Golden: Tapering Bupropion, then Escitalopram ++

May 7May 7

@Golden there is a switch/button above your signature that needs to be turned back on.

https://antidepressantrecovery.org/settings/signature/

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.

May 7May 7

Author

Thank you @Chippy ! 🤦‍♀️ I must have pushed a wrong button by mistake. 🤣

Edited May 7May 7 by Golden

2025 / Current:

Bupropion (Wellbutrin) (at least since Jan. 2019) 150 mg -> 131.5 mg on 4-22 -> 112.5 mg on 5-26 -> 93.75 mg on 6-21 -> 87.5 mg on 8-7 -> 77.5mg on 9-1 -> 69 mg on 10-15 -> 61 mg 11-12 -> 60 mg 11-28 -> 54 mg on 12-13-25 -> 53 mg on 4-8-26. HOLD

Escitalopram (Lexapro) 20 mg (consistently since July 2018) -

Gabapentin 100 mg once daily (since June 2014?)

Clonazepam As of Jan. 2019 1.5 mg daily in 3 divided doses as needed. Decreased as I didn’t need as much. March 2025: 1/8 of 0.5 mg tablet (0.0625 mg), 2-3 x daily (0.125 mg - 0.1875 mg daily). -> 2 x daily (0.125 mg daily), -> 1/8 morning0.0625 mg & 1/16 tablet evening (approx. 0.094 mg daily ) March 2026.

Cross over to liquid 0.125 ODT evening dose 0.028125 mg Apr 18; morning dose 0.04375 mg Apr 25, -> 0.040625 mg Apr 26, -> 0.034375 mg May 1, -> 0.028125 mg twice daily (0.05625 mg daily) May 4, -> 0.053125 May 13, -> 0.050 mg May 14, -> 0.04375 mg May 16, -> 0.040625 mg May 19, -> 0.0356 mg 6/2, -> 0.03125 mg June 8, -> 0.0275 mg June 14. -> 0.025 June 16, -> 0.0187 mg June 21, -> 0.0125 mg July 7, -> 0.006 mg July 14.

July 21, 2026 ZERO!

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Cream Bi-Est 0.5, Progesterone 150 mg/ML (0.5ML)

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Capsule 150 mg each evening

Metoprolol ER Succinate -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet 1 x daily on 5/31/25 -> 1/4 tablet on 1-09-2026 -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet on 2-19. Switched to

Atenolol 4 mg March 4,2026 -> 3 mg Mar.26 -> 2 mg April 18 -> 1 mg May 1, -> zero May 11, 2026.

Supplements:Calcium,D3,K2,Magnesium,Omega3,B-Complex,Biotin,Quercetin,Zinc,C

My profile at Surviving Antidepressants is:

https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32343-golden-introduction/

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12

2

May 7May 7

15 minutes ago, Golden said:
Thank you @Chippy ! 🤦‍♀️ I must have pushed a wrong button by mistake. 🤣

No probs golden. Hopefully that all works now for you.

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

May 7May 7

Author

33 minutes ago, Chippy said:
Hopefully that all works now for you.

Yes, it does.

I’m going to pause and wait to get the liquid Escitalopram from my doctor.

I have been feeling okay lately with just some very mild dizziness. Yesterday morning when I wrote the long response to you and go2zero, I felt really good, like my mind was more clear than it had been in a long time. I thought “this is amazing!” But later, I again felt overwhelmed and increased dizziness, not well at all. So maybe I’m still having windows and waves.

Another thing that may be throwing a wrench into the works is that I have unintentionally lost weight, maybe 5-7 pounds. I’m not a large person. A low carb diet and exercise, plus I don’t enjoy cooking & just eat when it’s time instead of being hungry, add up to the weight loss. I need to find more balance here before moving forward. 🤷‍♀️ Frustration!

2025 / Current:

Bupropion (Wellbutrin) (at least since Jan. 2019) 150 mg -> 131.5 mg on 4-22 -> 112.5 mg on 5-26 -> 93.75 mg on 6-21 -> 87.5 mg on 8-7 -> 77.5mg on 9-1 -> 69 mg on 10-15 -> 61 mg 11-12 -> 60 mg 11-28 -> 54 mg on 12-13-25 -> 53 mg on 4-8-26. HOLD

Escitalopram (Lexapro) 20 mg (consistently since July 2018) -

Gabapentin 100 mg once daily (since June 2014?)

Clonazepam As of Jan. 2019 1.5 mg daily in 3 divided doses as needed. Decreased as I didn’t need as much. March 2025: 1/8 of 0.5 mg tablet (0.0625 mg), 2-3 x daily (0.125 mg - 0.1875 mg daily). -> 2 x daily (0.125 mg daily), -> 1/8 morning0.0625 mg & 1/16 tablet evening (approx. 0.094 mg daily ) March 2026.

Cross over to liquid 0.125 ODT evening dose 0.028125 mg Apr 18; morning dose 0.04375 mg Apr 25, -> 0.040625 mg Apr 26, -> 0.034375 mg May 1, -> 0.028125 mg twice daily (0.05625 mg daily) May 4, -> 0.053125 May 13, -> 0.050 mg May 14, -> 0.04375 mg May 16, -> 0.040625 mg May 19, -> 0.0356 mg 6/2, -> 0.03125 mg June 8, -> 0.0275 mg June 14. -> 0.025 June 16, -> 0.0187 mg June 21, -> 0.0125 mg July 7, -> 0.006 mg July 14.

July 21, 2026 ZERO!

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Cream Bi-Est 0.5, Progesterone 150 mg/ML (0.5ML)

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Capsule 150 mg each evening

Metoprolol ER Succinate -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet 1 x daily on 5/31/25 -> 1/4 tablet on 1-09-2026 -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet on 2-19. Switched to

Atenolol 4 mg March 4,2026 -> 3 mg Mar.26 -> 2 mg April 18 -> 1 mg May 1, -> zero May 11, 2026.

Supplements:Calcium,D3,K2,Magnesium,Omega3,B-Complex,Biotin,Quercetin,Zinc,C

My profile at Surviving Antidepressants is:

https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32343-golden-introduction/

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12

May 7May 7

38 minutes ago, Golden said:
I’m going to pause and wait to get the liquid Escitalopram from my doctor.

Good to know.

38 minutes ago, Golden said:
I have been feeling okay lately with just some very mild dizziness. Yesterday morning when I wrote the long response to you and go2zero, I felt really good, like my mind was more clear than it had been in a long time. I thought “this is amazing!” But later, I again felt overwhelmed and increased dizziness, not well at all. So maybe I’m still having windows and waves.

It’s good you were feeling ok, I’m sorry this didn’t last, as you said, waves and windows. I think waiting till things are more consistently at baseline wd normal is wise.

40 minutes ago, Golden said:
Another thing that may be throwing a wrench into the works is that I have unintentionally lost weight, maybe 5-7 pounds. I’m not a large person. A low carb diet and exercise, plus I don’t enjoy cooking & just eat when it’s time instead of being hungry, add up to the weight loss. I need to find more balance here before moving forward. 🤷‍♀️ Frustration!

Some would say this is a nice problem to have! But yes I understand, you want to keep a sensible weight and don’t want to be under. Might have to start to eat a little more!

I like your calm and methodical approach as always Golden.

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

May 7May 7

Author

55 minutes ago, Chippy said:
Might have to start to eat a little more!

Yes, I need to eat more. I’m a bit light now. 😜

59 minutes ago, Chippy said:
I like your calm and methodical approach as always Golden.

🤣 if only you could see my mind. It’s like a merry-go-round. Up and down, round and round. Talking through things here with peers really helps me to get things straight in my head.

🕊️

2025 / Current:

Bupropion (Wellbutrin) (at least since Jan. 2019) 150 mg -> 131.5 mg on 4-22 -> 112.5 mg on 5-26 -> 93.75 mg on 6-21 -> 87.5 mg on 8-7 -> 77.5mg on 9-1 -> 69 mg on 10-15 -> 61 mg 11-12 -> 60 mg 11-28 -> 54 mg on 12-13-25 -> 53 mg on 4-8-26. HOLD

Escitalopram (Lexapro) 20 mg (consistently since July 2018) -

Gabapentin 100 mg once daily (since June 2014?)

Clonazepam As of Jan. 2019 1.5 mg daily in 3 divided doses as needed. Decreased as I didn’t need as much. March 2025: 1/8 of 0.5 mg tablet (0.0625 mg), 2-3 x daily (0.125 mg - 0.1875 mg daily). -> 2 x daily (0.125 mg daily), -> 1/8 morning0.0625 mg & 1/16 tablet evening (approx. 0.094 mg daily ) March 2026.

Cross over to liquid 0.125 ODT evening dose 0.028125 mg Apr 18; morning dose 0.04375 mg Apr 25, -> 0.040625 mg Apr 26, -> 0.034375 mg May 1, -> 0.028125 mg twice daily (0.05625 mg daily) May 4, -> 0.053125 May 13, -> 0.050 mg May 14, -> 0.04375 mg May 16, -> 0.040625 mg May 19, -> 0.0356 mg 6/2, -> 0.03125 mg June 8, -> 0.0275 mg June 14. -> 0.025 June 16, -> 0.0187 mg June 21, -> 0.0125 mg July 7, -> 0.006 mg July 14.

July 21, 2026 ZERO!

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Cream Bi-Est 0.5, Progesterone 150 mg/ML (0.5ML)

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Capsule 150 mg each evening

Metoprolol ER Succinate -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet 1 x daily on 5/31/25 -> 1/4 tablet on 1-09-2026 -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet on 2-19. Switched to

Atenolol 4 mg March 4,2026 -> 3 mg Mar.26 -> 2 mg April 18 -> 1 mg May 1, -> zero May 11, 2026.

Supplements:Calcium,D3,K2,Magnesium,Omega3,B-Complex,Biotin,Quercetin,Zinc,C

My profile at Surviving Antidepressants is:

https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32343-golden-introduction/

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12

May 7May 7

4 minutes ago, Golden said:
Talking through things here with peers really helps me to get things straight in my head.

Nothing wrong thinking things through! Especially with these drugs, good to be careful and considered for sure!

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

May 13May 13

Author

Update:

Although I did not plan to taper Clonazepam yet, that is what I am doing. I am not having any WD problems so far. My main issue continues to be sedation and dizziness. I think this is probably from the Escitalopram. I had occasional dizziness before I tapered the last mg of Bupropion, but since then it has really increased.

I have already stopped Atenolol. My blood pressure is running low normal most of the time now.

I plan to taper off Clonazepam and then request the liquid Escitalopram from my doctor. I’ll cross over from tablets to liquid one step at a time. Then begin with a 10% taper of Escitalopram.

🕊️🙏❤️

2025 / Current:

Bupropion (Wellbutrin) (at least since Jan. 2019) 150 mg -> 131.5 mg on 4-22 -> 112.5 mg on 5-26 -> 93.75 mg on 6-21 -> 87.5 mg on 8-7 -> 77.5mg on 9-1 -> 69 mg on 10-15 -> 61 mg 11-12 -> 60 mg 11-28 -> 54 mg on 12-13-25 -> 53 mg on 4-8-26. HOLD

Escitalopram (Lexapro) 20 mg (consistently since July 2018) -

Gabapentin 100 mg once daily (since June 2014?)

Clonazepam As of Jan. 2019 1.5 mg daily in 3 divided doses as needed. Decreased as I didn’t need as much. March 2025: 1/8 of 0.5 mg tablet (0.0625 mg), 2-3 x daily (0.125 mg - 0.1875 mg daily). -> 2 x daily (0.125 mg daily), -> 1/8 morning0.0625 mg & 1/16 tablet evening (approx. 0.094 mg daily ) March 2026.

Cross over to liquid 0.125 ODT evening dose 0.028125 mg Apr 18; morning dose 0.04375 mg Apr 25, -> 0.040625 mg Apr 26, -> 0.034375 mg May 1, -> 0.028125 mg twice daily (0.05625 mg daily) May 4, -> 0.053125 May 13, -> 0.050 mg May 14, -> 0.04375 mg May 16, -> 0.040625 mg May 19, -> 0.0356 mg 6/2, -> 0.03125 mg June 8, -> 0.0275 mg June 14. -> 0.025 June 16, -> 0.0187 mg June 21, -> 0.0125 mg July 7, -> 0.006 mg July 14.

July 21, 2026 ZERO!

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Cream Bi-Est 0.5, Progesterone 150 mg/ML (0.5ML)

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Capsule 150 mg each evening

Metoprolol ER Succinate -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet 1 x daily on 5/31/25 -> 1/4 tablet on 1-09-2026 -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet on 2-19. Switched to

Atenolol 4 mg March 4,2026 -> 3 mg Mar.26 -> 2 mg April 18 -> 1 mg May 1, -> zero May 11, 2026.

Supplements:Calcium,D3,K2,Magnesium,Omega3,B-Complex,Biotin,Quercetin,Zinc,C

My profile at Surviving Antidepressants is:

https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32343-golden-introduction/

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12

5

May 14May 14

11 hours ago, Golden said:
Although I did not plan to taper Clonazepam yet, that is what I am doing.

In my opinion the best approach to taper Clonazepam first!

1993 Anafranil (Clomipramine) for a few months. Later in 1993 Paxil for a few months 1993- 2006 No medication

2006 Effexor, Cymbalta, some Benzo’s. All for short periods. Later in 2006 Lexapro (escitalopram) 10 mg and shortly after Wellbutrin XR 150mg, against side effects Lexapro

Since 2006 until end of 2015: Several times on and off Lexapro and Wellbutrin and several slight dosage changes. Mostly taken dosages: 5mg Lexapro and 150mg Wellbutrin

2016 Dosage change Lexapro from 5mg to 2,5 mg. Wellbutrin stayed om 150mg

November 2016 – April 2017 Down from 2,5mg to 0,6mg Lexapro (in steps) without much problems. Wellbutrin down from 150mg to 66mg. Also without much problems.

April 2017 – March 2019 Lexapro 0,6 mg April 2017 - August 2018 Wellbutrin in small steps down from 66mg in to 37,5 mg . Quite heavy WD after each step.

March 2019 – May 2019 Lexapro down from 0,6 to 0,3mg then Prozac to 0,6 mg switch because severe discontinuation effects (may also have been from Wellbutrin..)

Wellbutrin down from 37,5mg to 35,3mg

October 2019 Seroquel 12,5 mg for 4 weeks because of extreme sleeping problems, then weaning off in 2 weeks Prozac up dosage to 1,2 mg

March 2020 Wellbutrin in 2 steps down from 35,3mg to 33,3mg Extreme withdrawal effects during 8 months. Stopped tapering Wellbutrin until total off Prozac.

February 2020 – November 2020 Prozac down in steps from 1,2mg to 0,57mg.

Jan 2021 : Prozac down to: 0,55> 0,53>0,51mg, Feb 0,47mg , Mar 0,42mg, Apr 0,37, longer hold because of WD symptoms July 0,36 and hold again, Sept 19 0,35, Sept 26 0,34mg, Oct 3 0,33mg Long hold of 172 days until March 2022

January 20, 2022: Wellbutrin from 33,3 to 32,4mg

March 22, 2022 Prozac down from 0,33mg to: 0,30mg, Apr 0,29, May 0,28, 0,27, June 0,26, 0,25, July 0,24, 0,23, 0,22, 0,21, Aug 0,20, 0,19 Sep 0,18, Oct 0,17. 0,16, 0,15, Nov 0,14 Jan 2023 0,13, 0,12, 0,11 Feb 0,10, 0,09 Mar 0,08 , June 0,07 , July 0,06, 0,05, Aug 0,04, 0,03, Sept 0,026, 0,024 Nov 0,022, 0,019, 0,016, 0,013 Dec 0,012, 0,011, 0,010, 0,009 Jan 2024 0,008, 0,007, 0,006, 0,005, 0,004, 0,003, 0,002, 0,001, Feb 0,0007. 0,0005, 0,0003, 0,0001,

Feb 23, 2024: 0,00000

Wellbutrin resume tapering: Apr 2024 31,6mg, 30,8, 30,0 , May 29,1, 28,2, July 23,7, Aug 22,6, 21,4, Dec 21,0, 20,5, 20,0 Jan 2025 19,6 mg, Mar 18,8, Oct 18,68 , 18,55, 18,43, Dec 18,30, Jan 2026 17,93 , Mar 17,7

Here is my thread (and tapering history) https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/23288-go2zero-getting-off-wellbutrin-and-prozac/

1

May 14May 14

Author

6 hours ago, Go2zero said:
In my opinion the best approach to taper Clonazepam first!

I agree! 😊 That is what I am doing. So far, it has been easy.

I am not having any anxiety issues! 😊

Thank you for your support and encouragement! I hope you are feeling better.

🕊️❤️🙏

2025 / Current:

Bupropion (Wellbutrin) (at least since Jan. 2019) 150 mg -> 131.5 mg on 4-22 -> 112.5 mg on 5-26 -> 93.75 mg on 6-21 -> 87.5 mg on 8-7 -> 77.5mg on 9-1 -> 69 mg on 10-15 -> 61 mg 11-12 -> 60 mg 11-28 -> 54 mg on 12-13-25 -> 53 mg on 4-8-26. HOLD

Escitalopram (Lexapro) 20 mg (consistently since July 2018) -

Gabapentin 100 mg once daily (since June 2014?)

Clonazepam As of Jan. 2019 1.5 mg daily in 3 divided doses as needed. Decreased as I didn’t need as much. March 2025: 1/8 of 0.5 mg tablet (0.0625 mg), 2-3 x daily (0.125 mg - 0.1875 mg daily). -> 2 x daily (0.125 mg daily), -> 1/8 morning0.0625 mg & 1/16 tablet evening (approx. 0.094 mg daily ) March 2026.

Cross over to liquid 0.125 ODT evening dose 0.028125 mg Apr 18; morning dose 0.04375 mg Apr 25, -> 0.040625 mg Apr 26, -> 0.034375 mg May 1, -> 0.028125 mg twice daily (0.05625 mg daily) May 4, -> 0.053125 May 13, -> 0.050 mg May 14, -> 0.04375 mg May 16, -> 0.040625 mg May 19, -> 0.0356 mg 6/2, -> 0.03125 mg June 8, -> 0.0275 mg June 14. -> 0.025 June 16, -> 0.0187 mg June 21, -> 0.0125 mg July 7, -> 0.006 mg July 14.

July 21, 2026 ZERO!

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Cream Bi-Est 0.5, Progesterone 150 mg/ML (0.5ML)

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Capsule 150 mg each evening

Metoprolol ER Succinate -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet 1 x daily on 5/31/25 -> 1/4 tablet on 1-09-2026 -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet on 2-19. Switched to

Atenolol 4 mg March 4,2026 -> 3 mg Mar.26 -> 2 mg April 18 -> 1 mg May 1, -> zero May 11, 2026.

Supplements:Calcium,D3,K2,Magnesium,Omega3,B-Complex,Biotin,Quercetin,Zinc,C

My profile at Surviving Antidepressants is:

https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32343-golden-introduction/

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12

2

June 21Jun 21

Author

I have received a lot of help over at Benzo Buddies in the Benzo Zone to taper Clonazepam and I am now close to my jumping off point.

In looking forward: I plan to hold everything for 2-4 weeks and then begin to taper Escitalopram/Lexapro.

Regarding cross over from tablets to liquid of Escitalopram:

I know how to do the cross over one quarter at a time.

Although it would be easier to use 10 mg tablets that I can cut in half (or even 5mg tablets) along with the liquid Escitalopram to cross over to all liquid, I think that would be too much to explain to my doctor. I think explaining the need for liquid Escitalopram will be a large enough task.

I tried cutting and weighing my 20 mg tablets into quarters. It is a pain but very doable. I have enough pills to last through the end of my Clonazepam taper and to cross over to liquid (once I get it).

Any suggestions for how to ask my doctor for liquid Escitalopram and getting him to write the prescription for 20 mL per day to start? How do doctors write prescriptions for liquid doses of Escitalopram?

My doctor seems to be pretty laid back and said he will advise me but is willing to let me lead in my healthcare. He is about 70 years old so he was trained in the “cut it in half, cut it in half” method. I’ll need to explain it as clearly and as simply as possible.

My son suggested sending him this note:

“Because I’ve been on Escitalopram for so many years, I’m not doing the old method of halving doses. I’m doing a hyperbolic taper in 10% steps to mitigate withdrawal (20 mg, 18 mg, 16.2 mg, 14.6 mg, etc), which I can’t do by cutting up tablets. I need to switch over to liquid so I can measure out each dose as needed.”

Opinions, suggestions, ideas are all welcome!

🕊️🙏💞

2025 / Current:

Bupropion (Wellbutrin) (at least since Jan. 2019) 150 mg -> 131.5 mg on 4-22 -> 112.5 mg on 5-26 -> 93.75 mg on 6-21 -> 87.5 mg on 8-7 -> 77.5mg on 9-1 -> 69 mg on 10-15 -> 61 mg 11-12 -> 60 mg 11-28 -> 54 mg on 12-13-25 -> 53 mg on 4-8-26. HOLD

Escitalopram (Lexapro) 20 mg (consistently since July 2018) -

Gabapentin 100 mg once daily (since June 2014?)

Clonazepam As of Jan. 2019 1.5 mg daily in 3 divided doses as needed. Decreased as I didn’t need as much. March 2025: 1/8 of 0.5 mg tablet (0.0625 mg), 2-3 x daily (0.125 mg - 0.1875 mg daily). -> 2 x daily (0.125 mg daily), -> 1/8 morning0.0625 mg & 1/16 tablet evening (approx. 0.094 mg daily ) March 2026.

Cross over to liquid 0.125 ODT evening dose 0.028125 mg Apr 18; morning dose 0.04375 mg Apr 25, -> 0.040625 mg Apr 26, -> 0.034375 mg May 1, -> 0.028125 mg twice daily (0.05625 mg daily) May 4, -> 0.053125 May 13, -> 0.050 mg May 14, -> 0.04375 mg May 16, -> 0.040625 mg May 19, -> 0.0356 mg 6/2, -> 0.03125 mg June 8, -> 0.0275 mg June 14. -> 0.025 June 16, -> 0.0187 mg June 21, -> 0.0125 mg July 7, -> 0.006 mg July 14.

July 21, 2026 ZERO!

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Cream Bi-Est 0.5, Progesterone 150 mg/ML (0.5ML)

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Capsule 150 mg each evening

Metoprolol ER Succinate -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet 1 x daily on 5/31/25 -> 1/4 tablet on 1-09-2026 -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet on 2-19. Switched to

Atenolol 4 mg March 4,2026 -> 3 mg Mar.26 -> 2 mg April 18 -> 1 mg May 1, -> zero May 11, 2026.

Supplements:Calcium,D3,K2,Magnesium,Omega3,B-Complex,Biotin,Quercetin,Zinc,C

My profile at Surviving Antidepressants is:

https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32343-golden-introduction/

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12

1

June 21Jun 21

Hi @Golden seems we share some of the same drugs. I’m on Escitalopram and a Benzo. Now I’m down to 1.010mg Escitalopram and I’ve started experiencing unbearable myofascial pain. As I’ve had this symptom infrequently in the past I thought it would be transient. That was 8 weeks ago. I’m now considering whether it could be Benzo related.

You’ve done really well tapering Clonazepam. Can I ask how long you’ve been on your current meds?

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; May 11 1.010 & still holding

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

1

June 22Jun 22

Hi @Golden , I can’t really advise you on your conversion with the doctor, but liquid Lexapro is available at Walgreens. The concentration is 5ml/5mg. It’s basically 1:1 ratio. If your dose is 20mg, then you need 20 x 30=600ml for the month. You may have to talk to the pharmacy in advance, so they can order it for you.

1998 -1999 Paxil CT after 5 months.

1999 - 2024 every 2 to 4 years went from one SSRI to the next. That includes Luvox, Zoloft, Cymbalta, Celexa, Prozac, Lexapro.

2000-2024 lorazepam 2mg.

April 2024 one dose of Effexor, July 2024 one dose of Paxil, July 2024 two weeks of Mirtazapine. September 2024 Lexapro 10mg, Depakote 250mg, Vistaril 25 mg ,Proppranolol 10mg, Requip 2mg Trazadone 50mg. March 2025 off Depakote,Propranolol,vistaril,Trazadon.

March 2025 Zyprexa added at 2.5 mg.”for sleep and anxiety”. Went up to 7.5mg in June.

September 2025 started tapering Zyprexa and Requip.

February 2026 off of Zyprexa and Requip. Reduced Lexapro to 5mg

7/4/2026-4.5mg

8/1/2026-4.0mg

1

June 22Jun 22

As far as how to write a prescription, “please disperse 5ml/5mg Escitalopram in the amount 600ml”

1998 -1999 Paxil CT after 5 months.

1999 - 2024 every 2 to 4 years went from one SSRI to the next. That includes Luvox, Zoloft, Cymbalta, Celexa, Prozac, Lexapro.

2000-2024 lorazepam 2mg.

April 2024 one dose of Effexor, July 2024 one dose of Paxil, July 2024 two weeks of Mirtazapine. September 2024 Lexapro 10mg, Depakote 250mg, Vistaril 25 mg ,Proppranolol 10mg, Requip 2mg Trazadone 50mg. March 2025 off Depakote,Propranolol,vistaril,Trazadon.

March 2025 Zyprexa added at 2.5 mg.”for sleep and anxiety”. Went up to 7.5mg in June.

September 2025 started tapering Zyprexa and Requip.

February 2026 off of Zyprexa and Requip. Reduced Lexapro to 5mg

7/4/2026-4.5mg

8/1/2026-4.0mg

1

June 22Jun 22

Had to make 3 posts instead of just one. Goes to show you how poor my memory/cognition is. I would suggest not to start your liquid Lexapro for at least a week after you get it. Just in case they don’t have it next time you go for a refill. There maybe a day or two delay. That way you’ll have a grace period.

1998 -1999 Paxil CT after 5 months.

1999 - 2024 every 2 to 4 years went from one SSRI to the next. That includes Luvox, Zoloft, Cymbalta, Celexa, Prozac, Lexapro.

2000-2024 lorazepam 2mg.

April 2024 one dose of Effexor, July 2024 one dose of Paxil, July 2024 two weeks of Mirtazapine. September 2024 Lexapro 10mg, Depakote 250mg, Vistaril 25 mg ,Proppranolol 10mg, Requip 2mg Trazadone 50mg. March 2025 off Depakote,Propranolol,vistaril,Trazadon.

March 2025 Zyprexa added at 2.5 mg.”for sleep and anxiety”. Went up to 7.5mg in June.

September 2025 started tapering Zyprexa and Requip.

February 2026 off of Zyprexa and Requip. Reduced Lexapro to 5mg

7/4/2026-4.5mg

8/1/2026-4.0mg

1

June 22Jun 22

Author

Hi @Catbird ,

I’m so sorry you are struggling so much. It is difficult to figure out what causes what when we are dealing with so many different drugs.

1 hour ago, Catbird said:
Can I ask how long you’ve been on your current meds?

I have been on the ones in my signature at least since early 2019. I was able to join SA before I started tapering so I haven’t had any QTs to recover from.

I hope you start feeling better soon. 🙏💞

2025 / Current:

Bupropion (Wellbutrin) (at least since Jan. 2019) 150 mg -> 131.5 mg on 4-22 -> 112.5 mg on 5-26 -> 93.75 mg on 6-21 -> 87.5 mg on 8-7 -> 77.5mg on 9-1 -> 69 mg on 10-15 -> 61 mg 11-12 -> 60 mg 11-28 -> 54 mg on 12-13-25 -> 53 mg on 4-8-26. HOLD

Escitalopram (Lexapro) 20 mg (consistently since July 2018) -

Gabapentin 100 mg once daily (since June 2014?)

Clonazepam As of Jan. 2019 1.5 mg daily in 3 divided doses as needed. Decreased as I didn’t need as much. March 2025: 1/8 of 0.5 mg tablet (0.0625 mg), 2-3 x daily (0.125 mg - 0.1875 mg daily). -> 2 x daily (0.125 mg daily), -> 1/8 morning0.0625 mg & 1/16 tablet evening (approx. 0.094 mg daily ) March 2026.

Cross over to liquid 0.125 ODT evening dose 0.028125 mg Apr 18; morning dose 0.04375 mg Apr 25, -> 0.040625 mg Apr 26, -> 0.034375 mg May 1, -> 0.028125 mg twice daily (0.05625 mg daily) May 4, -> 0.053125 May 13, -> 0.050 mg May 14, -> 0.04375 mg May 16, -> 0.040625 mg May 19, -> 0.0356 mg 6/2, -> 0.03125 mg June 8, -> 0.0275 mg June 14. -> 0.025 June 16, -> 0.0187 mg June 21, -> 0.0125 mg July 7, -> 0.006 mg July 14.

July 21, 2026 ZERO!

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Cream Bi-Est 0.5, Progesterone 150 mg/ML (0.5ML)

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Capsule 150 mg each evening

Metoprolol ER Succinate -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet 1 x daily on 5/31/25 -> 1/4 tablet on 1-09-2026 -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet on 2-19. Switched to

Atenolol 4 mg March 4,2026 -> 3 mg Mar.26 -> 2 mg April 18 -> 1 mg May 1, -> zero May 11, 2026.

Supplements:Calcium,D3,K2,Magnesium,Omega3,B-Complex,Biotin,Quercetin,Zinc,C

My profile at Surviving Antidepressants is:

https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32343-golden-introduction/

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12

June 22Jun 22

Author

@Dnepr1234 Hi. Thank you for your reply! I’ve already talked to Walgreens and they have/had the liquid Escitalopram in stock. I don’t need it yet. I’m just trying to plan ahead.

I’d really like to get smaller tablets and liquid at the same time to do the cross over, but I don’t know if it is possible.

It is so frustrating! I know what I need to do. I just don’t know how to explain it simply to the doctor.

1 hour ago, Dnepr1234 said:
As far as how to write a prescription, “please disperse 5ml/5mg Escitalopram in the amount 600ml”

That makes perfect sense. It’s a good place to start. Thank you.

2025 / Current:

Bupropion (Wellbutrin) (at least since Jan. 2019) 150 mg -> 131.5 mg on 4-22 -> 112.5 mg on 5-26 -> 93.75 mg on 6-21 -> 87.5 mg on 8-7 -> 77.5mg on 9-1 -> 69 mg on 10-15 -> 61 mg 11-12 -> 60 mg 11-28 -> 54 mg on 12-13-25 -> 53 mg on 4-8-26. HOLD

Escitalopram (Lexapro) 20 mg (consistently since July 2018) -

Gabapentin 100 mg once daily (since June 2014?)

Clonazepam As of Jan. 2019 1.5 mg daily in 3 divided doses as needed. Decreased as I didn’t need as much. March 2025: 1/8 of 0.5 mg tablet (0.0625 mg), 2-3 x daily (0.125 mg - 0.1875 mg daily). -> 2 x daily (0.125 mg daily), -> 1/8 morning0.0625 mg & 1/16 tablet evening (approx. 0.094 mg daily ) March 2026.

Cross over to liquid 0.125 ODT evening dose 0.028125 mg Apr 18; morning dose 0.04375 mg Apr 25, -> 0.040625 mg Apr 26, -> 0.034375 mg May 1, -> 0.028125 mg twice daily (0.05625 mg daily) May 4, -> 0.053125 May 13, -> 0.050 mg May 14, -> 0.04375 mg May 16, -> 0.040625 mg May 19, -> 0.0356 mg 6/2, -> 0.03125 mg June 8, -> 0.0275 mg June 14. -> 0.025 June 16, -> 0.0187 mg June 21, -> 0.0125 mg July 7, -> 0.006 mg July 14.

July 21, 2026 ZERO!

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Cream Bi-Est 0.5, Progesterone 150 mg/ML (0.5ML)

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Capsule 150 mg each evening

Metoprolol ER Succinate -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet 1 x daily on 5/31/25 -> 1/4 tablet on 1-09-2026 -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet on 2-19. Switched to

Atenolol 4 mg March 4,2026 -> 3 mg Mar.26 -> 2 mg April 18 -> 1 mg May 1, -> zero May 11, 2026.

Supplements:Calcium,D3,K2,Magnesium,Omega3,B-Complex,Biotin,Quercetin,Zinc,C

My profile at Surviving Antidepressants is:

https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32343-golden-introduction/

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12

June 22Jun 22

2 hours ago, Golden said:
Hi @Catbird ,
I’m so sorry you are struggling so much. It is difficult to figure out what causes what when we are dealing with so many different drugs.
I have been on the ones in my signature at least since early 2019. I was able to join SA before I started tapering so I haven’t had any QTs to recover from.
I hope you start feeling better soon. 🙏💞

Thanks @Golden Hope youre doing okay too. What's the abbreviation QT?

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; May 11 1.010 & still holding

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

June 22Jun 22

2 hours ago, Golden said:
@Dnepr1234 Hi. Thank you for your reply! I’ve already talked to Walgreens and they have/had the liquid Escitalopram in stock. I don’t need it yet. I’m just trying to plan ahead.
I’d really like to get smaller tablets and liquid at the same time to do the cross over, but I don’t know if it is possible.
It is so frustrating! I know what I need to do. I just don’t know how to explain it simply to the doctor.
That makes perfect sense. It’s a good place to start. Thank you.

@Dnepr1234 I hope you don't mind me chiming in here. I've been using compounded Escitalopram for several years. The solution I use is 2mg/ml. Do calculate the dosage you just divide the milligrams by 2. For example if you are using 10mg it is 10/2=5, 8/2=4, 2/2=1. I also have a small bottle of 0.2mg/ml so I can calculate to 4 decimal points for extra precision.

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; May 11 1.010 & still holding

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

June 22Jun 22

Author

10 hours ago, Catbird said:
What's the abbreviation QT?

Oops! It should have been CT. Cold turkey. 😉

2025 / Current:

Bupropion (Wellbutrin) (at least since Jan. 2019) 150 mg -> 131.5 mg on 4-22 -> 112.5 mg on 5-26 -> 93.75 mg on 6-21 -> 87.5 mg on 8-7 -> 77.5mg on 9-1 -> 69 mg on 10-15 -> 61 mg 11-12 -> 60 mg 11-28 -> 54 mg on 12-13-25 -> 53 mg on 4-8-26. HOLD

Escitalopram (Lexapro) 20 mg (consistently since July 2018) -

Gabapentin 100 mg once daily (since June 2014?)

Clonazepam As of Jan. 2019 1.5 mg daily in 3 divided doses as needed. Decreased as I didn’t need as much. March 2025: 1/8 of 0.5 mg tablet (0.0625 mg), 2-3 x daily (0.125 mg - 0.1875 mg daily). -> 2 x daily (0.125 mg daily), -> 1/8 morning0.0625 mg & 1/16 tablet evening (approx. 0.094 mg daily ) March 2026.

Cross over to liquid 0.125 ODT evening dose 0.028125 mg Apr 18; morning dose 0.04375 mg Apr 25, -> 0.040625 mg Apr 26, -> 0.034375 mg May 1, -> 0.028125 mg twice daily (0.05625 mg daily) May 4, -> 0.053125 May 13, -> 0.050 mg May 14, -> 0.04375 mg May 16, -> 0.040625 mg May 19, -> 0.0356 mg 6/2, -> 0.03125 mg June 8, -> 0.0275 mg June 14. -> 0.025 June 16, -> 0.0187 mg June 21, -> 0.0125 mg July 7, -> 0.006 mg July 14.

July 21, 2026 ZERO!

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Cream Bi-Est 0.5, Progesterone 150 mg/ML (0.5ML)

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Capsule 150 mg each evening

Metoprolol ER Succinate -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet 1 x daily on 5/31/25 -> 1/4 tablet on 1-09-2026 -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet on 2-19. Switched to

Atenolol 4 mg March 4,2026 -> 3 mg Mar.26 -> 2 mg April 18 -> 1 mg May 1, -> zero May 11, 2026.

Supplements:Calcium,D3,K2,Magnesium,Omega3,B-Complex,Biotin,Quercetin,Zinc,C

My profile at Surviving Antidepressants is:

https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32343-golden-introduction/

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12

June 22Jun 22

16 hours ago, Golden said:
I have received a lot of help over at Benzo Buddies in the Benzo Zone to taper Clonazepam and I am now close to my jumping off point.
In looking forward: I plan to hold everything for 2-4 weeks and then begin to taper Escitalopram/Lexapro.
Regarding cross over from tablets to liquid of Escitalopram:
I know how to do the cross over one quarter at a time.
Although it would be easier to use 10 mg tablets that I can cut in half (or even 5mg tablets) along with the liquid Escitalopram to cross over to all liquid, I think that would be too much to explain to my doctor. I think explaining the need for liquid Escitalopram will be a large enough task.
I tried cutting and weighing my 20 mg tablets into quarters. It is a pain but very doable. I have enough pills to last through the end of my Clonazepam taper and to cross over to liquid (once I get it).
Any suggestions for how to ask my doctor for liquid Escitalopram and getting him to write the prescription for 20 mL per day to start? How do doctors write prescriptions for liquid doses of Escitalopram?
My doctor seems to be pretty laid back and said he will advise me but is willing to let me lead in my healthcare. He is about 70 years old so he was trained in the “cut it in half, cut it in half” method. I’ll need to explain it as clearly and as simply as possible.
My son suggested sending him this note:
“Because I’ve been on Escitalopram for so many years, I’m not doing the old method of halving doses. I’m doing a hyperbolic taper in 10% steps to mitigate withdrawal (20 mg, 18 mg, 16.2 mg, 14.6 mg, etc), which I can’t do by cutting up tablets. I need to switch over to liquid so I can measure out each dose as needed.”
Opinions, suggestions, ideas are all welcome!
🕊️🙏💞

Hi 👋

As someone who also came off of benzodiazepines, I would highly highly urge you to wait much longer before you start trying to taper off of your antidepressant. Your brain has been through a lot, even if it was a nice slow taper.

For US members: Please report med to FDA Med Watch

2017 (May) - Ativan .5 mg (3 x Daily)

2018 (Feb) - Mirtazapine 7.5 mg

2018 (May) - Ativan to Valium - Switch - Can’t Remember how long it took -tapered to 3 mg of Valium

2024 (May) - Valium Tolerance

2024 (2 Nov) - Completed taper off Valium

2024 (2 Nov) - Mirtazapine increased to 15 mg

2025 (Feb) - Ativan 0.25 mg (3 x Daily) - Became Paradoxical - Started weaning got to 0.11mg

2025 (Mar) - Ativan 0mg - CT In detox

2025 (April) Started Depakote 1500mg - In detox

2025 (April) - Depakote 500mg (2 x Daily) once home

2025 (Aug) - Completed taper off Depakote

2025 (Aug) - Akathisia surges throughout the day with calming in between

2025 (Sept) - Gabapentin (Micro Dose) - Was calming at first and then became paradoxical so stop

2025 (Oct) - Depakote - RI – (Two days of small dose) Became scared and stopped with WD & aka

2025 (Oct) - Seroquel 50 mg XR – 1 Week - more and more activating and increased aka

2025 (Oct) - Psychiatrist told me to stop it. But I took a few days of a smaller dose of IR then stopped - Not activating

2025 (Nov) - Hydroxyzine 2.5mg - it was paradoxical so stopped

2025 (1 Dec) - Mirtazapine 22.5mg - (2 Days) Was incredibly overstimulating started reducing to previous

2025 (3 Dec) - Mirtazapine 18.75mg

2025 (10 Dec) - Mirtazapine 16.87mg

2025 (22 Dec) - Mirtazapine 15mg

2026 (23Jan) - Mirtazapine 14.7mg

2026 (23 Jan) - Mirtazapine 1mg Panic dose

2026 (24 Jan) - Mirtazapine 15mg

2026 (25 Feb) – Mirtazapine 14.7mg (-2%)

2026 (18 Mar) - propranolol 2.5 mg one time

2026 (21 Mar)- Mirtazapine- 15 mg accidentally in sleepy state

2026 (22 Mar) - Mirtazapine 14.79 mg (more accurate scales)

2026 (29 April) Mirtazapine 14.7 mg/.1020 g (on suggestion of Horowitz) immediate intense symptoms

2026 (30 April) Mirtazapine 14.79 mg (.1026 g)

2026 (23 May) propranolol 2.5 mg one time

2026 (01 June) Mirtazapine 14.79 mgdose was 5 hours late

2026 (22 July) Mirtazapine 14.76 mg

Intense electric activation, muscle tightness, autonomic surges, terror followed

2026 (23 July) Mirtazapine 14.79 mg return

2

June 22Jun 22

Author

Hi @Finni ! It’s nice to see you again.

While I was tapering on BB, I was asked to give more detail on my signature to include dates and any other information. I did that as much as possible and it proved helpful. I just updated my signature here as well.

Since I was on a low dose of Clonazepam a year ago and have had mostly mild WD symptoms, it was thought that I might not need to wait as long to start my Escitalopram taper. Since my pause from May 19 to June 2, I have had very little WD at all.

I am learning to recognize stressful situations as just that. After being numb for so long, it is an adjustment to feel things again and not become overwhelmed by them.

So far, all is well.

I was stressed over the weekend trying to figure out how to move forward. I am calmer today, recognizing that I don’t need to rush, and just take one step at a time.

The main reason for getting started on my Escitalopram taper sooner rather than later is to reduce nighttime sedation. While it is good for sleep, my bladder has a hard time waking me up during the night (it gets pretty full before I am aware enough to get up).

Since reducing the stimulant effect of Bupropion, I think it has increased the sedative effect of everything else. Thus the reason I tapered off my bp med and now finishing my Clonazepam taper. This has already lessened the daytime sedation significantly.

I truly appreciate your comments! That is part of my indecision on which path to take moving forward.

Step by step, praying for His guidance,

🕊️💞🙏🐢

2025 / Current:

Bupropion (Wellbutrin) (at least since Jan. 2019) 150 mg -> 131.5 mg on 4-22 -> 112.5 mg on 5-26 -> 93.75 mg on 6-21 -> 87.5 mg on 8-7 -> 77.5mg on 9-1 -> 69 mg on 10-15 -> 61 mg 11-12 -> 60 mg 11-28 -> 54 mg on 12-13-25 -> 53 mg on 4-8-26. HOLD

Escitalopram (Lexapro) 20 mg (consistently since July 2018) -

Gabapentin 100 mg once daily (since June 2014?)

Clonazepam As of Jan. 2019 1.5 mg daily in 3 divided doses as needed. Decreased as I didn’t need as much. March 2025: 1/8 of 0.5 mg tablet (0.0625 mg), 2-3 x daily (0.125 mg - 0.1875 mg daily). -> 2 x daily (0.125 mg daily), -> 1/8 morning0.0625 mg & 1/16 tablet evening (approx. 0.094 mg daily ) March 2026.

Cross over to liquid 0.125 ODT evening dose 0.028125 mg Apr 18; morning dose 0.04375 mg Apr 25, -> 0.040625 mg Apr 26, -> 0.034375 mg May 1, -> 0.028125 mg twice daily (0.05625 mg daily) May 4, -> 0.053125 May 13, -> 0.050 mg May 14, -> 0.04375 mg May 16, -> 0.040625 mg May 19, -> 0.0356 mg 6/2, -> 0.03125 mg June 8, -> 0.0275 mg June 14. -> 0.025 June 16, -> 0.0187 mg June 21, -> 0.0125 mg July 7, -> 0.006 mg July 14.

July 21, 2026 ZERO!

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Cream Bi-Est 0.5, Progesterone 150 mg/ML (0.5ML)

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Capsule 150 mg each evening

Metoprolol ER Succinate -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet 1 x daily on 5/31/25 -> 1/4 tablet on 1-09-2026 -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet on 2-19. Switched to

Atenolol 4 mg March 4,2026 -> 3 mg Mar.26 -> 2 mg April 18 -> 1 mg May 1, -> zero May 11, 2026.

Supplements:Calcium,D3,K2,Magnesium,Omega3,B-Complex,Biotin,Quercetin,Zinc,C

My profile at Surviving Antidepressants is:

https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32343-golden-introduction/

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12

1

June 22Jun 22

18 hours ago, Golden said:
I have received a lot of help over at Benzo Buddies in the Benzo Zone to taper Clonazepam and I am now close to my jumping off point.
In looking forward: I plan to hold everything for 2-4 weeks and then begin to taper Escitalopram/Lexapro.
Regarding cross over from tablets to liquid of Escitalopram:
I know how to do the cross over one quarter at a time.
Although it would be easier to use 10 mg tablets that I can cut in half (or even 5mg tablets) along with the liquid Escitalopram to cross over to all liquid, I think that would be too much to explain to my doctor. I think explaining the need for liquid Escitalopram will be a large enough task.
I tried cutting and weighing my 20 mg tablets into quarters. It is a pain but very doable. I have enough pills to last through the end of my Clonazepam taper and to cross over to liquid (once I get it).
Any suggestions for how to ask my doctor for liquid Escitalopram and getting him to write the prescription for 20 mL per day to start? How do doctors write prescriptions for liquid doses of Escitalopram?
My doctor seems to be pretty laid back and said he will advise me but is willing to let me lead in my healthcare. He is about 70 years old so he was trained in the “cut it in half, cut it in half” method. I’ll need to explain it as clearly and as simply as possible.
My son suggested sending him this note:
“Because I’ve been on Escitalopram for so many years, I’m not doing the old method of halving doses. I’m doing a hyperbolic taper in 10% steps to mitigate withdrawal (20 mg, 18 mg, 16.2 mg, 14.6 mg, etc), which I can’t do by cutting up tablets. I need to switch over to liquid so I can measure out each dose as needed.”
Opinions, suggestions, ideas are all welcome!
🕊️🙏💞

On 5/16/2026 at 4:48 AM, recov70 said:
Hi SarahMc. Yes, it’s wonderful to have a dog during difficult periods with WD. We have a Golden Retriever. His name is Siku, which is Greenlandic for sea ice. 9 month old.
As you say, it helps both at home and on walks. And on the bad days (like ..
right now ...) he’s also good at making me laugh now and then 🙂

11 minutes ago, Golden said:
Hi @Finni ! It’s nice to see you again.
While I was tapering on BB, I was asked to give more detail on my signature to include dates and any other information. I did that as much as possible and it proved helpful. I just updated my signature here as well.
Since I was on a low dose of Clonazepam a year ago and have had mostly mild WD symptoms, it was thought that I might not need to wait as long to start my Escitalopram taper. Since my pause from May 19 to June 2, I have had very little WD at all.
I am learning to recognize stressful situations as just that. After being numb for so long, it is an adjustment to feel things again and not become overwhelmed by them.
So far, all is well.
I was stressed over the weekend trying to figure out how to move forward. I am calmer today, recognizing that I don’t need to rush, and just take one step at a time.
The main reason for getting started on my Escitalopram taper sooner rather than later is to reduce nighttime sedation. While it is good for sleep, my bladder has a hard time waking me up during the night (it gets pretty full before I am aware enough to get up).
Since reducing the stimulant effect of Bupropion, I think it has increased the sedative effect of everything else. Thus the reason I tapered off my bp med and now finishing my Clonazepam taper. This has already lessened the daytime sedation significantly.
I truly appreciate your comments! That is part of my indecision on which path to take moving forward.
Step by step, praying for His guidance,
🕊️💞🙏🐢

It sounds like you’re being very thoughtful and intentional 🌞❤️

One step at a time.

For US members: Please report med to FDA Med Watch

2017 (May) - Ativan .5 mg (3 x Daily)

2018 (Feb) - Mirtazapine 7.5 mg

2018 (May) - Ativan to Valium - Switch - Can’t Remember how long it took -tapered to 3 mg of Valium

2024 (May) - Valium Tolerance

2024 (2 Nov) - Completed taper off Valium

2024 (2 Nov) - Mirtazapine increased to 15 mg

2025 (Feb) - Ativan 0.25 mg (3 x Daily) - Became Paradoxical - Started weaning got to 0.11mg

2025 (Mar) - Ativan 0mg - CT In detox

2025 (April) Started Depakote 1500mg - In detox

2025 (April) - Depakote 500mg (2 x Daily) once home

2025 (Aug) - Completed taper off Depakote

2025 (Aug) - Akathisia surges throughout the day with calming in between

2025 (Sept) - Gabapentin (Micro Dose) - Was calming at first and then became paradoxical so stop

2025 (Oct) - Depakote - RI – (Two days of small dose) Became scared and stopped with WD & aka

2025 (Oct) - Seroquel 50 mg XR – 1 Week - more and more activating and increased aka

2025 (Oct) - Psychiatrist told me to stop it. But I took a few days of a smaller dose of IR then stopped - Not activating

2025 (Nov) - Hydroxyzine 2.5mg - it was paradoxical so stopped

2025 (1 Dec) - Mirtazapine 22.5mg - (2 Days) Was incredibly overstimulating started reducing to previous

2025 (3 Dec) - Mirtazapine 18.75mg

2025 (10 Dec) - Mirtazapine 16.87mg

2025 (22 Dec) - Mirtazapine 15mg

2026 (23Jan) - Mirtazapine 14.7mg

2026 (23 Jan) - Mirtazapine 1mg Panic dose

2026 (24 Jan) - Mirtazapine 15mg

2026 (25 Feb) – Mirtazapine 14.7mg (-2%)

2026 (18 Mar) - propranolol 2.5 mg one time

2026 (21 Mar)- Mirtazapine- 15 mg accidentally in sleepy state

2026 (22 Mar) - Mirtazapine 14.79 mg (more accurate scales)

2026 (29 April) Mirtazapine 14.7 mg/.1020 g (on suggestion of Horowitz) immediate intense symptoms

2026 (30 April) Mirtazapine 14.79 mg (.1026 g)

2026 (23 May) propranolol 2.5 mg one time

2026 (01 June) Mirtazapine 14.79 mgdose was 5 hours late

2026 (22 July) Mirtazapine 14.76 mg

Intense electric activation, muscle tightness, autonomic surges, terror followed

2026 (23 July) Mirtazapine 14.79 mg return

2

July 7Jul 7

Author

Update: I’m continuing my slow taper off clonazepam. I just made another small reduction and will hopefully soon be ready to stop.

Then I will hold for a couple of months at least. I have an appointment with my doctor in September and will discuss my plans moving forward.

One step at a time.

🕊️💞🙏

2025 / Current:

Bupropion (Wellbutrin) (at least since Jan. 2019) 150 mg -> 131.5 mg on 4-22 -> 112.5 mg on 5-26 -> 93.75 mg on 6-21 -> 87.5 mg on 8-7 -> 77.5mg on 9-1 -> 69 mg on 10-15 -> 61 mg 11-12 -> 60 mg 11-28 -> 54 mg on 12-13-25 -> 53 mg on 4-8-26. HOLD

Escitalopram (Lexapro) 20 mg (consistently since July 2018) -

Gabapentin 100 mg once daily (since June 2014?)

Clonazepam As of Jan. 2019 1.5 mg daily in 3 divided doses as needed. Decreased as I didn’t need as much. March 2025: 1/8 of 0.5 mg tablet (0.0625 mg), 2-3 x daily (0.125 mg - 0.1875 mg daily). -> 2 x daily (0.125 mg daily), -> 1/8 morning0.0625 mg & 1/16 tablet evening (approx. 0.094 mg daily ) March 2026.

Cross over to liquid 0.125 ODT evening dose 0.028125 mg Apr 18; morning dose 0.04375 mg Apr 25, -> 0.040625 mg Apr 26, -> 0.034375 mg May 1, -> 0.028125 mg twice daily (0.05625 mg daily) May 4, -> 0.053125 May 13, -> 0.050 mg May 14, -> 0.04375 mg May 16, -> 0.040625 mg May 19, -> 0.0356 mg 6/2, -> 0.03125 mg June 8, -> 0.0275 mg June 14. -> 0.025 June 16, -> 0.0187 mg June 21, -> 0.0125 mg July 7, -> 0.006 mg July 14.

July 21, 2026 ZERO!

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Cream Bi-Est 0.5, Progesterone 150 mg/ML (0.5ML)

Compounded Bio-Identical HRT: Capsule 150 mg each evening

Metoprolol ER Succinate -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet 1 x daily on 5/31/25 -> 1/4 tablet on 1-09-2026 -> 1/2 of 25 mg tablet on 2-19. Switched to

Atenolol 4 mg March 4,2026 -> 3 mg Mar.26 -> 2 mg April 18 -> 1 mg May 1, -> zero May 11, 2026.

Supplements:Calcium,D3,K2,Magnesium,Omega3,B-Complex,Biotin,Quercetin,Zinc,C

My profile at Surviving Antidepressants is:

https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/forums/topic/32343-golden-introduction/

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12

3

July 8Jul 8

Sounds like youre going slow and steady, Golden. Great work!

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

2005-2021 - 450 mg Bupropion daily

2021-2023 - tapered Bupropion to zero

1

Golden: Tapering Bupropion, then Escitalopram ++

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