Vertigo-like symptoms 24 hours after cessation of SSRI

History dates back to 12/01, at which time I developed an episode of IBS lasting for 17 days with a 15 lb weight loss.  This was believed to be the result of an extremely difficult separation I as involved in. NuLev was prescribed, which was effective. In 01/03, I once again developed an episode of IBS lasting for 12 days. NuLev was again prescribed, and was effective in treating symptoms.  Approximately two weeks following cessation of NuLev, I experienced a two week bout of "vertigo/dizziness" diagnosed as benign positional vertigo.  Symptoms lingered until 05/03, at which time I was initially prescribed Paxil CR because of anxiety as a result of my ongoing symptoms.  Symptoms abated and finally resolved on this medication. However, upon attempt at tapering and discontinuing Paxil CR, symptoms recurred.  ENT evaluation, MRI of the brain, ophthalmologic evaluation, chiropractic evaluation and several other specialist consultations proved useless.  I was then placed on Effexor XR 37.5 mg in 07/03.  Once again, symptoms ceased.  However, even after attempting a very slow taper on the medication, symptoms recurred within 24 hours.  Therefore, over a year later, I am still on Effexor, but only as a means of staving off symptoms.

It should be noted that symptoms predated any type of antianxiety medication.  It is my feeling that the medications I have been placed on are masking the original symptoms.  It should also be noted that my symptoms are vertigo-like:  i.e., I experience almost a vibratory sensation in my head upon extraocular eye movements and with change of position.  The sensation would best be described as what one might experience shortly after having been to a rock concert.  The symptoms incapacitate me and are not relieved with palliative measures.

I do suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder, and I am very familiar with those symptoms associated with such.  My concern is that my "symptoms" predated this problem. I am obviously more than a little frustrated with this situation.  Any information which you may have would be of help to me.  T

Thank you.

[Roger Gould, M.D.]

I think that the intimate relationship between ibs episodes and anxiety and post traumatic stress is the real problem you are looking at...they all  blend into one, and yes medications sometimes help and sometimes make it worse in the way you described.  Have you spent any time talking through your underlying anxieties with a therapist?  That would be the next step I would recommend.

[pmerc62]

Thank you for your reply.  I have gone through counseling and have successfully been discharged by both a psychiatrist and psychologist.  We have also gone through family counseling.  Any recommendations on reading material with regard to PTSD?

[shubunkin]

Yes, SSRI's do cause dizziness when you stop or try to stop them. I do not care what any doctor says about them not doing it, they do! I am trying to stop Paxil cr. I am down to 1 every 4 days. But when I get to that 5th day I get the dizziness. I take one and then the next day it gone. I had problems back then but have them no more. I am happy, non stressed and do not have anxiety. Only the problem of trying to get off this dang medicine. I wish you all the luck. Danielle

[Sam Hall]

Nice one ,that is so typical of theses wonder drugs. I to am fine just stuck with the fear of withdrawl (withdrawal) from 225mg Effexor.
No-one mentioned  this when handing them out!
SH

[Scared Mom in CA]

I too, have these bouts of dizziness when trying to stop Zoloft.  I have heard them referred to a "Zoloft Zaps".  It doesnt feel like dizziness to me but rather feels like the ground dropped out from under me for a split second and it throws my equilibrium off not to mention inducing complete panic.  Oh Yipee!
ang

[Slay]

I have also had the worst dizziest feeling{ which doesn't even begin to describe it} about 5 days after being off of Zoloft. I thought I had the flu!!