Re: Tapering off too fast - help!
Originally Posted by
SSRINoMore
With the help of my doctor, I decided to switch from citalopram to venlafaxine (Effexor), which is supposed to have fewer side effects. We decided that I would taper off fast, to decrease the amount of time I would experience withdrawal effects. We agreed on 5mg every 2 days, so went down to 15mg, then two days later 10mg, etc.
Well as I hit 5mg it occurred to me that I might want to try going off meds completely. I haven't experienced much in the way of withdrawal symptoms so far. I figured I'd try for a few weeks and if I couldn't handle it, I'd go onto the venlafaxine.
I finally started researching citalopram withdrawal today, and discovered that everybody's screaming "DON'T TAPER OFF TOO FAST!!" They're talking MONTHS to get off the meds, and here I am taking a little over a week.
So what should I do? Should I go back up to 20mg and then taper off more slowly? Today was my first day on 0. I'm worried that the withdrawal will last longer because I went down too quickly. Advice?
10% per month is the recommended rate to taper off ,sometimes slower.Some people get withdrawal some dont its down to how strong you are mentally what dose your on and how long for.I came off sert in about 2 months ,no brain zaps no increased anxiety nothing,its ultimately your choice how you do it.If i did it again i think would go the slower option just to be safe
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dont panic ,put the kettle on