Tracey: Tapering Sertraline With Self Compassion and Patience

September 16Sep 16

Author

On 9/14/2026 at 2:23 AM, RachelSusan said:
@Tracey I also wanted to mention that there was also a period when I was so bad that I couldn't even form sentences in my head. I could barely speak, and when I did, everything came out very slowly. I would even lose track of what I was trying to say halfway through. I was really frightened about my cognitive function and honestly wondered if my brain would ever come back.
It eventually did. My thinking returned to normal and is as good as it was before. And now I can write again, which is something I really enjoy. I never would have believed that during the worst of it.
Hang in there Tracey, I know it is h*ll but I do believe that with time things will improve for you as well. xx

Thanks @RachelSusan ,

I am so glad all that is behind you. I have had a tiny but of the verbal thing, not too much.

Today I woke up much calmer, however what seems to be happening now is deep depression and no motivation. I guess the cortisol and anxiety/ panic was driving me somewhat. However I still had the depression and dread underneath the panic.

Gee this is all so scary. 😢. And finding my new circumstances difficult on top.

I can't help lose hope as I am still on 7 mg, long way to go. I don't mind as long as I can get off and stabilise in the meantime. I can only hope going slow enough will prevent this happening again. Very daunting.

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)

September 16Sep 16

17 minutes ago, Tracey said:
woke up much calmer,

Dear Tracey, I am so glad you have had a reprieve from the anxiety. It can be so nasty.

18 minutes ago, Tracey said:
Gee this is all so scary. 😢.

Agreed.

19 minutes ago, Tracey said:
I am still on 7 mg, long way to go.

I am on 7.3mg. We will both be here for the long haul. It is going to take me quite a while as well.

Hoping your wave lets up soon and you can find some stability.

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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September 16Sep 16

47 minutes ago, Tracey said:
Thanks @RachelSusan ,
I am so glad all that is behind you. I have had a tiny but of the verbal thing, not too much.
Today I woke up much calmer, however what seems to be happening now is deep depression and no motivation. I guess the cortisol and anxiety/ panic was driving me somewhat. However I still had the depression and dread underneath the panic.
Gee this is all so scary. 😢. And finding my new circumstances difficult on top.
I can't help lose hope as I am still on 7 mg, long way to go. I don't mind as long as I can get off and stabilise in the meantime. I can only hope going slow enough will prevent this happening again. Very daunting.

I feel your fear @Tracey . Not a day goes past when I don't think of how long this is going to take, and how much more pain and suffering along the way. It's a very vulnerable position to be in. It's very easy to think dark thoughts. Although depression and especially dread are awful they will not last forever. I suspect the grief is still very much a part of what you're going through. So much loss - your animals, livelihood, home, independence and autonomy have all been things you've lost or feel like you've lost or losing. It's a lot to bear. It's a blessing you are having moments of relative calmness. 💕

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.

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September 16Sep 16

2 hours ago, Tracey said:
Today I woke up much calmer,

😃 Happy to read Tracey, the patience needed to hold and stablise is enormous but you are doing a great job even if you don't realise you are :) x

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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September 16Sep 16

Author

3 hours ago, Catbird said:
I feel your fear @Tracey . Not a day goes past when I don't think of how long this is going to take, and how much more pain and suffering along the way. It's a very vulnerable position to be in. It's very easy to think dark thoughts. Although depression and especially dread are awful they will not last forever. I suspect the grief is still very much a part of what you're going through. So much loss - your animals, livelihood, home, independence and autonomy have all been things you've lost or feel like you've lost or losing. It's a lot to bear. It's a blessing you are having moments of relative calmness. 💕

I feel grief is very much a part of what I am going through. Just way too much loss of the things I loved the most ( animals, nature, peace, quiet, independence). I didn't ever have financial security, however the other things helped counteract that until it became even worse when I lost the part time job. Then I went into panic mode, hence the move. I can't stop 'crying over spilled milk' for the choice I made. The loss cuts deep.

I share your feelings re being vulnerable and the long haul we have ahead. This is when I question my choice to keep tapering, However the alternative is not appealing and no sure thing either as we have talked about.

Has your abdominal pain settled ? You must be back home 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)

September 16Sep 16

Author

4 hours ago, Wombat said:
Dear Tracey, I am so glad you have had a reprieve from the anxiety. It can be so nasty.
Agreed.
I am on 7.3mg. We will both be here for the long haul. It is going to take me quite a while as well.
Hoping your wave lets up soon and you can find some stability.
Wombat

Thanks @Wombat . I hope so too, however this move has really put the cat among the pigeons re my wave. Had I known how difficult this would be, I would never ever have done it. Crazy.

I noticed you were on 7.3mg. We will get there, just seems quite daunting. I can't help wonder if I missing life opportunities living the way I am. Hard one to sit with.

Have a peaceful evening xxx

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

September 16Sep 16

Author

2 hours ago, Chippy said:
😃 Happy to read Tracey, the patience needed to hold and stablise is enormous but you are doing a great job even if you don't realise you are :) x

Thanks @Chippy , sure doesn't feel like progress . I am comforted by your encouragement. Patience and trust that this is the 'right' path for me. Still feels like I made a 'bad' decision due to my wd mind. xx

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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September 16Sep 16

I know what you mean about missing life while we are going through this. It is really awful.

8 minutes ago, Tracey said:
this move has really put the cat among the pigeons re my wave. Had I known how difficult this would be, I would never ever have done it. Crazy

I think you were incredibly brave and very strong. It did sound like you had made a good plan and justifiable reasons to move. I don't think it was a bad decision, but rather one that will take a little minute to adjust to.

I know moving does take adjustment, even when we are not in withdrawal. Not to mention the grief you are also going through.

One day at a time. We will get there.

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."

1

September 16Sep 16

1 hour ago, Tracey said:
I feel grief is very much a part of what I am going through. Just way too much loss of the things I loved the most ( animals, nature, peace, quiet, independence). I didn't ever have financial security, however the other things helped counteract that until it became even worse when I lost the part time job. Then I went into panic mode, hence the move. I can't stop 'crying over spilled milk' for the choice I made. The loss cuts deep.
I share your feelings re being vulnerable and the long haul we have ahead. This is when I question my choice to keep tapering, However the alternative is not appealing and no sure thing either as we have talked about.
Has your abdominal pain settled ? You must be back home now.

The losses and emotion are real @Tracey as is the vulnerability. There’s no rule saying you have to keep tapering. I’ve seen others on SA who’ve stopped for long periods of time and resumed a long time after. I’ve considered this myself as I want to live a “normal life“ while I’m still young enough and to be able to enjoy life.

Yes I am home and yes I had abdominal pain whilst away though nowhere near the scale of sheer agony weeks ago now. I’m currently reluctant to resume tapering but the side effects of one of the drugs really impacts my life a lot. So I think I’ll just tentatively try a decrease of 0.02mg this month - I’ll do Brassmonkey so 0.0025 decrements each week. It’s scary resuming after so long holding. 🤞

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.

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September 16Sep 16

On 9/13/2026 at 9:23 AM, RachelSusan said:
@Tracey I also wanted to mention that there was also a period when I was so bad that I couldn't even form sentences in my head. I could barely speak, and when I did, everything came out very slowly. I would even lose track of what I was trying to say halfway through. I was really frightened about my cognitive function and honestly wondered if my brain would ever come back.
It eventually did. My thinking returned to normal and is as good as it was before. And now I can write again, which is something I really enjoy. I never would have believed that during the worst of it.
Hang in there Tracey, I know it is h*ll but I do believe that with time things will improve for you as well. xx

Hi Rachel. Did those cognitive and speech symptoms present themselves before the sensible hyperbolic taper? Or during it?

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

September 16Sep 16

@NOWHi Now. They presented after I was already in the middle of my taper, when my doctor raised my dose. I was already extremely sensitive from the cold turkey, reinstatement, and then tapering, but my doctor suggested increasing the dose, and at the time I didn’t know any better. Unfortunately, that was what really did me in. With time, though, I eventually got through it and things did get better. But boy, did this move set me back. What I ended up doing was taking a long hold and then resuming my taper.. 😀

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/

September 16Sep 16

@TraceyI'm glad you had a calmer morning. I know it must be frightening when things keep changing and you don't know what each day is going to bring.

I understand why looking at 7 mg and thinking about how far you still have to go feels so daunting. I remember how overwhelming it felt when I was going through it.

I'm hoping you stabilize very soon. Then if you can get a really solid foundation it would help when you eventually address the taper. My thought is that, with a long enough hold and a very slow taper, it can eventually happen more in the background of your life without making you so sick with every cut. At least that's what I'm hoping for you.

Thinking of you. xx

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

September 16Sep 16

Author

3 hours ago, RachelSusan said:
@TraceyI'm glad you had a calmer morning. I know it must be frightening when things keep changing and you don't know what each day is going to bring.
I understand why looking at 7 mg and thinking about how far you still have to go feels so daunting. I remember how overwhelming it felt when I was going through it.
I'm hoping you stabilize very soon. Then if you can get a really solid foundation it would help when you eventually address the taper. My thought is that, with a long enough hold and a very slow taper, it can eventually happen more in the background of your life without making you so sick with every cut. At least that's what I'm hoping for you.
Thinking of you. xx

Awful sleep last night. Agitated this morning, weak, diarrhoea, aching legs and arms, burning/tingling. Negative and depressed.

How will I get through the day. Feeling so drained and ill. Taking tiny pieces of celtic salt with sips of water as I am sure my sodium is fluctuating. I have had large amounts of urine some days.

Will ask my GP for blood test at my phone appt next week.

I feel so vulnerable right now.

Thanks for your support.

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
4

September 16Sep 16

Author

9 hours ago, Catbird said:
The losses and emotion are real @Tracey as is the vulnerability. There’s no rule saying you have to keep tapering. I’ve seen others on SA who’ve stopped for long periods of time and resumed a long time after. I’ve considered this myself as I want to live a “normal life“ while I’m still young enough and to be able to enjoy life.
Yes I am home and yes I had abdominal pain whilst away though nowhere near the scale of sheer agony weeks ago now. I’m currently reluctant to resume tapering but the side effects of one of the drugs really impacts my life a lot. So I think I’ll just tentatively try a decrease of 0.02mg this month - I’ll do Brassmonkey so 0.0025 decrements each week. It’s scary resuming after so long holding. 🤞

Yes they are real and I guess my call/decision to move was based in reality too.

Getting confused with neuro emotions.

I don't mind stopping taper until I settle if that is my safest option. I can't face getting any worse.

Hope your brass monkey goes smoothly.

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

September 16Sep 16

I am so sorry Tracey. Thinking of you.

Wombat

Edited September 17Sep 17 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."

September 17Sep 17

7 hours ago, Tracey said:
Awful sleep last night. Agitated this morning, weak, diarrhoea, aching legs and arms, burning/tingling. Negative and depressed.
How will I get through the day. Feeling so drained and ill. Taking tiny pieces of celtic salt with sips of water as I am sure my sodium is fluctuating. I have had large amounts of urine some days.
Will ask my GP for blood test at my phone appt next week.
I feel so vulnerable right now.

@Tracey So sorry to hear you had a bad night and morning. I hope you can get more good days coming your way. xx

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

September 17Sep 17

Oh @Tracey so deeply sorry you're caught in this brutal, stubborn flare-up, you're not alone dear.

I really hope that giving more time on your current dose will finally help your body find its balance.

Please be gentle with yourself and lower the bar right now, just making it through the next moment is a huge win.

Sending you the biggest hug 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.

1

September 19Sep 19

Author

On 9/17/2026 at 3:18 PM, Fullhealing said:
Oh @Tracey so deeply sorry you're caught in this brutal, stubborn flare-up, you're not alone dear.
I really hope that giving more time on your current dose will finally help your body find its balance.
Please be gentle with yourself and lower the bar right now, just making it through the next moment is a huge win.
Sending you the biggest hug xxxx

I really feel like I am doing something 'wrong'. I have never ever lost independence with my health.

Having to move back in with my 81 year old mother is hard to accept at my age. No end in sight for this hell , time is ticking away.

Feel so torn apart my whole being.

Am I being too much of a 'purist' not wanting to go back on or swap etc .. ? Feel

like I am losing my mind. The fear is just enormous.

Sorry for such a desperate post , worst day ever for me. Lack of sleep for 3 nights not helping.

I have been holding for so long 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)

1
2
2

September 19Sep 19

3 hours ago, Tracey said:
Sorry for such a desperate post , worst day ever for me. Lack of sleep for 3 nights not helping.

it's okay that happens, I don't think it's so bad to move live with your mom so you feel like you need to do less, you do what you need to do, just think logically not emotionally, you move to your mom so it's easier on you and you have less stress, it's not bad.

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.
Feel free to mention me whenever help is needed.

Current Supplements: Night: 6mg melatonin and 133mg magnesium glycinate. Taking Omega 3 as needed to calm dyskinesia or over stimulation (Lately been reacting more negatively to supplement Omega 3).

Current Medications: Mirtazapine, Lasea (lavender oil) before bed.

------------------------------------------

Tapering: Mirtazapine 15mg, (went compounded) 13.5mg 08/May/2025, 12.1mg 10/July/2025, 15/July/2025 15mg (half tablet), 26/July/2025 14.35mg (moved to dry cutting method) ), 03/Aug/2025 14.6mg, 24/Nov/2025 14.47mg, 29/Jan/2026 14.35mg

Note: Had a lot of issue with degradation with different cutting times and compounded pharmacy which caused withdrawals and a more sensitive nervous system.

1

September 19Sep 19

Keep on holding @Tracey your body will find stabillity at some stage. Lack of sleep can't be helpful. I know I've mentioned it before - Insight Timer has a section called Binaural Sleep. I've been using it the last 2 weeks and I go to sleep quite readily. I still wake earlier than I'd like. You might get some reprieve 🧡

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.

September 19Sep 19

Dear Tracey,

I am so sorry for what you are going through. It is an absolute nightmare!!!

5 hours ago, Tracey said:
Am I being too much of a 'purist' not wanting to go back on or swap etc .. ?

Do you mean with the medication?

There is always a risk that it might make things worse.

I wish we could just go back to our last stable dose and start again, but it doesn't seem to work that way.

5 hours ago, Tracey said:
Sorry for such a desperate post , worst day ever for me. Lack of sleep for 3 nights not helping.
I have been holding for so long now

Don't apologise for how you are feeling. Posting here with people who understand is the best thing to do.

I am praying that your window will come soon.

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."

September 19Sep 19

Thinking about you @Tracey. I think you know that updosing or switching meds is not the answer for you. I'm sorry things are so tough, but I truly believe that time is the answer and that you will find some stability once you have adjusted to all the changes you've experienced lately. I hope you are finding some comfort with your furbabies. This suffering will not be forever 💜

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

September 19Sep 19

@Tracey Just wanted to clarify, when was you last cut? Sorry to hear you are having such terrible times. This drug can be really awful.

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/

September 20Sep 20

On 9/19/2026 at 6:27 AM, Tracey said:
I really feel like I am doing something 'wrong'. I have never ever lost independence with my health.
Having to move back in with my 81 year old mother is hard to accept at my age. No end in sight for this hell , time is ticking away.
Feel so torn apart my whole being.
Am I being too much of a 'purist' not wanting to go back on or swap etc .. ? Feel
like I am losing my mind. The fear is just enormous.
Sorry for such a desperate post , worst day ever for me. Lack of sleep for 3 nights not helping.
I have been holding for so long now. 😢

You are doing everything right @Tracey even though withdrawal will make sure to to convince you otherwise and plays manipulations to find other alternatives for relief.

Allow more time and keep surviving the upcoming moments with a lot of self-compassion and no judgment, don't think too far ahead, it is simply too overwhelming.

The intensities will drop as the system rebalances, I promise you that.

Hold on and don't lose hope, you are so strong dear, you will get through this xxx

Edited September 20Sep 20 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
2

September 20Sep 20

Author

13 minutes ago, Fullhealing said:
You are doing everything right @Tracey even though withdrawal will make sure to to convince you otherwise and plays manipulations to find other alternatives for relief.
Allow more time and keep surviving the upcoming moments with a lot of self-compassion and no judgment, don't think too far ahead, it is simply too overwhelming.
The intensities will drop as the system rebalances, I promise you that.
Hold on and don't lose hope, you are so strong dear, you will get through this xxx

Thank you dear @Fullhealing .

I can't stay in the present, when I get in a bad wave I either go forward and make myself worse or go back the to the past and upset myself as well. The worst thing about the past is wishing I had never sold my own home. I have to pinch myself this has all happened, feels like a bad dream.

I hope you are surviving okay. I know you are having a rough time also. And that your cat is doing okay. You inspire me with your courage. xxxx

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

Tracey: Tapering Sertraline With Self Compassion and Patience

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