I’ve been on citalopram for about 16 years 10mg upto 20mg and then 30mg, been trying to come off of them for quite a few years gradually reducing the dose but the overwhelming feeling of anxiety and hopelessness is too much so end up back on it. For the past week I’ve reduced down from 30mg to 20mg having good and bad times but trying to cope with this intense anxiety is effecting my day to day life. I want to see how I am without this medication but struggling to get through this period of withdrawal, any tips greatly received l.
Hi Louise23768
In the past I too weenws myself off citalopram completely, but struggled with daily life due to horrendous panic attacks and anxiety. Even the daily routine tasks were impossible as just moving would trigger an attack. Despite using all sorts of breathing techniques, meditation and CBT techniques. I eventually came to the decision that quality of life is more important than being free of medication. I am now back on 20mg a day and although would love to not be dependent on citalopram I have accepted that for me it is not possible.
Please make sure that you are able to cope and have a good quality of life if you come off them again. If you do decide to stop them please read all the help and advice from citalopram users (past or present) when doing so, as they really do know from experience what is best.
Good luck
Kate
Hi Louise
I too have tried coming off a couple of times and failed. I'm resigned to the fact that I will have to stay on them, 10 mgs.
Many have tried and failed when you read the posts here but some have succeeded or at least succeeded in reducing but it is a slow weaning process evidently.
Best wishes