Schmeg82: I’m here!

February 11Feb 11

Hey everyone! I have finally joined. I hope everyone is doing okay in their journeys! Please check in and let me know how you are my friends from SA!

I’m getting along okay. I made it through the holidays (barely). Symptoms come and go in intensity still, same old for me - mostly vision issues still, stomach, and extreme exhaustion. I’m pushing myself to still work, I’m doing a bit more activities again but after another small drop it’s been much harder. Either way; still trucking along slowly but surly.

Have missed you all! 💓🙏🏼

My SA Thread here:

Paxil 20mg 22years

started to fast taper in spring 2023, withdrawal started fall/winter 2023. Reinstated jan 2024 to 10mg. Have been tapering from 10mg since aug 2024. Down to 6.5mg. 2/1/2026 6.2mg

2

February 12Feb 12

Hi Schmeg82

Welcome to the forum!

Thanks for posting your topic here, I found you on SA and linked to your thread there above for you.

We didn't speak on SA but its great to have you here.

Sounds like your taper is going ok?

Maybe when you have minute you might let us know a bit about your journey so far? Be nice to get to know you 🙂

Anyway you are so very welcome here and I hope you find the site supportive and you can reconnect with all your old SA pals!

Chippy

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 12Feb 12

Thank you for crossing over and joining the forum.

I hope you find this place helpful and supportive.

Nothing I say is medical advice, it is simply my opinion. I am an anonymous person on an internet forum with no relevant qualifications other than being badly harmed by a drug. For all you know, I could be an idiot. You are making your own decisions and part of that is deciding how much to listen to my opinion, if at all.

Perhaps you should consider this post an artistic work of fiction written for entertainment purposes.

Story from SA: LukeUK: Remeron/Mirtazapine Severe Withdrawal - Introductions and updates - Surviving Antidepressants

15mg Remeron/Mirtazapine November starting 2022 (severe physical side effects)

Attempted to taper off January 2023, ended up having a major breakdown and going up to 30mg, took weeks to stabilise

1 month taper to 0mg

Last dose April 2023

Severe withdrawal syndrome with many physical symptoms

Summary: 5 months using Mirtazapine, including 1 month taper ending late April 2023.

1

February 12Feb 12

Yay welcome hun ((((((hugs))))))

@LostinCanada @Willy she's back 😀

On Paxil since 1995. Seroquel added 2014 after withdrawal crash. History of too-fast tapers/reinstatements.

21 April 2025 taper two drugs at once

Paxil 4% Seroquel 3.5% per month

that ended up being too much and changed to one drug at a time

13 Jul 2025: 4% Paxil cut

29 Jul 2025: 5% Paxil cut

6 Aug 2025: began hold

Oct 2025: changed from liquid to powder and accidentally took 10x Seroquel dose for 2 weeks by mistake

23 Oct 2025: returned to liquid with accidental 4.7% Seroquel cut

Holding both drugs to stablize

Holding at Paxil 8.25 mg / Seroquel 6.5

Paxil taper

22/4 8.23 29/4 8.20 5/5 8.15 13/5 8.05 3/6 8 11/6 7.95

1
1

February 12Feb 12

Author

Thank you! Sorry it took me a while but the break from everything WD was nice. Trying to live a “normal” life in WD. I missed you all, I hope everyone is doing well, will read threads later after work!
much love to you all 💓😘

Paxil 20mg 22years

started to fast taper in spring 2023, withdrawal started fall/winter 2023. Reinstated jan 2024 to 10mg. Have been tapering from 10mg since aug 2024. Down to 6.5mg. 2/1/2026 6.2mg

1

February 12Feb 12

Author

4 hours ago, Chippy said:

Hi Schmeg82

Welcome to the forum!

Thanks for posting your topic here, I found you on SA and linked to your thread there above for you.

We didn't speak on SA but its great to have you here.

Sounds like your taper is going ok?

Maybe when you have minute you might let us know a bit about your journey so far? Be nice to get to know you 🙂

Anyway you are so very welcome here and I hope you find the site supportive and you can reconnect with all your old SA pals!

Chippy

Thank you and will do!

Paxil 20mg 22years

started to fast taper in spring 2023, withdrawal started fall/winter 2023. Reinstated jan 2024 to 10mg. Have been tapering from 10mg since aug 2024. Down to 6.5mg. 2/1/2026 6.2mg

1

February 12Feb 12

Hey @Schmeg82. I’m so happy you made it here. I think about you often. Stay in touch, my friend

Oct Nov 2017 - 30mg diazepam every night. CT Dec 2017 extreme wd

Jan 2018 - 15mg mirtazapine, 100mg seroquel, 1mg lorazepam (taper off Mar 2018)

Jan 2019- 20mg Paxil, 15mg mirtazapine, 100mg seroquel

April 2021- 30mg Paxil, 15mg mirtazapine, 100mg seroquel

Feb 2024 - 40mg Paxil, 15mg mirtazapine, 100mg seroquel

July 2024 in withdrawal from Paxil poop out.
Continuing to take 15mg mirtazapine and 100mg seroquel while tapering off Paxil
July 29, 2024 started 40mg paroxetine taper using brass monkey method-7/29/24-39mg, 8/5/24-38mg, 8/12/24-37mg, 8/19/24-36mg, 9/9/24-35.1mg, 9/16/24-34.2mg, 9/23/24-33.3mg, 9/30/24-32.4mg, 10/21/24-31.59mg, 10/28/24-30.78mg, 11/4/24-29.97mg, 11/11/24-29.16mg, 12/2/24-28.43mg, 12/9/24-27.7mg, 12/16/24-26.97mg, 12/23/24-26.24mg, 1/13/25-25.58mg, 1/20/25-24.92mg, 1/27/25-24.26mg, 2/3/25-23.62mg, 2/24/25-23.03mg, 3/3/25-22.44mg, 3/10/25-21.85mg, 3/17/25-21.26mg, 4/7/25-20.73mg, 4/14/25-20.20mg, 4/21/25-20mg, 5/12/25-19.5mg, 5/19/25-19mg, 5/26/25-18.5mg, 6/2/25-18mg, 6/23/25-17.55mg, 6/30/25-17.10mg, 7/7/25-16.65mg, 8/23/25-17.10mg, 8/28/25-17.55mg, 9/1/25-18.5mg, 9/11/25-19.5mg, 9/12/25-19mg, 9/13/25-18.5mg

1

February 12Feb 12

18 hours ago, Schmeg82 said:

I have finally joined.

🎉🎉🎉 I have missed you.

18 hours ago, Schmeg82 said:

still trucking along slowly but surly.

I think most of us are doing the same.

Just know we are here 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

February 12Feb 12

On 2/12/2026 at 7:07 AM, Schmeg82 said:

Hey everyone! I have finally joined. I hope everyone is doing okay in their journeys! Please check in and let me know how you are my friends from SA!

I’m getting along okay. I made it through the holidays (barely). Symptoms come and go in intensity still, same old for me - mostly vision issues still, stomach, and extreme exhaustion. I’m pushing myself to still work, I’m doing a bit more activities again but after another small drop it’s been much harder. Either way; still trucking along slowly but surly.

Have missed you all! 💓🙏🏼

My SA Thread here:

Hi Schmeg, so glad you are here. Xxxx BarbX formerly Xcaretuk on SA

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.

February 13Feb 13

Thank you for moving over and we look forward to having you here!

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.

March 15Mar 15

Author

How is everyone doing ? I know it’s been a while! Things are steady for me, about the same.

I’ve been trying to do more lately I just get so worn out and sore but I still do things. Vision is still super bad.

I’m down to .82 from .128 so almost into the 5mg area again! Can’t believe it.

love you all and wish you well.

Paxil 20mg 22years

started to fast taper in spring 2023, withdrawal started fall/winter 2023. Reinstated jan 2024 to 10mg. Have been tapering from 10mg since aug 2024. Down to 6.5mg. 2/1/2026 6.2mg

March 15Mar 15

Good to hear from you @Schmeg82

Nice to hear you are doing well.

❤️🙏

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

March 15Mar 15

Wow that's so good , keep going your doing great xx

On Paxil since 1995. Seroquel added 2014 after withdrawal crash. History of too-fast tapers/reinstatements.

21 April 2025 taper two drugs at once

Paxil 4% Seroquel 3.5% per month

that ended up being too much and changed to one drug at a time

13 Jul 2025: 4% Paxil cut

29 Jul 2025: 5% Paxil cut

6 Aug 2025: began hold

Oct 2025: changed from liquid to powder and accidentally took 10x Seroquel dose for 2 weeks by mistake

23 Oct 2025: returned to liquid with accidental 4.7% Seroquel cut

Holding both drugs to stablize

Holding at Paxil 8.25 mg / Seroquel 6.5

Paxil taper

22/4 8.23 29/4 8.20 5/5 8.15 13/5 8.05 3/6 8 11/6 7.95

1

March 15Mar 15

7 hours ago, Schmeg82 said:

How is everyone doing ? I know it’s been a while! Things are steady for me, about the same.

I’ve been trying to do more lately I just get so worn out and sore but I still do things. Vision is still super bad.

I’m down to .82 from .128 so almost into the 5mg area again! Can’t believe it.

love you all and wish you well.

So good to hear from you. Wow very impressive getting to nearly 5mg. Sending you hugs and continued healing x

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.

March 17Mar 17

Author

On 3/15/2026 at 7:50 PM, BarbX said:

So good to hear from you. Wow very impressive getting to nearly 5mg. Sending you hugs and continued healing x

Thank you! It’s been SO hard but I keep pushing through. How is your head pain and pressure? Mine ceased a lot as I got lower but when I get a headache it’s horrible.

Paxil 20mg 22years

started to fast taper in spring 2023, withdrawal started fall/winter 2023. Reinstated jan 2024 to 10mg. Have been tapering from 10mg since aug 2024. Down to 6.5mg. 2/1/2026 6.2mg

March 17Mar 17

Author

On 3/15/2026 at 1:11 PM, LostinCanada said:

Good to hear from you @Schmeg82

Nice to hear you are doing well.

❤️🙏

Thanks. Always thinking of you.

Paxil 20mg 22years

started to fast taper in spring 2023, withdrawal started fall/winter 2023. Reinstated jan 2024 to 10mg. Have been tapering from 10mg since aug 2024. Down to 6.5mg. 2/1/2026 6.2mg

1

March 18Mar 18

9 hours ago, Schmeg82 said:

Thank you! It’s been SO hard but I keep pushing through. How is your head pain and pressure? Mine ceased a lot as I got lower but when I get a headache it’s horrible.

Thanks for asking. I had a radio pulsed frequency procedure on the right side of my neck to help with ‘cerviogenic’ head pain. Unfortunately it hasn’t worked as I believe it’s down to my ‘Paroxetine injury’ but it was worth a try. My blood pressure shot up to 200 when I came round so they had to give me an injection to bring it down. So I survived the twilight sedation 😊. I was terrified it would trigger acute Akathisia. The head pain is still debilitating but I’m hanging in there🌸

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.

April 29Apr 29

Author

Just wanted to make an updated post.

I’m down to 5.9mg of Paxil, I’ve really had to slow down my taper as these lower doses definitely have a bigger withdrawal effect on me.

I’ve actually had a lot of improvements and of course some set backs. I’ve stayed steady working full time still which I’m super proud of. The akaithsia has subsided SO much which was definitely my worst symptom so I’m super thankful for that. I contribute that to longer holds and smaller drops. The internal tremors are much more rare now too. Body twitches have stopped, night terrors are not as prevalent, although I still feel like I never get enough sleep, the fatigue is awful. Still having stomach issues but not nearly as bad as before. My vision gets worse with each drop Which saddens me, that’s always been my worst and most bothersome symptom and I don’t think it will ever improve. The visual snow and other symptoms associated with it suck. Somehow I still manage to drive although I do get motion sick feeling and DPDR sometimes due to my vision. Cognitively I feel better, I force myself to read books daily and play word games to keep my brain smart. I can focus on reading much better now. PAIN, pain is always an issue, it was my legs now it’s back into my hands and arms, the pains seem to move around in my body, neck pain is always persistent.

Throughout all of this I have managed to walk 2-3 miles a day and I throw some light jogging in, sometimes my legs feel super heavy and I feel very out of breathe more then I should.

I have been continuing to play softball and ride my horse even though it absolutely makes me crash and takes a few days to recover after, I’m tired of Paxil taking my life and my passions away so I deal with the repercussions. I am a pusher, I push through the pains and sickness a lot and still try to enjoy life at this point.

So there’s my update. I hope and pray everyone else is doing better

Paxil 20mg 22years

started to fast taper in spring 2023, withdrawal started fall/winter 2023. Reinstated jan 2024 to 10mg. Have been tapering from 10mg since aug 2024. Down to 6.5mg. 2/1/2026 6.2mg

April 29Apr 29

32 minutes ago, Schmeg82 said:
Just wanted to make an updated post.
I’m down to 5.9mg of Paxil, I’ve really had to slow down my taper as these lower doses definitely have a bigger withdrawal effect on me.
I’ve actually had a lot of improvements and of course some set backs. I’ve stayed steady working full time still which I’m super proud of. The akaithsia has subsided SO much which was definitely my worst symptom so I’m super thankful for that. I contribute that to longer holds and smaller drops. The internal tremors are much more rare now too. Body twitches have stopped, night terrors are not as prevalent, although I still feel like I never get enough sleep, the fatigue is awful. Still having stomach issues but not nearly as bad as before. My vision gets worse with each drop Which saddens me, that’s always been my worst and most bothersome symptom and I don’t think it will ever improve. The visual snow and other symptoms associated with it suck. Somehow I still manage to drive although I do get motion sick feeling and DPDR sometimes due to my vision. Cognitively I feel better, I force myself to read books daily and play word games to keep my brain smart. I can focus on reading much better now. PAIN, pain is always an issue, it was my legs now it’s back into my hands and arms, the pains seem to move around in my body, neck pain is always persistent.
Throughout all of this I have managed to walk 2-3 miles a day and I throw some light jogging in, sometimes my legs feel super heavy and I feel very out of breathe more then I should.
I have been continuing to play softball and ride my horse even though it absolutely makes me crash and takes a few days to recover after, I’m tired of Paxil taking my life and my passions away so I deal with the repercussions. I am a pusher, I push through the pains and sickness a lot and still try to enjoy life at this point.
So there’s my update. I hope and pray everyone else is doing better

Thanks for the update @Schmeg82 we are on the same awful drug so I feel your struggle and pain.

Can definitely confirm that low doses are especially brutal, I'm now at 2.54 and it's extremely hard.

Sounds like you are a true and determined fighter, that's amazing and that's what will take you to the end point which is the starting point for a clean and beautiful life.

Wishing you the easiest journey possible going forward.

All the best!

Edited April 29Apr 29 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 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.

1

April 29Apr 29

Hey @Schmeg82 thanks for stopping by and for the update. I am always thinking about you too and our little core of survivers.

So happy to hear some things have gotten better.

1 hour ago, Schmeg82 said:
really had to slow down my taper as these lower doses

I am glad you are listening to your body...it has to set the pace whether we like it or not.

1 hour ago, Schmeg82 said:
longer holds and smaller drops

This is the key. No point in getting off and having years more of suffering because we didn't pace it. Paroxetine is a beast, it affects so much. Patience and acceptance. Love you. You are doing great. ❤️🙏

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

April 30Apr 30

19 hours ago, Schmeg82 said:
I’m down to 5.9mg of Paxil, I’ve really had to slow down my taper as these lower doses definitely have a bigger withdrawal effect on me.

Slow and steady is the way forward for sure.

19 hours ago, Schmeg82 said:
I’ve stayed steady working full time still which I’m super proud of. The akaithsia has subsided SO much which was definitely my worst symptom so I’m super thankful for that. I contribute that to longer holds and smaller drops. The internal tremors are much more rare now too. Body twitches have stopped, night terrors are not as prevalent, although I still feel like I never get enough sleep, the fatigue is awful. Still having stomach issues but not nearly as bad as before. My vision gets worse with each drop Which saddens me, that’s always been my worst and most bothersome symptom and I don’t think it will ever improve. The visual snow and other symptoms associated with it suck. Somehow I still manage to drive although I do get motion sick feeling and DPDR sometimes due to my vision. Cognitively I feel better, I force myself to read books daily and play word games to keep my brain smart. I can focus on reading much better now. PAIN, pain is always an issue, it was my legs now it’s back into my hands and arms, the pains seem to move around in my body, neck pain is always persistent.

This for the most part seems very positive. I hear you on the sleep. Just never enough, I don't what these drugs do to our sleep archiecture but it's not good!

19 hours ago, Schmeg82 said:
Throughout all of this I have managed to walk 2-3 miles a day and I throw some light jogging in, sometimes my legs feel super heavy and I feel very out of breathe more then I should.
I have been continuing to play softball and ride my horse even though it absolutely makes me crash and takes a few days to recover after, I’m tired of Paxil taking my life and my passions away so I deal with the repercussions. I am a pusher, I push through the pains and sickness a lot and still try to enjoy life at this point.

You are doing so well. Working and keeping up with your passions. Pleased for you, I know it is still hard for you. Warrior for sure.

Thanks for the update, I hope the next one is even more positive. Chippy

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

May 1May 1

@Schmeg82 thank you for the update. It sounds like you're managing your taper well, even though of course it is difficult at times.

Nothing I say is medical advice, it is simply my opinion. I am an anonymous person on an internet forum with no relevant qualifications other than being badly harmed by a drug. For all you know, I could be an idiot. You are making your own decisions and part of that is deciding how much to listen to my opinion, if at all.

Perhaps you should consider this post an artistic work of fiction written for entertainment purposes.

Story from SA: LukeUK: Remeron/Mirtazapine Severe Withdrawal - Introductions and updates - Surviving Antidepressants

15mg Remeron/Mirtazapine November starting 2022 (severe physical side effects)

Attempted to taper off January 2023, ended up having a major breakdown and going up to 30mg, took weeks to stabilise

1 month taper to 0mg

Last dose April 2023

Severe withdrawal syndrome with many physical symptoms

Summary: 5 months using Mirtazapine, including 1 month taper ending late April 2023.

1

July 6Jul 6

@Schmeg82 it's Calgary Stampede time...you have to watch these guys..the horse relay. 🐎🐎🐎

https://share.google/RzKFkWZxSfaGbpALZ

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

July 6Jul 6

Hey @Schmeg82 ,

Your doing amazing my friend . I'm

Happy your better overall and continuing doing the things you love .

Slow and steady is the way to go🌸

On Paxil since 1995. Seroquel added 2014 after withdrawal crash. History of too-fast tapers/reinstatements.

21 April 2025 taper two drugs at once

Paxil 4% Seroquel 3.5% per month

that ended up being too much and changed to one drug at a time

13 Jul 2025: 4% Paxil cut

29 Jul 2025: 5% Paxil cut

6 Aug 2025: began hold

Oct 2025: changed from liquid to powder and accidentally took 10x Seroquel dose for 2 weeks by mistake

23 Oct 2025: returned to liquid with accidental 4.7% Seroquel cut

Holding both drugs to stablize

Holding at Paxil 8.25 mg / Seroquel 6.5

Paxil taper

22/4 8.23 29/4 8.20 5/5 8.15 13/5 8.05 3/6 8 11/6 7.95

July 6Jul 6

Dear Schmeg82,

I have read your thread at SA and now follow along here.

I am on the same awful medication!!!

Your update was good to read, that some things have improved as you have lowered the dose.

I think a lot of people have trouble with 1 or 2 things that never seem to want to ease up. The vision issues look like they are a lot to deal with.

But you are living your life around it. I think that is important and you are doing really well.

Well done getting down to 5.9mg. It sure is a difficult process.

Best wishes

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) held for 1 month

27 June - 7.9, 12 July - 7.75, 18 July - 7.6, 25 July - 7.45, 22 August - 7.30,

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."

Schmeg82: I’m here!

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