Tracey: Tapering Sertraline With Self Compassion and Patience

July 30Jul 30

Hang in there @Tracey , things will eventually settle. It's going to take some time after all you've been through, and are still going through 💕

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 1.020 & still holding; Sept 19 1.014; Oct 4 1.006; Oct 8 1.010

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

1

July 30Jul 30

11 hours ago, Tracey said:
Not sure I have the strength to get through this. I feel so broken, anguished, exhausted, scared. My physical symptoms are much the same. Hot flushes, nausea, burning. The emotional symptoms are worst.
Why is this happening to me ? How will I ever have a life again. How much is tapering, how much is just me? Feeling pretty desperate.

I promise you are strong enough to get through this @Tracey. I share your sense of anguish, despair, exhaustion. If I can get through it, and the others on here can, you can too. You’ve been through so much lately and your body will need a bit of time to adjust. But this is NOT you, it is the drugs and you can and will fight back and get to that feeling of peace.

Love to you and Maggie 💜

I’m not a medical professional and cannot offer medical advice. I am new to this journey and my thoughts are based only on my personal experience with psychiatric drugs. This is a peer site where we support each other on our taper/recovery journeys.

Current regimen:

Cymbalta - 90 mg/day

Seroquel - 12.5 mg/day

*holding to stabilize as of Apr 2026

History:

Seroquel - up to 50 mg as needed for sleep (generally 6.25-12.5 mg a few times a week, though sometimes more) - 2009 (ish) to present

Cymbalta - 60 mg/day, periodically down to 30 mg/day - May 2014 to May 2025

Clonazepam - up to 1 mg/day as needed - March to May 2025, quick taper off

Zoloft - 150 mg/day - May 2025 to Aug 2025 (quick cross-taper from Cymbalta)

Pristiq - 50 mg/day from Aug 2025 to mid-Oct 2025 (quick cross-taper from Zoloft); 100 mg/day from Oct 2025 to Dec 2025; back down to 50 mg/day from Dec 2025 to Jan 2026

Lyrica - 200 mg/day - Nov 2025 to Jan 2026 (quick taper off from mid-Jan to early Feb 2026 due to severe depressive symptoms)

Cymbalta - 60 mg/day - Jan - March 2026; up to 90 mg/day from March to present

1

July 30Jul 30

@Tracey I'm so sorry to hear about Maggie. I went through the same thing with my own dog at the height of my withdrawal, so I know how heartbreaking it is. Losing a beloved companion is incredibly painful on its own, and going through it while dealing with withdrawal makes it feel overwhelming in a way that's hard to put into words. My heartfelt condolences to you. I'm thinking of you during this difficult time. xo

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.

Quote of the century: "it's much easier to stop humpty from falling then it is to put him back together again." * as relayed to us by Chippy paraphrasing a comment by Altostrata, the founder of Surviving Antidepressants

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. 😀😀😀

Gabapentin reduction. 2026 Transitioned to partial liquid, 100mg in liquid and a 100mg capsule for a total of a 200mg dose. Dose three times 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%), July 28 to 180 mg (2.7%), Sept. 2, 2026 to 175mg (2.78%),

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) at 12.5 mg. Held until Jan. 2017, then resumed a slow taper. I tapered continuously from that point onward; however, my detailed taper records begin with Jan. 4, 2020. - 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/

1

July 30Jul 30

On 7/29/2026 at 6:05 AM, Tracey said:
Well my grief and loss just keep going. My cat Maggie has s large tumour in her spleen. Tgis past week she has lost weight and not been eating much. Looking vert uncomfortable. Decided in a vet check today. She has never been sick. I rescued her 9 years ago after she was abandoned at a neighbours.
Tomorrow I will say goodbye. Vet coming to house. The mass could rupture at any time and she is in discomfort. Pain injection today has made her more comfortable.
Bit shocked and yet more loss to bear. It has to end soon 😢
Maggie is on my bed tonight quite content. 💚

😢Tracy, I am so saddened by this news, sending much love and so many hugs.

Dec 23 Citalopram 15mg

13 March 24 13.5mg

27 March 24 10mg

12 March 24 7.5mg

20 March 24 6mg

10 Aug 24 5mg

24 Aug 24 4mg

2 Sept 24 3.5mg

11 Sept 24 3mg

19 Sept 24 2.5mg

26 Sept 24 2mg

5 Oct 24 1.5mg

12 Oct 24 1mg

17 Oct 24 Jumped off.

1

July 31Jul 31

Author

Thank you dear friends for your kindness.

I really wish I could engage on here more like I used to before I moved. I am just so out of my routine and missing my own space.

Yesterday set me off dreadfully and in top of Maggie there was an awful upset with delivery of my stuff to container. Right when vet was due. What a cruel day for me, feel like I am having a nervous breakdown.

I so bad today , trying to rest now.

I feel like the world is leaving me behind. Missing being active on here so much.

Your supportive comments mean so much. I don't feel strong enough to make it but you all say I am.

Maggie has a beautiful grave with a pink camellia planted on it. Mum's lovely gardener did that this morning. So grateful.

I am really worried I will never be able to resume my taper due to how I feel. I am sure I am reacting to the drug as I am just so sensitive. But I just cannot get my head around resuming. Measuring and the rest of it in my current circumstances. But I have to get off.

Edited July 31Jul 31 by Tracey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1

July 31Jul 31

4 hours ago, Tracey said:
I don't feel strong enough to make it but you all say I am.

You may not feel strong, but I hear strength in your posts. Look what you have achieved in the last few weeks! Only a strong person can do this whilst in the throws of WD. xxxxx

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.

July 31Jul 31

4 hours ago, Tracey said:
Thank you dear friends for your kindness.
I really wish I could engage on here more like I used to before I moved. I am just so out of my routine and missing my own space.
Yesterday set me off dreadfully and in top of Maggie there was an awful upset with delivery of my stuff to container. Right when vet was due. What a cruel day for me, feel like I am having a nervous breakdown.
I so bad today , trying to rest now.
I feel like the world is leaving me behind. Missing being active on here so much.
Your supportive comments mean so much. I don't feel strong enough to make it but you all say I am.
Maggie has a beautiful grave with a pink camellia planted on it. Mum's lovely gardener did that this morning. So grateful.
I am really worried I will never be able to resume my taper due to how I feel. I am sure I am reacting to the drug as I am just so sensitive. But I just cannot get my head around resuming. Measuring and the rest of it in my current circumstances. But I have to get off.

Hiya @Tracey you have such a beautiful soul from what i have read on here, you care so deeply. You're doing amazing and you are so strong 💪 sending a virtual hug 🫂

2016 - Sertraline 50mg

2016 - Sertraline 100mg.

I didnt know better and rarely took it consistently.

June 2024 - went down to 75mg

2025 - Down to 50mg

2026 - down to 25mg

April 2026 - hit by withdrawal and kindling

Reinstated April 2026 - 25mg

May 27th 2026 - Upped to 50mg

2

July 31Jul 31

4 hours ago, Tracey said:
Thank you dear friends for your kindness.
I really wish I could engage on here more like I used to before I moved. I am just so out of my routine and missing my own space.
Yesterday set me off dreadfully and in top of Maggie there was an awful upset with delivery of my stuff to container. Right when vet was due. What a cruel day for me, feel like I am having a nervous breakdown.
I so bad today , trying to rest now.
I feel like the world is leaving me behind. Missing being active on here so much.
Your supportive comments mean so much. I don't feel strong enough to make it but you all say I am.
Maggie has a beautiful grave with a pink camellia planted on it. Mum's lovely gardener did that this morning. So grateful.
I am really worried I will never be able to resume my taper due to how I feel. I am sure I am reacting to the drug as I am just so sensitive. But I just cannot get my head around resuming. Measuring and the rest of it in my current circumstances. But I have to get off.

Such a challenging time for you @Tracey I'm so sorry!

I know it all feels impossible especially with system that is so out of whack but with enough time any difficulty will pass, give yourself compassion, you have been through a tragic event so obviously you will feel terrible but slowly you will adapt and things will take on a different perspective.

please don't bother yourself with further reduction, there is no rush, wait for a less turbulent time, now just focus on surviving the moment, that's all, that's enough.

Keep being amazingly strong!

Sending lots of love and prayers for easier days 🩷🩷

Edited July 31Jul 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 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

July 31Jul 31

Author

Much gratitude @Chippy , @cherrysquid , @Fullhealing

Your comments have lifted me right now.

This is a such a kind and supportive community.

That has settled me re tapering, just too much right now..

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2

July 31Jul 31

@Tracey Tracey, I'm so sorry you're going through such a heartbreaking time.

It sounds like Maggie has such a beautiful resting place. Having her buried with a camellia planted over her is a lovely tribute, and I'm glad your mum's gardener was able to do that for you. It feels very fitting.

Please don't put pressure on yourself about tapering right now. I took a six-year break. In fact, I had decided I was never going to taper again. There is absolutely no reason you can't stop for now, or even indefinitely, if that's what feels right to you. It's your choice, and there shouldn't be any guilt attached to it.

The only reason I started tapering again was because one day I woke up and just knew I wanted to. Until then, I wasn't planning to. Give yourself permission to focus on getting through everything else you're dealing with. The taper will still be there if and when you decide you're ready.

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.

Quote of the century: "it's much easier to stop humpty from falling then it is to put him back together again." * as relayed to us by Chippy paraphrasing a comment by Altostrata, the founder of Surviving Antidepressants

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. 😀😀😀

Gabapentin reduction. 2026 Transitioned to partial liquid, 100mg in liquid and a 100mg capsule for a total of a 200mg dose. Dose three times 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%), July 28 to 180 mg (2.7%), Sept. 2, 2026 to 175mg (2.78%),

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) at 12.5 mg. Held until Jan. 2017, then resumed a slow taper. I tapered continuously from that point onward; however, my detailed taper records begin with Jan. 4, 2020. - 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/

3
1

August 1Aug 1

Author

13 hours ago, RachelSusan said:
@Tracey Tracey, I'm so sorry you're going through such a heartbreaking time.
It sounds like Maggie has such a beautiful resting place. Having her buried with a camellia planted over her is a lovely tribute, and I'm glad your mum's gardener was able to do that for you. It feels very fitting.
Please don't put pressure on yourself about tapering right now. I took a six-year break. In fact, I had decided I was never going to taper again. There is absolutely no reason you can't stop for now, or even indefinitely, if that's what feels right to you. It's your choice, and there shouldn't be any guilt attached to it.
The only reason I started tapering again was because one day I woke up and just knew I wanted to. Until then, I wasn't planning to. Give yourself permission to focus on getting through everything else you're dealing with. The taper will still be there if and when you decide you're ready.

Thanks @RachelSusan , feels ofd being stuck on 7 mg. But it could be worse.

The big lifestyle change, move, loss of Maggie, no work, loss of direction and purpose is really hitting hard. Activated, highly agitated, lack of sleep, out of routine, extra things to do to function is beyond tolerable. Mum is getting irritable and not coping too well.

Feeling pretty desperate. Just can't stop 'running' on fast forward.

This is the worst I have been since this started months ago.

Beyond scared.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1

August 1Aug 1

@Tracey, you've had so many major life changes all at once. Any one of those would be difficult on its own, but you're dealing with all of them together. It's no wonder you're feeling overwhelmed.

Please don't feel like you have to be tapering to be part of this community. We're not here just for the taper, we're here for you. Whether you're actively tapering, holding, or decide not to taper ever again, you'll always have our support.

Right now, I'd focus on getting through one day at a time and being kind to yourself. I do hear you about being beyond scared. It's a lot right now. Keep leaning on us whenever you need to. You aren't alone.

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.

Quote of the century: "it's much easier to stop humpty from falling then it is to put him back together again." * as relayed to us by Chippy paraphrasing a comment by Altostrata, the founder of Surviving Antidepressants

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. 😀😀😀

Gabapentin reduction. 2026 Transitioned to partial liquid, 100mg in liquid and a 100mg capsule for a total of a 200mg dose. Dose three times 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%), July 28 to 180 mg (2.7%), Sept. 2, 2026 to 175mg (2.78%),

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) at 12.5 mg. Held until Jan. 2017, then resumed a slow taper. I tapered continuously from that point onward; however, my detailed taper records begin with Jan. 4, 2020. - 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/

3

August 1Aug 1

Hi Tracey, you are doing it tough right now, I am so sorry.

I also took a break from tapering (not correctly) a few years ago. I had managed to get down to half of my dose. It had been such an awful time, I decided to never taper again. I held at that dose for over 2 years. After that long hold, and finding SA I was ready to try again.

Take your time dear Tracey. All these big life changes can upset anyone's nervous system. When we are in withdrawal it is 100 times worse.

Think of you often and hoping that your window comes soon.

Wombat

Edited August 1Aug 1 by 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."

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August 1Aug 1

Author

Thank you @Wombat and @RachelSusan .

I just don't even feel I will stabilise on my hold due to this last hit to my system. I really miss my own property and comfortable space and routine. My animals don't have the life they had either. This really really gets to me. My brain is so exhausted I can't focus on anything without huge effort that exhausts me.

So scared of losing my old dog now with the big change for her.

I can't get any positive thoughts, hope or comfort.

Trying to give self compassion but just can't turn off. What a nightmare. My sense of smell is so heightened and I miss the clean, clear mountain air on our walks.

I do need a lot of support right now but don't know where to turn. I will keep leaning on this community as it is all I have.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

August 1Aug 1

1 hour ago, Tracey said:
Trying to give self compassion but just can't turn off. What a nightmare. My sense of smell is so heightened and I miss the clean, clear mountain air on our walks.
I do need a lot of support right now but don't know where to turn. I will keep leaning on this community as it is all I have.

This has been a big change Tracey, keep up the compassion, a continued practice. This will normalise for you over time and this will help your nervous system settle. Change is hard at the best of time. We are here for you and not going anywhere. xxxx

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.

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August 1Aug 1

Thinking of you @Tracey . I think @RachelSusan has such words of wisdom. I've put tapering on hold for the time being. After my 2 months of abdominal myofascial pain I need some time to recover and to live life for while. The taper has really taken so much from already. I've been feeling so exhausted, depleted and despondent, so I've decided to pause and to try and regain some normalcy. I truly hope you gain some stability soon. As you've been under tremendous stress for a sustained period it may take some time. Wishing you windows in the near future 🧡🙏🤗

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 1.020 & still holding; Sept 19 1.014; Oct 4 1.006; Oct 8 1.010

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

1

August 1Aug 1

Thinking of You my dear. You are incredibly strong, one day You will look back and be proud of Yourself for all You survived and how You made it through this incredibly hard time. I could never imagine to master what You have done. Just leaving the house to go to the next store is sometimes too much for me, or washing my hair...and You sold Your house and moved a great distance, caring for pets, adjusting....You are incredible, I admire You. Right now it must be awful, but it will get better, one day at a time You will make it. Sending You a big hug right across the planet!

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

Until 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

18 June 2026 0,265 mg

18 July 2026 0,250 mg

18 Aug 2026 0,232 mg

18 Sept 2026 0,232 mg (Holding since 19.8.)

Tapering Zolpidem: From 5 mg to 0,7 mg in 12 months, then just crumbs for several weeks, now 0! (Jan 2026)

Other Supplements

Omega 3, Magnesium Glycinate, Vit D, Calcium, L-theanin, Vit C, Vit K2, Selen

1
1

August 1Aug 1

@Tracey , my heart just aches reading this. You've had so many losses and changes all at the same time, and I can hear how frightened you are.

One thing that has helped me when my mind starts telling me that this is how it's always going to be is changing my language just a little. I add the words "right now" or "yet." Instead of, "I'm scared," I tell myself, "I'm scared right now." Instead of, "I'm never going to stabilize," I think, "I haven't stabilized yet." Or, "I can't find any hope right now."

Sometimes I actually have to stop myself when those thoughts come and say the sentence again with those words added. Other times, I'll write down exactly how I'm feeling: I'm frightened. I'm unhappy. I'm in pain. I haven't shown any recovery. I can't see a way forward. Things aren't getting better. Then I'll go back and add those little words: I'm frightened right now. I'm unhappy right now. I'm in pain right now. I haven't shown any recovery yet. I can't see a way forward yet. Things aren't getting better yet.

For some reason, adding those words remind me that what I'm feeling today isn't necessarily how I'll feel tomorrow. They don't change how I feel, but they give me just a glimmer of hope. It's a very small thing, but sometimes it's just enough to get me through the next moment, the next hour, or the next day.

We're here to support each other through the hardest moments, whatever they look like. Keep leaning on us for as long as you need. We'll be here alongside you.

Edited August 1Aug 1 by RachelSusan
.

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.

Quote of the century: "it's much easier to stop humpty from falling then it is to put him back together again." * as relayed to us by Chippy paraphrasing a comment by Altostrata, the founder of Surviving Antidepressants

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. 😀😀😀

Gabapentin reduction. 2026 Transitioned to partial liquid, 100mg in liquid and a 100mg capsule for a total of a 200mg dose. Dose three times 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%), July 28 to 180 mg (2.7%), Sept. 2, 2026 to 175mg (2.78%),

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) at 12.5 mg. Held until Jan. 2017, then resumed a slow taper. I tapered continuously from that point onward; however, my detailed taper records begin with Jan. 4, 2020. - 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/

4
1

August 1Aug 1

12 hours ago, Tracey said:
Thanks @RachelSusan , feels ofd being stuck on 7 mg. But it could be worse.
The big lifestyle change, move, loss of Maggie, no work, loss of direction and purpose is really hitting hard. Activated, highly agitated, lack of sleep, out of routine, extra things to do to function is beyond tolerable. Mum is getting irritable and not coping too well.
Feeling pretty desperate. Just can't stop 'running' on fast forward.
This is the worst I have been since this started months ago.
Beyond scared.

Tracy, I am so very sorry to hear of the loss of Maggie, my heart aches for you. Then dealing with the move and no work to help distract deffinatly is hard on ones CNS. It sometimes puts one high alert. Praying things settle down soon for you my friend. You are in my thoughts. Sending a virtual hug for some needed relief. 🤗

Dec 23 Citalopram 15mg

13 March 24 13.5mg

27 March 24 10mg

12 March 24 7.5mg

20 March 24 6mg

10 Aug 24 5mg

24 Aug 24 4mg

2 Sept 24 3.5mg

11 Sept 24 3mg

19 Sept 24 2.5mg

26 Sept 24 2mg

5 Oct 24 1.5mg

12 Oct 24 1mg

17 Oct 24 Jumped off.

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August 2Aug 2

Author

On 8/2/2026 at 1:30 AM, RachelSusan said:
@Tracey , my heart just aches reading this. You've had so many losses and changes all at the same time, and I can hear how frightened you are.
One thing that has helped me when my mind starts telling me that this is how it's always going to be is changing my language just a little. I add the words "right now" or "yet." Instead of, "I'm scared," I tell myself, "I'm scared right now." Instead of, "I'm never going to stabilize," I think, "I haven't stabilized yet." Or, "I can't find any hope right now."
Sometimes I actually have to stop myself when those thoughts come and say the sentence again with those words added. Other times, I'll write down exactly how I'm feeling: I'm frightened. I'm unhappy. I'm in pain. I haven't shown any recovery. I can't see a way forward. Things aren't getting better. Then I'll go back and add those little words: I'm frightened right now. I'm unhappy right now. I'm in pain right now. I haven't shown any recovery yet. I can't see a way forward yet. Things aren't getting better yet.
For some reason, adding those words remind me that what I'm feeling today isn't necessarily how I'll feel tomorrow. They don't change how I feel, but they give me just a glimmer of hope. It's a very small thing, but sometimes it's just enough to get me through the next moment, the next hour, or the next day.
We're here to support each other through the hardest moments, whatever they look like. Keep leaning on us for as long as you need. We'll be here alongside you.

Thank you so much @RachelSusan , I will work on my self talk. I get so swamped and in survival I am forgetting to do this.

My brain is so bad at the moment / right now and I am having a bad cortisol spike morning spike right now. The worst for months and my body is suffering more. The longer I can't do my proper exercise thd worse I seem to be feeling.

My life feels in such crisis right now. I feel so lost and displaced.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

August 2Aug 2

Author

On 8/2/2026 at 2:00 AM, Bernadette said:
Tracy, I am so very sorry to hear of the loss of Maggie, my heart aches for you. Then dealing with the move and no work to help distract deffinatly is hard on ones CNS. It sometimes puts one high alert. Praying things settle down soon for you my friend. You are in my thoughts. Sending a virtual hug for some needed relief. 🤗

Thanks @Bernadette

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

August 2Aug 2

@Tracey I noticed you used "right now" several times in your post. ❤️ It may not seem like much, but that's exactly what I was talking about. Those two little words can gently remind us that today doesn't have to define tomorrow.

When you say you feel lost and displaced, I can understand why. Your whole world has changed in such a short time. You didn't just move to a different house. You left behind the place where your life felt familiar and predictable. Your daily routines changed, your surroundings changed, the mountain air and walks you loved are gone, and even your animals are adjusting to a completely different life. That's a tremendous amount of change for anyone. You don't have to force yourself to feel at home yet. Sometimes that comes one small step and one new routine at a time.

Don't expect yourself to function as if nothing has happened. Right now, you are in survival mode, and that affects everything: your thoughts, your emotions, your sleep, your concentration, and your ability to cope.

We're here, Tracey. Just keep reaching out whenever you need to. xo

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.

Quote of the century: "it's much easier to stop humpty from falling then it is to put him back together again." * as relayed to us by Chippy paraphrasing a comment by Altostrata, the founder of Surviving Antidepressants

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. 😀😀😀

Gabapentin reduction. 2026 Transitioned to partial liquid, 100mg in liquid and a 100mg capsule for a total of a 200mg dose. Dose three times 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%), July 28 to 180 mg (2.7%), Sept. 2, 2026 to 175mg (2.78%),

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) at 12.5 mg. Held until Jan. 2017, then resumed a slow taper. I tapered continuously from that point onward; however, my detailed taper records begin with Jan. 4, 2020. - 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/

1

August 3Aug 3

Dear @Tracey all I can say is that you are heard, understood and embraced by all of us.

This storm is meant to pass like all storms, just hang in there and give yourself time and grace.

Much love to you 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 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.

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August 3Aug 3

2 hours ago, RachelSusan said:
@Tracey I noticed you used "right now" several times in your post. ❤️ It may not seem like much, but that's exactly what I was talking about. Those two little words can gently remind us that today doesn't have to define tomorrow.
When you say you feel lost and displaced, I can understand why. Your whole world has changed in such a short time. You didn't just move to a different house. You left behind the place where your life felt familiar and predictable. Your daily routines changed, your surroundings changed, the mountain air and walks you loved are gone, and even your animals are adjusting to a completely different life. That's a tremendous amount of change for anyone. You don't have to force yourself to feel at home yet. Sometimes that comes one small step and one new routine at a time.
Don't expect yourself to function as if nothing has happened. Right now, you are in survival mode, and that affects everything: your thoughts, your emotions, your sleep, your concentration, and your ability to cope.
We're here, Tracey. Just keep reaching out whenever you need to. xo

Hi @RachelSusan

2 hours ago, RachelSusan said:
@Tracey I noticed you used "right now" several times in your post. ❤️ It may not seem like much, but that's exactly what I was talking about. Those two little words can gently remind us that today doesn't have to define tomorrow.
When you say you feel lost and displaced, I can understand why. Your whole world has changed in such a short time. You didn't just move to a different house. You left behind the place where your life felt familiar and predictable. Your daily routines changed, your surroundings changed, the mountain air and walks you loved are gone, and even your animals are adjusting to a completely different life. That's a tremendous amount of change for anyone. You don't have to force yourself to feel at home yet. Sometimes that comes one small step and one new routine at a time.
Don't expect yourself to function as if nothing has happened. Right now, you are in survival mode, and that affects everything: your thoughts, your emotions, your sleep, your concentration, and your ability to cope.
We're here, Tracey. Just keep reaching out whenever you need to. xo

Hi @RachelSusan

I have another question regarding your taper. And I understand that comparing could be useless because we are all different and can respond differently to dose reductions, even if it's the same drug and same dose. However, I am curious if, after you reached the 12.5 mg dose of sertraline in 2016, did you hold that dose for a while, or did it take 4 years until 2020 to reach the next documented dose of 1.8 mg? That's when you switched to the liquid, and I was wondering if you held that dose to stabilize for a while. It seems like from 1.8 mg it was fairly quick compared to before.

Sincerely @NOW

2005: Zoloft 200 mg. Levothyroxine 150mcg

2015: Zoloft rapid taper over 3 months from 200 mg to 0mg. Crash in 3 months.->

2015: Zoloft reinstated at 200mg. Trazodone 100 mg sleep-->

2021:Zoloft150mg, Trazodone 100 mg,

2022: Zoloft 100 mg, Trazodone 100 mg->

2023: Zoloft 50 mg, Trazodone 50 mg, Levothyroxine 150 mcg x5, 75 mcg x2. Slow taper to Zoloft 25 mg.->

2024: Maintained Zoloft 25 mg and Trazodone 50 mg until May, 2025.

2025: May->Started hyperbolic taper of Zoloft 23.45mg, Trazodone 40mg 6/20/25: Zoloft 23.75mg 7/8/2025: Zoloft 22.56mg 7/27/25: Zoloft 21.43 mg Levothyroxine 150 mcg x4, 75 mcg x3- 8/13/25: up-dose to Zoloft 22.56 mg due to symptoms of anxiety. >9/4/2025: Zoloft 21.43 Levothyroxine 150 mcg x3, 75 mcg x4/week - 9/11/2025: Zoloft 20.89 mg Trazodone 39mg 10/1/2025: Zoloft19.89mg 10/15/25: Zoloft 19.39mg 10/20/2025: Zoloft 18.86mg 11/8/2025: 18.43mg 11/15/2025: 17.96mg 11/25/2025: 17.51mg->Trazodone 38mg 11/30/2025: Zoloft 17.0mg 12/8/25: Zoloft 16.64 mg Levothyroxine 150 mcg x2, 75 mcg x5/week 12/15/2025: Zoloft 16.23 mg Trazodone 37.8 mg 12/22/2025: Zoloft 16.2 mg 12/28/2025: Zoloft 15.82mg

2026: 1/5/2026: Zoloft 15.4 mg 1/12/2026: Zoloft 15mg 1/26/2026: Zoloft 14.6mg 2/4/2026: Zoloft 14.3mg ->2/11/2026: Zoloft 13.9.mg. Trazodone 36.9 mg. ->2/24/2026: Zoloft 13.6 mg -> 3/4/2026: Zoloft 13.2 mg. 3/14/26: Trazodone 36.2 mg 3/18/2026: Zoloft: 12.9 mg, Levothyroxine: up-dosed to 150mcg one day a week, 75 mcg the rest, due to elevated TSH. 3/28/2026: Trazodone 35.9 mg 4/13/2026 Trazodone 35 mg 4/21/2026 Zoloft 12.6 mg 5/10/2026 began zoloft conversion to liquid 20mg/ml. 6/21/2026 12.0 mg (0.6ml). 7/1/2026 11.9mg (0.59ml). 7/13/26 11.3mg(0.57ml)7/22/26 11.0mg(0.55ml). 8/2/2026 Sertraline 10.4 (0.52ml) 8/15/2026 9.8mg(0.48ml). Trazodone 33mg 9/10/2026 sertraline 9.3mg (4.6ml). 9/25/26 trazodone 31 mg

CURRENT DOSES (2026):

Levothyroxine ->100 mcg x7 days / week (not tapering)->However, had to reduce dose due to TSH lab results. Reduction of SSRI might have been potentiating thyroid function. Still reducing in 2026 based on lab results. Started on 175 mcg/day in 1995.

Trazodone ->31 mg (2%-5% per 30-60 days->hyperbolic tapering) - Started on 100 mg in 2021.

Sertraline ->(Zoloft) 9.3 mg (6% per 2 week hyperbolic tapering) - Started on 200 mg in 2005

August 3Aug 3

Author

3 hours ago, RachelSusan said:
@Tracey I noticed you used "right now" several times in your post. ❤️ It may not seem like much, but that's exactly what I was talking about. Those two little words can gently remind us that today doesn't have to define tomorrow.
When you say you feel lost and displaced, I can understand why. Your whole world has changed in such a short time. You didn't just move to a different house. You left behind the place where your life felt familiar and predictable. Your daily routines changed, your surroundings changed, the mountain air and walks you loved are gone, and even your animals are adjusting to a completely different life. That's a tremendous amount of change for anyone. You don't have to force yourself to feel at home yet. Sometimes that comes one small step and one new routine at a time.
Don't expect yourself to function as if nothing has happened. Right now, you are in survival mode, and that affects everything: your thoughts, your emotions, your sleep, your concentration, and your ability to cope.
We're here, Tracey. Just keep reaching out whenever you need to. xo

Very wise @RachelSusan , yes this is all so true. My symptoms are just so intense. I can't do the self care as well and easily or look after animals as easily. Taking a big energetic toll . I think the darker mornings and less sun are also wreaking havoc with my brain chemicals.

There is more traffic and it is busier in general so my nervous system has more to deal with. I vastly underestimated all this when I decided to move. My place was healing me more than I thought. I had no idea it would get this bad. I have just taken on too much with the move.

I know most of us have been in the black hole with no perceived way out.

I am praying and hoping I can hold on but my life feels out of control now, like I am losing my independence or will lose it. I am normally such a capable and rational person. This is not me.

Today is really really bad. 😢😢

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tracey: Tapering Sertraline With Self Compassion and Patience

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