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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 3 of 3. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by dr. justin on November 8, 2002, at 17:31:53
Hi Everyone:
I've been following the posts this month, trying to learn all I can as I knew a med change was coming up (current regime losing effectiveness in the last year). I expected Lexapro to replace Celexa, so I followed that thread. Much to my surprise, my new p-doc changed almost EVERYTHING. Now I'm scared as hell 'cause I have no idea what to expect. Anything you can offer would be appreciated:
I am still considered to be suffering from OCD, but I have no "C's". I have a strong anxiety when it comes to anything new or unknown (i.e., went to Vegas on business trip for 5 days; didn't leave my hotel room unless for meetings, ordered room service the whole time). Finally, I have depression.
I was on: 40mg Celexa, 300mg Wellburin SR, and 4mg Klonopin.
Now: Being weened off SEVEN years of Klonopin (start 3mg tonight). No Celexa anymore. Will be at 75mg Effexor XR in six days (current 37.5). 50mg of Trazone started last night; I still feel asleep. Remaining on Wellbutrin dose.
What can I expect? Please share successes as well as horror stories. ESPECIALLY: Has anyone had this combo before?
Thank you!
justin
Posted by dr. justin on November 8, 2002, at 21:49:19
In reply to HELP! Effexor XR, Wellbutrin SR, Trazadone... ?, posted by dr. justin on November 8, 2002, at 17:31:53
I forgot to add the Klonopin withdraw. Like I mentioned in the previous post, I've been on it for SEVEN years. Half that was 1mg, then a couple years at 2mg, then ~three years at 3 and 4mg. How can I get off this safely? I've heard of people (i.e., my Aunt) who have had to go to rehab. I really don't want to do that! It's my first night at 3mg-- how long should I stay at this level? What is a safe way to decrease and free myself from Klonopin? My p-doc seemed to treat this issue as if it was not important, and really didn't give me a clear answer. Thanks.
justin
Posted by BrittPark on November 10, 2002, at 11:51:51
In reply to ? for Dr. Bob or anyone familar w/ benzo addiction, posted by dr. justin on November 8, 2002, at 21:49:19
Withdrawing benzos is usually not a problem, but the withdrawal has to be slow. Something like:
3.5 mg 1 week
3 mg 1 week
2.5 mg 1 week
2 mg 1 week
1.5 mg 1 week
1 mg 1 week
0.5 mg 1 weekand your off. Klonopin is unusually easy to discontinue because it has such a long half-life. Some people can do a faster taper, some need a slower taper.
The thing I wonder is that your doctor is taking you off the Klonopin. It has presumably been helpful these last 7 years. Why change it? If you feel symptoms returning as you taper the Klonopin discuss it with your psychiatrist immediately.
Feel better,Britt
This is the end of the thread.
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