Re: Feel very stuck
Originally Posted by
happybunny13
I have been on citalopram around 16 years 20mg. I was down to 10mg for around 2 years.
The minimum effective citalopram dose for most is 20mg/day. Taking sub therapeutic doses for extended periods can increase the risk of the an AD pooping-out.
Low depression
...I don't really want to go up to 40mg as I feel this may make me feel more tired and even more unmotivated.
If it works taking 40mg is more likely to do the opposite of what you fear because what you've describe is a lot more than "low" depression.
Like what if the new medication makes me feel worse.
What if it doesn't? Of the available options doing nothing is the worst. Yes, you may feel worse for a week or two after switching, but there is a high probability that you will then begin to live again instead of merely surviving.
I know my anxiety will make me feel very anxious to start a new med so I will be very vigilant for every side effect and constantlt checking how it is making me feel.
I suggest you explain your fears to your GP - write them down so you don't forget anything - as there are ways of minimising any side-effects and the heightened anxiety that switching will likely trigger more because you're talking yourself into it than the meds themselves.
Usually, switching overnight to an equivalent dose of the new SSRI causes few problems and the ones that do occur are typically short-lived, however, I think a more cautious slow cross taper may be the better option in your case. It should greatly minimise the severity of any side-effects and, more importantly, help build confidence in the process.
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The opinions expressed above are based on my observations and, where applicable, interpretation of cited data and are general in nature. Consult your physician before acting on anything stated.