Coming off Cylexa

[teachnash]

I weened myself off cylexa and have been off of it completely for a few weeks now, I was on it for two years, I went on it for PTSD because I was raped and during the time I was on medication I went to counseling through my church, I was on 40 mg, I started cutting the pills in half did that for two weeks, then I starting taking half every other day for two weeks, and then for the past two weeks I have been off of it completely.  I did this under my counselor's supervision, but not a doctors, I just really didn't want to be on medicine for the rest of my life, and I was and still am feeling much better and more in control of my anxiety.  I haven't had any withdrawn symptoms, but I have heard of delayed withdraw?  Will I experience this?  Did I do the right thing in weening myself off of it?  I am continuing counseling for six months even though I am off the medication just to ensure that I continue to be ok.  My question is did I do things the right way, and do you think I will continue to be ok?   My husband and I want kids and I really wanted to get off medication before I think about getting pregnant.

[Paxiled]

You'll know if you do, but I agree with mj, if you haven't felt anything by now you probably won't.  You usually start feeling some withdrawal as you taper down, and you didn't.  Not everyone gets withdrawal.  But if you do start to feel a sudden emotional downturn, don't let them convince you it's a relapse, it's more likely withdrawal.  But again, if you're feeling nothing, not even dizziness, I think you're home free.  Congrats!

[mjbrown]

After two weeks without withdrawal effects, you should be in the clear. Withdrawal effects will typically show up in the first few days after stopping. If you experience any withdrawals, they will only last a few days because of the tapering you did. If they become too intense, you can always go back to the smallest dose of celexa you were taking, and taper even slower from there.

I'm glad to hear that the meds and therapy have been working for you. It is really important to continue with the therapy to prevent the PTSD symptoms from coming back. Don't be afraid to use antidepressants. Two years really is not a long time to be on them. But if you can get on without them... all the better.

Good luck with the rest of your recovery.

All the best...