8 replies to this topic

[PamR]

Hi everyone.....I have been reading about a bunch of different methods for getting off this drug. I decided to quit cold turkey after taking 60mg for about 3 years (30mg before that)....what really stinks is that I asked to be put on this (mild depression and arthritis) not knowing the dependency of it and hence the withdrawal pains......

 

Yes, I am going through yucky stuff, but I figured that tapering or not tapering.....its going to happen,  so I am "biting the bullet" I am following some guidelines from other sufferers such as supplements and drinking lots of water, etc.......

 

Almost a week of no Cymbalta...two days of supplements....my main symptoms are "fuzzy" head, dizziness and an overall feeling of achy and tiredness. I can handle the sweats since I already have them from my hot flashes!

 

Why does this drug do this? What is the timeline to feeling like myself again? Will it get better or worse? I suppose there is no right answer...

 

thanks fo any advice

[gail]

Hi Pam and welcome to the forum,

I must say that you are really brave to do this cold turkey. If I remember right, 20% go through tough withdrawal. I pray that you are not in that 20%.

No one recommends cold turkey, but again, you might be one of the lucky ones!

Lots of water, omega with a high percentage of DHA, vitamins C. Should you experience any anxiety, we have suggestions here.

We cannot predict when this will end, but at around week 8 to 12, many see improvement. That is from what we have seen here, then again, it varies. All we can do is reassure you that what you are going through is normal and give you suggestions. It could be a long journey as it can go smoothly.

Come by any time to vent or get info or simply to be reassured that you are not losing your mind through this. Take a look at the archives and see that you are not alone in this Pam.
See you!

[PamR]

Thank you so much for having this forum and helping a lot of people go through this!

 

Each day is a little better, but I think its just that I am determined to tolerate the symptoms. Although some folks report the tapering down is effective, most report that they still have the same withdrawal symptoms as I am having (even much worse). I'd rather not add months to my timeline, only to find out the process is going to be the same anyway.

 

I am continuing to dose up on supplements that I feel will take the edge off, as well as anti nausea and migraine meds (OTC). This has helped as well. Keeping my mind busy, listening to music....and believe it or not small spells of crying are actually not a bad thing for me. I feel that the past few years of being on anti-depressants have suppressed me  being able to"feel", like emotions were actually stuck. Weird? Thats just me, I know others are very overwhelmed by sadness and it can be debilitating.

 

I am angered that the drug companies do not conduct more long term studies. Its money first, people last....now that is sad

 

Pam 

[gail]

Hi Pam,

Each day is a little bit better, that is great to hear. Thank you for the update.

Would be nice if you came back for another update, always interesting for us to know how people are managing. Plus, it helps the newbies. Again, thank you and I hope that every day get better and better for you.

[PamR]

What a roller coaster ride! Here's what makes my journey worse: fatigue and low blood sugar (ugh, I want and need to eat more and Im already 30 pounds overweight) Feels like I am in and out of having the flu. Now I need to get the flu shot for work....wondering, will this make my symptoms worse?

 

Going to up the water more tomorrow, see if it lessons the tired feeling

 

I just cant believe this whole thing. It boggles my mind how discontinuing a medication can be so ridiculously complex. And take so long! Its crazy.

[gail]

Hi Pam,

As you must know, flu like symptoms are really commun in withdrawal. Tiredness also.
Take the flu shot, it won't hurt.
As for the weight, all say that it comes down gradually.

Thanks for updating!

[PamR]

The symptoms seems to come in and out in terms of severity and frequency. Now I am experiencing more gastrointestinal issues! (UGH) Some relief has been "medical" MJ.....relaxes all the systems nicely. However, not an option when at work. 

[fishinghat]

Hi Pam

 

The physical symptoms usually start subsiding around week 8 to 12. Hang in there.

[PamR]

Belly issues still....but the emotions are fairly stable. Dizziness is better. Not ever going to take a medication without being fully informed.

8-12 weeks is a long time, but worth it to be free!!!!!

 

btw...thank you to all who are here and available for people struggling!!!