Just Answer
Ask A Question  -  Help  -  Register  -  Login   

Ask Your Question. Experts Answer You ASAP

Question


Sent to August 31, 2005 12:41 p.m.
No Comment Added
Guests
Status:    Value: $0   
Answer
August 31, 2005 12:58 p.m. (17 minutes and 26 seconds later)

Top 6 Tips to Reduce Antidepressant Discontinuation Symptoms

The following are some possible methods to alleviate uncomfortable discontinuation symptoms that are often experienced when an antidepressant is stopped. These are not meant to constitute medical advice, but are rather ideas from practicing psychopharmacologists that you can discuss with your own physician. You should never discontinue a medication without your doctor's consent and guidance.

1) A Single Dose of Prozac (Fluoxetine)

According to Dr. Ivan Goldberg: "The administration of a single 20 mg capsule of fluoxetine usually does the job. The withdrawal symptoms are relieved within hours and the patient goes through a slow fluoxetine withdrawal that is usually symptomless. If the individual had been on a high dose of paroxetine or venlafaxine, a second 20 mg of of fluoxetine may be needed."

2) Benedryl (Diphenhydramine)

Benedryl (diphenhydramine) is an over the counter allergy medication that has been reported to help with discontinuation symptoms.

3) Taper Off Slowly

Gradually decreasing your dosage over an extended period of time is preferable to quitting "cold turkey".

4) Switch to an SSRI or Effexor (If Already Using an SSRI)

From Dr. Ivan Goldberg: "There is no risk of such withdrawal symptoms when going between SSRIs or between an SSRI and venlafaxine. You can go from fluoxetine to just about anything, but an MAOI, and not worry because of that drugs long t-1/2."

5) Use Prozac as Your Antidepressant

Because Prozac has a very long half-life, extreme withdrawal symptoms are unlikely with it. There is a built in "tapering off" by virtue of the fact that it leaves your body so slowly.

6) Keep a Regular Schedule with Dosing

Certain antidepressants, such as Effexor, may cause withdrawal symptoms even if you are slightly late with a scheduled dose. Keeping a regular schedule can help you avoid these symptoms.

Stopping Fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem): Discontinuation Effects or Withdrawal Symptoms



Edited by dahlilahblue on August 31 2005 at 12:59pm

__________________
Kerry, RN
Please click the accept button if this has helped you. A bonus is always appreciated as well.
Picturedahlilahblue 
Answer
August 31, 2005 1:07 p.m. (8 minutes and 29 seconds later)
I use to take Prozac, took myself off it last year do to the side effects I had while taking it, I started to feel better after getting off it, most people have stated that. Some have gotten suicidal and some have killed themselves after stopping Prozac. Some have complaint that the side effects of withdrawl are wosre than the side effects associated with taking Prozac. My left arm and hand went completely numb while taking Prozac, I slept alot, could not function on a daily basis, neglected my children while on Prozac, getting off Prozac I personally did not have any negative side effects, I actually feel more better now, physically as well as mentally since getting off Prozac. Here is a site with some interesting info and testimony from other Prozac users,their loved ones, Hope this helps.

http://www.prozactruth.com/prozacstories2.htm

If you accept my answer could you please give me a rating, thank you.

Edited by jojean43 on August 31 2005 at 1:10pm

__________________
Joanna Martin
jojean43 

Think you can answer this question?
 Login or  Become an Expert









DISCLAIMER: You acknowledge that any information you may obtain from individuals you contact through use of the Just Answer service comes from those individuals, not from Just Answer!, and that Just Answer is not in any way responsible for any of the information these third parties may supply. The site and services are provided "as is" with no warranty and no representations are made regarding the qualification of an Expert. Responses and comments on Just Answer! are for general information and are not intended to substitute for informed professional advice (such as medical, legal, investment or accounting) and do not establish a professional-client relationship. Just Answer! is not intended or designed to address EMERGENCY QUESTIONS which should be directed immediately by telephone or in-person to qualified professionals. Please carefully read the Terms of Service.
Question List - Become an Expert - Terms of Service - Security & Privacy - About Us
© 2008 Just Answer Corp.