Nocturnal panic attacks and reduced Citalopram dose

Treatment and medication
1

Hi
I’m into fourth week of reducing from 10 mg to 7.5 mg citalopram. A few times over the past couple of weeks I’ve been waking up in the night with a rapid heart rate and feeling of panic. I had one tonight and it’s scary. I did take paracetamol before going to bed. Is this anything to do with the med reduction or paracetamol. Also I’m not used to taking paracetamol. I’m not sure if it is a nocturnal panic attack either. It goes after about 30 minutes, I try to take my mind off it by watching something funny on tv. Can anyone relate please? I also am back and fore for a wee a lot through the night. Thanks.

2

Hi,
Yes I get these and they’re awful. Everything always seems worse at night too!
When I get them it takes me a while to come down as I often feel disorientated after waking, which only adds to the panic.
I don’t really take paracetamol so can’t comment on that but I think anytime a dose is altered it has an effect. That said, I get these ‘night frights’ when i’m particularly stressed or unsettled. Your system will be adjusting to the new dose too probably.
When I get these symptoms I try to talk myself down, telling myself “you’ll be ok it’ll pass”, and deep breathing. This helps me as it distracts me from the worry.
I might be tempted to go back to the docs if things don’t improve, to see what they suggest. I hope things get better soon for you. Just remember, you’re not by yourself and you will be ok. There’s loads of us on here all with these horrible experiences and horrible symptoms of anxiety/meds etc.

3

Hi Ka
Thanks for replying. It’s a horrible feeling isn’t it. I’ve only started getting them since reducing citalopram. I’m afraid to go to sleep for fear of getting one. It’s reassuring to know I’m not alone. Sorry you are going through this too.
I turn to my tv when it happens but I have learned that it does pass so I am trying not to stress about it.
I’ve been taking paracetamol occasionally lately for headaches, aches and pains, I won’t take any more to see if it helps, if not then I think I’ll see my doctor.
Take care☺