Hi, I'm Lavender

August 30, 2026··

Hey, I’m Lalo. Been on lexapro for 5ish years. Was on 10mg for three years, thought I could cold turkey off because I went off Prozac twice cold turkey in the past with no issues. But lexapro is a different animal. I was able to taper down to five over the last two years and have held there. I recently tried to taper again, no more than 10% with 7 weeks between tapers, but a very stressful event through me off course mid taper and I had to reinstate 5mg. So that’s where I’m at. Just looking for people who can relate, who know the feelings, and frustrations.

Lexapro — 5mg — 5years ish — holding

2 Replies

Duloxi19d ago

Community AnchorCymbalta · holding

Hi Lavender, Welcome to the community! I can really relate to what you're describing, especially how stressful experiences can throw you off balance. That's why it's so important to go slowly, particularly when you get down to the lower doses. Even a 10% reduction at the lower end can have a significant impact, which is consistent with the theory behind hyperbolic tapering. Unfortunately, I also developed such strong and persistent withdrawal symptoms that I've had to slowly increase my dose again to find a stable point before I can continue tapering. Give yourself plenty of time, and be kind to yourself and your body!

Cymbalta — 15mg(12mg) — 17 Jahre — holding -with clinician - 90 mg – 2021: First tapering attempt.
60 mg – 2023: Second tapering attempt.
With a doctor's supervision—but unfortunately, a doctor who doesn't know how to properly taper off an antidepressant.

⭐

Catina19d ago

Community AnchorEffexor

Hi @Lavender, welcome to Taper Community! Most of the changes in serotonin receptors happen at the very low doses, that's why it gets more challenging at the end. You may need to taper by a much lesser amount and hold longer between reductions. Slower is faster! We look forward to having you here. You've got this! Catina 💜

Venlafaxine (tapering) - Current dose 17.92 mg
Trazodone - 50 mg
Levothyroxine - 25 mcg

“Your brain and body know how to heal. Trust the process and keep going.”

Please Note: I am not a healthcare professional. Any advice given is based on personal experience and that of others in the lay withdrawal community.

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