Catbird: Dealing with Polypharmacy

March 30Mar 30

7 minutes ago, Catbird said:

Thanks @Chippy the thing I’m worried about Amitriptyline is it’s not just the one drug I’m going to be tapering, it’s 2: Amitriptyline’s active metabolite is Nortriptyline and they both have different half lives. If I put in holds in the schedule the Nortriptyline can cause WD symptoms some time later due to its longer half life. Well that’s my understanding anyway. Maybe I’m overthinking it, and I don’t want to go off half cocked either.

Ive just looked it up and you are right. From what I can see its best to see it as one drug but with a tapered half life, so to speak.

In this case I think holds become more important to allow things to catch up. Perhaps in the start hold for longer after your first week or two just to be safe before assuming all is ok. Be vigilant looking for issues, and if there are problems consider updosing a bit further than you might otherwise to nip it in the bud first.

Also on this basis perhaps choose a longer slower timeframe like 5% to be safe.

There are so many ways to play it. If you were not worried about how long it take to get it down to 10mg, you could pause for a month between each set of reductions to cover youself. Just takes so much longer thats all.

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.

March 30Mar 30

Hi @Catbird,

You're right and sharp to note that Amitriptyline has an active metabolite in Nortriptyline, so it makes perfect sense to wonder about that.

But from what I’ve learned, it more typically behaves like one drug with a slightly longer “tail”, so to speak, rather than two separate drugs causing withdrawal at different times. The body tends to reach a balance between the two (steady state), so when you taper, both levels come down at the same time rather than one suddenly dropping later.

Chippy’s suggestion to go a bit slower and use holds makes sense, especially early on while you see how you respond. That's a sound, general approach and not necessarily any different with Amitryptiline in particular. I really don't see a need for you to plan around delayed withdrawal from the metabolite specifically, just watch your symptoms and adjust as needed.

By the way, the med I tapered off, Effexor, is similar in this way to Amitryptiline, where it has a metabolite (desvenlafaxine, which is essentially Pristiq) with a longer half-life. But just like your med, it's best thought of as a single drug while tapering. Prozac has a metabolite, too, with a long half-life, which can smooth out a taper.

You’re not overthinking it, just being careful 👍

Hi all,

I've been on various psych drugs in my lifetime but currently only taking two. I'm on a very low dose of escitalopram as well as 3.7 mg of mirtazapine which has helped me a bunch. I'm slowly tapering down the SSRI with the goal of discontinuing it sometime this year. Well, I guess that's enough about me for now. Hope smooth tapering for everyone!

Current Meds: 8/25 - Escitalopram 2 mg (from 5 mg)

1/26 - Mirtazapine 3.7 mg

Past Meds: 11/2015 - 5/2022 Escitalopram 10 mg (switched to venlafaxine)

5/2022 - 8/2025 Venlafaxine 150 mg

5/2022 - 5/2024 Mirtazapine 7.5 mg

12/2019 - 9/2024 Abilify 10 mg

2
1

March 30Mar 30

Hey @Catbird , I am pleased to hear that you can begin to plan the taper of the amitriptyline now. I took It for a short time and it had terrible side effects. I really think that it will benefit your well-being to reduce this drug! I am sure you will be very sensible and careful.
wishing you all the best!

SA Thread: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/33406-nemina-tapering-escitalopram/

AR Thread: https://antidepressantrecovery.org/topic/14-nemina-tapering-escilatopram-and-zolpidem/

Drug History

2013 - 2025: Zolpidem 5 mg

2015 - Oct 2024: Venlafaxine, Sertralin (Zoloft), Paroxetin (Paxil),duloxtin (cymbalta), Citalopram (Celexa), Escitalopram (Lexapro) and more

Current Drugs

L-Thyroxin 75, Estrogen, Progesteron 200

Tapering Escitalopram

Sept 2024: Setralin/zoloft 75 mg

Oct 2024: Switch to Escitalopram / Lexapro 2mg

Then I tapered over a year from 2mg to 0,32 mg (October 2025). 108 days hold without stabilizing. Resumed taper February 2026:

11 Feb 2026 0.314mg

18 Feb 2026 0.307mg

21 Feb 2026 0.302mg

09 Mar 2026 0.297mg

18 April 2026 0,293 mg

18 May 2026 0,285 mg

Tapering Zolpidem: From 5 mg to 0,7 mg in 12 months, then just crumbs for several weeks, now 0! (Jan 2025)

Other Supplements

Omega 3, Magnesium Glycinate, Vit D, Calcium, L-theanin.

March 30Mar 30

Author

7 hours ago, Gaucho said:

Hi @Catbird,

You're right and sharp to note that Amitriptyline has an active metabolite in Nortriptyline, so it makes perfect sense to wonder about that.

But from what I’ve learned, it more typically behaves like one drug with a slightly longer “tail”, so to speak, rather than two separate drugs causing withdrawal at different times. The body tends to reach a balance between the two (steady state), so when you taper, both levels come down at the same time rather than one suddenly dropping later.

Chippy’s suggestion to go a bit slower and use holds makes sense, especially early on while you see how you respond. That's a sound, general approach and not necessarily any different with Amitryptiline in particular. I really don't see a need for you to plan around delayed withdrawal from the metabolite specifically, just watch your symptoms and adjust as needed.

By the way, the med I tapered off, Effexor, is similar in this way to Amitryptiline, where it has a metabolite (desvenlafaxine, which is essentially Pristiq) with a longer half-life. But just like your med, it's best thought of as a single drug while tapering. Prozac has a metabolite, too, with a long half-life, which can smooth out a taper.

You’re not overthinking it, just being careful 👍

Thanks @Gaucho

Link to SA Profile: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32414-catbird-introduction-a-long-and-winding-road/

1996 Commenced on Sertraline 50 - 100mg. Many ADs trialled -Fluoxetine 20 mg, Paroxetine 20mg, Venlafaxine 75mg, Escitalopram 10 - 20mg, Vortioxetine 20mg, Bupropion 150mg. 2019 Recommenced Escitalopram 2022 Mirtazapine 30mg - Rapid taper. Amitriptyline 20mg

CURRENT MEDICATIONS: Escitalopram taper from ~ 10mg commenced 2024, Amitriptyline 20mg at night, Diazepam 7.5mg total per day, Baclofen 10mg morning, 10mg lunch and 20mg night, Polaramine 2mg at night, Ketamine troche 25mg per day (Ceased early September 2025), Valsartan 160mg evening, HRT (Oestrogen 25mcg/day)

ESCITALOPRAM TAPER: 5 April 2025 - started holding at 1.516mg. Escitalopram taper resumed July 2025; End Aug 1.364; End Sept 1.228; End Oct 1.145; End Nov 1.1 Early Dec 1.11; End Dec 1.082; 2026 End Jan 1.047; Feb 6 1.030; Feb 20 1.014; April 10 1.012; May 3 1.014;

Supplements: Mg++ glycinate, Omega 3s, Curcumin. Vit D3/K2 spray, Vitamin B12 spray, chelated zinc.

March 30Mar 30

Author

25 minutes ago, Nemina said:

Hey @Catbird , I am pleased to hear that you can begin to plan the taper of the amitriptyline now. I took It for a short time and it had terrible side effects. I really think that it will benefit your well-being to reduce this drug! I am sure you will be very sensible and careful.
wishing you all the best!

Thanks @Nemina

Link to SA Profile: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32414-catbird-introduction-a-long-and-winding-road/

1996 Commenced on Sertraline 50 - 100mg. Many ADs trialled -Fluoxetine 20 mg, Paroxetine 20mg, Venlafaxine 75mg, Escitalopram 10 - 20mg, Vortioxetine 20mg, Bupropion 150mg. 2019 Recommenced Escitalopram 2022 Mirtazapine 30mg - Rapid taper. Amitriptyline 20mg

CURRENT MEDICATIONS: Escitalopram taper from ~ 10mg commenced 2024, Amitriptyline 20mg at night, Diazepam 7.5mg total per day, Baclofen 10mg morning, 10mg lunch and 20mg night, Polaramine 2mg at night, Ketamine troche 25mg per day (Ceased early September 2025), Valsartan 160mg evening, HRT (Oestrogen 25mcg/day)

ESCITALOPRAM TAPER: 5 April 2025 - started holding at 1.516mg. Escitalopram taper resumed July 2025; End Aug 1.364; End Sept 1.228; End Oct 1.145; End Nov 1.1 Early Dec 1.11; End Dec 1.082; 2026 End Jan 1.047; Feb 6 1.030; Feb 20 1.014; April 10 1.012; May 3 1.014;

Supplements: Mg++ glycinate, Omega 3s, Curcumin. Vit D3/K2 spray, Vitamin B12 spray, chelated zinc.

March 31Mar 31

Hello @Catbird,

Pleased to hear you have reached some stability after a 6 week hold. Well done!

Wishing you well for your next part of this arduous process.

Take care my friend xxx

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 7.6mg 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)

March 31Mar 31

Author

57 minutes ago, Tracey said:

Hello @Catbird,

Pleased to hear you have reached some stability after a 6 week hold. Well done!

Wishing you well for your next part of this arduous process.

Take care my friend xxx

Thanks @Tracey I've been thinking about you a lot. How are you feeling today? You've been through so much these last few weeks.💕

Link to SA Profile: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32414-catbird-introduction-a-long-and-winding-road/

1996 Commenced on Sertraline 50 - 100mg. Many ADs trialled -Fluoxetine 20 mg, Paroxetine 20mg, Venlafaxine 75mg, Escitalopram 10 - 20mg, Vortioxetine 20mg, Bupropion 150mg. 2019 Recommenced Escitalopram 2022 Mirtazapine 30mg - Rapid taper. Amitriptyline 20mg

CURRENT MEDICATIONS: Escitalopram taper from ~ 10mg commenced 2024, Amitriptyline 20mg at night, Diazepam 7.5mg total per day, Baclofen 10mg morning, 10mg lunch and 20mg night, Polaramine 2mg at night, Ketamine troche 25mg per day (Ceased early September 2025), Valsartan 160mg evening, HRT (Oestrogen 25mcg/day)

ESCITALOPRAM TAPER: 5 April 2025 - started holding at 1.516mg. Escitalopram taper resumed July 2025; End Aug 1.364; End Sept 1.228; End Oct 1.145; End Nov 1.1 Early Dec 1.11; End Dec 1.082; 2026 End Jan 1.047; Feb 6 1.030; Feb 20 1.014; April 10 1.012; May 3 1.014;

Supplements: Mg++ glycinate, Omega 3s, Curcumin. Vit D3/K2 spray, Vitamin B12 spray, chelated zinc.

1

March 31Mar 31

1 hour ago, Catbird said:

Thanks @Tracey I've been thinking about you a lot. How are you feeling today? You've been through so much these last few weeks.💕

Having a bad wave now, started about 10.30 and still going. Hope it eases by mid to late afternoon. Very hard 😢.Thanks for asking.

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 7.6mg 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)

March 31Mar 31

21 hours ago, Catbird said:

I think I've finally reached a level of stability after my last decrease of 16mcg Escitalopram almost 6 weeks ago. I was trying to reach 1mg around the end of last year but my CNS is way too sensitised at present. When I resume the Escitalopram taper I estimate it will take at least another 2 years of tapering. I am going to hold now for 4 weeks.

I want and need to decrease Amitriptyline 20mg to at least 10mg because of side effects because of awful side effects. I'm scared of how this will play out given the degree of CNS sensitivity. I would really appreciate anyone who has had experience in similar situations to share their experiences +/- advice. Thinking you might have some pointers @Chippy.

Very pleased that you found stability @Catbird a great sign and as for Amitriptyline, you seem to have a clue there (which I have zero) but you are very attentive to your body so I am sure you will reach the decision that suits you best.

Good luck with the tapering when it comes!

Keep coping so well 🙏

Edited March 31Mar 31 by Fullhealing

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 20% 0.0358g (2mg)

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 anxiety and sleep that seems to continue to improve.

March 31Mar 31

Author

2 hours ago, Fullhealing said:

Very pleased that you found stability @Catbird a great sign and as for Amitriptyline, you seem to have a clue there (which I have zero) but you are very attentive to your body so I am sure you will reach the decision that suits you best.

Good luck with the tapering when it comes!

Keep coping so well 🙏

thanks for the vote of confidence @Fullhealing just wish I felt confident 🤷🏼‍♀️

Link to SA Profile: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32414-catbird-introduction-a-long-and-winding-road/

1996 Commenced on Sertraline 50 - 100mg. Many ADs trialled -Fluoxetine 20 mg, Paroxetine 20mg, Venlafaxine 75mg, Escitalopram 10 - 20mg, Vortioxetine 20mg, Bupropion 150mg. 2019 Recommenced Escitalopram 2022 Mirtazapine 30mg - Rapid taper. Amitriptyline 20mg

CURRENT MEDICATIONS: Escitalopram taper from ~ 10mg commenced 2024, Amitriptyline 20mg at night, Diazepam 7.5mg total per day, Baclofen 10mg morning, 10mg lunch and 20mg night, Polaramine 2mg at night, Ketamine troche 25mg per day (Ceased early September 2025), Valsartan 160mg evening, HRT (Oestrogen 25mcg/day)

ESCITALOPRAM TAPER: 5 April 2025 - started holding at 1.516mg. Escitalopram taper resumed July 2025; End Aug 1.364; End Sept 1.228; End Oct 1.145; End Nov 1.1 Early Dec 1.11; End Dec 1.082; 2026 End Jan 1.047; Feb 6 1.030; Feb 20 1.014; April 10 1.012; May 3 1.014;

Supplements: Mg++ glycinate, Omega 3s, Curcumin. Vit D3/K2 spray, Vitamin B12 spray, chelated zinc.

April 4Apr 4

Hi @Catbird

I would give myself a couple of weeks after I stabilized before considering starting tabering another med.

At that point I am, where I hardly can wait to get started.
I see, that you have awful side-effects. So I fully understand, why you want to get your dose lower.
Be sure you have been stable long enough. Just my humble experience.

I went an extremely little amount down the first time I lowered the dosis. Just to test the water. And it went well. I hardly noticed anything. Then on hold before next step. Then again a small amount. It went well as well. Now I’ll hold until May and see, how it goes.
I hope, it is possible for you too to take very small steps and see, how it goes.

We are all different, and on different mixed meds too.
But I know by hard earned experience, that the fastest way down is going slow.

Many good thoughts is coming your way. We are in this together. 🙏💕💕

My Intro Topic on AR;

1997 - 2020 - Effexor XR and BusPar

2017 - Current - Lamotrigine 100 mg (x2 Daily) 8am+6pm

Oxapax

History archived - Chippy 01 March 2026

21 Jan 2026 – 7,5mgx3=22.5 mg (+9.2%) 8am+4pm+10pm

13 Marts 6,9+7,5+7,5=21.9mg

26 Marts 6,9+6,9+7,5=21,3mg

01 May 6,75x2+7,5=21mg 1,4%

25 May 6,75x2+7mg=20,5mg 2,3%

Lyrica

History archived - Chippy 01 March 2026

28 July 2025 – current 28,2x= 56.4 mg (-0.70%) 8am+6pm

Sertraline

08 Nov 2020 – 75mg 10pm

04 Nov 2025 – 100mg 10pm

08 Dec 2025 – 95mg 10pm

05 Jan 2026 – 91mg 10pm

11 Mar - 90,8mg 10pm

15 Mar - 90mg 10pm

24Apr - 89,88mg 10pm (-0,12mg/day)

03May - 88,8mg

23June - 88mg On hold

April 4Apr 4

Author

7 hours ago, Haa said:

Hi @Catbird

I would give myself a couple of weeks after I stabilized before considering starting tabering another med.

At that point I am, where I hardly can wait to get started.
I see, that you have awful side-effects. So I fully understand, why you want to get your dose lower.
Be sure you have been stable long enough. Just my humble experience.

I went an extremely little amount down the first time I lowered the dosis. Just to test the water. And it went well. I hardly noticed anything. Then on hold before next step. Then again a small amount. It went well as well. Now I’ll hold until May and see, how it goes.
I hope, it is possible for you too to take very small steps and see, how it goes.

We are all different, and on different mixed meds too.
But I know by hard earned experience, that the fastest way down is going slow.

Many good thoughts is coming your way. We are in this together. 🙏💕💕

Thanks @Haa looks like you’ve been going super slow with the Sertraline. You and I have both been on psychiatric meds sine the mid 1990s. What a drag. I’m also feeling a bit weighed down by the benzodiazepines, but I really need to minimise the Amitriptyline side effects 🤗💕

Link to SA Profile: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32414-catbird-introduction-a-long-and-winding-road/

1996 Commenced on Sertraline 50 - 100mg. Many ADs trialled -Fluoxetine 20 mg, Paroxetine 20mg, Venlafaxine 75mg, Escitalopram 10 - 20mg, Vortioxetine 20mg, Bupropion 150mg. 2019 Recommenced Escitalopram 2022 Mirtazapine 30mg - Rapid taper. Amitriptyline 20mg

CURRENT MEDICATIONS: Escitalopram taper from ~ 10mg commenced 2024, Amitriptyline 20mg at night, Diazepam 7.5mg total per day, Baclofen 10mg morning, 10mg lunch and 20mg night, Polaramine 2mg at night, Ketamine troche 25mg per day (Ceased early September 2025), Valsartan 160mg evening, HRT (Oestrogen 25mcg/day)

ESCITALOPRAM TAPER: 5 April 2025 - started holding at 1.516mg. Escitalopram taper resumed July 2025; End Aug 1.364; End Sept 1.228; End Oct 1.145; End Nov 1.1 Early Dec 1.11; End Dec 1.082; 2026 End Jan 1.047; Feb 6 1.030; Feb 20 1.014; April 10 1.012; May 3 1.014;

Supplements: Mg++ glycinate, Omega 3s, Curcumin. Vit D3/K2 spray, Vitamin B12 spray, chelated zinc.

1

April 6Apr 6

Hey @Catbird, I just saw over at Tracy’s thread that you are struggling. I really hope that you will stabilize soon! Thinking of you and sending you prayers and loving thoughts.

SA Thread: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/33406-nemina-tapering-escitalopram/

AR Thread: https://antidepressantrecovery.org/topic/14-nemina-tapering-escilatopram-and-zolpidem/

Drug History

2013 - 2025: Zolpidem 5 mg

2015 - Oct 2024: Venlafaxine, Sertralin (Zoloft), Paroxetin (Paxil),duloxtin (cymbalta), Citalopram (Celexa), Escitalopram (Lexapro) and more

Current Drugs

L-Thyroxin 75, Estrogen, Progesteron 200

Tapering Escitalopram

Sept 2024: Setralin/zoloft 75 mg

Oct 2024: Switch to Escitalopram / Lexapro 2mg

Then I tapered over a year from 2mg to 0,32 mg (October 2025). 108 days hold without stabilizing. Resumed taper February 2026:

11 Feb 2026 0.314mg

18 Feb 2026 0.307mg

21 Feb 2026 0.302mg

09 Mar 2026 0.297mg

18 April 2026 0,293 mg

18 May 2026 0,285 mg

Tapering Zolpidem: From 5 mg to 0,7 mg in 12 months, then just crumbs for several weeks, now 0! (Jan 2025)

Other Supplements

Omega 3, Magnesium Glycinate, Vit D, Calcium, L-theanin.

1

April 19Apr 19

Author

There's a series of podcasts on the Metabolic Mind website about tapering psychiatric medications

Link to SA Profile: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32414-catbird-introduction-a-long-and-winding-road/

1996 Commenced on Sertraline 50 - 100mg. Many ADs trialled -Fluoxetine 20 mg, Paroxetine 20mg, Venlafaxine 75mg, Escitalopram 10 - 20mg, Vortioxetine 20mg, Bupropion 150mg. 2019 Recommenced Escitalopram 2022 Mirtazapine 30mg - Rapid taper. Amitriptyline 20mg

CURRENT MEDICATIONS: Escitalopram taper from ~ 10mg commenced 2024, Amitriptyline 20mg at night, Diazepam 7.5mg total per day, Baclofen 10mg morning, 10mg lunch and 20mg night, Polaramine 2mg at night, Ketamine troche 25mg per day (Ceased early September 2025), Valsartan 160mg evening, HRT (Oestrogen 25mcg/day)

ESCITALOPRAM TAPER: 5 April 2025 - started holding at 1.516mg. Escitalopram taper resumed July 2025; End Aug 1.364; End Sept 1.228; End Oct 1.145; End Nov 1.1 Early Dec 1.11; End Dec 1.082; 2026 End Jan 1.047; Feb 6 1.030; Feb 20 1.014; April 10 1.012; May 3 1.014;

Supplements: Mg++ glycinate, Omega 3s, Curcumin. Vit D3/K2 spray, Vitamin B12 spray, chelated zinc.

April 28Apr 28

Author

I came across this video which I found very informative

How nutrition affects brain health

Link to SA Profile: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32414-catbird-introduction-a-long-and-winding-road/

1996 Commenced on Sertraline 50 - 100mg. Many ADs trialled -Fluoxetine 20 mg, Paroxetine 20mg, Venlafaxine 75mg, Escitalopram 10 - 20mg, Vortioxetine 20mg, Bupropion 150mg. 2019 Recommenced Escitalopram 2022 Mirtazapine 30mg - Rapid taper. Amitriptyline 20mg

CURRENT MEDICATIONS: Escitalopram taper from ~ 10mg commenced 2024, Amitriptyline 20mg at night, Diazepam 7.5mg total per day, Baclofen 10mg morning, 10mg lunch and 20mg night, Polaramine 2mg at night, Ketamine troche 25mg per day (Ceased early September 2025), Valsartan 160mg evening, HRT (Oestrogen 25mcg/day)

ESCITALOPRAM TAPER: 5 April 2025 - started holding at 1.516mg. Escitalopram taper resumed July 2025; End Aug 1.364; End Sept 1.228; End Oct 1.145; End Nov 1.1 Early Dec 1.11; End Dec 1.082; 2026 End Jan 1.047; Feb 6 1.030; Feb 20 1.014; April 10 1.012; May 3 1.014;

Supplements: Mg++ glycinate, Omega 3s, Curcumin. Vit D3/K2 spray, Vitamin B12 spray, chelated zinc.

April 28Apr 28

@Catbird Thanks for the video. I watched it and thought it was good.

I know how difficult it is tapering when you've been on the meds long term, I'm glad you are taking it slowly. I hope you see improvement soon.

I am not a health professional in any way, and I do not give medical advice. These are only my opinions. Any decisions about your medical care should be discussed with a qualified medical professional.

If you would like to reach me, please post on my thread and tag @rachelsusan, or post on your thread and tag in the same way, so I will see it. 😀😀😀

HISTORY FOR GABAPENTIN TAPER

April 18, 2026: 200 mg to 195 mg (2.5% reduction), May 18, 2026: 195 mg to 187.5 mg (3.85% reduction), June 28, 2026: 187.5 mg to 185 mg (1.33% reduction)

HISTORY FOR ZOLOFT TAPER

Feb. 2016 to June 2016 - Was on 150mg Zoloft.

Quit Zoloft (Sertraline) June 2016, reinstated 50mg of Zoloft July 2016. From July 2016 to October 2016 went from 50 mg down 2.3 mg. I up-dosed in November 2016 to 12.5 mg. Held there until January 2017 when I started a much slower taper.

STARTING SENSIBLE ZOLOFT TAPERING USING GUIDELINES FROM ANOTHER SITE - WHICH WAS VERY HELPFUL

Dec. 10 2016 - switched to Liquid Zoloft (Sertraline) @ 12.5 mg. Jan. 4, 2020 1.875 mg (6.3%). Jan. 25, 2020 1.75 mg. Feb. 29, 2020 1.625mg (7.10%). Apr. 4, 2020 1.5 mg. May 9, 2020 1.375 mg. June 6, 2020 1.25 mg. (9.10%). July 4, 2020 1.125 mg. (10%). August 15, 2020 1.0 mg. Oct 24, 2020 .875 mg. Nov. 28, 2020 .75mg. Jan 16, 2021 .685mg (8.7%). Feb 13, 2021 .62mg. March 12, 2021 .56mg. May 1, 2021 .375mg. May 29, 2021 .25mg. June 26, 2021 .125mg. July 25, 2021 .065mg. August 22, 2021 .048mg. October 2, 2021 .043mg. October 10, 2021 .038mg. October 23, 2021 .035mg. October 30, 2021 .032mg. Nov. 13, 2021 .030 mg. Dec 4, 2021 .0285 mg. Dec 11, 2021 .0265 mg. Dec 18, 2021 .0246 mg. Dec 25, 2021 .023mg. Jan 1, 2022. 0 mg. OFF COMPLETELY

My thread at SA - https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/12649-☼-rachelsusan-zoloft-on-off-and-reinstated/page/28/

Started my Gabapentin reduction. Transitioned to partial liquid, 100mg in liquid and a 100mg capsule for a total of a 200mg dose. Dose three times a day for a total of 600mg a day. April 18 2026 first cut to 195mg (2.5%). May 18, 2026 to 187.5 (3.85%), June 28, 2026 to 185 (1.33%).

April 28Apr 28

Author

3 hours ago, RachelSusan said:
@Catbird Thanks for the video. I watched it and thought it was good.
I know how difficult it is tapering when you've been on the meds long term, I'm glad you are taking it slowly. I hope you see improvement soon.

Thanks so much @RachelSusan . My body won’t let me go any faster. I want to hold the Escitalopram and taper Amitriptyline (because of side effects) but I’m scared to take the next step 😱

Link to SA Profile: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32414-catbird-introduction-a-long-and-winding-road/

1996 Commenced on Sertraline 50 - 100mg. Many ADs trialled -Fluoxetine 20 mg, Paroxetine 20mg, Venlafaxine 75mg, Escitalopram 10 - 20mg, Vortioxetine 20mg, Bupropion 150mg. 2019 Recommenced Escitalopram 2022 Mirtazapine 30mg - Rapid taper. Amitriptyline 20mg

CURRENT MEDICATIONS: Escitalopram taper from ~ 10mg commenced 2024, Amitriptyline 20mg at night, Diazepam 7.5mg total per day, Baclofen 10mg morning, 10mg lunch and 20mg night, Polaramine 2mg at night, Ketamine troche 25mg per day (Ceased early September 2025), Valsartan 160mg evening, HRT (Oestrogen 25mcg/day)

ESCITALOPRAM TAPER: 5 April 2025 - started holding at 1.516mg. Escitalopram taper resumed July 2025; End Aug 1.364; End Sept 1.228; End Oct 1.145; End Nov 1.1 Early Dec 1.11; End Dec 1.082; 2026 End Jan 1.047; Feb 6 1.030; Feb 20 1.014; April 10 1.012; May 3 1.014;

Supplements: Mg++ glycinate, Omega 3s, Curcumin. Vit D3/K2 spray, Vitamin B12 spray, chelated zinc.

April 29Apr 29

@Catbird

4 hours ago, Catbird said:
I want to hold the Escitalopram and taper Amitriptyline (because of side effects) but I’m scared to take the next step

I hear you about being afraid to make a move. Always trust your instincts. You will know what's right for you and when is the right time to do it.

I am not a health professional in any way, and I do not give medical advice. These are only my opinions. Any decisions about your medical care should be discussed with a qualified medical professional.

If you would like to reach me, please post on my thread and tag @rachelsusan, or post on your thread and tag in the same way, so I will see it. 😀😀😀

HISTORY FOR GABAPENTIN TAPER

April 18, 2026: 200 mg to 195 mg (2.5% reduction), May 18, 2026: 195 mg to 187.5 mg (3.85% reduction), June 28, 2026: 187.5 mg to 185 mg (1.33% reduction)

HISTORY FOR ZOLOFT TAPER

Feb. 2016 to June 2016 - Was on 150mg Zoloft.

Quit Zoloft (Sertraline) June 2016, reinstated 50mg of Zoloft July 2016. From July 2016 to October 2016 went from 50 mg down 2.3 mg. I up-dosed in November 2016 to 12.5 mg. Held there until January 2017 when I started a much slower taper.

STARTING SENSIBLE ZOLOFT TAPERING USING GUIDELINES FROM ANOTHER SITE - WHICH WAS VERY HELPFUL

Dec. 10 2016 - switched to Liquid Zoloft (Sertraline) @ 12.5 mg. Jan. 4, 2020 1.875 mg (6.3%). Jan. 25, 2020 1.75 mg. Feb. 29, 2020 1.625mg (7.10%). Apr. 4, 2020 1.5 mg. May 9, 2020 1.375 mg. June 6, 2020 1.25 mg. (9.10%). July 4, 2020 1.125 mg. (10%). August 15, 2020 1.0 mg. Oct 24, 2020 .875 mg. Nov. 28, 2020 .75mg. Jan 16, 2021 .685mg (8.7%). Feb 13, 2021 .62mg. March 12, 2021 .56mg. May 1, 2021 .375mg. May 29, 2021 .25mg. June 26, 2021 .125mg. July 25, 2021 .065mg. August 22, 2021 .048mg. October 2, 2021 .043mg. October 10, 2021 .038mg. October 23, 2021 .035mg. October 30, 2021 .032mg. Nov. 13, 2021 .030 mg. Dec 4, 2021 .0285 mg. Dec 11, 2021 .0265 mg. Dec 18, 2021 .0246 mg. Dec 25, 2021 .023mg. Jan 1, 2022. 0 mg. OFF COMPLETELY

My thread at SA - https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/12649-☼-rachelsusan-zoloft-on-off-and-reinstated/page/28/

Started my Gabapentin reduction. Transitioned to partial liquid, 100mg in liquid and a 100mg capsule for a total of a 200mg dose. Dose three times a day for a total of 600mg a day. April 18 2026 first cut to 195mg (2.5%). May 18, 2026 to 187.5 (3.85%), June 28, 2026 to 185 (1.33%).

2

April 29Apr 29

Author

Thank you @RachelSusan 🧡

Link to SA Profile: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32414-catbird-introduction-a-long-and-winding-road/

1996 Commenced on Sertraline 50 - 100mg. Many ADs trialled -Fluoxetine 20 mg, Paroxetine 20mg, Venlafaxine 75mg, Escitalopram 10 - 20mg, Vortioxetine 20mg, Bupropion 150mg. 2019 Recommenced Escitalopram 2022 Mirtazapine 30mg - Rapid taper. Amitriptyline 20mg

CURRENT MEDICATIONS: Escitalopram taper from ~ 10mg commenced 2024, Amitriptyline 20mg at night, Diazepam 7.5mg total per day, Baclofen 10mg morning, 10mg lunch and 20mg night, Polaramine 2mg at night, Ketamine troche 25mg per day (Ceased early September 2025), Valsartan 160mg evening, HRT (Oestrogen 25mcg/day)

ESCITALOPRAM TAPER: 5 April 2025 - started holding at 1.516mg. Escitalopram taper resumed July 2025; End Aug 1.364; End Sept 1.228; End Oct 1.145; End Nov 1.1 Early Dec 1.11; End Dec 1.082; 2026 End Jan 1.047; Feb 6 1.030; Feb 20 1.014; April 10 1.012; May 3 1.014;

Supplements: Mg++ glycinate, Omega 3s, Curcumin. Vit D3/K2 spray, Vitamin B12 spray, chelated zinc.

2

April 29Apr 29

12 hours ago, Catbird said:
I’m scared to take the next step 😱

I can relate to this statement completely. Doing anything different is terrifying because you don't know how you are going to react.

Whatever you do, do it slowly, and tiny drops. Ease into it, and see how your body reacts with tiny drops.

I know you know this, but I like having someone say it to me, so I figure you might like the support too. 😊

8 hours ago, RachelSusan said:
Always trust your instincts. You will know what's right for you and when is the right time to do it.

RachelSusan has it right.

Hope you're doing ok otherwise.

Wombat

1998 Paroxetine 20mg, getting to 60mg and staying there for many years.

Started reducing by 10mg at a time, December 2018 to June 2019. At 30mg held for 2 and a half years.

Beginning 2023, start micro tapering from 30mg

End 2023 - 18.76. End 2024 - 13.37. End 2025 - 8.58

2026 - 31 Jan - 8.38, 15 Feb - 8.19, 07 March - 8.06, 14 March - 8.00, 08 April - holding and start liquid transition, 22 May completed liquid transition 8mg (16ml) holding for 1 month

27 June - 7.9, 12 July - 7.75,

Deuteronomy 31.8 "The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."

April 29Apr 29

Author

6 minutes ago, Wombat said:
I can relate to this statement completely. Doing anything different is terrifying because you don't know how you are going to react.
Whatever you do, do it slowly, and tiny drops. Ease into it, and see how your body reacts with tiny drops.
I know you know this, but I like having someone say it to me, so I figure you might like the support too. 😊
RachelSusan has it right.
Hope you're doing ok otherwise.
Wombat

You too @Wombat . Thanks for the support. Hope you're doing okay 🤗🧡

Link to SA Profile: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32414-catbird-introduction-a-long-and-winding-road/

1996 Commenced on Sertraline 50 - 100mg. Many ADs trialled -Fluoxetine 20 mg, Paroxetine 20mg, Venlafaxine 75mg, Escitalopram 10 - 20mg, Vortioxetine 20mg, Bupropion 150mg. 2019 Recommenced Escitalopram 2022 Mirtazapine 30mg - Rapid taper. Amitriptyline 20mg

CURRENT MEDICATIONS: Escitalopram taper from ~ 10mg commenced 2024, Amitriptyline 20mg at night, Diazepam 7.5mg total per day, Baclofen 10mg morning, 10mg lunch and 20mg night, Polaramine 2mg at night, Ketamine troche 25mg per day (Ceased early September 2025), Valsartan 160mg evening, HRT (Oestrogen 25mcg/day)

ESCITALOPRAM TAPER: 5 April 2025 - started holding at 1.516mg. Escitalopram taper resumed July 2025; End Aug 1.364; End Sept 1.228; End Oct 1.145; End Nov 1.1 Early Dec 1.11; End Dec 1.082; 2026 End Jan 1.047; Feb 6 1.030; Feb 20 1.014; April 10 1.012; May 3 1.014;

Supplements: Mg++ glycinate, Omega 3s, Curcumin. Vit D3/K2 spray, Vitamin B12 spray, chelated zinc.

April 29Apr 29

12 hours ago, Catbird said:
Thanks so much @RachelSusan . My body won’t let me go any faster. I want to hold the Escitalopram and taper Amitriptyline (because of side effects) but I’m scared to take the next step 😱

I get you there @Catbird without knowing the reaction it's completely normal to hesitate but in the end you don't know until you jump into the water, take it slow and trust yourself knowing that you can handle whatever comes and I hope it gets easier. You got this. xxxx

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 20% 0.0358g (2mg)

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 anxiety and sleep that seems to continue to improve.

April 29Apr 29

On 4/28/2026 at 2:06 AM, Catbird said:
I came across this video which I found very informative
How nutrition affects brain health

Thank you @Catbird , I watched the video. I thought it was very interesting. I watched another one, where she answered questions from the audience. The recommendations sound promising, Even though it is a bit shocking that you have to be in really strong ketosis to have benefits for mental health, meaning that you have to eat mostly fat. Sounds really difficult to me.

Since I was really struggling before I started the medication because of a trauma history, I am sometimes worried how I will be doing after all this is over. Going back to the medication is not an option. So for me, the ketogenic diet would be like the emergency option I have in the back of my head. Something I might be able to do to help myself without medication. So thank you for all these interesting videos that you post!

How is your own experiment with ketosis going? I would be interested to hear.

I can understand that you are scared to try to tape a new medication. I believe that reducing the amitriptyline will help you because this drug has nasty side effects and on the higher doses, you reap real benefits from tapering . But yes, one never knows how it will go. You are smart, and you have all the tools , whatever challenges come up, you will make it!

SA Thread: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/33406-nemina-tapering-escitalopram/

AR Thread: https://antidepressantrecovery.org/topic/14-nemina-tapering-escilatopram-and-zolpidem/

Drug History

2013 - 2025: Zolpidem 5 mg

2015 - Oct 2024: Venlafaxine, Sertralin (Zoloft), Paroxetin (Paxil),duloxtin (cymbalta), Citalopram (Celexa), Escitalopram (Lexapro) and more

Current Drugs

L-Thyroxin 75, Estrogen, Progesteron 200

Tapering Escitalopram

Sept 2024: Setralin/zoloft 75 mg

Oct 2024: Switch to Escitalopram / Lexapro 2mg

Then I tapered over a year from 2mg to 0,32 mg (October 2025). 108 days hold without stabilizing. Resumed taper February 2026:

11 Feb 2026 0.314mg

18 Feb 2026 0.307mg

21 Feb 2026 0.302mg

09 Mar 2026 0.297mg

18 April 2026 0,293 mg

18 May 2026 0,285 mg

Tapering Zolpidem: From 5 mg to 0,7 mg in 12 months, then just crumbs for several weeks, now 0! (Jan 2025)

Other Supplements

Omega 3, Magnesium Glycinate, Vit D, Calcium, L-theanin.

April 30Apr 30

Author

Thank you @RachelSusan , @Wombat and @Fullhealing . Your support and advice means so much to me. My last decrease of Escitalopram was 2 micrograms (10th April) and I feel so jittery today. Believe it or not I was sure it was as going to get to 1mg by end of last year, but my body is reacting to the slightest change at the moment. The psychological and emotional side are playing their part. I'm having lots of morbid thoughts (death or worse - immense suffering. I can see them for what they are — just thoughts, but that doesn't mean I don't feel the emotions that come with the thoughts. Lots of fear, doom and anguish.

My partner and I have for months been planning a holiday for May for a few weeks. We were doing some shopping yesterday in preparation and I found myself thinking "it'll be a waste to buy X as I may well die whilst we're away". I haven't been away for ages and at first I was really optimistic about it. I get more and more anxious as the departure date approaches. Lots of catastrophising - scenario planning in my head.

Then we have a wedding to attend on the other side of the country in July. All of these trips and the prospect of tapering has caused me to almost freeze. I'm so scared to change my dose, start a new taper. It's incapacitating.

Link to SA Profile: https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32414-catbird-introduction-a-long-and-winding-road/

1996 Commenced on Sertraline 50 - 100mg. Many ADs trialled -Fluoxetine 20 mg, Paroxetine 20mg, Venlafaxine 75mg, Escitalopram 10 - 20mg, Vortioxetine 20mg, Bupropion 150mg. 2019 Recommenced Escitalopram 2022 Mirtazapine 30mg - Rapid taper. Amitriptyline 20mg

CURRENT MEDICATIONS: Escitalopram taper from ~ 10mg commenced 2024, Amitriptyline 20mg at night, Diazepam 7.5mg total per day, Baclofen 10mg morning, 10mg lunch and 20mg night, Polaramine 2mg at night, Ketamine troche 25mg per day (Ceased early September 2025), Valsartan 160mg evening, HRT (Oestrogen 25mcg/day)

ESCITALOPRAM TAPER: 5 April 2025 - started holding at 1.516mg. Escitalopram taper resumed July 2025; End Aug 1.364; End Sept 1.228; End Oct 1.145; End Nov 1.1 Early Dec 1.11; End Dec 1.082; 2026 End Jan 1.047; Feb 6 1.030; Feb 20 1.014; April 10 1.012; May 3 1.014;

Supplements: Mg++ glycinate, Omega 3s, Curcumin. Vit D3/K2 spray, Vitamin B12 spray, chelated zinc.

1

April 30Apr 30

I’m sorry to read @Catbird perhaps holding until after the wedding in July is best. Give your system time to stabilise and get these stressful (but I’m sure enjoyable) events out of the way. Hope things settle for you soon.

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.

2

Catbird: Dealing with Polypharmacy

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