26 replies to this topic

[smeagol]

Hi all,

It took me 4+ months to wean off the Cymbalta from 60mg to zero. I've been on 60mg for 5 months. I started to taper it from late April.

However, after a relatively "slow" weaning off procedure, I am now still suffering from the withdrawal syndrome. I personally am pretty much sure it is withdrawal. However, the "experienced" psychiatrist said it is NOT withdrawal at all! He said it is my problem, which was GAD. I don't believe that because 5 years ago when I was diagnosed as panic attack and GAD, I never had this endless headache, the fatigue, the blurred vision and tremor. But afterwards, when I was put onto Effexor, and then changed to Cymbalta, I have been suffering from the migraine and other symptoms almost all the time.

Originally I was optimistic that I approached it with a slow weaning off process. But after ONE month totally off the shit, I am now getting worse. I don't know for those lucky people who survived from the withdrawal, how long this agony last? Is there a tinny tiny hope?!

I ever had the brain zap, when I reduced the 60mg to 30mg, but fortunately it only lasted 4 days. Brain zap is not my 1st complaint. The headache, the fatigue and the shaking are the factors killing me!

I don't want to go back on this shit. I don't want to switch over to any other SSRI/SSNRI poison neither.

For people got the final success, please encourage me or educate me: is one month enough? What should I do? I am really feeling desperate!

[tomitsu]

No smeagol 1 month is not enough for most. My docs alfo said it was not withdrawal. Thats a lie!!!!!I've been off Cymbalta since March 3, 2012. I have come a long way but I am not there yet. My depression comes and goes and I have anxiety. I had neither of these before Cymbalta. I feel normal other than depression and anxiety. I have some lethargy. I lost nearly all weight gained during Cymbalta, I eat better. I stopped drinking coffee. Do you want to email me? Let me know....
Try buying Bliss Johns book 'Recovery and Renewal' it's about withdrawal from this junk and Xanax. It helps me. I keep it by my bedside. Be strong.

[smeagol]

No smeagol 1 month is not enough for most. My docs alfo said it was not withdrawal. Thats a lie!!!!!I've been off Cymbalta since March 3, 2012. I have come a long way but I am not there yet. My depression comes and goes and I have anxiety. I had neither of these before Cymbalta. I feel normal other than depression and anxiety. I have some lethargy. I lost nearly all weight gained during Cymbalta, I eat better. I stopped drinking coffee. Do you want to email me? Let me know....
Try buying Bliss Johns book 'Recovery and Renewal' it's about withdrawal from this junk and Xanax. It helps me. I keep it by my bedside. Be strong.

Tomitsu,

Thank you very much for sharing the info and encouragement.

I don't drink any alcohol for 5 years. I never drink coffee. I am almost done about quit smoking.

This headache, tremor and fatigue is stopping me from returning to work. I don't expect 100% "normal" as I know it is impossible and unrealistic. What I want is just strong enough to get a job. Sitting there, feeling dizzy, shaking like a engine insides, with endless headache if I look at a PC screen longer than one hour, in such situation, I can't work!

Yes I just ordered the book you recommanded on Amazon. If you don't mind, I would like to write you email. Please PM me your email address. I need understanding and support.

Thank you again, best wishes.

[ashleypoo]

I wanted to tell you my story of weaning off Cymbalta in hopes that I can help you. First just let me say I have been on antidepressants off and on since I was in 8th grade and I have never had the issues I have had with Cymbalta! I feel your pain, I experienced the brain zaps, being crazy emotional (still mildly dealing with that one) anger, etc... I decided to start weaning off of it after I caused a fight with my bestfriend of 12 years whom now won't speak to me, caused multiple fights with my boyfriend of 6 years (I am lucky he is still around) and after wondering what was happening to me I started doing research on the drug and found out just how awful it was. I got an appointment with my doctor ASAP who told me I would need to wean off for about 9 weeks and should feel NO side effects whatsoever. She was right...for the first 3 weeks. I slowly tapered off the drug as she directed but after the 3rd week the brain zaps started. They were mild at first and increased a little every day...the last 3 weeks were the worst! Brain zaps so bad I couldn't concentrate at work, I would forget what I was saying, constantly feeling like I was going to pass out, always wanting to cry....I just kept telling myself it will get better...but it didn't instead I got overly emotional and angry. Angry at myself for starting the drug, angry that I knew I was being ridiculous and mean to loved ones but couldn't stop it, and angry that I was constantly in pain. My brain zaps would literally come right after the other I'm talking 30-40 a minute! It was now that all free time I had went to research on how to stop this torture…I knew that I could just start taking it like normal again and feel fine, but I had to be stronger than that! Finally after hours and days of searching I took advice from different forums and came up with my own “remedy.” I know it may be hard to believe but I have been COMPLETLEY Cymbalta free for 1 week and 2 days and have only had 3 very slight brain zaps in the past 5…for anyone who has had brain zaps you know going from 40 a minute to only 3 in 5 days is quite amazing. So here is how I made them stop…..
1. Running…the fall weather feels amazing and even though I can barley run a mile the exercise felt great…I did this about every other day. Wish I could go everyday but unfortunately work and life gets in the way and let’s face it you don’t always feel like exercising!
2. Fish oil (one capsule at breakfast and one at night)
3. 5 HTP dissolvable tablets 100 mg …these are NATURAL supplements for depression and anxiety and actually work. You can take 200 mg/day but 100 has been working just fine for me. I take it with breakfast. They increase serotonin; Lack of serotonin and nerves are the biggest contributors to the brain zaps.
4. Huperzine A…this is for memory and helps people with alzhimers. It took A LOT of digging to find that it helped with brain zaps but it does…a friend told me she saw it on Dr. OZ. Not to mention it gives you natural energy and brain clarity…who doesn’t want that?
5. Lots and lots and lots and lots of water! It is so important to stay hydrated right now and eat healthy. Your body is going through a lot and needs all the help it can get right now.
6. Sleep when you’re tired, and trust me during this period of time you will probably find yourself more tired than usual. Mentally and physically. Every night starting at weaning week 3, I am literally ready to go to bed by 7 p.m. but push myself until at least 9. This will go away soon and I can’t wait to be completely back to normal.

My weaning schedule was as follows
Week 1 – M. 60 mg. T. 60 mg. W. 30 mg TH. 60 MG F. 60 mg S. 30 MG S. 60 MG
Week 2 - M. 30 mg. T. 60 mg. W. 30 mg TH. 60 MG F. 30 mg S. 60 MG S. 30 MG
Week 3 – M. 30 mg. T. 60 mg. W. 30 mg TH. 30 MG F. 60 mg S. 30 MG S. 30 MG
Week 4 – M. 60 mg. T. 30 mg. W. 30 mg TH. 30 MG F. 60 mg S. 30 MG S. 30 MG
Week 5 – M. 30 mg. T. 30 mg. W. 60 mg TH. 30 MG F. 30 mg S. 30 MG S. 30 MG
Week 6 – M. 30 mg. T. nothing W. 30 mg TH. 30 MG F. 30 mg S. nothing S. 30 MG
Week 7 – M. 30 mg. T. nothing. W. 30 mg TH. nothing F. 30 mg S. nothing S. 30 MG
Week 8 – M. nothing. T. nothing W. 30 mg TH. nothing F. nothing S. 30 MG S. nothing
Week 9 – M. T. W. Nothing TH. 30 MG F. S. S. Nothing


For now I am just happy I have been able to get rid of the brain zaps and the majority of my being a basket case! I do promise if you can be strong and push through there is a light at the end of the tunnel. This medicine should be taken off the market as it has extreme side effects and not only affects your mind and body but personal relationships as well. I am very sorry for such a long post but I hope if you read the entire thing you found some hope and help!

[DonMH]

Brilliant post and well explained.My wife was transferred to Psychiatric ICU yesterday - the hallucinations and sensitivity to the slightest noise became unbearable. Trying to explain things to her consultant is like having a conversation with a brick wall.It doesn't help having a major speech problem from a little boy. Hope everything continues to go well - so glad your boyfriend stood by you; I have been married 24 years (in sickness and in health) and i wouldn't change my wife for the world.
God bless

DonMH

[ashleypoo]

Brilliant post and well explained.My wife was transferred to Psychiatric ICU yesterday - the hallucinations and sensitivity to the slightest noise became unbearable. Trying to explain things to her consultant is like having a conversation with a brick wall.It doesn't help having a major speech problem from a little boy. Hope everything continues to go well - so glad your boyfriend stood by you; I have been married 24 years (in sickness and in health) and i wouldn't change my wife for the world.
God bless

DonMH

Thank you DonMH, I hope she gets relief soon! I am glad you are there for her...it is so hard for people to understand who have never been through the situation! It is a truley difficult time for the person suffering as well as those around them. Keep us updated about her recovery!

[smeagol]

I wanted to tell you my story of weaning off Cymbalta in hopes that I can help you. First just let me say I have been on antidepressants off and on since I was in 8th grade and I have never had the issues I have had with Cymbalta! I feel your pain, I experienced the brain zaps, being crazy emotional (still mildly dealing with that one) anger, etc... I decided to start weaning off of it after I caused a fight with my bestfriend of 12 years whom now won't speak to me, caused multiple fights with my boyfriend of 6 years (I am lucky he is still around) and after wondering what was happening to me I started doing research on the drug and found out just how awful it was. I got an appointment with my doctor ASAP who told me I would need to wean off for about 9 weeks and should feel NO side effects whatsoever. She was right...for the first 3 weeks. I slowly tapered off the drug as she directed but after the 3rd week the brain zaps started. They were mild at first and increased a little every day...the last 3 weeks were the worst! Brain zaps so bad I couldn't concentrate at work, I would forget what I was saying, constantly feeling like I was going to pass out, always wanting to cry....I just kept telling myself it will get better...but it didn't instead I got overly emotional and angry. Angry at myself for starting the drug, angry that I knew I was being ridiculous and mean to loved ones but couldn't stop it, and angry that I was constantly in pain. My brain zaps would literally come right after the other I'm talking 30-40 a minute! It was now that all free time I had went to research on how to stop this torture…I knew that I could just start taking it like normal again and feel fine, but I had to be stronger than that! Finally after hours and days of searching I took advice from different forums and came up with my own “remedy.” I know it may be hard to believe but I have been COMPLETLEY Cymbalta free for 1 week and 2 days and have only had 3 very slight brain zaps in the past 5…for anyone who has had brain zaps you know going from 40 a minute to only 3 in 5 days is quite amazing. So here is how I made them stop…..
1. Running…the fall weather feels amazing and even though I can barley run a mile the exercise felt great…I did this about every other day. Wish I could go everyday but unfortunately work and life gets in the way and let’s face it you don’t always feel like exercising!
2. Fish oil (one capsule at breakfast and one at night)
3. 5 HTP dissolvable tablets 100 mg …these are NATURAL supplements for depression and anxiety and actually work. You can take 200 mg/day but 100 has been working just fine for me. I take it with breakfast. They increase serotonin; Lack of serotonin and nerves are the biggest contributors to the brain zaps.
4. Huperzine A…this is for memory and helps people with alzhimers. It took A LOT of digging to find that it helped with brain zaps but it does…a friend told me she saw it on Dr. OZ. Not to mention it gives you natural energy and brain clarity…who doesn’t want that?
5. Lots and lots and lots and lots of water! It is so important to stay hydrated right now and eat healthy. Your body is going through a lot and needs all the help it can get right now.
6. Sleep when you’re tired, and trust me during this period of time you will probably find yourself more tired than usual. Mentally and physically. Every night starting at weaning week 3, I am literally ready to go to bed by 7 p.m. but push myself until at least 9. This will go away soon and I can’t wait to be completely back to normal.

My weaning schedule was as follows
Week 1 – M. 60 mg. T. 60 mg. W. 30 mg TH. 60 MG F. 60 mg S. 30 MG S. 60 MG
Week 2 - M. 30 mg. T. 60 mg. W. 30 mg TH. 60 MG F. 30 mg S. 60 MG S. 30 MG
Week 3 – M. 30 mg. T. 60 mg. W. 30 mg TH. 30 MG F. 60 mg S. 30 MG S. 30 MG
Week 4 – M. 60 mg. T. 30 mg. W. 30 mg TH. 30 MG F. 60 mg S. 30 MG S. 30 MG
Week 5 – M. 30 mg. T. 30 mg. W. 60 mg TH. 30 MG F. 30 mg S. 30 MG S. 30 MG
Week 6 – M. 30 mg. T. nothing W. 30 mg TH. 30 MG F. 30 mg S. nothing S. 30 MG
Week 7 – M. 30 mg. T. nothing. W. 30 mg TH. nothing F. 30 mg S. nothing S. 30 MG
Week 8 – M. nothing. T. nothing W. 30 mg TH. nothing F. nothing S. 30 MG S. nothing
Week 9 – M. T. W. Nothing TH. 30 MG F. S. S. Nothing


For now I am just happy I have been able to get rid of the brain zaps and the majority of my being a basket case! I do promise if you can be strong and push through there is a light at the end of the tunnel. This medicine should be taken off the market as it has extreme side effects and not only affects your mind and body but personal relationships as well. I am very sorry for such a long post but I hope if you read the entire thing you found some hope and help!

Dear,

Thank you very much for this!!!

I have in fact completely stopped Cymbalta, for ONE month! Like you said it costed you 9 weeks, while in my case, 4+ months. My pain now is the "withdrawal syndrome", although the psychiatrist said "no it is not!".

So now I am focused on the "post-Cymbalta" life, instead of the weaning procedure as it is history.

I just don't get it, why as time goes by during the past one month, it is getting worse, instead of getting better???!!!

I hate this drug, and the doctors, if they qualified that title.

[ashleypoo]

Dear,

Thank you very much for this!!!

I have in fact completely stopped Cymbalta, for ONE month! Like you said it costed you 9 weeks, while in my case, 4+ months. My pain now is the "withdrawal syndrome", although the psychiatrist said "no it is not!".

So now I am focused on the "post-Cymbalta" life, instead of the weaning procedure as it is history.

I just don't get it, why as time goes by during the past one month, it is getting worse, instead of getting better???!!!

I hate this drug, and the doctors, if they qualified that title.

I don't understand why it's worse before better either! All I can think of and from what I found from research is that this medicine messes with the chemicals in your brain and in it's absense your brain is trying to make up for it by overreacting....if that makes sense? My mom tried getting off effexor and was unsuccessful as she kept having dizzy spells, brain shocks, nausea...and eventually went back on it. She is going to try the advice that I gave fish oil, 5 htp, and huperzine and see if it works for her. I HIGHLY reccommend that you get these as I felt 50% better the next day after taking all 3 together. I even spoke with my doctor and she has heard good things about 5 HTP and told me to ONLY get it from GNC because they are the most trusted. I hope it helps you and you find relief I know how miserable it is and how you can just want to give up, but don't! I wish there was some kind of lawsuit/protest to get the word out to the Pharmaceutical companies...

[smeagol]

I don't understand why it's worse before better either! All I can think of and from what I found from research is that this medicine messes with the chemicals in your brain and in it's absense your brain is trying to make up for it by overreacting....if that makes sense? My mom tried getting off effexor and was unsuccessful as she kept having dizzy spells, brain shocks, nausea...and eventually went back on it. She is going to try the advice that I gave fish oil, 5 htp, and huperzine and see if it works for her. I HIGHLY reccommend that you get these as I felt 50% better the next day after taking all 3 together. I even spoke with my doctor and she has heard good things about 5 HTP and told me to ONLY get it from GNC because they are the most trusted. I hope it helps you and you find relief I know how miserable it is and how you can just want to give up, but don't! I wish there was some kind of lawsuit/protest to get the word out to the Pharmaceutical companies...

Thank you again.

I don't have brain zap so I think taking fish oil and huperzine will not do benefit to me.

For 5-HTP, I know this stuff. The concern is, I heard many times that taking 5-HTP will mess up the brain and cause "5 HTP syndrome"

[smeagol]

Thank you again.

I don't have brain zap so I think taking fish oil and huperzine will not do benefit to me.

For 5-HTP, I know this stuff. The concern is, I heard many times that taking 5-HTP will mess up the brain and cause "5 HTP syndrome"

Sorry ashleypoo,

I didn't make it clear. I don't have brain zap, vertigo or dizziness. The top killers are: tremor/shaking, fatigue and headache. I guess these are related to anxiety, not depression.

So what I know, based on my limited knowledge, 5-HTP will help the depression, not anxiety?

Then here is my question, urgent! What supplement (like St.Johns, 5HTP) can help the anxiety during the withdrawal?

[smeagol]

Sorry ashleypoo,

I didn't make it clear. I don't have brain zap, vertigo or dizziness. The top killers are: tremor/shaking, fatigue and headache. I guess these are related to anxiety, not depression.

So what I know, based on my limited knowledge, 5-HTP will help the depression, not anxiety?

Then here is my question, urgent! What supplement (like St.Johns, 5HTP) can help the anxiety during the withdrawal?

I talked to my psychiatrist, told him it is 31 days now and I am getting worse. He said, "if that's the case, I am pretty much sure it is NOT the Cymbalta withdrawal. You are getting worse means your original probelm is not under control. You have to accept the reality that, you need the medicine."

I don't know what to say, what to do.

[smeagol]

Update: 31days off Cymbalta

I am dying! Premature heart beats, tremor, muscle pain (chest), headache, fatigue, cramping stomach, bloating belly... you name it.

I don't understand: why am I getting worse? The first 2 weeks after totally stopped Cymbalta I was fine! However, started from the 3rd week until now, I have been suffering from this full force set back. But what I saw from this great forum is that most of us are getting better and better? Why?????!!!!!!

I will go to GNC to buy some Oryzanol, guess it will help the anxiety. Any advice?

All my best wishes for you. I don't knwo if or not I will get crazy or die from this endless withdrawal.

[ashleypoo]

I talked to my psychiatrist, told him it is 31 days now and I am getting worse. He said, "if that's the case, I am pretty much sure it is NOT the Cymbalta withdrawal. You are getting worse means your original probelm is not under control. You have to accept the reality that, you need the medicine."

I don't know what to say, what to do.

You're doctor sounds like a jerk! Have you tried a different doctor for a second opinion? I feel like doctors are too quick to force medications on people and aren't realizing they are making the current problem much worse than the initial one! These medicines effect the chemicals in our brains...so yes, when you get off of them you will more than likley have more anxiety until your body adjusts back to normal! How long were you on Cymbalta? I saw that you have been off over a month and congrats on staying strong! I have read that prozac can help ease the anxiety side effects while coming off Cymbalta....I doubt you would want to revert back to a drug after finally getting off of one...but withdrawls CAN be dangerous and wreak havvock on your body! I totally believe you that you are having withdrawls and your doctor sounds like an insensitive a**hole! I really hope you find some relief soon I know you are miserable...stay strong!

[smeagol]

You're doctor sounds like a jerk! Have you tried a different doctor for a second opinion? I feel like doctors are too quick to force medications on people and aren't realizing they are making the current problem much worse than the initial one! These medicines effect the chemicals in our brains...so yes, when you get off of them you will more than likley have more anxiety until your body adjusts back to normal! How long were you on Cymbalta? I saw that you have been off over a month and congrats on staying strong! I have read that prozac can help ease the anxiety side effects while coming off Cymbalta....I doubt you would want to revert back to a drug after finally getting off of one...but withdrawls CAN be dangerous and wreak havvock on your body! I totally believe you that you are having withdrawls and your doctor sounds like an insensitive a**hole! I really hope you find some relief soon I know you are miserable...stay strong!

Dear Ashley,

Thank you very much for the understanding and support!

I had several panic attacks in early 2007, and then eovled to GAD. Then the doctors put me onto 150mg Effexor per day, together with Clonazepam. From Nov 2010 I started to wean off Effexor as it gave me choronic headache/migranie. I failed by the end of July 2011 and then got hospitalized 4 times within 2 months! Finally the doctor put me onto Cymbalta, 60mg per day. I thought it is life saver. However, I was wrong. It gave me endless shaking, headache and pain in the stomach.

So I decided to cme off Cymbalta. From late April this year I started to wean off Cymbalta. It was a long journey but I made it. By Aug 30th this year I totally came off Cymbalta. That's why you saw I've been off it for 33 days.

How about the "post-Cymbalta" life? Well, the first 3 weeks were OK although I suffered from extreme fatigue and rage. But fortunately I didn't have brain zap, nausea and other common symptoms you guys expereinced. However I do have tremor/shaking together with headache and fatigue.

From about 10 days ago it started to get worse. I had the worst weekend yesterday and the day before. I have:

1) tremor/internal shaking
2) bloating belly
3) cramping stomach
4) headache (getting worse)
5) fatigue (but I can't fall into sleep in the afternoon)
6) muscle pain (this time not only the chest as usual but also my legs and arms)
7) congested nose (I always have this annoying symptom right after 5 years ago they put me onto effexor)

I had to take a 0.5mg Ativan for a relief but I am so scared to get addicted to Benzo! BTW I have been on low dosage of Clonazepam for years (0.375mg). My original plan was to come off Cymbalta first, then taper the benzo.

I went to GNC today but I was frustrated they don't carry on L-Theanine here in Canada. I saw they have L-Tyrosine but I heard that Tyrosine will worsen the headache and high BP. I don't have high BP but I do have migraine/headache although the headache is not my own problem, it came from the antidepression poison.

So I dare not to take the L-Tyrosine although I know it helps the anxiety/stress.

I used to run 5km everyday from July 1st this year to help the weaning process. But now I can't!

I feel confused because I don't know if it is withdrawal (with such a delay and full force set back???!!!) or, as the doctors said, it is my anxiety coming back without the drugs to mask all the symptoms.

I have a bottom of Prozac (20mg capsules) but I dare not to take it to ease the withdrawal. Becuase the initial phase of taking Prozac will introduce much anxiety!

I feel misearable, will I have to take the drugs for the rest of my life?

[Sheebs84]

Wow...... Ok so here's my story guys. I suffer with really bad depression and a year and a half ago I was put on cymbalta because it came back with avengence (6 years before this I had it really bad and was on Prozac which made me worse with suicidal thoughts after being on them for 8 months I went cold turkey and was fine) so I thought I was free of depression then 6 years later bang it's back. The cymbalta really helped.... At first. I'm on 60mg a day. A few months ago it got bad again the docs said it was a relapse and they couldn't do anything about the medication I just needed therapy. It's still really bad and I don't think the medication is helping at all. I've got to a point where I want to beat this, I want to come off the meds and want to be free of this illness. So I randomly googled coming off of cymbalta and can't believe all of the horror stories!!! I'm not in a good place at the moment so now wondering if it's a right time to start coming off them - but then I may not be in a good space for months.....

The post from the girl with all the advice was amazing I may copy this..... Also what are brain zapps???

If I forget to take a tablet the next day I feel so weird and like my head doesn't even belong to my body.

Why can't we all be free of this illness!!!!!!

[smeagol]

Wow...... Ok so here's my story guys. I suffer with really bad depression and a year and a half ago I was put on cymbalta because it came back with avengence (6 years before this I had it really bad and was on Prozac which made me worse with suicidal thoughts after being on them for 8 months I went cold turkey and was fine) so I thought I was free of depression then 6 years later bang it's back. The cymbalta really helped.... At first. I'm on 60mg a day. A few months ago it got bad again the docs said it was a relapse and they couldn't do anything about the medication I just needed therapy. It's still really bad and I don't think the medication is helping at all. I've got to a point where I want to beat this, I want to come off the meds and want to be free of this illness. So I randomly googled coming off of cymbalta and can't believe all of the horror stories!!! I'm not in a good place at the moment so now wondering if it's a right time to start coming off them - but then I may not be in a good space for months.....

The post from the girl with all the advice was amazing I may copy this..... Also what are brain zapps???

If I forget to take a tablet the next day I feel so weird and like my head doesn't even belong to my body.

Why can't we all be free of this illness!!!!!!

If you are not in a "stable condition" yet, don't push yourself so hard to wean it off. It is not fun.

I just wonder how many of us, successfully came off Cymbalta? By saying "successfully", I mean, not only stop taking Cymbalta, but also went through the "post Cymbalta" hell, survived and back to normal?

[DonMH]

Hi
5-HTP is only dangerous if you are taking drugs like Cymbalta. Fish oils are essential for brain function as well as Vitamin B12. There is a natural food medication which contains huperzine - I have already ordered some for myself and my wife. Don't knock these remedies until you have tried them - I am a biochemist and I am turning more and more to natural medications rather than risk the crap pharmaceutical companies recommend for us, just to boost their profit margin.I used to suffer from high blood pressure and migraines until I chose acupuncture. I looked a prize prat with needles sticking out of my forehead but it worked. I am trying to come off every medication that I am on. I have just weaned myself of Clonazepam - the doctors said it was impossible. I did it with God's help and it is like living in a new world.
Hope this helps. Remember there is Hope!

Thank you again.

I don't have brain zap so I think taking fish oil and huperzine will not do benefit to me.

For 5-HTP, I know this stuff. The concern is, I heard many times that taking 5-HTP will mess up the brain and cause "5 HTP syndrome"

[DonMH]

Thank you. I saw her today and she is making a rapid recovery apart from her hearing and loss of balance/dizziness. I appreciate your words of kindness. Bless you. Her "consultant" has not mentoined one word about Cymbalta. I am a Christian but I would take the greatest pleasure in force-feeding her Cymbalta and watch her go "cold- turkey". Then and only then would she know what it feels like!
Don

Thank you DonMH, I hope she gets relief soon! I am glad you are there for her...it is so hard for people to understand who have never been through the situation! It is a truley difficult time for the person suffering as well as those around them. Keep us updated about her recovery!

[smeagol]

Hi
5-HTP is only dangerous if you are taking drugs like Cymbalta. Fish oils are essential for brain function as well as Vitamin B12. There is a natural food medication which contains huperzine - I have already ordered some for myself and my wife. Don't knock these remedies until you have tried them - I am a biochemist and I am turning more and more to natural medications rather than risk the crap pharmaceutical companies recommend for us, just to boost their profit margin.I used to suffer from high blood pressure and migraines until I chose acupuncture. I looked a prize prat with needles sticking out of my forehead but it worked. I am trying to come off every medication that I am on. I have just weaned myself of Clonazepam - the doctors said it was impossible. I did it with God's help and it is like living in a new world.
Hope this helps. Remember there is Hope!

Hi Don,

How are you? How is your wife? My best wishes for her and your family!

Thank you very much for the valuable comments.

I have "Super Vita-Vim" manufactored by Jamieson. I will go to GNC to buy good quality Fish Oil and probably the 5-HTP. I said "probabaly" because I don't have depression and I don't know: 1) if 5-HTP is good for anxiety which I have now; 2) is 5-HTP addicted?

I may buy L-Tyrosine as well but as I said before, I have migranie/headache (the antidepression junks gave me! I never had it before!), so I don't know if it is safe to take L-Tyrosine as I heard it will worsen the headache.

BTW, Don, in terms of accupuncture, I am Chinese, I believe it. Although I don't know if it will cure the nerve illness like depression and anxiety. But I will definately give a try!

I am still on 0.375mg Clonazepam now. I will wean it off later. If you don't mind, would you please share your exeperience? Thanks.

Again, my best wished for your family.

[smeagol]

Thank you. I saw her today and she is making a rapid recovery apart from her hearing and loss of balance/dizziness. I appreciate your words of kindness. Bless you. Her "consultant" has not mentoined one word about Cymbalta. I am a Christian but I would take the greatest pleasure in force-feeding her Cymbalta and watch her go "cold- turkey". Then and only then would she know what it feels like!
Don

Oops, BTW, Don, I am Christian, too but it will not stop me from cursing those fxxxers!

Sorry for my language and thank you for reading my poor English as I said, I am Chinese:-(

[smeagol]

Update: 36 days

Anxiety still high through the roof. I wonder how others deal with the anxiety? Will the anxiety symptoms subside? I have to updose my Clonazepam last night to have a sleep.

[ashleypoo]

Wow...... Ok so here's my story guys. I suffer with really bad depression and a year and a half ago I was put on cymbalta because it came back with avengence (6 years before this I had it really bad and was on Prozac which made me worse with suicidal thoughts after being on them for 8 months I went cold turkey and was fine) so I thought I was free of depression then 6 years later bang it's back. The cymbalta really helped.... At first. I'm on 60mg a day. A few months ago it got bad again the docs said it was a relapse and they couldn't do anything about the medication I just needed therapy. It's still really bad and I don't think the medication is helping at all. I've got to a point where I want to beat this, I want to come off the meds and want to be free of this illness. So I randomly googled coming off of cymbalta and can't believe all of the horror stories!!! I'm not in a good place at the moment so now wondering if it's a right time to start coming off them - but then I may not be in a good space for months.....

The post from the girl with all the advice was amazing I may copy this..... Also what are brain zapps???

If I forget to take a tablet the next day I feel so weird and like my head doesn't even belong to my body.

Why can't we all be free of this illness!!!!!!

Hi! I'm glad you liked my advice and I really hope it helps you! A brain zap is awful....you may be experiencing them when you forget your pill and feeling weird. It's hard to explain....it's kinda like if someone were to shock you....doesn't really hurt and only lasts a split second but its enough to get your attention and you def. feel it! Well imagine that in your brain and everytime it happens you are dizzy and disoriented for the next 30 seconds or so. It is the worst thing I have every experienced! I was getting them 30-40 times a minute no joke! I would advise you not to try to go off of it until you are in a more stable place and willing to deal with the awful withdrawls. It really isn't something to be taken lightly. As for the depression I understand...I was good for years and then WHAM it came back and I had the anxiety too which is why I started Cymbalta in the first place...I also had migranes associated with the depression this time! I did not want to even get on medicine but all my loved ones encouraged me too until I gave in...turns out I was right and never should have. If you can get off the Cymbalta I would wait about 5 days and then try 5-HTP I have been on it for a little bit now and I am loving it! 100 Mg in the morning and I am happy all day long! A real happy...meaning it isn't just a fake, totally out of it, zombie feeling like I get when I take actual medication. I still have my ups and downs but I feel normal again and I am so relieved! Best of luck to you!

[Sheebs84]

Now u have explained the brain Zapps I know exactly what they are, in fact since I've been on these meds I get them quite a bit anyway and constantly lose my track of thought or I'm mid sentence then completely blank - and I'm always dizzy and feel like in going to faint - god if I feel like that on them hope I don't feel ten times worse when I come off!!!!

Since finding this forum I have reduced my tablets I take one 60mg every two days instead of every day and I do feel it on the 2nd day when I'm due to take one - I'm tired and like a zombie but I'm going to stick with it! I've booked an appointment to see a naturopath today too so let's see what advice they give!

But reading these comments has been so helpful and it's nice having other people to talk too as none of my friends are sufferers as I don't have anyone to ask for advice so thank u!!!!!

[ashleypoo]

Now u have explained the brain Zapps I know exactly what they are, in fact since I've been on these meds I get them quite a bit anyway and constantly lose my track of thought or I'm mid sentence then completely blank - and I'm always dizzy and feel like in going to faint - god if I feel like that on them hope I don't feel ten times worse when I come off!!!!

Since finding this forum I have reduced my tablets I take one 60mg every two days instead of every day and I do feel it on the 2nd day when I'm due to take one - I'm tired and like a zombie but I'm going to stick with it! I've booked an appointment to see a naturopath today too so let's see what advice they give!

But reading these comments has been so helpful and it's nice having other people to talk too as none of my friends are sufferers as I don't have anyone to ask for advice so thank u!!!!!

How did the appointment go? Any good news?

[DonMH]

Hi
Sue was transferred to the main ward last week and I was able to take her out for a meal on Friday evening. She was allowed a 2 day pass from 9 am Sunday and she asked to go to church on our way home. She has done really well - still having problems with noise and balance and her hand tremor is much worse. She had back problems many years ago and it has just flared up again, when she came off Cymbalta. She is having to wear a back brace at present. It was Thanksgiving today in Canada; we cut the lawns this morning, had a light lunch and then met friends for a long walk along the lake shore. Then home and I cooked a turkey for the family, my daughter's boyfriend and his parents. We had a very pleasant evening - lots of laughter, good food and good wine. Sue is now fast asleep and tomorrow I have to take her back to the ward. Thank you for your kind thoughts and wishes. I haven't stopped all day!!!
Don

Thank you DonMH, I hope she gets relief soon! I am glad you are there for her...it is so hard for people to understand who have never been through the situation! It is a truley difficult time for the person suffering as well as those around them. Keep us updated about her recovery!

[aklopper]

Thank you!! Went from 60mg to 30 mg Cymbalta for about a week now and just this afternoon noticed a problem. I'm going to try the suggestions in your post. Very grateful for the help!! Thank you so much! I'm determined to get off this stuff!!

[DonMH]

l-Theanine should help the anxiety; also try deep breathing (yoga-style) either through alternate nostrils or inhaling deeply through the nose and feeling the stomach muscles expand as you breathe in.
Google "deep breathing" and you will see what I mean. People use it if they are having a panic attack. 2 tablets of L-Theanine per day should help. My wife is now home and making good progress. She had to go back on a small dose of Cymbalta and then she is being weaned off very slowly. Tremor+++, nausea+++ and tiredness++. She is trying Gravol Ginger and diphenhydramine for the nausea.
Will keep you informed. God bless.Don.

Sorry ashleypoo,

I didn't make it clear. I don't have brain zap, vertigo or dizziness. The top killers are: tremor/shaking, fatigue and headache. I guess these are related to anxiety, not depression.

So what I know, based on my limited knowledge, 5-HTP will help the depression, not anxiety?

Then here is my question, urgent! What supplement (like St.Johns, 5HTP) can help the anxiety during the withdrawal?