Posted by 49er on February 1, 2010, at 18:44:18
In reply to Going off meds?, posted by myfranz on February 1, 2010, at 7:50:22
> I am about to broach this subject to my psychiatrist, and already have the support of my therapist. Diagnosed bipolar, stronger depressive side, but now believe that some of the depression I have felt for the last couple of years is more like emotional numbness rather than clinical depression. I honestly can not describe it any better than that. I realize this would have to be done slowly and it may not work. I have been on meds for 16 years, currently Abilify, Lithium, Trazodone, and Buspar. Had a series of ECT 6 years ago (big regret) and I was hospitalized once about 7 years ago for suicidal ideation, no attempts. History of alcohol abuse, sober for over 20 years.
>
> For those you went off meds, I'd love you to share your experiences, both good and bad and in between.
>
> I see my therapist 2 x's a week so there is great support there, I won't be doing this alone and I always know I can go back on them.
>
> Thanksmyfranz,
I started tapering off a 4 med cocktail of Adderall, Wellbutrin XL, Remeron and Doxepin in 2006. I am currently at around 3.64mg of Doxepin.
If you do decide to taper, please do it very slowly. The Paxil Progress Boards recommends 10% of current dose every 3 to 6 weeks. With your heavy duty meds, it might be necessary to go more slowly.
It hasn't been easy but it has been one of the best decisions I have made in my life.
I am curious, on what basis where you diagnosed bipolar?
Anyway, I hope this helps. Obviously, my drugs aren't as powerful as yours but hopefully, knowing that someone has almost tapered will be helpful.
49er
PS - I have been on meds since 1995
poster:49er
thread:935572
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20100122/msgs/935638.html