I wanted to go off of Cymbalta and couldn't get an appointment with my doctor for weeks, so I just went off of the medication to see what happens. Has anyone tried this and was it really difficult dealing with withdrawals?
2006-08-15 03:35:02 · 16 answers · asked by SDUTE 1 in Health ➔ Mental Health
I went off Cymbalta cold turkey once.... I ended up in the crazy ward for 4 days. Don't do it!! Wait to see your doctor. My doctor told me that if you are on it for a year, your chance of depression coming back drops down to almost nothing. Think about it: never having to take meds again! It would be great. What's one year? Seriously, wait for your doctor.
2006-08-15 03:43:55 · answer #1 · answered by franny4181 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I just recently semi-weaned myself off of 50mg of Zoloft I was taking for about 2 1/2 years. I did the whole only take half for a week or so, etc. but I ran out of my prescription and didn't want to pay for another month. I've been having some side effects...the electric shocks or "fly bys" (as I like to call them) in my head, a little dizziness every now and then and a lot of mood swings...or in a semi-permanent state of being in a bad mood. But it's getting a little easier and I'm sure I'll be fine once the meds are completely out of my system. You should really consult your MD about it though. There are some meds you shouldn't just stop taking as it can be very dangerous to your health. Everyone reacts differently to any med they take so your symptoms could differ from someone else's. Anti-depressants are fabulous for when you truly need them, but coming off of them isn't so great sometimes and just keep in mind it takes a lot of time and you're not going to feel sunny and wonderful overnight.
2006-08-15 04:56:44 · answer #2 · answered by kanderson510 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
there are many antidepressants that they say you shouldnt go 'cold turkey.' This doesnt mean that something terrible will occur. The safer way is to cut down and taper off. You are not alone
What I cant believe is that any doctor prescribing these meds will not talk to you on the phone. Thats inexcusable.
Anything more you need to know, ask
2006-08-15 04:11:49 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Depending on the type od antidepressant you are on, stopping cold turkey can cause liver damage/failure, and kidney damage/failure. Those medicines have a half life, which means it takes the body a set amount of time to metabolise them, which in turn causes your system to become dependant on them. The only safe way off of those meds is with the help of a doctor. If the doctor advises against it, hear the doctor out. If you are like me, and are just determined you no longer want to take the antidepressants, tell the doctor you are coming off them with or without his/her help, but you would really prefer to do it without damaging your liver, and kidneys. The doctor will then help. I hope this info helps you. The doctor should be able to give you the step down dosages over the phone. Mine did.
2006-08-15 04:12:57 · answer #4 · answered by Robster01 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
NOT A GOOD IDEA. Many psychotropic medications require the person to titrate off, which means slowly take down the dosage. What can happen? Seizures, and more.
Wait until you see the doctor and then see what he says. Maybe he will stop the meds or slowly change it to another med.
Why do you want to stop? That is the big question. If you think you are better, think again that it is the medication that is making you feel better. WAIT to stop and see the doctor! Be Smart!
2006-08-15 04:18:13 · answer #5 · answered by banananose_89117 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The withdrawal symptoms are different for each individual. You may experience stomach upset, increased or decreased appetite, increased or decreased sex drive, irritability, moodiness, sleepless nights,etc.
Anti-depressants have to be tapered off gradually. If you truely want to stay off the meds., tapering off is the best choice.
If you do not contact your Dr. now, at least tell him (her) that you have stopped taking the medication. This is important for your Dr. to know, for future reference; in treating your condition.
By the way, if you cannot reach your Dr. by phone or appt. always ask for a nurse, as they can give you very good advice!
2006-08-15 03:52:39 · answer #6 · answered by shortfrog 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
They probably will not be able to stop cold turkey without feeling sick. Paxil needs to be tapered off. Drinking alot of alcohol is never a good idea.
2016-03-16 22:31:49 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Any antidepressant has to be tapered off gradually, never ever go cold turkey, I'd call my doctor immediately.
2006-08-15 03:41:52 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
You should never go cold turkey! its really bad! you need to come off slowly by dropping your the amount you take! if you go cold turkey its a sudden rush of all the feelings you haven't had in awhile! you need to let them back in slowly!
2006-08-15 09:36:23 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I was on anti-depresssants for close to a year and the day I finished my last pill I was fine, did not think anything of it, that could be the reason why I did not feel withdrawal. I don't think you'll feel withdrawal. Prozac and Paxil are know to cause withdrawal so you should be OK.
2006-08-15 04:10:57 · answer #10 · answered by Lunny2006 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋