LostinCanada: Tapering Paroxetine -welcome to my nightmare

February 5Feb 5

I’m soooo pleased that you made it here, I always find your posts really useful, supportive and insightful but I’ve never seen your story. I’m sorry you are still struggling with your own WD nightmare but I hope you find a home here too that is supportive 🌈🪟💛.

I’m also getting painful bloating and reflux, has this improved for you over time? Can I also ask how your histamine issues present?

wishing you all the best, G

2011 - Metoclopramide for pregnancy sickness

2016 - 2017 - Citalopram - doctors “taper” I.e. CT - no effects

2016 - 2025 -various meds, antihistamines 2016-19, PPI 2021-2022, Xonvea for pregnancy sickness 2023-2024, 2016-2023 daily Imodium.

2025 -

March 2025 - adverse reaction to iron infusion.

April 2025 - daily fexofenadine (Allegra).

July 2025 - Citalopram- 10mg 3 tablets taken at night, on the 3rd morning I took Quercetin 500mg supplement and had a terrible reaction possibly “moderate” Serotonin Syndrome. CT from Citalopram.

2025 - July - October acute “withdrawal” or CNS damage from citalopram mirroring CT withdrawal

November - December - improving lots, Windows and waves ☀️

Needing advice on future pregnancies/medication/food sensitivity in my thread!

1

February 5Feb 5

Author

4 hours ago, SparklingG said:

soooo pleased that you made it here

Thanks so much for the warm welcome.

5 hours ago, SparklingG said:

painful bloating and reflux,

I use DGL for the reflux...75 mg 2-3 times a day initially, now I rarely need it.

The bloating is helped alot by the heating pad, ginger and peppermint tea....but peppermint can cause a reflux reaction.

And I eat a lot of homemade chicken soup.

Also drinking a homemade hydration drink can help sometimes...2 cups water, 1/4 tsp salt, 1tbsp maple syrup.

5 hours ago, SparklingG said:

ask how your histamine issues present?

I get crazy itching and hives/welts. Also sometimes heart palpitations right after I eat. The low histamine really helps...I can sometimes eat 1/2 an avocado now but I have to be careful still.

5 hours ago, SparklingG said:

wishing you all the best, G

Same to you...I hope some of that helps. ❤️🙏

I am not a medical professional. My comments are based on my personal experience and information on SA.

Paroxetine-2002 onward-20mg/ Citalopram-2007-20 mg-straight switch from paroxetine-back to paroxetine after a month/ Sertraline -25 mg-Dec 2016- given for a month instead of paroxetine (doctor mistake) Oxazepam -10 mg-2016-twice weekly for a couple months for sleep/ Zopiclone -3.75-7.5mg-2020-2022-once a week for sleep/Paroxetine -20 yr+/ Dec2018-May 2022 20 mg/ May 2022 30mg/2022.07.28-2022.08.24 30mg to 0mg/ Prozac-10mg August 24-29 2022/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.11.28-2022.12.04/10mg-Dec 5&6/22/ Prozac-10mg-Dec 8&9/22/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.12.07 to 2023.07.01

TAPER-Paroxetine-2023-Jul 2-4.9mg/ Jul 21-4.8mg/Jul 28-4.73mg/Aug 4-4.65mg /Sep 21-4.58 mg/Oct 27-4.56 mg/Dec 5-4.54 mg/2024-Jan 2-4.52 mg/Jan 9-4.51 mg/Jan 17-4.49 mg/Jan 26-4.47mg/Feb 6-4.46mg/Feb 19-4.44mg /Apr 4-4.43mg/Apr 28-4.4 mg/May 5-4.39 mg/May 19-4.36 mg/Jul 2-4.34 mg/Jul 9-4.32mg/Jul 31-4.3 mg/Oct 1-4.29mg/Nov 27-4.25 mg/Dec 5-4.22mg/2025-Jan 5-4.17mg/Feb 2-4.1mg/Mar 7-4.07mg/Apr 23-4.04mg/May 23-4mg/Jun 22-3.99mg/Jun 30-3.95mg/Jul 18-3.92mg/Sep 25-3.9mg/2026-Mar 25-3.85mg

9am-paroxetine, 200mg mag bisglycinate/75 mg DGL if needed for refux/150 mg calcium citrate/algae oil for omega 3/ginger 400 mg as needed for nausea

"... your strength will be in keeping calm..."-Isaiah 30:15

February 5Feb 5

Good to see you here @LostinCanada! It’s nice to see a lot of familiar people moving over.

March 2017 - ADR to Prochlorperazine (Stemetil) treatment because of vertigo & vestibular dysfunction.
December 2017/January 2018 - started Sertraline (Zoloft) @ 25mg, then 50mg after 4 weeks.
March/April 2018 - went from 50 milligrams to 100mg, and stabilised.
2021 - experienced tachyphylaxis (poop out) and went from 100mg to 200 mg. Was neurotoxic for 7 months before going back to 100mg next day.
May 2023 - prescribed Agomelatine & Omeprazole to go alongside Sertraline.
October 2023 - cold turkey off Agomelatine and Omeprazole, and cut SSRI from 100-50mg, withdrawal began 4 days later.
December 2023 - was cross tapered from Sertraline and onto Venlafaxine XR @ 37.5mg increased to 75mg 4 weeks later.
July 2024 - tapered off Venlafaxine XR 75mg over 4 weeks to completely heal from protracted withdrawal, been drug free since this period.
December 2024 - had a brutal setback from antibiotic + antiviral use. Took 4-5 months to recover to my "normal" baseline.

1

February 5Feb 5

Author

Since June, I started a new batch of drugs...same manufacturer/different batch. Haven't felt great since then.

Decided on Monday to start a new batch/new expiry.

To say Sunday was horrific is an understatement.... Monday I am already doing better... coincidence...who knows?

Just hoping I can start feeling a slight bit of happiness, pleasure, life.

I am so happy to be here...I am sure the support and feeling like I have come home, will aid in my healing.

Thanks again to @Luke and @Chippy and everyone that Matthew site a success. ❤️🙏

3 minutes ago, Jack said:

Good to see you here @LostinCanada! It’s nice to see a lot of familiar people moving over.

Thanks @Jack glad you are here too...makes the journey much easier to bear not feeling so alone. 🙏❤️

I am not a medical professional. My comments are based on my personal experience and information on SA.

Paroxetine-2002 onward-20mg/ Citalopram-2007-20 mg-straight switch from paroxetine-back to paroxetine after a month/ Sertraline -25 mg-Dec 2016- given for a month instead of paroxetine (doctor mistake) Oxazepam -10 mg-2016-twice weekly for a couple months for sleep/ Zopiclone -3.75-7.5mg-2020-2022-once a week for sleep/Paroxetine -20 yr+/ Dec2018-May 2022 20 mg/ May 2022 30mg/2022.07.28-2022.08.24 30mg to 0mg/ Prozac-10mg August 24-29 2022/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.11.28-2022.12.04/10mg-Dec 5&6/22/ Prozac-10mg-Dec 8&9/22/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.12.07 to 2023.07.01

TAPER-Paroxetine-2023-Jul 2-4.9mg/ Jul 21-4.8mg/Jul 28-4.73mg/Aug 4-4.65mg /Sep 21-4.58 mg/Oct 27-4.56 mg/Dec 5-4.54 mg/2024-Jan 2-4.52 mg/Jan 9-4.51 mg/Jan 17-4.49 mg/Jan 26-4.47mg/Feb 6-4.46mg/Feb 19-4.44mg /Apr 4-4.43mg/Apr 28-4.4 mg/May 5-4.39 mg/May 19-4.36 mg/Jul 2-4.34 mg/Jul 9-4.32mg/Jul 31-4.3 mg/Oct 1-4.29mg/Nov 27-4.25 mg/Dec 5-4.22mg/2025-Jan 5-4.17mg/Feb 2-4.1mg/Mar 7-4.07mg/Apr 23-4.04mg/May 23-4mg/Jun 22-3.99mg/Jun 30-3.95mg/Jul 18-3.92mg/Sep 25-3.9mg/2026-Mar 25-3.85mg

9am-paroxetine, 200mg mag bisglycinate/75 mg DGL if needed for refux/150 mg calcium citrate/algae oil for omega 3/ginger 400 mg as needed for nausea

"... your strength will be in keeping calm..."-Isaiah 30:15

1

February 5Feb 5

12 minutes ago, LostinCanada said:

Since June, I started a new batch of drugs...same manufacturer/different batch. Haven't felt great since then.

Decided on Monday to start a new batch/new expiry.

To say Sunday was horrific is an understatement.... Monday I am already doing better... coincidence...who knows?

Just hoping I can start feeling a slight bit of happiness, pleasure, life.

I am so happy to be here...I am sure the support and feeling like I have come home, will aid in my healing.

Thanks again to @Luke and @Chippy and everyone that Matthew site a success. ❤️🙏

Thanks @Jack glad you are here too...makes the journey much easier to bear not feeling so alone. 🙏❤️

Much love, we’re all in this together.

My reflux comes and goes in waves. I’ve always believed mine was simply from developing GERD whilst being medicated but I firmly believe it’s simply another induced reaction from interdose withdrawal. As time has gone without being on these drugs it’s gotten better. I have waves of it, but then the same things that trigger it stop triggering it and I go weeks, sometimes a month or more without any signs of it, then it comes back, then goes again.

The histamine issues for me are running rampant at the moment. Im reacting to almost everything and it’s causing flare ups of all kinds of symptoms for me. The longer out I’m getting from being off all meds the worse it’s becoming but I know it’s all part of the process unfortunately.

March 2017 - ADR to Prochlorperazine (Stemetil) treatment because of vertigo & vestibular dysfunction.
December 2017/January 2018 - started Sertraline (Zoloft) @ 25mg, then 50mg after 4 weeks.
March/April 2018 - went from 50 milligrams to 100mg, and stabilised.
2021 - experienced tachyphylaxis (poop out) and went from 100mg to 200 mg. Was neurotoxic for 7 months before going back to 100mg next day.
May 2023 - prescribed Agomelatine & Omeprazole to go alongside Sertraline.
October 2023 - cold turkey off Agomelatine and Omeprazole, and cut SSRI from 100-50mg, withdrawal began 4 days later.
December 2023 - was cross tapered from Sertraline and onto Venlafaxine XR @ 37.5mg increased to 75mg 4 weeks later.
July 2024 - tapered off Venlafaxine XR 75mg over 4 weeks to completely heal from protracted withdrawal, been drug free since this period.
December 2024 - had a brutal setback from antibiotic + antiviral use. Took 4-5 months to recover to my "normal" baseline.

1

February 5Feb 5

Author

14 minutes ago, Jack said:

My reflux comes and goes in waves

Have you tried DGL? It's been a lifesaver for me.

15 minutes ago, Jack said:

histamine issues for me are running rampant at the moment. Im reacting to almost everything

It's such a pain...I am such a foodie and now my diet is so limited.... The things most people can eat are really a problem for me...I can't eat rice or oatmeal even. Crazy.

I am not a medical professional. My comments are based on my personal experience and information on SA.

Paroxetine-2002 onward-20mg/ Citalopram-2007-20 mg-straight switch from paroxetine-back to paroxetine after a month/ Sertraline -25 mg-Dec 2016- given for a month instead of paroxetine (doctor mistake) Oxazepam -10 mg-2016-twice weekly for a couple months for sleep/ Zopiclone -3.75-7.5mg-2020-2022-once a week for sleep/Paroxetine -20 yr+/ Dec2018-May 2022 20 mg/ May 2022 30mg/2022.07.28-2022.08.24 30mg to 0mg/ Prozac-10mg August 24-29 2022/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.11.28-2022.12.04/10mg-Dec 5&6/22/ Prozac-10mg-Dec 8&9/22/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.12.07 to 2023.07.01

TAPER-Paroxetine-2023-Jul 2-4.9mg/ Jul 21-4.8mg/Jul 28-4.73mg/Aug 4-4.65mg /Sep 21-4.58 mg/Oct 27-4.56 mg/Dec 5-4.54 mg/2024-Jan 2-4.52 mg/Jan 9-4.51 mg/Jan 17-4.49 mg/Jan 26-4.47mg/Feb 6-4.46mg/Feb 19-4.44mg /Apr 4-4.43mg/Apr 28-4.4 mg/May 5-4.39 mg/May 19-4.36 mg/Jul 2-4.34 mg/Jul 9-4.32mg/Jul 31-4.3 mg/Oct 1-4.29mg/Nov 27-4.25 mg/Dec 5-4.22mg/2025-Jan 5-4.17mg/Feb 2-4.1mg/Mar 7-4.07mg/Apr 23-4.04mg/May 23-4mg/Jun 22-3.99mg/Jun 30-3.95mg/Jul 18-3.92mg/Sep 25-3.9mg/2026-Mar 25-3.85mg

9am-paroxetine, 200mg mag bisglycinate/75 mg DGL if needed for refux/150 mg calcium citrate/algae oil for omega 3/ginger 400 mg as needed for nausea

"... your strength will be in keeping calm..."-Isaiah 30:15

February 5Feb 5

44 minutes ago, LostinCanada said:

Since June, I started a new batch of drugs...same manufacturer/different batch. Haven't felt great since then.

Decided on Monday to start a new batch/new expiry.

To say Sunday was horrific is an understatement.... Monday I am already doing better... coincidence...who knows?

Just hoping I can start feeling a slight bit of happiness, pleasure, life.

I am so happy to be here...I am sure the support and feeling like I have come home, will aid in my healing.

Thanks again to @Luke and @Chippy and everyone that Matthew site a success. ❤️🙏

Thanks @Jack glad you are here too...makes the journey much easier to bear not feeling so alone. 🙏❤️

@LostinCanada Great to have you here and thank you for your great support to everyone!

I really hope you see improvement soon, you really deserve it!

Btw, thanks a lot for helping me with my scale back in SA, it's been going really well since.

1998 forced on cipramil *no anxiety/depression background*

Over the years all kinds of SSRI/SNRI/antipsychotics/stabilizers due to apparently side effects/withdrawal

Many attempts to quit over the years with failure (extremely rapid taper followed by doctors' guidens)

Current attempt-Paxil 20 mg:

6/24 20 mg to 5 mg-severe AKA

9/24 Increase to 20-AKA continues

10/24 stopped completely-AKA out of control

11/24 Zoloft bridge attempt-25 mg to 75 mg+Seroquel-AKA continued-stopped them CT.

12/24 Back on Paxil 10mg (0.1789g)-some stabilization-from here tapered by about 30% each time (don't remember doses and dates).

2025 - 7.10 0.0558g (3.11mg)/7.11 3% 0.0541g (3.02mg)/4.12 1% 0.0535g (2.98mg)

2026 - 3.1 1.5% 0.0526g (2.93mg)/9.1 8.5% 0.0480g (2.68mg)/16.2 1.8% 0.0470g (2.62mg)/21.3 1% 0.466 (2.60mg)/23.4 2.2% 0.455g (2.54mg)/8.7 21.7% 0.0356.5g (2mg)/15.8 updose by 11.7% 0.0400g (2.23mg)

Supplements:

Magnesium Glycinate - started 28.5.26 1 capsule 200mg in the morning - Increased brain fog and muscle stiffness - stopped after two weeks.

Iron - liquid, quarter of recommended dose - increased anxiety and burning sensation - stopped after two weeks.

Saffron - started 8.7.26 1 capsule 30mg in the morning - pretty immediate improvement in terms of terror, body pain and sleep.

February 5Feb 5

Author

3 minutes ago, Fullhealing said:

Great to have you here and thank you for your great support to everyone!

I really hope you see improvement soon, you really deserve it!

Thanks so much sweetie.

3 minutes ago, Fullhealing said:

thanks a lot for helping me with my scale back in SA, it's been going really well since.

Really happy to hear... it's such a rough journey... good for you. ❤️🙏

I am not a medical professional. My comments are based on my personal experience and information on SA.

Paroxetine-2002 onward-20mg/ Citalopram-2007-20 mg-straight switch from paroxetine-back to paroxetine after a month/ Sertraline -25 mg-Dec 2016- given for a month instead of paroxetine (doctor mistake) Oxazepam -10 mg-2016-twice weekly for a couple months for sleep/ Zopiclone -3.75-7.5mg-2020-2022-once a week for sleep/Paroxetine -20 yr+/ Dec2018-May 2022 20 mg/ May 2022 30mg/2022.07.28-2022.08.24 30mg to 0mg/ Prozac-10mg August 24-29 2022/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.11.28-2022.12.04/10mg-Dec 5&6/22/ Prozac-10mg-Dec 8&9/22/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.12.07 to 2023.07.01

TAPER-Paroxetine-2023-Jul 2-4.9mg/ Jul 21-4.8mg/Jul 28-4.73mg/Aug 4-4.65mg /Sep 21-4.58 mg/Oct 27-4.56 mg/Dec 5-4.54 mg/2024-Jan 2-4.52 mg/Jan 9-4.51 mg/Jan 17-4.49 mg/Jan 26-4.47mg/Feb 6-4.46mg/Feb 19-4.44mg /Apr 4-4.43mg/Apr 28-4.4 mg/May 5-4.39 mg/May 19-4.36 mg/Jul 2-4.34 mg/Jul 9-4.32mg/Jul 31-4.3 mg/Oct 1-4.29mg/Nov 27-4.25 mg/Dec 5-4.22mg/2025-Jan 5-4.17mg/Feb 2-4.1mg/Mar 7-4.07mg/Apr 23-4.04mg/May 23-4mg/Jun 22-3.99mg/Jun 30-3.95mg/Jul 18-3.92mg/Sep 25-3.9mg/2026-Mar 25-3.85mg

9am-paroxetine, 200mg mag bisglycinate/75 mg DGL if needed for refux/150 mg calcium citrate/algae oil for omega 3/ginger 400 mg as needed for nausea

"... your strength will be in keeping calm..."-Isaiah 30:15

1

February 5Feb 5

On 2/3/2026 at 1:52 PM, LostinCanada said:

https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/28498-lostincanada-need-help-and-direction-to-taper-off-paroxetine/

Hey everybody,

Quick recap:

After 20+ years on Paxil, July 2022, I went to a psychiatrist to get off this drug. (I had tried in the past to reduce the doses to see if I could live without it but always was unsuccessful. I realize I was in withdrawal not relapse those times) The psychiatrist had me go from 30 mg Paroxetine to 0 mg in 4 weeks. She wanted me to start Prozac at 10mg and go up if necessary for the withdrawal. I took Prozac for 5 days and had side effects so I stopped it. In Canada you get a one time visit with a psychiatrist and your GP manages the damage.

I had insane withdrawal that I kept reading should end at 2 weeks, then I read up to 8 weeks but something changed at about 3 months and it got even worse. I was already dealing with nausea, dry retching, dizziness, balance problems, crying, vision issues including after images and floaters, insomnia, tremors, anxiety, morning cortisol rush, burning feet, sweats, chills, but it progressed to desperation, SI, hopelessness, everything overwhelmed me, I couldn’t watch tv, I struggled to read, struggled to speak, became sound sensitive, couldn’t follow a conversation. I developed monophobia. Read a bit about reinstatement, though I knew 3 months off the drug wasn’t ideal for this. So I started back on Paroxetine at 5 mg which was probably too high. I later read probably should have went with 1mg. Within 2 months back on 5 mg, I saw some improvement- no more SI, hopelessness or desperation. By about month 7, I thought I was stable enough to start tapering slowly. Most symptoms were muted by then though not completely gone. Withdrawal symptoms intensify every cut.

At 2 years from reinstatement, I felt I had stabilized even further and things went well for a few months. Of course life goes on and with that comes many added stresses. This always causes a flare up in withdrawal symptoms for me.

At year 2.5, I developed histamine issues. Being on a low histamine diet has helped.

At about year 3, I started getting very painful bloating….never experienced that in my life before. I still have GI issues on a daily basis. Live conversation is very stimulating. I still have most of the same symptoms, but not as extreme. The monophobia is much more manageable.

Trying to do multiple smaller cuts during a month does not work well for me…it seems my symptoms stack. One cut per 28 days is the most I am able to do. Those cuts are very small. (see signature)

At present, I am holding. Hoping this will help my CNS get a bit more stability and in the long run, help with my tapering.

I am hoping to benefit from mutual support. Thanks in advance.

So glad to see you here LIC. I hope you start to stabilise soon. Xxxxxxxx

1998(approx.) 20mg Paroxetine, 1998 -2015 various unsuccessful tapers, 2015 app 6 month taper to 0, 2015 approx 6 months later reinstated original brand after debilitating neurological delayed WD symptoms. Made worse after surgery.2023 Famotidine, Cetirizine, New Generic, muscle relaxer. March/April19th June, 2023 - 23rd July, 2023: Paroxetine Dosage reduced from 20mg to 15mg (on 15mg for 35 days), no significant symptoms.

24th July, 2023 - 26th July, 2023: Paroxetine Dosage reduced from 15mg to 12.5mg (on 12.5mg for 3 days), no significant symptoms. &nbsp

27th July, 2023 - 3rd September, 2023: Paroxetine Dosage reduced from 12.5mg to 10mg (on 10mg for 39 days), no significant symptoms.

4th September, 2023 - 15th September, 2023: Paroxetine Dosage reduced from 10mg to 5mg i.e. 10mg every other day (on 5mg for 12 days), although not noted, must have experienced some symptoms, as I decided to return to previous 10mg dosage on the 16th September.

16th September, 2023 - 25th November, 2023: Dosage increased from 5mg to 10mg i.e. 10mg every day (on 10mg for 71 days), symptoms start dates: Late September sweating, shaking and right side upper back pain., 5th October 23: Upper back pain worsening,21st Oct 23: Night time symptoms: insomnia, nausea, sweats, headaches, some anxiety (predominantly in the mornings)27th Oct 23 admitted to hospital with 1st hypertensive crisis with severe frontal headache (now suspected of withdrawal ) BP 225/115. Admitted twice more with high BP . Doctors at a loss for cause. Given anti nausea, anti anxiety and sleeping tabs in hospital. . 1st Nov 23: , heart palpitations, some anxiety.. 7th Nov 23: Anxiety was now becoming more frequent (not severe). 26th November, 2023 Dosage increased from 10mg to 20mg possibly first time taking 20 mg of Extine, new manufacturer. Approx around this time came of antihistamines . 3rd Dec 23 - 18th Dec, 23: Started taking 7.5mg - 15mg of Oxazepam when anxiety became unbearable only took 8 in total now stopped. Symptoms now more severe have head pain rather than headache. .Electrical shocks through body overnight accompanied by head pain. Sheer terror,. Sore eyes. 23rd Dec 23: All symptoms remain the same i.e. severe except for the last 2 days where my anxiety levels have not been as severe/ extreme and somewhat manageable (later in the day).22 Jan 24 Have some windows now but still suffering from all day head pain, upper back pain, waking up inner restlessness and terror , nausea, intermittent feelings of fear and wake up 12.30 am every morning and sometimes up to 3 times a night with weird tingling down arms and back, pounding heart head pain and nausea. 2nd March 24, head pain/eye pain everyday and all day and & night wake ups.. Mild Akathisia early morning,, upper back pain, sweats. Anxiety much better. 21st April 24, drop 2.25% drop to 19.5 mg to test help with head /eye nerve pain and new symptom tinnitus. 12/5/24 19mg still eye/head/ back pain. Mild AKA AM. 2/6/24 18.93mg 9/8/24 18.04mg, 16/8/24 18mg, 19/9/24 17.6mg, some more micro taper cuts down to 14.758 by 10/12/24 on hold for 6wks,22/1/25 14.46 mg, 5/2/25 14.06mg, 19/2/24 13.38mg 5/03/25 13.05mg 19/3/25 12.4mg, 1/4/24 11.8mg 16/4/25 11.20mg, 29/4/25 10.65mg, 28/5/26 10.1mg, 11/6/26 10mg,20/07/25 9.75mg, 27/7/25, 3/825 9.27mg 9/8/25 9.04mg,14/9/25 8.92mg, 12/10/25 8.8mg,19/10/25 8.7mg, 301/25 fully transitioned over to 8ml homemade liquid.

1

February 6Feb 6

Author

28 minutes ago, BarbX said:

So glad to see you here LIC. I hope you start to stabilise soon. Xxxxxxxx

Thanks Barb... Love the site...lots of friendly faces. Hope you are doing okay. ❤️🙏

I am not a medical professional. My comments are based on my personal experience and information on SA.

Paroxetine-2002 onward-20mg/ Citalopram-2007-20 mg-straight switch from paroxetine-back to paroxetine after a month/ Sertraline -25 mg-Dec 2016- given for a month instead of paroxetine (doctor mistake) Oxazepam -10 mg-2016-twice weekly for a couple months for sleep/ Zopiclone -3.75-7.5mg-2020-2022-once a week for sleep/Paroxetine -20 yr+/ Dec2018-May 2022 20 mg/ May 2022 30mg/2022.07.28-2022.08.24 30mg to 0mg/ Prozac-10mg August 24-29 2022/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.11.28-2022.12.04/10mg-Dec 5&6/22/ Prozac-10mg-Dec 8&9/22/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.12.07 to 2023.07.01

TAPER-Paroxetine-2023-Jul 2-4.9mg/ Jul 21-4.8mg/Jul 28-4.73mg/Aug 4-4.65mg /Sep 21-4.58 mg/Oct 27-4.56 mg/Dec 5-4.54 mg/2024-Jan 2-4.52 mg/Jan 9-4.51 mg/Jan 17-4.49 mg/Jan 26-4.47mg/Feb 6-4.46mg/Feb 19-4.44mg /Apr 4-4.43mg/Apr 28-4.4 mg/May 5-4.39 mg/May 19-4.36 mg/Jul 2-4.34 mg/Jul 9-4.32mg/Jul 31-4.3 mg/Oct 1-4.29mg/Nov 27-4.25 mg/Dec 5-4.22mg/2025-Jan 5-4.17mg/Feb 2-4.1mg/Mar 7-4.07mg/Apr 23-4.04mg/May 23-4mg/Jun 22-3.99mg/Jun 30-3.95mg/Jul 18-3.92mg/Sep 25-3.9mg/2026-Mar 25-3.85mg

9am-paroxetine, 200mg mag bisglycinate/75 mg DGL if needed for refux/150 mg calcium citrate/algae oil for omega 3/ginger 400 mg as needed for nausea

"... your strength will be in keeping calm..."-Isaiah 30:15

1

February 6Feb 6

7 hours ago, LostinCanada said:

Monday I am already doing better... coincidence...who knows?

Hope you’ve found a solution here Lic. Got it crossed for you.

7 hours ago, LostinCanada said:

Thanks again to @Luke and @Chippy and everyone that Matthew site a success. ❤️🙏

Thank you for being here! 😀

I’m not a medical professional and cannot offer medical advice. I only offer my thoughts as support. Please speak to your health practitioner about your care. This is a peer site where we support each other on our taper/recovery journeys.

If you are from the UK please make sure you fill in a 'Yellow Card' report for the MHRA. It is you doing your bit to help make a difference.

Please take the time to do it today 🙂 https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk

For US members details here.

1

February 6Feb 6

I’m glad you had a better day.

🧚🏻‍♀️

2001-2011 Celexa 10 mg raised to 40 mg then 60 mg over this time period

May 2011 OB Doctor's Cold switch Celexa 60 mg to 10 mg Zoloft sertraline (baby born)

2012-2016 - Doctors raised dose of Zoloft up to 150 mg

2016 - Xanax prescribed - as needed - 0.5 mg about every 3 days (bad reaction)

2016 - Stopped Xanax

Late 2016- Began (too fast) taper of Zoloft

Early 2017 - Trazodone prescribed for bedtime (doseage unknown)

Feb 2017 - Completed taper/stopped Trazodone

Drug free since Feb 2017

2017 - Unisom otc very rarely for sleep

1

February 7Feb 7

On 2/5/2026 at 1:01 PM, LostinCanada said:

Decided on Monday to start a new batch/new expiry.

To say Sunday was horrific is an understatement...

I'm sorry to hear this happened to you, LIC!

I had real issues with different manufacturers of generics. I never thought about batches, but why wouldn't that cause issues, too? Because of course 😟

I'm glad to hear that you're hanging in, and hope things resolve soon. This too shall pass.

2011-2015 - tapered off 300mg of Venlafaxine after 6 years of use

2005-2021 - 450 mg Bupropion daily

2021-2023 - tapered Bupropion to zero

February 7Feb 7

Author

hey @j1290….these manufacturers have so many violations…no surprise.

19 minutes ago, j1290 said:

This too shall pass.

I just find I am getting too old to just bounce back….wd is bad enough without old age. 💯

I saw you commented this on RachelSusans intro:

I'm taking acid reduction meds right now which I don't love, but unfortunately they're necessary.

Have you ever tried DGL? Are you dealing with reflux and PPIs?

Interestingly, DGL is recommended when tapering PPIs. In case you are interested.

https://www.va.gov/wholehealthlibrary/tools/coming-off-a-proton-pump-inhibitor.asp

I am not a medical professional. My comments are based on my personal experience and information on SA.

Paroxetine-2002 onward-20mg/ Citalopram-2007-20 mg-straight switch from paroxetine-back to paroxetine after a month/ Sertraline -25 mg-Dec 2016- given for a month instead of paroxetine (doctor mistake) Oxazepam -10 mg-2016-twice weekly for a couple months for sleep/ Zopiclone -3.75-7.5mg-2020-2022-once a week for sleep/Paroxetine -20 yr+/ Dec2018-May 2022 20 mg/ May 2022 30mg/2022.07.28-2022.08.24 30mg to 0mg/ Prozac-10mg August 24-29 2022/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.11.28-2022.12.04/10mg-Dec 5&6/22/ Prozac-10mg-Dec 8&9/22/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.12.07 to 2023.07.01

TAPER-Paroxetine-2023-Jul 2-4.9mg/ Jul 21-4.8mg/Jul 28-4.73mg/Aug 4-4.65mg /Sep 21-4.58 mg/Oct 27-4.56 mg/Dec 5-4.54 mg/2024-Jan 2-4.52 mg/Jan 9-4.51 mg/Jan 17-4.49 mg/Jan 26-4.47mg/Feb 6-4.46mg/Feb 19-4.44mg /Apr 4-4.43mg/Apr 28-4.4 mg/May 5-4.39 mg/May 19-4.36 mg/Jul 2-4.34 mg/Jul 9-4.32mg/Jul 31-4.3 mg/Oct 1-4.29mg/Nov 27-4.25 mg/Dec 5-4.22mg/2025-Jan 5-4.17mg/Feb 2-4.1mg/Mar 7-4.07mg/Apr 23-4.04mg/May 23-4mg/Jun 22-3.99mg/Jun 30-3.95mg/Jul 18-3.92mg/Sep 25-3.9mg/2026-Mar 25-3.85mg

9am-paroxetine, 200mg mag bisglycinate/75 mg DGL if needed for refux/150 mg calcium citrate/algae oil for omega 3/ginger 400 mg as needed for nausea

"... your strength will be in keeping calm..."-Isaiah 30:15

1

February 7Feb 7

25 minutes ago, LostinCanada said:

.these manufacturers have so many violations…no surprise.

who knew?!? when I started searching, that's when I went down the rabbit hole.

27 minutes ago, LostinCanada said:

I just find I am getting too old to just bounce back….wd is bad enough without old age. 💯

it's so true. None of this gets any easier.

33 minutes ago, LostinCanada said:

I'm taking acid reduction meds right now which I don't love, but unfortunately they're necessary.

Have you ever tried DGL? Are you dealing with reflux and PPIs?

Same, they're a necessary thing for me too right now.

No, never heard of DGL before today but now they're in my Amazon shopping cart 😁 Thanks for the heads up, I never would have found that on my own. Also good looking out on the guide to getting off the PPI's.

Unsurprisingly, I had been on them since they were prescription only, with breaks. I had no idea the potential side effects were so serious. I was always so naive about meds.

I intend to get off these things ASAP.

2011-2015 - tapered off 300mg of Venlafaxine after 6 years of use

2005-2021 - 450 mg Bupropion daily

2021-2023 - tapered Bupropion to zero

February 7Feb 7

Author

1 minute ago, j1290 said:

heard of DGL before today

I found out about it when I developed reflux from wd/ct.

It was a lifesaver…now I just use them as needed. I would break a 400 mg tablet into 4 pieces and take 2-3 pieces a day…that seemed to do the trick. Anyone that has tried them has found relief.
Let me know how it goes….the supplements do have xylitol and stevia, but I have no issue with that. This is the brand I use.

https://www.amazon.com/Natural-Factors-Licorice-Supports-Integrity/dp/B00B95J6FA/ref=sr_1_1?crid=124EPJIELZ10B&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.rPXqoDP70_7zh5ch473tKYNwx-Ilo_sKda_fw0TDD46w_n4tILewSXwbRZKDrocPBaNKyVgDL4UR_03UIfc_Rea-M205P5uCUIl0j5iFz_Jd3dEMnLBUGRJO4sTHEP1s-xunjNcrpUpOCJdg9Rma25_y0IAshfIXgx21d45CY4nAz8EU3c5Ok4yg1xJofxr9uGWrmGmpjM69mnDyHTfrmSG7OKO0tUsTO18Sx5DNHb8hC8SdFBBsrbzNX_3kGUCGsCfTQjucJX6eY88N-mu72yvXf1dNO3_mzczJ6h5l1NU.PsxiN-bXLAfXAv3TZ6fCkXi3PD7zaBL6m5I_qLtM3yQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=Natural%2Bfactors%2BDGL&qid=1770430191&sprefix=natural%2Bfactors%2Bdgl%2Caps%2C199&sr=8-1&th=1

I am not a medical professional. My comments are based on my personal experience and information on SA.

Paroxetine-2002 onward-20mg/ Citalopram-2007-20 mg-straight switch from paroxetine-back to paroxetine after a month/ Sertraline -25 mg-Dec 2016- given for a month instead of paroxetine (doctor mistake) Oxazepam -10 mg-2016-twice weekly for a couple months for sleep/ Zopiclone -3.75-7.5mg-2020-2022-once a week for sleep/Paroxetine -20 yr+/ Dec2018-May 2022 20 mg/ May 2022 30mg/2022.07.28-2022.08.24 30mg to 0mg/ Prozac-10mg August 24-29 2022/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.11.28-2022.12.04/10mg-Dec 5&6/22/ Prozac-10mg-Dec 8&9/22/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.12.07 to 2023.07.01

TAPER-Paroxetine-2023-Jul 2-4.9mg/ Jul 21-4.8mg/Jul 28-4.73mg/Aug 4-4.65mg /Sep 21-4.58 mg/Oct 27-4.56 mg/Dec 5-4.54 mg/2024-Jan 2-4.52 mg/Jan 9-4.51 mg/Jan 17-4.49 mg/Jan 26-4.47mg/Feb 6-4.46mg/Feb 19-4.44mg /Apr 4-4.43mg/Apr 28-4.4 mg/May 5-4.39 mg/May 19-4.36 mg/Jul 2-4.34 mg/Jul 9-4.32mg/Jul 31-4.3 mg/Oct 1-4.29mg/Nov 27-4.25 mg/Dec 5-4.22mg/2025-Jan 5-4.17mg/Feb 2-4.1mg/Mar 7-4.07mg/Apr 23-4.04mg/May 23-4mg/Jun 22-3.99mg/Jun 30-3.95mg/Jul 18-3.92mg/Sep 25-3.9mg/2026-Mar 25-3.85mg

9am-paroxetine, 200mg mag bisglycinate/75 mg DGL if needed for refux/150 mg calcium citrate/algae oil for omega 3/ginger 400 mg as needed for nausea

"... your strength will be in keeping calm..."-Isaiah 30:15

February 7Feb 7

11 hours ago, LostinCanada said:

hey @j1290….these manufacturers have so many violations…no surprise.

I just find I am getting too old to just bounce back….wd is bad enough without old age. 💯

I saw you commented this on RachelSusans intro:

I'm taking acid reduction meds right now which I don't love, but unfortunately they're necessary.

Have you ever tried DGL? Are you dealing with reflux and PPIs?

Interestingly, DGL is recommended when tapering PPIs. In case you are interested.

https://www.va.gov/wholehealthlibrary/tools/coming-off-a-proton-pump-inhibitor.asp

I didn’t think PPI’s needed tapering? Shit, that was one of the meds I CT’d straight away alongside my Sertraline… 😂

March 2017 - ADR to Prochlorperazine (Stemetil) treatment because of vertigo & vestibular dysfunction.
December 2017/January 2018 - started Sertraline (Zoloft) @ 25mg, then 50mg after 4 weeks.
March/April 2018 - went from 50 milligrams to 100mg, and stabilised.
2021 - experienced tachyphylaxis (poop out) and went from 100mg to 200 mg. Was neurotoxic for 7 months before going back to 100mg next day.
May 2023 - prescribed Agomelatine & Omeprazole to go alongside Sertraline.
October 2023 - cold turkey off Agomelatine and Omeprazole, and cut SSRI from 100-50mg, withdrawal began 4 days later.
December 2023 - was cross tapered from Sertraline and onto Venlafaxine XR @ 37.5mg increased to 75mg 4 weeks later.
July 2024 - tapered off Venlafaxine XR 75mg over 4 weeks to completely heal from protracted withdrawal, been drug free since this period.
December 2024 - had a brutal setback from antibiotic + antiviral use. Took 4-5 months to recover to my "normal" baseline.

February 7Feb 7

Author

3 hours ago, Jack said:

didn’t think PPI’s needed tapering?

When you stop quickly it can cause rebound reflux....do you have any issues with reflux/GERD still?

❤️🙏

I am not a medical professional. My comments are based on my personal experience and information on SA.

Paroxetine-2002 onward-20mg/ Citalopram-2007-20 mg-straight switch from paroxetine-back to paroxetine after a month/ Sertraline -25 mg-Dec 2016- given for a month instead of paroxetine (doctor mistake) Oxazepam -10 mg-2016-twice weekly for a couple months for sleep/ Zopiclone -3.75-7.5mg-2020-2022-once a week for sleep/Paroxetine -20 yr+/ Dec2018-May 2022 20 mg/ May 2022 30mg/2022.07.28-2022.08.24 30mg to 0mg/ Prozac-10mg August 24-29 2022/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.11.28-2022.12.04/10mg-Dec 5&6/22/ Prozac-10mg-Dec 8&9/22/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.12.07 to 2023.07.01

TAPER-Paroxetine-2023-Jul 2-4.9mg/ Jul 21-4.8mg/Jul 28-4.73mg/Aug 4-4.65mg /Sep 21-4.58 mg/Oct 27-4.56 mg/Dec 5-4.54 mg/2024-Jan 2-4.52 mg/Jan 9-4.51 mg/Jan 17-4.49 mg/Jan 26-4.47mg/Feb 6-4.46mg/Feb 19-4.44mg /Apr 4-4.43mg/Apr 28-4.4 mg/May 5-4.39 mg/May 19-4.36 mg/Jul 2-4.34 mg/Jul 9-4.32mg/Jul 31-4.3 mg/Oct 1-4.29mg/Nov 27-4.25 mg/Dec 5-4.22mg/2025-Jan 5-4.17mg/Feb 2-4.1mg/Mar 7-4.07mg/Apr 23-4.04mg/May 23-4mg/Jun 22-3.99mg/Jun 30-3.95mg/Jul 18-3.92mg/Sep 25-3.9mg/2026-Mar 25-3.85mg

9am-paroxetine, 200mg mag bisglycinate/75 mg DGL if needed for refux/150 mg calcium citrate/algae oil for omega 3/ginger 400 mg as needed for nausea

"... your strength will be in keeping calm..."-Isaiah 30:15

1

February 7Feb 7

On 2/5/2026 at 4:47 PM, LostinCanada said:

Thanks so much for the warm welcome.

You are so welcome ❤️

On 2/5/2026 at 4:47 PM, LostinCanada said:

I use DGL for the reflux...75 mg 2-3 times a day initially, now I rarely need it.

The bloating is helped alot by the heating pad, ginger and peppermint tea....but peppermint can cause a reflux reaction.

And I eat a lot of homemade chicken soup.

Also drinking a homemade hydration drink can help sometimes...2 cups water, 1/4 tsp salt, 1tbsp maple syrup.

This is really helpful, thank you so much. I’m glad the reflux is resolving for you now. A heat pad is a great idea and I’ll need to see if I can work maple syrup in to my diet, sadly it’s very expensive here in the UK if you want the real stuff!

On 2/5/2026 at 4:47 PM, LostinCanada said:

I get crazy itching and hives/welts. Also sometimes heart palpitations right after I eat. The low histamine really helps...I can sometimes eat 1/2 an avocado now but I have to be careful still.

Urgh hives are the worst, I’m very sorry to read you have the hives and itching too. I think it is sometimes a sign destabilised CNS as I had it on and off before ADs and it was trauma/stress induced. I do think that WD activates the same stress response as well. Glad the low histamine is working well for you but that you can work avocado in.

On 2/5/2026 at 4:47 PM, LostinCanada said:

Same to you...I hope some of that helps. ❤️🙏

Thank you, it does, just nice to know we aren’t alone in this and that despite it being a very lonely journey in real life, there are so many who understand us out there, all the best to you LIC ❤️

2011 - Metoclopramide for pregnancy sickness

2016 - 2017 - Citalopram - doctors “taper” I.e. CT - no effects

2016 - 2025 -various meds, antihistamines 2016-19, PPI 2021-2022, Xonvea for pregnancy sickness 2023-2024, 2016-2023 daily Imodium.

2025 -

March 2025 - adverse reaction to iron infusion.

April 2025 - daily fexofenadine (Allegra).

July 2025 - Citalopram- 10mg 3 tablets taken at night, on the 3rd morning I took Quercetin 500mg supplement and had a terrible reaction possibly “moderate” Serotonin Syndrome. CT from Citalopram.

2025 - July - October acute “withdrawal” or CNS damage from citalopram mirroring CT withdrawal

November - December - improving lots, Windows and waves ☀️

Needing advice on future pregnancies/medication/food sensitivity in my thread!

1

February 7Feb 7

10 hours ago, Jack said:

I didn’t think PPI’s needed tapering? Shit, that was one of the meds I CT’d straight away alongside my Sertraline… 😂

I can concur! I had to work mine down some years ago.

2011 - Metoclopramide for pregnancy sickness

2016 - 2017 - Citalopram - doctors “taper” I.e. CT - no effects

2016 - 2025 -various meds, antihistamines 2016-19, PPI 2021-2022, Xonvea for pregnancy sickness 2023-2024, 2016-2023 daily Imodium.

2025 -

March 2025 - adverse reaction to iron infusion.

April 2025 - daily fexofenadine (Allegra).

July 2025 - Citalopram- 10mg 3 tablets taken at night, on the 3rd morning I took Quercetin 500mg supplement and had a terrible reaction possibly “moderate” Serotonin Syndrome. CT from Citalopram.

2025 - July - October acute “withdrawal” or CNS damage from citalopram mirroring CT withdrawal

November - December - improving lots, Windows and waves ☀️

Needing advice on future pregnancies/medication/food sensitivity in my thread!

February 8Feb 8

On 2/7/2026 at 10:33 AM, LostinCanada said:

I just find I am getting too old to just bounce back….wd is bad enough without old age. 💯

Hi @LostinCanada,

I remember your great posts from SA and read many of them in my dark nights of the soul time. I shared most of your symptoms when I was in CT 3 years ago. Like you I reinstated by way too high (no knowledge back then). I wasn't interacting much on SA as I was too unwell to use the computer/phone much, let alone comment and join in.

Glad you have come over the to this lovely forum and we can all journey on together. I hope you are settling a bit with the drug batch. I have never thought to check that.

I can so related to your getting too old to bounce back, that is big concern for me and just so wish I had started this 10 years or more ago. I feel like tapering is ageing me faster.

One foot in front of the other I guess 💛

Aug 2006 - Sertraline 25/50/75/100mg TO June 2019 - Reduced from 100mg to 50mg over a few months

Sept 2019 - Reduced from 50mg to 25mg lasted a week, then went back up to 50mg, after a few weeks back up to 100mg.

Oct 2021 - Reduced to 75mg, Dec 2021 (mid) reduced to 50mg , March 2022 - Reduced to 25mg

Oct 2022 - Reduce to 0mg (Immediate withdrawal crying, mood unstable, impending doom, digestive probs, tingling,numbness,burning, brain zaps, insomnia)

Feb 2023 - "Panic attack" lasting 14 hours, 2 weeks later start back on 25mg sertraline, 12 hours later severe 'panic attack' with chest pain, tachycardia, restlessness, hyponatraemia, impending doom, racing thoughts, akathisia mild. Taken to emergency.

March 2023 back up to 50mg (on medical advice), April 75mg, May 100mg. Back to 75mg within a few weeks due to feeling too stimulated and anxious.

Nov 2023 resume taper. 70, 65, 60, 55, 50 (March 2024)

April 45mg, May 41mg, June 37mg, July 34mg Aug 31mg, Sept 28mg, Oct 26mg, Nov 25mg, HOLD

Jan 1st 2025 24mg, Jan 12th 23.5mg, Jan 20th 23mg, Feb 20th 22mg, March 20th 21mg, April 14th 18.9mg, May 5th 17mg, May 28th 15.3mg, July 16th 13.7mg, Aug 26th 12.3mg, Sept 16th 10.5 mg, Sept 22, 10mg, Oct 7th 8.3mg, Nov 4th 8mg, Dec 1st 7.7mg, Dec 26th 7mg 2026 Updose to 7.2mg Mar 20th, Back to 7mg Mar 21. Currently holding

Other supplements: Fish oil, Mg citrate/glycinate 150-300mg per day, Ginkgo biloba daily, womens multi vit/min 3 times week, Vitamin C 1000mg night, valerian/passiflora as needed. B12 as needed. Bone support for osteopaenia (Ca/Mg, K, D)

1

February 8Feb 8

Author

@Tracey thanks for the welcome….sorry we are here but super thankful we have a safe place to land.

16 minutes ago, Tracey said:

hope you are settling a bit with the drug batch.

I was on that batch 6 months so I think it will take some time to settle but things are better than last week. 👍

18 minutes ago, Tracey said:

related to your getting too old to bounce back, that is big concern for me and just so wish I had started this 10 years or more ago. I feel like tapering is ageing me faster.

Thankfully you are 8 years younger than me…..I feel more like 80 than 65….it’s brutal.

Looks like your taper is going really well. Good for you. One day at a time. ❤️🙏

I am not a medical professional. My comments are based on my personal experience and information on SA.

Paroxetine-2002 onward-20mg/ Citalopram-2007-20 mg-straight switch from paroxetine-back to paroxetine after a month/ Sertraline -25 mg-Dec 2016- given for a month instead of paroxetine (doctor mistake) Oxazepam -10 mg-2016-twice weekly for a couple months for sleep/ Zopiclone -3.75-7.5mg-2020-2022-once a week for sleep/Paroxetine -20 yr+/ Dec2018-May 2022 20 mg/ May 2022 30mg/2022.07.28-2022.08.24 30mg to 0mg/ Prozac-10mg August 24-29 2022/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.11.28-2022.12.04/10mg-Dec 5&6/22/ Prozac-10mg-Dec 8&9/22/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.12.07 to 2023.07.01

TAPER-Paroxetine-2023-Jul 2-4.9mg/ Jul 21-4.8mg/Jul 28-4.73mg/Aug 4-4.65mg /Sep 21-4.58 mg/Oct 27-4.56 mg/Dec 5-4.54 mg/2024-Jan 2-4.52 mg/Jan 9-4.51 mg/Jan 17-4.49 mg/Jan 26-4.47mg/Feb 6-4.46mg/Feb 19-4.44mg /Apr 4-4.43mg/Apr 28-4.4 mg/May 5-4.39 mg/May 19-4.36 mg/Jul 2-4.34 mg/Jul 9-4.32mg/Jul 31-4.3 mg/Oct 1-4.29mg/Nov 27-4.25 mg/Dec 5-4.22mg/2025-Jan 5-4.17mg/Feb 2-4.1mg/Mar 7-4.07mg/Apr 23-4.04mg/May 23-4mg/Jun 22-3.99mg/Jun 30-3.95mg/Jul 18-3.92mg/Sep 25-3.9mg/2026-Mar 25-3.85mg

9am-paroxetine, 200mg mag bisglycinate/75 mg DGL if needed for refux/150 mg calcium citrate/algae oil for omega 3/ginger 400 mg as needed for nausea

"... your strength will be in keeping calm..."-Isaiah 30:15

February 8Feb 8

Thanks @LostinCanada,

Not great the past 5 weeks and quite a big shock, but I am prepared to wait it out now and it will take longer than i had hoped.

Oh gee yes 8 years would make huge difference, I reckon I still have 2-3 years left of tapering given my set back. We need a over 55's section on here maybe ?

Really hopeful that your change of batch will make a big difference. xx

Aug 2006 - Sertraline 25/50/75/100mg TO June 2019 - Reduced from 100mg to 50mg over a few months

Sept 2019 - Reduced from 50mg to 25mg lasted a week, then went back up to 50mg, after a few weeks back up to 100mg.

Oct 2021 - Reduced to 75mg, Dec 2021 (mid) reduced to 50mg , March 2022 - Reduced to 25mg

Oct 2022 - Reduce to 0mg (Immediate withdrawal crying, mood unstable, impending doom, digestive probs, tingling,numbness,burning, brain zaps, insomnia)

Feb 2023 - "Panic attack" lasting 14 hours, 2 weeks later start back on 25mg sertraline, 12 hours later severe 'panic attack' with chest pain, tachycardia, restlessness, hyponatraemia, impending doom, racing thoughts, akathisia mild. Taken to emergency.

March 2023 back up to 50mg (on medical advice), April 75mg, May 100mg. Back to 75mg within a few weeks due to feeling too stimulated and anxious.

Nov 2023 resume taper. 70, 65, 60, 55, 50 (March 2024)

April 45mg, May 41mg, June 37mg, July 34mg Aug 31mg, Sept 28mg, Oct 26mg, Nov 25mg, HOLD

Jan 1st 2025 24mg, Jan 12th 23.5mg, Jan 20th 23mg, Feb 20th 22mg, March 20th 21mg, April 14th 18.9mg, May 5th 17mg, May 28th 15.3mg, July 16th 13.7mg, Aug 26th 12.3mg, Sept 16th 10.5 mg, Sept 22, 10mg, Oct 7th 8.3mg, Nov 4th 8mg, Dec 1st 7.7mg, Dec 26th 7mg 2026 Updose to 7.2mg Mar 20th, Back to 7mg Mar 21. Currently holding

Other supplements: Fish oil, Mg citrate/glycinate 150-300mg per day, Ginkgo biloba daily, womens multi vit/min 3 times week, Vitamin C 1000mg night, valerian/passiflora as needed. B12 as needed. Bone support for osteopaenia (Ca/Mg, K, D)

1

February 10Feb 10

Hi @LostinCanada

thank you so much for the info yesterday it’s greatly appreciated.

i was going through your thread on SA and see you had anhedonia I was just wanting to know if this cleared up for you?

I hope your taper is going well.

kind regards

Mirtazapine for 3 weeks august 2025 15mg made me numb didn’t know why took an overdose of 10x 15mg tablets.

reinstated at 11 weeks due to symptoms and inpatient stay.

currently on 3.75mg mirtazapine

symptoms/ anhedonia, slightly blurred vision, tinnitus, toxic naps

depression, anxiety, pins and needles

February 10Feb 10

Author

22 minutes ago, Richie said:

anhedonia

I still have it but yes it has lessened. It is a weird one because somethings that don't deserve a huge reaction can put me in tears and other things that should cut me to the heart don't. I feel like my heart is absolutely detached at those times....no emotion and just an analytical response.

I still struggle with joy, happiness but at least I can smile and laugh now.

❤️🙏

I am not a medical professional. My comments are based on my personal experience and information on SA.

Paroxetine-2002 onward-20mg/ Citalopram-2007-20 mg-straight switch from paroxetine-back to paroxetine after a month/ Sertraline -25 mg-Dec 2016- given for a month instead of paroxetine (doctor mistake) Oxazepam -10 mg-2016-twice weekly for a couple months for sleep/ Zopiclone -3.75-7.5mg-2020-2022-once a week for sleep/Paroxetine -20 yr+/ Dec2018-May 2022 20 mg/ May 2022 30mg/2022.07.28-2022.08.24 30mg to 0mg/ Prozac-10mg August 24-29 2022/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.11.28-2022.12.04/10mg-Dec 5&6/22/ Prozac-10mg-Dec 8&9/22/Paroxetine -5mg-2022.12.07 to 2023.07.01

TAPER-Paroxetine-2023-Jul 2-4.9mg/ Jul 21-4.8mg/Jul 28-4.73mg/Aug 4-4.65mg /Sep 21-4.58 mg/Oct 27-4.56 mg/Dec 5-4.54 mg/2024-Jan 2-4.52 mg/Jan 9-4.51 mg/Jan 17-4.49 mg/Jan 26-4.47mg/Feb 6-4.46mg/Feb 19-4.44mg /Apr 4-4.43mg/Apr 28-4.4 mg/May 5-4.39 mg/May 19-4.36 mg/Jul 2-4.34 mg/Jul 9-4.32mg/Jul 31-4.3 mg/Oct 1-4.29mg/Nov 27-4.25 mg/Dec 5-4.22mg/2025-Jan 5-4.17mg/Feb 2-4.1mg/Mar 7-4.07mg/Apr 23-4.04mg/May 23-4mg/Jun 22-3.99mg/Jun 30-3.95mg/Jul 18-3.92mg/Sep 25-3.9mg/2026-Mar 25-3.85mg

9am-paroxetine, 200mg mag bisglycinate/75 mg DGL if needed for refux/150 mg calcium citrate/algae oil for omega 3/ginger 400 mg as needed for nausea

"... your strength will be in keeping calm..."-Isaiah 30:15

2

LostinCanada: Tapering Paroxetine -welcome to my nightmare

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