Posted by Geezer on February 2, 2002, at 14:46:34
In reply to NO Paxil for the elderly!!, posted by Pattisun on February 2, 2002, at 12:40:43
Hi Pattisun,
In my humble opinion and for what it is worth. Paxil and Effexor seem to be the most difficult ADs to "withdraw" from. I have not taken these ADs (never will) but to get off Zoloft and Celexa I have reduced my dose gradually until the "withdrawal" symptoms become noticeable then due a crossover to Prozac (10mg/day works for me). Step two is take the Prozac for a couple of weeks then split Prozac pills in half (5 mgs/day for a week) alternate 5mg/day if necessary-then stop. This seems to minimize the serotonine symptoms due to the long half life of Prozac. Elizabeth and others on this board can explain the drug/brain chemistry much better than I.It is a good idea to have a plan as to what drug you are going to after the Paxil. If you plan to change to another SSRI the above mention process may not be needed. This is why the pdoc is important (some are better than others), I have failed at trying to treat my depression on my own.
Wish you the very best,Geezer
poster:Geezer
thread:92186
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020131/msgs/92627.html