Posted by JenStar on October 4, 2005, at 16:46:09
In reply to Re: What's Going to Happen to Me? » Shay Sweet, posted by orchid on October 4, 2005, at 15:23:07
hi Shay Sweet,
I'm sorry to hear about your recent loss and the difficulty you're going through.If you go on welfare or state assistance, do they provide you with medical & drug benefits? I'm sorry I'm so ignorant about state benefits.
Is there any other way to get the drugs? Could you call your doctor and beg (or demand) for samples of Lex/etc. to carry you through?
You're right - it is NOT recommended to go cold turkey, esp. after taking it for several years. Likely you'd be "Ok" but it's much safer and better to do a gradual taper down over a course of several weeks or even months. At least, that's what I keep reading in the literature and on the net.
Also, if you're not READY to get off of it, especially at this difficult time, it might make your anxiety worse.
I wouldn't mix the drugs or take the old drug that you have, because it too requires a taper up period. It can be dangerous to mix different SSRI's at the same time and should only be done under Dr.'s advice.
All that being said, I think the worst of a cold turkey it would be difficult side effects for a few days, but if you're caring for a small child and trying to find work, it definitely wouldn't be advisable, just in case you DID have a bad reaction.
I wish there was a way you could get your meds without a break in service. Can you explain your financial situation to the Dr. and see if he has any advice?
good luck!
jenStar
poster:JenStar
thread:562772
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20051001/msgs/562823.html