drugs to get me to sleep and i just can't deal with the anxiety and depression.

the problem is, if this was a normal situation, i would tough it out like i should.

but i am getting married in 2 months (Postponing is not an option), so i need to do something asap to get back on my feet.

has anyone had any sucess reinstating after months of being off? i would only want to go back on temporarily and then do a slow taper.

anyone who can offer advice, please help. julia, aunty, erin

thank you

I feel like I always have to add a disclaimer now because I sure cannot remember exact times. My advice to everyone is keep some type of journal so one day (if you like) you can look back. I had a rough log but didn't back it up-sigh.
It has been so long but I am estimating it was approximately 4 months after I stopped taking it when I got back on it. My symptoms did go away but I really am not sure how many weeks it took. It definitely wasn't a matter of months-it was pretty much the same as when I had first started taking it. Mind you, it wasn't overnight but it wasn't long. I will say in the long run, I think I was better off for going on and doing the slow taper because I was really a basket case. But then again maybe if I had known all the natural supplements to take that would have helped. I stayed on it for maybe 2 years before I started weaning again.
I am not sure if it is best to start back on it again or not, but if it was me and I went back on anything, I would invest in the Omega 3 and start taking it to build myself up. Omega 3 is beneficial for a plethora of things so it wouldn't hurt you. There is a lot of good information on this forum. Plan your tapering program and also familiarize yourself with some of the common withdrawal symptoms so you won't be taken off guard. I can definitely say this time off was better in the long run and I do attribute it to the slower taper.

[fmza]

thanks for your help Hairy.

I did buy the carlson's omega 3, and have been taking for over a month, and didn't see a difference.

i wish i had found this site before my tapering, so i could have slowed it down.

i am truly a basket case right now, and i don't know what to do.

anyway, i appreciate your fast response and thanks again

[fmza]

Hi,

i read in one of your posts that sleeping drugs such as lunesta and ambien mess with neurotransmitters.

can you please explain more? do you have a website or source i can reference?

thank you so much

[erinkj]

Ambien Description
Ambien (zolpidem tartrate), is a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic of the imidazopyridine class and is available in 5-mg and 10-mg strength tablets for oral administration.

Pharmacodynamics
Subunit modulation of the GABAA receptor chloride channel macromolecular complex is hypothesized to be responsible for sedative, anticonvulsant, anxiolytic, and myorelaxant drug properties. The major modulatory site of the GABAA receptor complex is located on its alpha (α) subunit and is referred to as the benzodiazepine (BZ) or omega (ω) receptor. At least three subtypes of the (ω) receptor have been identified.

While zolpidem is a hypnotic agent with a chemical structure unrelated to benzodiazepines, barbiturates, or other drugs with known hypnotic properties, it interacts with a GABA-BZ receptor complex and shares some of the pharmacological properties of the benzodiazepines. In contrast to the benzodiazepines, which nonselectively bind to and activate all omega receptor subtypes, zolpidem in vitro binds the (ω1) receptor preferentially with a high affinity ratio of the alpha1/alpha5 subunits. The (ω1) receptor is found primarily on the Lamina IV of the sensorimotor cortical regions, substantia nigra (parsreticulata), cerebellum molecular layer, olfactory bulb, ventral thalamic complex, pons, inferior colliculus, and globus pallidus. This selective binding of zolpidem on the (ω1) receptor is not absolute, but it may explain the relative absence of myorelaxant and anticonvulsant effects in animal studies as well as the preservation of deep sleep (stages 3 and 4) in human studies of zolpidem at hypnotic doses.

Postulated relationship between elimination rate of hypnotics and their profile of common untoward effects
The type and duration of hypnotic effects and the profile of unwanted effects during administration of hypnotic drugs may be influenced by the biologic half-life of administered drug and any active metabolites formed. When half-lives are long, drug or metabolites may accumulate during periods of nightly administration and be associated with impairment of cognitive and/or motor performance during waking hours; the possibility of interaction with other psychoactive drugs or alcohol will be enhanced. In contrast, if half-lives, including half-lives of active metabolites, are short, drug and metabolites will be cleared before the next dose is ingested, and carryover effects related to excessive sedation or CNS depression should be minimal or absent. Ambien has a short half-life and no active metabolites. During nightly use for an extended period, pharmacodynamic tolerance or adaptation to some effects of hypnotics may develop. If the drug has a short elimination half-life, it is possible that a relative deficiency of the drug or its active metabolites (ie, in relationship to the receptor site) may occur at some point in the interval between each night's use. This sequence of events may account for two clinical findings reported to occur after several weeks of nightly use of other rapidly eliminated hypnotics, namely, increased wakefulness during the last third of the night, and the appearance of increased signs of daytime anxiety. Increased wakefulness during the last third of the night as measured by polysomnography has not been observed in clinical trials with Ambien.

Abuse and dependence
Studies of abuse potential in former drug abusers found that the effects of single doses of Ambien (zolpidem tartrate) 40 mg were similar, but not identical, to diazepam 20 mg, while zolpidem tartrate 10 mg was difficult to distinguish from placebo.

Sedative/hypnotics have produced withdrawal signs and symptoms following abrupt discontinuation. These reported symptoms range from mild dysphoria and insomnia to a withdrawal syndrome that may include abdominal and muscle cramps, vomiting, sweating, tremors, and convulsions. The U.S. clinical trial experience from zolpidem does not reveal any clear evidence for withdrawal syndrome. Nevertheless, the following adverse events included in DSM-III-R criteria for uncomplicated sedative/hypnotic withdrawal were reported during U.S. clinical trials following placebo substitution occurring within 48 hours following last zolpidem treatment: fatigue, nausea, flushing, lightheadedness, uncontrolled crying, emesis, stomach cramps, panic attack, nervousness, and abdominal discomfort. These reported adverse events occurred at an incidence of 1% or less. However, available data cannot provide a reliable estimate of the incidence, if any, of dependence during treatment at recommended doses. Rare post-marketing reports of abuse, dependence and withdrawal have been received.

Because persons with a history of addiction to, or abuse of, drugs or alcohol are at increased risk of habituation and dependence, they should be under careful surveillance when receiving zolpidem or any other hypnotic.

Withdrawal: Withdrawal symptoms may occur when sleep medicines are stopped suddenly after being used daily for a long time. In some cases, these symptoms can occur even if the medicine has been used for only a week or two.

In mild cases, withdrawal symptoms may include unpleasant feelings. In more severe cases, abdominal and muscle cramps, vomiting, sweating, shakiness, and rarely, seizures may occur. These more severe withdrawal symptoms are very uncommon.

Another problem that may occur when sleep medicines are stopped is known as "rebound insomnia." This means that a person may have more trouble sleeping the first few nights after the medicine is stopped than before starting the medicine. If you should experience rebound insomnia, do not get discouraged. This problem usually goes away on its own after 1 or 2 nights.

If you have been taking Ambien or any other sleep medicine for more than 1 or 2 weeks, do not stop taking it on your own. Always follow your doctor's directions.

Changes in behavior and thinking: Some people using sleep medicines have experienced unusual changes in their thinking and/or behavior. These effects are not common. However, they have included:

more outgoing or aggressive behavior than normal
loss of personal identity
confusion
strange behavior
agitation
hallucinations
worsening of depression
suicidal thoughts

[erinkj]

Originally Posted by fmza

Hi,

i read in one of your posts that sleeping drugs such as lunesta and ambien mess with neurotransmitters.

can you please explain more? do you have a website or source i can reference?

thank you so much

I have just posted info on Ambien for you. I don't know how well you understand pharmacology so, I will sumarize for you. In the first 2 paragraphs the info explains which parts of the brain are effected by ambien ie: it's mechanism of action. Put simply, AMbien is a "BRAIN DRUG" this means that it readily crosses the blood brain barrier thus entering into your brain where it affects your CNS (central nervouse system). Wether ambien affects you negatively or posetively I cannot say. My mother, daughter and I have all had hallucinations and sleep walking episodes with Ambien and it induced panic attack for me...My husband used it with no problems for a month or two and then it quit working and he was switched to lunesta. (He does not take sleep med's anymore though). I won't say that you should not take a sleep med while you are OFF of the SSRI but, I will caution you that doing so could slow down your healing process and cause more problems....We are all so different in how we react to med's so, I can't say for you. Lunesta seem's less problematic than Ambien, at least I am not aware of any freaky "mental" side effects, the most common complaint with Lunesta is that it can cause a horrible metalic taste in your mouth which can last half the day or sevral days, for some that goes away and for some it does not. My personal advice to you is this: (keep in mind, I am NOT a doctor) for sleep, try taking benadryl before bedtime as well as a magnesium supplement an hour or two before bed and see if that helps....If not you can try some tylenol PM...I would deffinately try any OTC med before filling a script...Even the insurance companies that cover the cost of sleep med's will ussualy require a higher co-pay for Ambien and Lunesta, they are VERY expensive. If you choose to re-instate your SSRI (which may not be a bad idea) DO NOT re-instate to the highest dose that you used to take. You have been off of the SSRI long enough now that I think that would cause you more problems....Begin by re-instating at the lowest or last dose that you took then, go from there.....If it is going to help you stabelize, you should feel benefits within 4 weeks...(probobly sooner). If I can help with anything else, or, if you have more questions please ask...Peace...Erin

[erinkj]

Hello ALL ...I have not been posting alot lately because I have been so busy..UGH....I have been spending ALOT of time out in my garden also and that feel's GREAT....Warm sunshine, I LOVE it! I am feeling rather well, mostly. I have my off days but, I am feeling much more stable. I am at 20 mgs celexa = 10 mgs lexapro and holding. I am in the process of switching to klonapin from xanax. I am now at about half the benzo dose that I have been on for months. The plan is to complete the switch to klonapin and stay on that for a few weeks to a month and then begin tappering off of the klonapin. I am not sure if the lower benzo dose or the celexa dose is responsable for my feeling better. It is probobly a combination. Most of the SSRI withdrawal symptoms that I had are gone now and the panic is under control....I still have low moods just not as bad or frequent...I try to stay occupied and spend as much time outside as possible and that helps. I have not had a migraine for about a month now either...things are looking up...I hope everyone is doing well...Peace...Erin

[auntybiotic]

Originally Posted by fmza

Hi Hairy,

When you first tapered off lex, and struggled, and went back on, how long was it between your last pill and when you reinstated?

Did you feel better after reinstating?

i took my last pill in feb after 8 yrs on celexa, then lexapro, and i am in the throes of the worst depression and insomnia ever. the dr has me on drugs to get me to sleep and i just can't deal with the anxiety and depression.

the problem is, if this was a normal situation, i would tough it out like i should.

but i am getting married in 2 months (Postponing is not an option), so i need to do something asap to get back on my feet.

has anyone had any sucess reinstating after months of being off? i would only want to go back on temporarily and then do a slow taper.

anyone who can offer advice, please help. julia, aunty, erin

thank you

Hi,

The window of opportunity for reinstating is up to six weeks after stopping, after the 6 week period you will not be able to reinstate lexapro and get relief.

aunty

[fmza]

thanks to erin and aunty for your replies.

i appreciate everyone's help on this forum.

aunty, is the 6 week window something you have discovered through research or through people's experiences on the forum? i am running out of options.

if you were me, what would you do? i am stuck in a vicious cycle. without the meds, i can't sleep, (i need to take 3 meds to sleep), its that severe. but the meds can lengthen the healing process, and not sleeping is not an option either. i mean, i don't sleep at all

so what do i do? i am going to the dr and he is goign to try and cut one of the meds tomorrow, but the last time he tried that, i couldn't sleep all night

so i am battling with the most severe insomina and depression

anyway, i appreciate any advice

thank you

[Julia77]

Aunty, one again, here is my e-mail: liana_my_mail@yahoo.com

You can e-mail me any time you want and we can get in touch...

[Hairyarmadillo]

fmza I see Erin posted on this and I totally forgot to tell you how I have been turned off by prescription sleep aids. There is nothing more frustrating to me than insomnia. I stress over insomnia when I have it which compounds the problem, so I do know the agony of not sleeping-boy do I know the agony. So, years ago I tried Ambien. It worked fine but after several uses, I noticed that I was short tempered and melancholy. This past spring I asked my doctor for something (have been taking benadryl on and off for years, but it dries everything up and I feel groggy all day long) and he prescribed Rozeram. The first night I took it I felt like I was having an adrenaline rush, but after that it worked. However, each time I took it I had nightmares! don't know if you have seen the commercial for it with Abe Lincoln and a porcupine-well, I swear I dreamed about a thing that looked like a giant porcupine (more like a Neutra rat actually) and it was scary. Also, again, I noticed my mood declined. I did try something called Body Calm and that helped for a bit but then didn't work. Ha-guess this is a depressing post in itself, huh? But the point I wanted to make is that I now stay away from prescription sleep aids because they adversely affect my mood. I will admit to taking the benadryl and I do need to quit that-it may not be physically addictive but i swear it is hard to go to bed without it. Cant believe I kicked paxil and lexapro and can't stay away from benadryl. The same ingredient that is in benadryl is in tylenol pm,advil pm etc. If you don't have pain, personally, I wouldn't take the pain killers with the pm (which is diphenhydramine)-just take the benadryl. no need to take additional ingredients if you don't need them. I had a friend who refused to take any otc sleep aids but would take the tylenol pm-I tried telling her that one of the otc sleep aids is the diphenhydramine but she hated the stigma of taking a sleep aid but didn't mind taking the pain killer-lol.

[COHiker]

Hi All,

I have been absent lately. Same as Mary: summer vacation and kids.... you get the picture. Hope you all are doing well.

My question is for you lovely people who know alot about SSRI's....
Is it possible that the SSRI and the receptors in the gut can cause problems with acid production?

I am now almost eight weeks off lex after a fairly quick taper (4.5 months) and about two weeks ago I started having really bad acid reflux. It occurs mostly at night. There has been some increase in anxiety and that may be causing the acid reflux (manageable but worse with PMS) but I was wondering if the reflux could be a problem with the how the SSRI receprtos in the gut may reacting to withdrawl. Any recommendations about how to deal with the reflux without taking Prilosec or like drug?

I'll fill you all in later about how everything else has been..... appetite leveling off(less craving of carbs , sleeping--there's a little bit of interuption- but OK overall, some increase in anxiety (but manageable), able to cry again, caring more about life and sex drive improving. Getting off lex was totally worth the tapering process.

Hope everyone is having a great summer. We have been very busy, but having fun. Time just flies by... I'd love to stop the clock and have alot more summer.

CO Hiker

[Hairyarmadillo]

COHiker


You sound like you are doing great!! You are so right about the results being worth getting off the Lexapro-it just keeps getting better. Life is not all roses but at least I feel alive.

I had issues with heartburn and acid reflux but mine were minor. They usually hit at night with me. I used all the otc stuff (pepcid ac and tagamet) but I was familiar with those, having used them prior to this. One thing that helped me and it may have been an odd fluke, is I drank plenty of water.

[Julia77]

Originally Posted by COHiker

Hi All,

I have been absent lately. Same as Mary: summer vacation and kids.... you get the picture. Hope you all are doing well.

My question is for you lovely people who know alot about SSRI's....
Is it possible that the SSRI and the receptors in the gut can cause problems with acid production?

I am now almost eight weeks off lex after a fairly quick taper (4.5 months) and about two weeks ago I started having really bad acid reflux. It occurs mostly at night. There has been some increase in anxiety and that may be causing the acid reflux (manageable but worse with PMS) but I was wondering if the reflux could be a problem with the how the SSRI receprtos in the gut may reacting to withdrawl. Any recommendations about how to deal with the reflux without taking Prilosec or like drug?

I'll fill you all in later about how everything else has been..... appetite leveling off(less craving of carbs , sleeping--there's a little bit of interuption- but OK overall, some increase in anxiety (but manageable), able to cry again, caring more about life and sex drive improving. Getting off lex was totally worth the tapering process.



Hope everyone is having a great summer. We have been very busy, but having fun. Time just flies by... I'd love to stop the clock and have alot more summer.

CO Hiker

We have serotonin receptors in our tummies, so it's very likely that we can have acid-related problems while withdrawing. I did. As for the medication, I would stay away from anything to give myself time to heal naturally, and to let my brain heal from the assault it has been through.

There is NO medication that can help withdrawals. To numb you, yes, but then you will have to taper off it again.

[scottbfl]

Hi. This is my first post and i hope that you all can ease my mind some. i had the flu and called my doctor for an appointment yesterday, she wasn't in so i had to see one of her associate doctors. Now my doctor has had me on 10 mgs of lexapro once a day and 50 mgs. of ultram 3x per day for over a year now and i have had now problems. I needed pain medication it worked well and is non narcotic. Well when seeing this other doctor in her office i asked if he could go ahead and write me refills on my scripts because i am self pay and she usually gives me many refills. Anyhow, he looked at the prescriptions that i had and told me that he would not write me a script for ultram because it interacts with lexapro. He was very nasty and cold, and i asked him if he had and type of solution or altenative (i did not want to take narcotic medication ie. lortab, percocet). He said just dump the ultram and deal with it, you wont have any withdrawal. Well i know for a fact that stopping either of the medications cold turkey will cause severe withdrawal as i have been without for a day or two here and there. Sorry for being so long winded but i don't know what to do. I wasn't feeling well and had some harsh words with the doctor..... Any suggestions?

[Hairyarmadillo]

Originally Posted by scottbfl

Hi. This is my first post and i hope that you all can ease my mind some. i had the flu and called my doctor for an appointment yesterday, she wasn't in so i had to see one of her associate doctors. Now my doctor has had me on 10 mgs of lexapro once a day and 50 mgs. of ultram 3x per day for over a year now and i have had now problems. I needed pain medication it worked well and is non narcotic. Well when seeing this other doctor in her office i asked if he could go ahead and write me refills on my scripts because i am self pay and she usually gives me many refills. Anyhow, he looked at the prescriptions that i had and told me that he would not write me a script for ultram because it interacts with lexapro. He was very nasty and cold, and i asked him if he had and type of solution or altenative (i did not want to take narcotic medication ie. lortab, percocet). He said just dump the ultram and deal with it, you wont have any withdrawal. Well i know for a fact that stopping either of the medications cold turkey will cause severe withdrawal as i have been without for a day or two here and there. Sorry for being so long winded but i don't know what to do. I wasn't feeling well and had some harsh words with the doctor..... Any suggestions?

Hi! I know NOTHING about Ultram but did look it up on this site and saw this."You may be more likely to have a seizure (convulsions) if you take Ultram while you are using certain other medicines. Do not take Ultram without telling your doctor if you also use any of the following medications:

an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnate), phenelzine (Nardil), or selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam); or

an antidepressant such as amitriptyline (Elavil), citalopram (Celexa), clomipramine (Anafranil), desipramine (Norpramin), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem), fluvoxamine (Luvox), imipramine (Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor); paroxetine (Paxil), or sertraline (Zoloft)" along with warnings notto stop it abruptly, as you already know.

I think your best bet is to make an appointment with your regular physician. If you were not aware of possible contraindications for use of Lexapro with Ultram and are now concerned, discuss that with her and see what she advises. The fact that this other doctor told you there were no withdrawal effects is alarming in itself since you could have severe problems from suddenly stopping. And I certainly don't advise suddenly stopping the Lexapro. Wait until you talk to your doctor before you drop off either.

I definitely can relate to your frustration-I am a bit miffed that you were misinformed regarding suddenly stopping this medication. Fortunately you are well-informed and didn't just accept this and stop. Good luck and let us know how it turns out!!

[scottbfl]

Well my general doctor is the one who prescribed both meds, and it was the other doctor who is in the same practice with her who was telling me this, and just telling me to stop taking the ultram you won't have any withdrawals and was just very unprofessional. I don't even want to go back to my regular doctor because of it as they are in the same practice. It got a bit heated between the doctor and I have had a history as a IV drug user and have been clean now for over a year. I feel partly because of the lexapro and ultram (which i take as directed). So my regular doctor had a history and she knows everything. It would have been easy to lie and get narcotics, etc.... But this guy looked at my chart, asked a few questions about my history (remember i went in for antibiotics) and just talked to me like i was trash seeking drugs and that the other doctor didn't know what she was doing. I left very upset. I even left the Doctor a note saying that this could be a reason for someone to go seek stret drugs. The doctor even called me later and i tried to explain to him that by not offering me any other options or way to ween off or anything I could have said screw it and gone to another doctor and lied about my past and gotten narcotic medication. But he still didn't get it and continued to argue on the phone. so i don't know if i should find a new doctor or talk to my doctor or just say screw the whole think...

[scottbfl]

Oh, and by the way I was prescribed both meds by the same doctor at the same time and i have had NO side effects and it has been jsut over a year. I am just really upset about the whole thing and now don't know if i should call my doctor tomorrow or just find a new one. My Insurance at work willl start the 4th of next month, so i need to decide by then what doctor i want to see!! Sorry if i seem like i'm whining, but its really bothered me. I kicked a 15 year addiction to heroin, oxycontin, morphine, dilaudid then eventually methadone. I currently live in a place where i have a lot of accoutability and have now been clean this time for over a year. I just dont want this change in medication to have an affect on my recovery.

[erinkj]

Originally Posted by COHiker

Hi All,

I have been absent lately. Same as Mary: summer vacation and kids.... you get the picture. Hope you all are doing well.

My question is for you lovely people who know alot about SSRI's....
Is it possible that the SSRI and the receptors in the gut can cause problems with acid production?

I am now almost eight weeks off lex after a fairly quick taper (4.5 months) and about two weeks ago I started having really bad acid reflux. It occurs mostly at night. There has been some increase in anxiety and that may be causing the acid reflux (manageable but worse with PMS) but I was wondering if the reflux could be a problem with the how the SSRI receprtos in the gut may reacting to withdrawl. Any recommendations about how to deal with the reflux without taking Prilosec or like drug?

I'll fill you all in later about how everything else has been..... appetite leveling off(less craving of carbs , sleeping--there's a little bit of interuption- but OK overall, some increase in anxiety (but manageable), able to cry again, caring more about life and sex drive improving. Getting off lex was totally worth the tapering process.

Hope everyone is having a great summer. We have been very busy, but having fun. Time just flies by... I'd love to stop the clock and have alot more summer.

CO Hiker

Howdy stranger, good to hear from you. Yes, acid reflux can be a side effect of SSRI withdrawal. As your brain, ie: neurotransmitters heal; so to do the seretonin recepters in your gut. But, I think you knew that! If the reflux is not bad enough to the point that you need medication there are some things you can do to help manage it. Dietary changes will help, I know that you eat healthy but, some of the healthy food's we eat can brew up the acid....NO onions (if you like them) avoid them at all cost until after your belly heals, onions brew up acid bad! Avoid all things spicy, avoid citrus fruits even lemonaide. Fatty or fried foods also a no, no! Do NOT eat at least an hour before you lie down. After you eat, let your meal settle about 15 minutes then try to be active for a half hour befor resting. If it get's real bad at night, prop yourself up on pillows so that you are not lying flat....Worst thing you can do when reflux hit's is to lie flat on your back, that makes it easier for the acid to come up! ICK ...Mint of all kind's soothe stomache irritations, peppermint especially. You can buy peppermint extract or spirits and add it to some juice/ water etc and take as needed or even after meals to aid in digestion. Regardless of what the commercials say about Tum's being the best, avoid it; take Rollaids instead....Rollaids work so much better! Is the acid going up passed chest level? has it been reaching your throat? I ask because the area that the acid reaches can help determine where and if irritation is present in your belly as well as if you are developing any ulcers. Let me know.....I am glad you are having a great summer...It is going by to fast...Peace and Hug's...Erin P.S you should also avoid dairy products to...

[erinkj]

Originally Posted by scottbfl

Oh, and by the way I was prescribed both meds by the same doctor at the same time and i have had NO side effects and it has been jsut over a year. I am just really upset about the whole thing and now don't know if i should call my doctor tomorrow or just find a new one. My Insurance at work willl start the 4th of next month, so i need to decide by then what doctor i want to see!! Sorry if i seem like i'm whining, but its really bothered me. I kicked a 15 year addiction to heroin, oxycontin, morphine, dilaudid then eventually methadone. I currently live in a place where i have a lot of accoutability and have now been clean this time for over a year. I just dont want this change in medication to have an affect on my recovery.

Talk to you'r regular doctor first. You should be able to leave a messege for her to call you back (at no cost) at which time you can discuss your concerns with her and see what she sais. Your doctor knows your history and it appears that her treatment plan works well for you. You may or may not be able to find another doctor as decent as the one you have! As for the ultram and lexapro, yes they do pose potential interactions however, in your case the benefit to you is outweighing the potential risk! Doctors commonly prescribe several medications that can interact; For some people and some conditions the benefits do outweigh the risk; you are one of those people. If you have had no adverse reactions while taking lexapro with ultram then I see no reason to change that combo which is something another doctor may do! Drug addictions are no walk in the park to kick as you know, and if this med combo works for you and is helping to keep you clean I wouldn't chance a change! Congrats on getting clean and working hard to stay clean! If and when you should decide to stop the ultram it will have to be slowly tappered, as will the lexapro...you CANNOT "cold turkey" ultram...Your dr can always call the refills into your pharmacy so that you won't have to spend money by going back in. KUDDOS...Peace....Erin

[Hairyarmadillo]

Originally Posted by scottbfl

Oh, and by the way I was prescribed both meds by the same doctor at the same time and i have had NO side effects and it has been jsut over a year. I am just really upset about the whole thing and now don't know if i should call my doctor tomorrow or just find a new one. My Insurance at work willl start the 4th of next month, so i need to decide by then what doctor i want to see!! Sorry if i seem like i'm whining, but its really bothered me. I kicked a 15 year addiction to heroin, oxycontin, morphine, dilaudid then eventually methadone. I currently live in a place where i have a lot of accoutability and have now been clean this time for over a year. I just dont want this change in medication to have an affect on my recovery.

Ha-I started responding before I read Erin's post and, after scrolling back down, I think this is going to sound redundant but ha-here goes anyway.
You don't sound like you are whining a bit or even unreasonably upset. I had wondered at your first post if the doctor wasn't thinking you were going to abuse it-I had never heard of it-always hear about oxycontin, etc. Makes you wonder if in fact that wasn't what the doctor was thinking though. I still say go back to your regular doctor even though you are pissed at the other one. Your regular doctor has your history and knows what was prescribed and exactly why. Like you said, she knew you were taking them both at the same time. I would bring up what the other doctor said and make sure she is in fact aware of the possible interaction-if not she may want to switch you off it, but I am like you-you haven't had side effects so far so it may not be a problem. Am sure side effects can crop up anytime but still, that may just be a cautionary statement. When I read that bit of information I didn't take it as saying they could never be taken concurrently, just that the doctor needs to be aware of the patient taking Lexapro at the same time because it could cause problems. Of course, unfortunately for my bank account, I am not a doctor. But that is what I would do. Plus, even though I had unfavorable reactions to Lexapro my opinion is if it isn't broken, don't fix it. If the Lexapro and Ultram is working for you without causing you any problems, then it makes sense to stay on that. I am not familiar with Ultram though. But it seems it would be better to discuss and stay with the doctor who started you on the path with the Lexapro and Ultram combination. IF after sitting down with her, you are not satisfied, then switch doctors.

Good luck and don't give up. It is admirable that you have managed to kick the other habits. The one thing I did run across doing searches on the Ultram was that in larger doses is when it usually causes seizures and that there are some people who are abusing it because it seems to help with moods. So the doctor probably looked at history and jumped to the most negative conclusion. But nowhere did it say stop it abruptly-scares me that the doctor told you that. Even if that person thought you were abusing it, they should not have told you to stop taking it without tapering. That could have caused serious problems.

[scottbfl]

thank you all and i really appreciate all of your input. As i have reserched it there are some adverse things that could potentially happen when using ultram with ssri's as there are with many medications. And most of what i have read is that doctors just need to be aware of this because it is a possibility however slight. I have been on the meds for over a year and have had no adverse reactions. There are many medications that could possibly, potentially cause certain things to happen. This i don't feel is the case for me. So I don't know what i'm even most pissed about. The fact that this doctor told me i couldn't get my meds and offered no alternative, that the doctor basically belittled the realationship that i had with my doctor made over a year or that i felt that he was sizing me up because of my past which i was open about. I really went in for swollen glands/flu symptoms and could have easily gone to a clinic and gotten narcotic painkillers or cough medication for that. UGH! Trust me it is a fight for me everyday not to put a needle in my arm, but i get stronger everyday... but when things like this happen and it's from someone who is a doctor it really hurts. I think doctors of anybody should be commending me and helping me STAY clean.... and i thank you all for letting me ramble on about all of this. I called my Dr. wo will be in tomorrow and left a message for her to call me, so i guess i'll see what happens and keep you posted... thanks.

[AmandaD]

I’ve been lurking on this board for a while, but I have some good news to share, in hopes that it may encourage others going through the Lexapro withdrawal process.

I have been on Lexapro 10 mg since August 2006 for treatment of generalized anxiety and panic disorder. Although the doctor who prescribed Lexapro told me I wouldn’t gain weight, I’ve gained almost 40 lbs. Also, while it’s true that I haven’t had any major panic episodes during the past few years, I’ve felt sluggish, unmotivated and depressed.

From 1998-2000, I was on Paxil and then Zoloft. I gained about 45 lbs during that time which was why, when the anxiety returned in 2006, I asked for something different. But I don’t recall feeling sluggish and depressed on either of these meds – I remember feeling really balanced and calm and healthy.

This past January, after being on Lexapro for 1.5 years, I realized I had two choices… increase my dose to 20 mg and see if that made a difference (and it may very well have. I know it can take some experimentation to find the right dosage), or get off the medicine to see if I’d be okay without it.

Given that many of the stressors from two years ago are no longer factors, I decided to do the latter. My current doctor (not the one who prescribed the Lexapro) said to reduce my dosage to 5 mg for two weeks, and then 5 mg every other day for two weeks and then stop.

This seemed unreasonably fast to me. When I weaned off Zoloft in 2006, my doctor at the time told me it would be a long process. She said we had to move slowly so as not to throw off the brain chemistry that we’d just finished balancing. It took about 6 months, but aside from the occasional head rush, it was a very easy withdrawal.

However, I figured my current doctor must know what she’s talking about. (Ha!) I was fine when I went down to 5 mg of Lexapro, and okay when I went to 5 mg every other day. I was even fine for the first few days of not taking Lexapro at all. But then, I started feeling dizzy whenever I moved my head. As long as I sat perfectly still, I was fine. But the smallest amount of movement made me completely disoriented.

I tolerated it for a few days, but after about the 4th day, it was unbearable. I decided to go back on 5 mg of Lexapro to see if that would help. I took the 5 mg pill, and within 3 hours, I was fine. I went back to see my doctor, but her response was “Well, maybe you should just stay on Lexapro.” Not super helpful! Thankfully, I had my experience from 10 years ago to rely on.

I went back on 5mg for about a month to restabilize. Then, I cut back to 2.5 mg for about 6 weeks, then 1.25 mg for nearly 8 weeks, then 1.25 mg every other day for about 2 weeks. Two weeks ago, June 30, I stopped completely. And I’m fine! I do have a couple of head rushes each day, but they’re mild, last about 2 seconds and they’re gone.

I can’t believe I’m finally off Lexapro! I feel awesome. My entire mood has lifted (funny, as my husband says, that an antidepressant made me so down!) I feel more energetic and positive and upbeat and, of course, relieved.

Please understand, I am in no way bashing antidepressants. I wouldn’t hesitate to go on another SSRI in future if my health required it. Having said that, I know that not every SSRI is right for everyone, and it may take some trial and error to determine which one is right for you. Looking back at my experiences on Paxil, Zoloft and now Lexapro, I would say Zoloft was probably the best for me in terms of anxiety/mood management.

Anyhow, for what it’s worth, my advice to anyone who wants to come off of any SSRI is GO SLOW! Realize that to wean off these meds is going to take 3-6 months for most, and more for some. I get a little frustrated with people who say, “I quit cold turkey and now I feel awful.”

Another thing I’ve learned is to distract, distract, distract myself. It’s easy to obsess over every little twinge, ache or hiccup and wonder whether it’s withdrawal related. It becomes a cycle – the more symptoms you look for, the more you’ll find. And the more you find, the more you stress. And the more you stress, the more symptoms you find. It’s hard, but the more I "get out of my own head" and distract myself with reading, socializing, exercise or other activities, the fewer symptoms I seem to have.

I think my biggest suggestion, though, would be to find a health care professional who is familiar with SSRIs and withdrawal. If you’re not comfortable with the answers or level of support you’re getting, find someone else. I’m so grateful to have had such a wonderful doctor 10 years ago, and that I learned so much from her about responsible and healthy withdrawal from SSRIs. If I hadn’t had that experience, I might have just agreed to my current doctor’s suggestion to stay on Lexapro indefinitely. And frankly, it seems ridiculous to stay on a medication simply because my doctor doesn’t know how to help me get off of it!

I’ve learned a lot from the members of this board that has helped me greatly in the past six months (i.e. taking omega fatty acids!) Thank you to everyone who has posted, and good luck to everyone who’s still on their journey to be Lexapro-free.

Amanda

[Aeroman]

Hello Everyone, its been awhile since I've posted. I just completed month 4 since my last Lexapro pill on June 27, 2008. Yes, it's been a bit tough to go through my day of depressive symptoms. I dunno if its the Lexapro w/d's like many of you mentioned or a relapse but in either case, it does not feel good. It takes an effort to make decisions, plan for stuff, get up in the morning, that kind of thing. The evenings tend to feel better, more at peace. I'll be ok, i do have hope the cloud will lift. I have been eating even though i haven't felt like it. There is a family wedding this weekend and I dont feel like going but going anyway. Book I have been reading suggests I occupy myself with interesting things while in an episode of depression. Letting time pass, accepting and not shrinking from my current illness are tools for natural recovery.

I have been married for over 4 years and the sex part has been an issue. That is why I asked my doc to get me off of lexapro. I was doing pretty good, happy and all but I was neglecting the sex stuff which has seriously affected my marriage. So, its a catch 22...I care more about my marriage than currently dealing with the emotional stuff. I believe I will recover from my depression or whatever it is with acceptance, occupation, and letting time pass.


Amanda, I too was weened off like you, same exact thing. In one month, went from 10mg to 5mg and then 5mg every other week. Got the physical symptoms and eventually went away. But by the end of month 3, beginning of month 4, I was wearing a different set of "lens".

I dont want to get back on lexapro or an SSRI for fear of libido issues. In fact, out of desperation, I stopped my blood pressure meds because I feel those too will effect my libido. Sorry, just venting...but hey, last week I did have two days that had lifted spirits. So, recovery is possible...just letting time pass,,,

[Julia77]

Originally Posted by Aeroman

Hello Everyone, its been awhile since I've posted. I just completed month 4 since my last Lexapro pill on June 27, 2008. Yes, it's been a bit tough to go through my day of depressive symptoms. I dunno if its the Lexapro w/d's like many of you mentioned or a relapse but in either case, it does not feel good. It takes an effort to make decisions, plan for stuff, get up in the morning, that kind of thing. The evenings tend to feel better, more at peace. I'll be ok, i do have hope the cloud will lift. I have been eating even though i haven't felt like it. There is a family wedding this weekend and I dont feel like going but going anyway. Book I have been reading suggests I occupy myself with interesting things while in an episode of depression. Letting time pass, accepting and not shrinking from my current illness are tools for natural recovery.

I have been married for over 4 years and the sex part has been an issue. That is why I asked my doc to get me off of lexapro. I was doing pretty good, happy and all but I was neglecting the sex stuff which has seriously affected my marriage. So, its a catch 22...I care more about my marriage than currently dealing with the emotional stuff. I believe I will recover from my depression or whatever it is with acceptance, occupation, and letting time pass.


Amanda, I too was weened off like you, same exact thing. In one month, went from 10mg to 5mg and then 5mg every other week. Got the physical symptoms and eventually went away. But by the end of month 3, beginning of month 4, I was wearing a different set of "lens".

I dont want to get back on lexapro or an SSRI for fear of libido issues. In fact, out of desperation, I stopped my blood pressure meds because I feel those too will effect my libido. Sorry, just venting...but hey, last week I did have two days that had lifted spirits. So, recovery is possible...just letting time pass,,,

Hey, I kind of feel that we're in the same boat I am through this stage of not wanting to go to sleep, troubles falling asleep, and then not having enought power and motivation to drag myself out of bed in the morning, lol Yeap, withdrawal this is. We can only assess the situation closer to being one year off. I've been 5 months off, and do believe it will get better eventually. Even though now - anyhow- does not feel good, I agree with you. I will probably go to a naturopath/homeopath soon and will let you guys know what she thinks of it. I have a good one in my area.

re:Amanda Good for you! But please, if you feel kind of sluggish-depressed in months 3, 4 or 5, don't let docs put you back on SSRI. They might be withdrawals, nothing more. I am not saying that you will get them, all I'm saying is that you might...