After seven years, 20mg → 10mg
32F
TLDR: After seven years, I started cutting my 20mg paroxetine in half (to 10mg), how long can I expect the discontinuation symptoms (especially the constant dizziness/nausea) from this reduction in my dosage to last? My doctor said I shouldn't feel anything, but I definitely do.
I started taking 20mg of paroxetine (Paxil) in 2019 to treat major depression and various anxiety disorders (obsessive-compulsive, panic, generalized, complex post-traumatic stress, etc.) which had manifested into an acute depersonalization and derealization (the scariest thing I have ever experienced in my entire Life). It helped control my anxiety enough to come out of the dissociation, and I was also able to recover from a lifelong history of self-harm. I attribute it to my success with overcoming a couple phobias that I deal with and a marked reduction in my panic attacks. However, I didn't see much improvement with my trichotillomania or intrusive thoughts (which is okay).
After talking with my therapist and general doctor (who prescribed the medication), I am now cutting my scored 20mg pills in half (per my doctor's suggestion). My next prescription refill will be for 10mg pills. I have made great progress on the medication, and we are now hoping to continue to build on that progress with a smaller dosage (in conjunction with therapy and lifestyle changes). Ever since starting paroxetine, I have experienced hypotension, which I believe has also contributed to a chronic fatigue, and I have also experienced a low level mental dullness. I began the medication in crisis at the age of 25, the longterm goal was to eventually come off of it. So here we are (although I am going to hang out at the 10mg prescription for a very, very long time before even considering moving forward with a complete taper, if ever.
Today is the 5th day of the 50% decrease, and I am feeling it. (I have been feeling it since the 2nd day, with no improvement in symptoms from then to now.) I feel like I spun in circles really fast for a minute and then abruptly stopped—it's this constant state of vertigo, dizziness, feeling like the room is shifting whether my eyes are open or closed, I am so nauseous. My question is, can I expect this to worsen, or am I probably in the thick of it now? How long can I expect to have to ride this out without relief? Other, milder symptoms so far have been vivid dreams/nightmares, the occasional tingly feeling in my head (I guess these are the notorious brain zaps), insomnia (as of last night), and brain fog. It kind of reminds me of how I felt adjusting TO the medication in the beginning, honestly (except that came with debilitating fatigue, not insomnia).
Any home remedies or things that helped you? My best friend recommended cold showers and to drink lots of water! But I am open to other activities and remedies as well!