I've been on citalopram a little less than 10 years. In 2008 I had a panic attack that basically paralyzed me for a few weeks. I was put on Lexapro, but had to change to citalopram because my insurance wouldn't pay for it.
When I was switched to citalopram I was told to take 10mg of it and I would feel better. I really didn't have any guidance when I began to take it. Long story short I graduated college, and I learned how to cope with my situation but I don't think I ever got better.
In 2013 I decided to try and ween myself off of citalopram without dr orders. a few months later my anxiety returned with the vengeance. I immediately went to a Dr to see what I could do and he prescribed me 30mg of citalopram. I was terrified to jump up to that high of a dose. I decided to try 20mg for a few weeks and then go to 25 mg. I stayed on 25 mg for a few years but over the last year I became extremely inconsistent of taking my meds. I would miss a day or two pretty frequently. Out of nowhere my anxiety returned on January 19th.
I started to take my meds consistently again and finally listenes to the doctor and take the full 30 mg. I now have been on 30mg for about 10 days. I'm still really anxious in the morning, and I have racing thoughts. I also cannot sleep a full night of sleep, I wake up every hour or two. The physical symptoms have tapered but now it's my mood and my thoughts.
I'm very scared. I keep thinking that I'm going to just be stuck and won't get back to living the normal life that I'm used to living.
From here on out I'm going to post my journey to see if I'm making progress hopefully you all will ride this ride with me because I need you all.
Theses meds are to be taking seriously ..is not to skip doses etc..you feeling crappy is quite normal with any ssris especially after giving a higher changes in milligrams..if your feeling good is because of the Medication..so I wouldn't recommend skipping or even coming off because your feeling good..just to go back on again..take care
Theses meds are to be taking seriously ..is not to skip doses etc..you feeling crappy is quite normal with any ssris especially after giving a higher changes in milligrams..if your feeling good is because of the Medication..so I wouldn't recommend skipping or even coming off because your feeling good..just to go back on again..take care
Hey Mylo,
I’m feeling really similar to you.
The racing thoughts are such a nightmare and are so visual sometimes. I’ve upped my dose to 30mg for about 5 or 6 days now/ although I’m trying not to keep count and just go with the flow with how I feel.
Hopefully in a few weeks time I’ll feel better without even realising and so will you.
Am hoping the 30 should be the ‘perfect’ dose, as I’ve had a few rough patches on 20. However, overall I love my life!
Just gotta be patient until we balance out. However I’m sure as it’s worked for both of us for a while. The increase should help!
I’m viewing it as taking some time out till my brain adjusts and the chemicals balance out.
Take care!
Lu xo.
Hi. Consistency with these meds are the key. Have a chat with your Dr as you are not feeling any better. It may be a case of you need a bit more time of a consistent dose of 30mg. Morning anxiety seems to be the worst For most people. I know it is for me. I also struggle with sleep. I think a part of us is anxious for the feeling of anxiety that may come tomorrow and we can't fully relax and switch off. Good luck on your journey
how are you doing today buddy?
Hey Mylo,
I’m sort of on the mend! Having more good periods than bad and am starting to even out again. Think 30mg is a nice dose, however got a bit of a light headed tingly feeling in my head and it feels rather full! That will balance out though and sleeping well- which helps.
Still trying not to be too hard on myself with my thoughts and beginning to understand that they really are just a symptom of the anxiety & im not an awful person! Lol
How are you doing? I hope it is balancing out for you too!
Lu xo