![[dr. bob]](/dr-bob-sm.gif)
Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 25 of 58. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by Philip N. on September 27, 2006, at 17:26:02
This is my first time to post. I am wondering desperately if there are many success stories out there of people successfully coming off of antidepressants after several years (9). I have been trying for 9 months and am spiralling downhill. I have put up a good fight but I don't know if I should go back to the meds as the doc says I should due to my current state. I went for about 5-6 months without noticeable trouble but the last 3 months for sure have been getting significantly worse. My family is worried now also. The concencous seems to be to resume medication and turn this around. I thought it would wither but I'm doubting that more and more. My goal is to come off but I don't see many positives in that regard. My last 2 years were on Lexapro and I just thought that things had finally gotten to where I could resume life without the medication. I did the cold turkey without any knowledge of ramifications or discussion with my doc. Now the answer is that it's been long enough and that any discontinuation syndrome would have been long gone. My suspicians are otherwise. I want to participate in life again and I'm wondering at this point if I'm holding out with false pretenses. I now have agorophobia and return of depression with escalating anxiety. Is this all part of the scheme or should I start over? Any help is sincerely appreciated. Thanks.
Posted by musky on September 27, 2006, at 23:19:00
In reply to Withdrawal from long term antidepressants, posted by Philip N. on September 27, 2006, at 17:26:02
>Hello Philip
NO, nO and NO... dont go back on that crap! I was on Remeron for 3yrs and have now been clean of it for 4months... I tapered very very slowly(took me 2yrs!) and also had the help of an amazing acupuncturist who helped me with withdrawl symptoms, anxiety, mood stuff, etc.. It really works!!! I dont believe for one minute that your symptoms should be over cause its 9months... the body goes in cycles/waves... sorta strange you werre fine for 5-6months.. but remember these drugs really do a number on the brain receptors.. I have done soo much research and personal surveys and all these a/d work the same!!! They supress the bodys own ability to signal(brain receptors). I Thank God am in research(a techician) and understand alot of the terminology that I have come across in my literature searches.
Bottom line.. try acupuncture if you havent and also do A TON of self care.. eat healthy, detox yourself, get lots of rest, exercise regularly... calm your mind through distractions and meditation, relaxation tapes, etc.. Just keep going and try to remain calm.. Dont let the fear overide you or some doc rx more fr*gging pillls.
I understand your anxiety and your familys concern. If you really want to stay off the meds.. then dont go back on them!!! Believe me there is more than one way to stay well!!!
Have you a counsellor of some sort, cause for me when I had a problem with anxiety I did some cognitive therapy..it basically changes the way you think and believe it or not it really truly helps you overcome anxiety without MEDS!!! not to mention again my experience with acupuncture..
I was so medicated up ( and all i had a problem with was a stiff neck, joint issues) and the doctor started me on soo many pills . For me anyway this is when I first started to get panic attacks etc, never had a problem before. Nervous personality yes, but NEVER EVER had Depression, panic, anxiety ,etc, until this.. anyways to make a long story short I finally crashed, ended up in hospital and then on this rEmeron.. It DID NOT make me feel good as they say... I dont know why i stupidly stayed on it the length of time I did.. kept hoping i guess and only thought my doc knew best,, so i thought..
What I realized is that I had to take charge of my own health and well being.
Acupuncture, support system, and balance in my life helped with this.. and getting off all the meds... I feel more like me now,,, and plan to remain drug free... IT can be done with determination... I found if I just got so mad at my situation , that this became the driving force to me getting off the meds and getting well.
side effects were terrible. and I just keep thinking forward..Sorry to ramble... hope this helps you some.
trust you gut.. not your fear.. Docs dont know you inside out.. YOU DO!!!!
I havent taken an ativan for 2yrs now... I have my anxiety under control... my sleep patterns have returned to normal... im back to work, I exercise and i have lost most of the terrible wt i gained when on Remeron... Food tastes better , I have a normal appetite again, I am clear headed in the morning.. I dont have to take any sleep meds, or anything.. I take no drugs..
I am currently on a detox program with my acupuncturist and then i hope I can put this whole nightmare behind me..
LIke I said,, im remeron free now 4months.. hopefully I will not turn around,, dont think so as I feel more stable now..some of my personal friends who have also come off of a/d said it took them 2yrs after they were off to finally feel normal again(mind wise, mood wise)... so you see, you still have time..9months isnt real long yet..
I hate that when docs say it should be over by now.. they dont know everyones biochemistry and there are people out there reporting otherwise based on their experiences < NOT just a doctor or pharamceutical companys case studies...
Hang in there..
keep busy ..
dont know if you are spiritual, but if you are .. just pray and ask for strength and guidance..
The body will tell you what it needs you to do.
I know its hard to think straight when you are spiralling.. but HANG iN... it will pass!!! There are sooo many other healthier ways to balance the body's internal system...So sorry to ramble
keep posting
MuskyThis is my first time to post. I am wondering desperately if there are many success stories out there of people successfully coming off of antidepressants after several years (9). I have been trying for 9 months and am spiralling downhill. I have put up a good fight but I don't know if I should go back to the meds as the doc says I should due to my current state. I went for about 5-6 months without noticeable trouble but the last 3 months for sure have been getting significantly worse. My family is worried now also. The concencous seems to be to resume medication and turn this around. I thought it would wither but I'm doubting that more and more. My goal is to come off but I don't see many positives in that regard. My last 2 years were on Lexapro and I just thought that things had finally gotten to where I could resume life without the medication. I did the cold turkey without any knowledge of ramifications or discussion with my doc. Now the answer is that it's been long enough and that any discontinuation syndrome would have been long gone. My suspicians are otherwise. I want to participate in life again and I'm wondering at this point if I'm holding out with false pretenses. I now have agorophobia and return of depression with escalating anxiety. Is this all part of the scheme or should I start over? Any help is sincerely appreciated. Thanks.
>
>
Posted by musky on September 27, 2006, at 23:25:20
In reply to Withdrawal from long term antidepressants, posted by Philip N. on September 27, 2006, at 17:26:02
>Hi philip
another thing I wanted to mention to you.. I had agoraphobia too for a bit while i was first sick/dizzy with my neck, panic , etc.. and the best thing I ever ever did was to not fear it... I MADE myself leave my house ,, even if it was a bit at a time.. again cognitive therapy will really help with this.. its just irrational thinking.. once you realize nothing bad will happen and you just have to do it.. dont think about it.. just do it(lol).. you will overcome this anxiety... staying home will NOT help you..
I stayed locked in my bedroom for months.. irealized now that it was the worst mistake ever.. GET MAD at your agoraphobia and talk back to it... just say" come on you %%$&&%&b, give it all tome.. idare ya".. something like that and you will be surprised that you have the power over it , NOT It over youtry this
Good luck
Musky
This is my first time to post. I am wondering desperately if there are many success stories out there of people successfully coming off of antidepressants after several years (9). I have been trying for 9 months and am spiralling downhill. I have put up a good fight but I don't know if I should go back to the meds as the doc says I should due to my current state. I went for about 5-6 months without noticeable trouble but the last 3 months for sure have been getting significantly worse. My family is worried now also. The concencous seems to be to resume medication and turn this around. I thought it would wither but I'm doubting that more and more. My goal is to come off but I don't see many positives in that regard. My last 2 years were on Lexapro and I just thought that things had finally gotten to where I could resume life without the medication. I did the cold turkey without any knowledge of ramifications or discussion with my doc. Now the answer is that it's been long enough and that any discontinuation syndrome would have been long gone. My suspicians are otherwise. I want to participate in life again and I'm wondering at this point if I'm holding out with false pretenses. I now have agorophobia and return of depression with escalating anxiety. Is this all part of the scheme or should I start over? Any help is sincerely appreciated. Thanks.
>
>
Posted by johnnyj on September 28, 2006, at 22:28:10
In reply to Withdrawal from long term antidepressants, posted by Philip N. on September 27, 2006, at 17:26:02
If you were diagnosed correctly years ago and now, and meds helped you to the point where you felt "normal" maybe they will help again.
Believe me, I am only on lunesta, a sleep aid right now, and if I had a med that worked for me in the past I would take it. The problems is remeron really messed with my mind and body so I am reluctant to try anything else.
The DECISION should be between you and your doctor. I know this board offers advice, as I am now, but the ultimate decision is up to you. I understand because I want to be totally med free and just be myself again. If you are not able to make the decision based on your mental health maybe you need to listen to what qualified people are telling you. I give this advice knowing I don't follow it myself at all times so take it with a grain of salt. Suffering is not inevitable.
BTW I am 4 months off remeron and 1 week off of lithium. It has taken me about 1.5 years of weaning to get to this point. I am not sure where I am headed but I don't want to ruin my life by refusing to take something that may help me. The problem is we don't know if it will help us until we try. Do what you think is right for you. take care and let us know what you decide.
Best regards
johnnyj
Posted by musky on September 28, 2006, at 23:54:10
In reply to Re: Withdrawal from long term antidepressants » Philip N., posted by johnnyj on September 28, 2006, at 22:28:10
> Hi johnny..
good to hear you are still off the Remeron and now the lithium... hang in and you will be med free... being medicated (especially mood drugs is NOT normal).. I dont care what the "qualified people say".. Of course we all want to feel good.. but to me feeling good is feeling in control of my mind and body.. not a false ,zombie state with no emotions like the Remeron did to me..
We all have different experiences and how we respond to our situations.. the very fact that you are now off 2 meds is PROOF to me that you CAN do this... you will feel so much better in the end.. its a long road and I have suffered much as well getting off my Remeron.. but guess what there IS a better way than meds!!! it seems society has us to believe we need a quick fix from our pain.. well life doesnt work that way.. suffering is part of healing as crazy as this sounds...
Im off Remeron like you now for 4months.. mostly stable mood, some instances of sudden anxiety /panic but I just "ride the wave".. and it passes.. My sleep is good now.. and again I just "toughed it out" There was no way I was going to have to take a damn pill to sleep.. your body will sleep on its own and i proved this to myself... guess im just a stubborn ol hen who doesnt want to be on a/d , anxiety meds ever again ... it really screwed with my thoughts ...so I say BAN the %%$%%%^ stuff.. Docs have everyone scared to think if they dont get medicated they will crash.. well guess what .. Icrashed BECAUSE i was on mEDS!!! not OFF..
anyways.. sorry to vent.
I know you have struggled hard and you have come a long way from when I first saw your posts.. keep up the fight johnny... stay OFF the Remeron and stay off the lithium(which is even worse).. if you ever met someone coming off heroin , its the same with a/d.. they are all hallucengenic drugs... not to be taken lightly.. and for "all what ails ya" it seems these days.. way too widely prescribed ,, I say... and for everything from normal ups and downs in life to if you have neck pain... sheesh... give me a break..later
MuskyIf you were diagnosed correctly years ago and now, and meds helped you to the point where you felt "normal" maybe they will help again.
>
> Believe me, I am only on lunesta, a sleep aid right now, and if I had a med that worked for me in the past I would take it. The problems is remeron really messed with my mind and body so I am reluctant to try anything else.
>
> The DECISION should be between you and your doctor. I know this board offers advice, as I am now, but the ultimate decision is up to you. I understand because I want to be totally med free and just be myself again. If you are not able to make the decision based on your mental health maybe you need to listen to what qualified people are telling you. I give this advice knowing I don't follow it myself at all times so take it with a grain of salt. Suffering is not inevitable.
>
> BTW I am 4 months off remeron and 1 week off of lithium. It has taken me about 1.5 years of weaning to get to this point. I am not sure where I am headed but I don't want to ruin my life by refusing to take something that may help me. The problem is we don't know if it will help us until we try. Do what you think is right for you. take care and let us know what you decide.
>
> Best regards
>
> johnnyj
Posted by Philip N. on September 29, 2006, at 9:32:39
In reply to Re: Withdrawal from long term antidepressants » Philip N., posted by johnnyj on September 28, 2006, at 22:28:10
Hi johnnyj.
Words well spoken. I'm trying to be strong but at the same time there is plenty of evidence that untreated depression/anxiety will take it's physical toll on the mind and body as it wears us down. It even starts to affect the brain and cognition so I hear where you are coming from.
Maybe it's just not my time to "be myself". Maybe I'm wishing too hard that I don't in fact have Depression/Anxieties that are currently unresolved. I know one thing, the last 2 months for sure have benn hell.There is a road ahead and I do want to be able to travel down it, not sitting on the curb! And I do have to remember that in the big schemeI'm just a passenger anyway!
Thanks.....let me know
Posted by Philip N. on September 29, 2006, at 9:52:02
In reply to Re: Withdrawal from long term antidepressants, posted by musky on September 27, 2006, at 23:19:00
Hi Musky.
I hear exactly what you are saying. The problem I've encountered is that in this fight I have lost ground. I'm now concerned about the effects this is having on my mental and physiacl well being. The is alot of proof that untreated Depression/Anxiety can extract a heavy toll on us up to and including killing us.
Right now I think I'm having a hard time coming to an acceptance that I may not be one of those who has an episodic form of this stuff that you just kick *ss on and move on. I have never in my life been in this shape and many "experts" are saying that enough time has passed for it to be a discontinuation from meds. Even though I don't have a true opinion on that I know that at my current rate I won't last to make 2 years to find out.
I'm at that point of considering the lesser of the 2: Waste away untreated or find some remission and rejoin my family so I can still be there for them. What is the ideal situation? Many including myself would say to be med free but that may bring with it some consequences that are worse than being on the stuff. I just celebrated my 30 year wedding anniversary by retreating to my bed to see if I could go to sleep.
I don't smoke or drink alcohol (8 years sobriety) or life a wild life. I try to eat right and look at alternatives and such but at the same time the grip this thing has on me is becoming too paralytic. I don't want to lose it all trying to reach a plateau that for now is set too high. Maybe by relenting to medication I can rejoin my own life. Does any of this make sense?
Thanks....let me know
Posted by johnnyj on September 29, 2006, at 16:38:45
In reply to Re: Withdrawal from long term antidepressants » musky, posted by Philip N. on September 29, 2006, at 9:52:02
Not everyone can be med free. Musky appears to have been put on meds for different reasons than you and I. What works for her may not for the rest of us. Personally, I think you have given it enough time.
Were you better on meds? It sounds like you were. It does take a toll on us over time. It is easy to give advice one a person is doing well but not so when one is hurting.
I feel I will not be med free the rest of my life. I may have times med free but probably not the rest of my life. You have to do what is right for you and not compare yourself to other people. Good luck on your decision.
johnnyj
Posted by Philip N. on September 29, 2006, at 17:41:41
In reply to Re: Withdrawal from long term antidepressants » Philip N., posted by johnnyj on September 29, 2006, at 16:38:45
Hi johnnyj.
How long have you taken medication and how long have you been able to stay off in between? This was my first real run at staying off and the accumulative effect is warranting that I do resume. I was skipping along OK while on them and time jusy seemed to fly. Now it's like all this has reversed and it's atanding still!
I know that for everyone on the planet time will come to pass and the quality of life certainly matters. In my younger days I used to drink myself into a fog pretty regularly and try to call that living. That lasted until The age of 41 when I landed in ICU for 5 days with a blood alcohol level of .438. That was the end of the booze for me (long overdue). The problems that I'm struggling with now may well call for a return to what was working with medication.
Seems all my life I've been an anxious type and a worrier and it has always had a big impact. I've wanted to be "normal" all my life and my doc says that normal is a setting on a washing machine. At least I'm trying now to look at what will work as I know alot more about what won't work (from over the years).
It may be that now I have to view the Depression in the same light that I view alcohol. They can both defeat me if I let them but that doesn't have to be so. My doc says that I need to look at starting back the meds to pull back and then later on we can attempt another run by slowly tapering. When I stopped last DEcember I simply cold turkeyed and thought that was it until about May-June when I started a slow spiral. It's now been 3 months of fighting and I am longing for a return of just some easy going days.
If that means the medications then at least they are available and according to who you ask are just what the doctor ordered. They did in fact work for a long time so I can't say that I haven't benefitted from them in the past. When I first stated ADs they sure seemed to help me then so who's to say? My doctor asked me if I would want to stop taking high blood pressure medicene if I didn't want high blood pressure? Of course I would want to keep it under control so the answer was obvious.
You know in a way it's hypocritical of me because I sure didn't use to worry about side effects when I was poisoning my brain with the alcohol. And I'm not talking about a glass of wine with dinner either! The booze damned near killed me several times and I would return to it thinking that it would be different the next go-around somehow. At least my time on medication proved to offer stability so I think I need to focus in on that more in my current shape as opposed to what my alternatives are. I'm damned sure not going to go back to alcohol looking for an answer. My doctor is cautiously waiting for me to come to grips so there can be improvement which she is confident of in spite of my stubborness.
Thanks.....let me know.
Posted by Philip N. on September 29, 2006, at 17:43:45
In reply to Re: Withdrawal from long term antidepressants, posted by Philip N. on September 29, 2006, at 17:41:41
Hi johnnyj.
How long have you taken medication and how long have you been able to stay off in between? This was my first real run at staying off and the accumulative effect is warranting that I do resume. I was skipping along OK while on them and time jusy seemed to fly. Now it's like all this has reversed and it's atanding still!
I know that for everyone on the planet time will come to pass and the quality of life certainly matters. In my younger days I used to drink myself into a fog pretty regularly and try to call that living. That lasted until The age of 41 when I landed in ICU for 5 days with a blood alcohol level of .438. That was the end of the booze for me (long overdue). The problems that I'm struggling with now may well call for a return to what was working with medication.
Seems all my life I've been an anxious type and a worrier and it has always had a big impact. I've wanted to be "normal" all my life and my doc says that normal is a setting on a washing machine. At least I'm trying now to look at what will work as I know alot more about what won't work (from over the years).
It may be that now I have to view the Depression in the same light that I view alcohol. They can both defeat me if I let them but that doesn't have to be so. My doc says that I need to look at starting back the meds to pull back and then later on we can attempt another run by slowly tapering. When I stopped last DEcember I simply cold turkeyed and thought that was it until about May-June when I started a slow spiral. It's now been 3 months of fighting and I am longing for a return of just some easy going days.
If that means the medications then at least they are available and according to who you ask are just what the doctor ordered. They did in fact work for a long time so I can't say that I haven't benefitted from them in the past. When I first stated ADs they sure seemed to help me then so who's to say? My doctor asked me if I would want to stop taking high blood pressure medicene if I didn't want high blood pressure? Of course I would want to keep it under control so the answer was obvious.
You know in a way it's hypocritical of me because I sure didn't use to worry about side effects when I was poisoning my brain with the alcohol. And I'm not talking about a glass of wine with dinner either! The booze damned near killed me several times and I would return to it thinking that it would be different the next go-around somehow. At least my time on medication proved to offer stability so I think I need to focus in on that more in my current shape as opposed to what my alternatives are. I'm damned sure not going to go back to alcohol looking for an answer. My doctor is cautiously waiting for me to come to grips so there can be improvement which she is confident of in spite of my stubborness.
Thanks.....let me know.
Posted by Philip N. on September 29, 2006, at 17:53:59
In reply to Re: Withdrawal from long term antidepressants » Philip N., posted by johnnyj on September 29, 2006, at 16:38:45
> Not everyone can be med free. Musky appears to have been put on meds for different reasons than you and I. What works for her may not for the rest of us. Personally, I think you have given it enough time.
>
> Were you better on meds? It sounds like you were. It does take a toll on us over time. It is easy to give advice one a person is doing well but not so when one is hurting.
>
> I feel I will not be med free the rest of my life. I may have times med free but probably not the rest of my life. You have to do what is right for you and not compare yourself to other people. Good luck on your decision.
>
> johnnyjMeant to put your name on my reply and messed it up twice so here's #3 to let you know! (posted above). Sorry for any inconvenience. Thanks again.
Posted by SLS on September 29, 2006, at 20:47:44
In reply to Re: Withdrawal from long term antidepressants » Philip N., posted by johnnyj on September 29, 2006, at 16:38:45
> Not everyone can be med free. Musky appears to have been put on meds for different reasons than you and I. What works for her may not for the rest of us. Personally, I think you have given it enough time.
I agree.
If you do indeed have Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), I think you have demonstrated that what you are experiencing is not some sort of latent withdrawal phenomenon. It is most likely a recurrence of the illness you were successfully being treated for. If you are not convinced that you do have MDD, then go for a second opinion. Depression is a complicated condition that has both biological and psychological components. It comes in several different flavors. Some of them are more biologically-driven than others. These often take recurrent or chronic courses. People with these types of depression often need to maintain treatment long-term.
I know what it is like to be told that you have a biological disorder of the brain that takes away from you control of your mood, anxiety, thoughts, feelings, intellect, memory, and more. When I was first told, I was angry. I wanted to have a psychological disorder so that I could take control and do the work and conquer it. I was willing to continue to see psychologists. Unfortunately, all of the pieces fit the MDD puzzle. The fact that I was an ultra rapid cycler made it easy to see. Of course, that was an indicator that I was really bipolar. It sucks to have to be tethered to a drug in order to function. There are worse things, though. I only wish that I could find the right drug to be tethered to.
I'm not worried about your making the wrong decision. As long as you keep an open mind, keep thinking logically, show some respect for the education and experience of doctors, and take one day at a time, you are bound to do what is best for yourself and for your family.
- Scott
Posted by SLS on September 29, 2006, at 21:34:41
In reply to Re: Withdrawal from long term antidepressants, posted by Philip N. on September 29, 2006, at 17:41:41
Posted by Philip N. on September 29, 2006, at 21:46:21
In reply to Returning to antidepressants? Above for (nm) » Philip N., posted by SLS on September 29, 2006, at 21:34:41
It may be either that or ending up in the hospital. My doc doesn't think I can weather much more and I'm thinking she may be right. My hope then if I get some relief would be a long slow taper down the road. I saw her today and she's pretty concerned. I thought I could willpower this into reality but it may take more than that!
Posted by SLS on September 29, 2006, at 23:03:23
In reply to Re: Returning to antidepressants? Above for » SLS, posted by Philip N. on September 29, 2006, at 21:46:21
> It may be either that or ending up in the hospital. My doc doesn't think I can weather much more and I'm thinking she may be right. My hope then if I get some relief would be a long slow taper down the road. I saw her today and she's pretty concerned. I thought I could willpower this into reality but it may take more than that!
Can you willpower appendicitis?How does someone with type 1 diabetes taper off of insulin?
If you are going to try to discontinue medication again, I would recommend that you wait 12-14 months. In the meantime, perhaps you can have some psychotherapy so that when you discontinue medication, you will be less likely to relapse. If you don't know where to start, perhaps you can browse the Psychology board for some ideas as to what type of therapy would best suit your needs.
If you do relapse again within a matter of months, then you must consider the possibility that you should remain on medication indefinitely. The alternative is to be on and off medication. However, your brain might not allow you this as an alternative. Many people become resistent to treatment after multiple exposures to medication. So, coming off of medication repeatedly really is double jeapordy. You risk relapsing and seeing you and your life deteriorate, plus, you risk not responding to medication once it is restarted.
Knowing me, I think I would probably try twice to discontinue medication. Two relapses would be plenty to show me that I had a brain disorder.
- Scott
Posted by jules354 on September 29, 2006, at 23:19:36
In reply to Re: Returning to antidepressants? Above for » SLS, posted by Philip N. on September 29, 2006, at 21:46:21
Philip,
i've been off remeron for about 7 months now after taking it for about 6 or 7 years. i feel like some of my depression has come back, but i'm not sure if it's biological or not. i'm continuing to work on it with therapy and alternative medicines. i've found that it's incredibly important to have a support network and ways to take care of yourself (careful eating, exercise, rest, etc.) to ease the withdrawal and also give yourself a safety net if the depression comes back. i'm working on giving myself a deadline for if things don't get better i'll try medication again. i may just try it for a time, i may be on it indefinitely. i'd like to avoid it if i can, but i want to have a good quality of life, too.
take care,
jules
Posted by jules354 on September 29, 2006, at 23:23:36
In reply to Re: Returning to antidepressants? Above for » SLS, posted by Philip N. on September 29, 2006, at 21:46:21
p.s.: it's pretty clear to me based on everybody's experiences on this board and in conversation with other people that discontinuation syndrome can definitely last a lot longer than the doctors say it should. so i do think that could be contributing to how you're feeling (and maybe me, too). it's hard to make the call, though. i hope you feel better soon!
take care,
jules
Posted by johnnyj on September 30, 2006, at 10:09:22
In reply to Re: Withdrawal from long term antidepressants, posted by Philip N. on September 29, 2006, at 17:41:41
Hello:
I started medication in 1992 at the age of 27. I was on a benzo, lithium, and nortyptline. I had a relapse after pneumonia in 2001 and my meds didn't seem to be working. I struggled for years and then tried remeron which allowed me to sleep but brought on other problems.
My new pdoc thinks I was not treated correctly with the right meds though. I have sinced weaned off everything except lunesta for sleep which I have been on for a few months. I just stopped my last dose of lithium last week.
But, I have a new twist in my illness. After years of tension and sinus problems I have severe allergies and have been helped greatly the last few days. The tension in my head was horrible. I don't know right now where I am headed but we will see.
You have gotten great advice here an Scott is very knowledgable. I added exercise and therapy to my mix along with acupuncture too. I believe these things helps some people and then for some are just an adjunct to meds, i.e., they help feel better WITH meds.
Personally, that this is just me, I don't believe severe withdrawal last over 9 months. Of course this depends on what and how much you are taking. Yes, there might be withdrawal symptoms but to have severe ones after many many months may not be withdrawal but the original condition. This is unique to us all though. Hang in there bud.
johnnyj
Posted by SLS on September 30, 2006, at 10:27:59
In reply to Re: Returning to antidepressants? Above for » Philip N., posted by jules354 on September 29, 2006, at 23:23:36
> p.s.: it's pretty clear to me based on everybody's experiences on this board and in conversation with other people that discontinuation syndrome can definitely last a lot longer than the doctors say it should.
Yes. But for how long do you think a withdrawal rebound depression might last? And, should it get worse over the course of months instead of getting better? And should there be a latency; that is, should it appear some months after discontinuation rather than immediately? Those are the questions that are salient in this particular case. As described by Philip, I believe that the answers to these questions indicate relapse.
I am not a pill pusher. In fact, as initially described, I would have questioned Philip's initial choice to use antidepressants. However, as later described, his history of adolescent depression and alcohol use would indicate a more biological MDD diagnosis with recurrent course for which his choice was probably the right one. I can't predict the future, but I believe his experiment has already produced results that can now be interpreted. I feel giving the experiment more time will not change the results. I could be wrong, of course. Getting a second opinion at this juncture would be advisable if there is any doubt in his mind as to what to do. Delaying things at this point might lead to serious consequences. Decisions have to be made now. Get a second opinion now, try psychotherapy, try alternative biological treatments, or set a date by which you either feel better or begin drug treatment.
Thats what I think.
Sorry, Philip. I was talking about you in the third person instead of directly. If I were you, I would either go back on the drug that you were on last if you feel it worked 100%. If you don't think it worked 100%, and anxiety is a major part of your depression, I would then try either Effexor, Paxil, or Nardil. Was it Lexapro that you were on? Good drug. They are all good if they end up being a good match for your particular neurochemistry. Each is slightly different. That makes all the difference.
Good luck.
- Scott
Posted by Philip N. on September 30, 2006, at 11:20:56
In reply to Re: Returning to antidepressants? Above for, posted by SLS on September 30, 2006, at 10:27:59
Hey Scott. My last 2 years I was on Lexapro and it did seem to work throughout that time. My doctor (saw her yesterday) and I are thinking of reinstuting therapy with Prozac as I may want to try a slow taper if successful (long taper). My only rationale in that is from what I've read about Prozac withdrawal vs the other SSRIs. Even though I don't recall any severe withdrawals when I stopped back in December I really didn't know enough to be looking for them. My fear now is that if I start on something like Effexor (which my doctor would have preferred), it will add to the burden down line if I feel I am strong enough to stop again.
So much of this has been a jungle for me. Many studies claim the benefits of the medicines while the opposite warn of the dangers. I don't know what a person can do otherwise when your *ss is against the floor!
I have taken them for 9 years without much thought until this period in my life. I think the main thing for me know is to think as much of my family as I am myself. I have a checkered past all my life of stessful events and coping skills. When the ADs came along I truly felt that it was a step in the right direction. And it may be that I am having to come to grips with what is common for many others, that our Depressive natures don't fade away. I would like to think that they could but alot of the data points in the opposite. I've been giving this a good fight and it may be that after all this time I'm not programmed to deal with normalcy without the medicine.
I've also learned that my way of stopping the medicine is highly unrecommende after such long use. I don't know if a long taper would have made any difference in relation to where I'm at now or not. I'm wondering if we adapt at all by going to an absolute minimum dose and staying there for some time? Or it could be that any amount of an SSRI keeps our psyche running off of it. I never questioned this before and it may prove fruitless anyway.
Most of what I read says that a third major depression should be treated from 3-5 years and after that you can pretty much expect a 90% relapse rate. Not very encouraging if you've had this stuff in life (I think the 1st round is 9 months with a 25% chance at relapse and a second is 18 months with a 50% chance of relapse).
Does anyone really know from the science what effect these medicines have on the nuerotransmitters physically. I've read that untreated depression will start to harm the brain and everything else too so what would be the argument for staying in a bout and holding out hope of some turning point? It seems that either way we are going to be challenged to do someting.
Do you think the Prozac rationale makes any sense? I started out on it in the beginning and it seemed alright from what I can remember from those days! Thank You.....let me know
Posted by Philip N. on September 30, 2006, at 12:16:28
In reply to Re: Withdrawal from long term antidepressants » Philip N., posted by johnnyj on September 30, 2006, at 10:09:22
Hi jonnyj. I've always managed with minimal doses before now. My doctor and I are thinking of me starting back on Prozac as it has been years since I've taken that and try some Amitrytpiline at night to help with sleep initially. I think that TCA has historically been associated with sedation so maybe that would help me to get past the first stage of potential anxiety. I have diagnosed Anxiety Disorder (I think alot of this runs concurrent) and am sensitive to meds.
There was a time when I took Prozac but I started while I was still drinking alcohol and I don't recall alot of startup problems but thta may not be the case now. I also have about 3 weeks worth of benzos left and my doc thinks that if the Prozac works then I can stop them without much fanfare.
From what I've read on benzos I'm leary of hanging with them very long but they do a hell of a job on insomnia, at least when I have used them over the past month (not every day). I could see where I would almost just say let's stay with the benzos for all this anxiety but they say when you are hooked it causes hellish anxiety not to take them. It's a damn double edeg sword! I have not gone over 1mg of lorazepam yet at a time but even on regular low dosage thay say it can be wicked after a time.
I've tried to educate myself on alternatives but I think that my timing at this point would not allow for too much experimentation. My doctor also says that for the large part of people who the medications really work well for I won't find them as much on the internet because they are doing OK. Much of what I find on the sites seems negative but I also look at the alternative to untreated Depression/Anxiety. I think the damage from that if left untreated is far worse than keeping it in check.
I've always been a "what if" personality and I always look for the negatives and then expound on that in my head. The truth is from where I am at right now compared to this point last year I would have to opt to go back to when it was working. I know several people as most of us do in our circles who take ADs and are going about their lives day to day making it work. The ones I have talked this over with say that I need to get back on the train and ride it some more. Italmost sounds too simple.
I think it has just been the realization that this thing is alot larger and broader than I once thought and I am caught up in it kinda dulled me even more. The percentage of people who successfully stay off medication after any prolonged use from what I am hearing is slim at best. Now does that mean that the illness is that strong and progressive or that we have acclimated our psyche to the use of the medications? The experts claim it both ways depending on what side of the fence we're on. But then I look at the history of untreated Depression before there was any therapy available and I certainly wouldn't want to opt for that! I think the majority were just put away somewhere. And being down and holding out hope for some big turn of events seems almost comparable to that!
You see the thing to me is that there are no set answers and that just illustrates to me how complicated this really is (Not to mention that we are still trying to live our lives). It's also true that I have never experienced this degree of Depression/Anxiety and I want to at first blame it on the medications. My doctor trys to get me to see the other side of this thing. That my condition is what it is now because of the Illness and as we get older the data says that for most depressives the degree gets worse when it returns or reveals itself.I know I want to believe that I am tougher than all that but my history wouldn't convince myself that is the case. The Ads came in earnest after long periods of excessive alcohol abuse and I know there is residual from that in life. I wasn't much for any drugs but I sure thought I could drink and that is many times indicative of someone trying to self medicate according to my doc. And I do know I have been anxious all my life.
My thinking right now is to put more trust in my doc and try to pull myself back up and then maybe see where I'm at again later on. I could at least try a long drawn out taper and watch for signs of recuurrence then as I try to build from a better position. I don't like the idea of side effects but at least that might let me move forward some. I'm also convinced that the side effects of letting this go on anabted would be more severe.
Tyhank You.....let me know
Posted by jules354 on September 30, 2006, at 12:39:36
In reply to Re: Returning to antidepressants? Above for, posted by SLS on September 30, 2006, at 10:27:59
>Yes. But for how long do you think a withdrawal rebound depression might last?
Hi Scott,
honestly, i don't know. that's why i'm going to stay off meds if i can but go back if my therapist and i feel that's the best course. i was speaking more out of a frustration for the lack of respect and empathy people receive from their doctors when withdrawal symptoms last longer than a few weeks. i would say this is a major problem with the way ADs are prescribed and managed, regardless of different people's experiences with relapse. we need a major overhaul of how mental illness is treated in this country.
in the meantime, i'm with you on wise use of biological treatment when needed in the system that's available. remeron likely saved my life.
take care,
jules
Posted by SLS on October 1, 2006, at 5:20:23
In reply to Re: Returning to antidepressants? Above for » SLS, posted by jules354 on September 30, 2006, at 12:39:36
> >Yes. But for how long do you think a withdrawal rebound depression might last?
>
> Hi Scott,
>
> honestly, i don't know. that's why i'm going to stay off meds if i can but go back if my therapist and i feel that's the best course.You know what my greatest wish is for you and Philip? It is that you both find some key to a door in life that opens up a world of freedom that had been eluding you for years without the need for drugs.
As for me, I unlocked and opened all of my doors long ago, as I began in my early twenties a self-actualizing transformation with the aid of psychological tools that I had learned in college and crafted on my own. I keep those doors open with the aid of group and individual therapies and vigilence. The only thing holding me back from a very, very healthy and wonderfully rewarding life is my neurological dysfunction. The people who know me personally can't help but to be puzzled by anyone who remains resistent to the biological explanation of major mental illnesses. I am that transparent.
- Scott
Posted by SLS on October 1, 2006, at 8:13:46
In reply to Re: Returning to antidepressants? Above for » SLS, posted by jules354 on September 30, 2006, at 12:39:36
Understand, though, that many depressions result from an interaction between biological vulnerabilities to Major Depressive Disorder and psychosocial stresses produced by all sorts of things including maladaptive depressive thought styles. It can become very confusing when one has come to have a depressive thought style because it might exist during and between biological Major Depressive Disorder episodes. Therefore, the MDD episode just feels like the usual depressive thought style getting worse. "Why should I treat my usual psychological condition with drugs just because I'm having a tougher time with it right now?" You know?
That being said, it can happen that if you treat the psychological psychosocial stress well enough, you can reduce the pressure on the brain enough so that its function can improve. The question is, how long do you give it before intervening with biological treatments? Obviously, the answer will be different for each individual and each situation. Perhaps you can watch for a trend. What can you use as a measurement tool? I have one on my website you can try. It is really for use with drug treatment, but it might have some value to you:
http://home.att.net/~sl.schofield3/medicine/mood_chart_beam.pdf
- Scott
Posted by musky on October 1, 2006, at 11:36:09
In reply to Re: Withdrawal from long term antidepressants » musky, posted by Philip N. on September 29, 2006, at 9:52:02
>
Hello Philip
Yes I understand what you are saying, but I think that anxiety itself "distorts" our view of life. There is a saying that goes "If you think it , so shall you be" ... something like that.
I know that anxiety will take its toll on the body /mind which is exactly my point. We want to get at the anxiety ,, not just block it as meds will ultimately do.. Sure you may feel fine when on meds(in my case not).. but are you REALLY??? I mean did issues really get dealt with? personal issues, etc.
Pay attention to your thoughts.. cognitive therapy has taught me that our feelings are ultimately stemming from our thoughts. Think of when you feel anxious, depressed... ask your self , what were you thinking just at that time?? I bet if you wrote this thought(s) down that you would find its NEGATIVE self defeating.
We can CHOOSE how we think.. that is what is inherent in us.
When a person is under alot of anxiety they tend to have negative distortion thoughts.
We think we are victims of anxiety and feel hopeless, helpless. Our tendency as human beings is to retreat into a hermit like state, like a wounded animal.. this is a sign that our bodies are giving us to tell us something is wrong.. but of course we know this, that is why we feel this way.
But we have to get at the "root " of the anxiety. Alot of time anxiety/depression is just a manifistation of what the REAL issues are going on in our lives. If we really do some soul searching we find what is truly bothering us in life..)personal issues, self esteem and overall health all play an important role.
You say that the "experts" say that untreated anxiety can take its toll, well everyone knows this including yourself. but if you only choose one path for treating anxiety, such as meds then you will always end up with the same result.
I hear ya when you say you want to be around for your family... that is yourwill to live talking which is good!! but i disagree when the so called experts(who dont take the med themselves) say that withdrawls dont last that long.. Sorry I dont believe it..
There is also alot of proof out there with peoples testimonies that say it does occur despite the "experts" .. Experts dont live in your body, experts dont experience the drugs effects, experts dont live in your relationships.. so how could they know about what you are feeling??? Sure they may have facts, based on "certain data", but they still dont really know how all this works... Statisitics and data can show anything you want it to show.. but it doesnt get at the root of our problems..
Our body/mind /spirit connection is very complex. and we each are different but I am just saying that meds dont cure the problem.. mask it maybe, but take the med away and you still have the same problem.. much like the alcoholic who takes that drink to "feel " better.. did it cure his depression?? ya maybe for that few hours, but then when the booze wore off they were depressed again.. and the problem was still there. so you see, we can take all the "happy pills" we want and use this as a crutch if you will, but to me that is no way to live.
Yesterday after 4months of Remeron free and fairly stable mood, I had a bit of a downswing in mood... I at first was worried and really feeling scared and down. but I am just riding it out.. cause I know this will passs.. I dont let my negative thinking suck me into believing I need a drug to stay happy, which in my case it didnt make me feel anything but numb/nonexistent.. I would rather feel panic/anxiety/ depressed states and work through it and OVERCOME them , than to be trapped on pills.
I believe that we all can heal and maybe the few percentage( and I mean very few) of people who truly have an organic disorder (like your psychic killers, etc.) maybe, need meds. But majority of your anxiety, depressive cases truly are just cognitive and can be treated with cognitive therapy very sucessfully.. the "experts" should know this!!!
Sorry this is my opinion.. do what you have to.. I strongly urge you to think about this before making a decision.. If you only think that meds is the answer for your well being , then you have already narrowed your choices.
We all want to feel well, and Im sure you have tried , but dont think negative about something before it happens.
You say you want to be med free, yet you say BUT.. therefore you have already locked yourself into a choice of meds only.. I know this may sound harsh, but sometimes we have to just kick %%%** and fight our way through... If you keep telling yourself you are not one of those strong ones, then you wont be.. if you keep telling yourself you are strong, over and over then you will be..Good luck in whatever you decide.
I know for me its med free, and I am glad Im off of this Remeron for 4months now... I will suffer throught the mood stuff..no matter what..
Musky
Hi Musky.
>
> I hear exactly what you are saying. The problem I've encountered is that in this fight I have lost ground. I'm now concerned about the effects this is having on my mental and physiacl well being. The is alot of proof that untreated Depression/Anxiety can extract a heavy toll on us up to and including killing us.
>
> Right now I think I'm having a hard time coming to an acceptance that I may not be one of those who has an episodic form of this stuff that you just kick *ss on and move on. I have never in my life been in this shape and many "experts" are saying that enough time has passed for it to be a discontinuation from meds. Even though I don't have a true opinion on that I know that at my current rate I won't last to make 2 years to find out.
>
> I'm at that point of considering the lesser of the 2: Waste away untreated or find some remission and rejoin my family so I can still be there for them. What is the ideal situation? Many including myself would say to be med free but that may bring with it some consequences that are worse than being on the stuff. I just celebrated my 30 year wedding anniversary by retreating to my bed to see if I could go to sleep.
>
> I don't smoke or drink alcohol (8 years sobriety) or life a wild life. I try to eat right and look at alternatives and such but at the same time the grip this thing has on me is becoming too paralytic. I don't want to lose it all trying to reach a plateau that for now is set too high. Maybe by relenting to medication I can rejoin my own life. Does any of this make sense?
>
> Thanks....let me know
>
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