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After nearly 5 years of hyperbolic tapering—I’m DONE!
It’s been nearly a month since I took my final single-bead dose, and I’m free of this poison—and I’m feeling no withdrawal symptoms. I had taken 60 mg for about 20 years, and thankfully, I found this group before I told my primary care doctor or psychiatrist about my decision to quit.
That decision came from reading stories here—others on the same path. I had no idea what I was getting into or how long it would take. There were many times I thought I’d be on this med forever. I held certain doses for months at a time, not knowing what would come next. It was Karen Prellwitz Hoffmann or Maria Pastoor, two of our wise advisors, who suggested splitting my dose into twice-daily administration, since evil C has a 12-hour elimination half-life. That advice made a huge difference, and I stuck with twice-daily dosing until the very end. Still, there were many points when I had to hold a dose for months to let the withdrawal or dependency symptoms subside.
I began taking C for depression, anxiety, body aches, and chronic pain. At first, it helped. But eventually, I noticed my emotions were blunted—everything felt blocked. I was just numb. And I was tired of feeling that way.
My Advice, Humbly Offered:
Document your journey. It helps—a lot. I kept a spreadsheet of every drop I made:
- Date
- Dosage
- Comments/symptoms
This process is slow, frustrating, confusion at times utterly discouraging. Also, be sure to write down your “Why?”—your reasons for getting off your antidepressant. There will be moments when you question everything and feel like you were insane to start. That’s normal.
In the beginning, I used the weight method—purchasing a jewelry scale to weigh beads. Once the dose became too small to weigh accurately, I switched to counting beads. In my second year, I began reducing by 5% every two weeks. I also documented help and advice from the amazing CHW team and fellow community members. It kept me in track.
The Symptoms & The Struggles:
Withdrawal symptoms were real and frightening. I experienced confusion, forgetfulness, personality changes, loss of friendships, and a complete disinterest in things I once enjoyed. Joy was gone. Anger was front and center. I was a bitch. But over time, the symptoms became predictable. I began to recognize them for what they were—and I held on through them. Eventually, the waves passed, and the intensity softened.
Yes, it SUCKS. But yes—it’s worth it.
And yes—winning and overcoming this is incredibly empowering. I’m a 73-year-old lady—and I feel powerful again. Do I still feel sadness, anxiety, depression, anger, frustration, even hate? Yes—I’m human. Emotions are part of the deal. Our minds and bodies are meant to feel and deal with them. But now, I also feel joy, laughter, love, and pride.
You’ve got this. 💪You ROCK. Keep going.
I wish you all the best in your journey. give yourself the space you need to endure and survive.
Sending everyone much love and admiration. I’m so honored to be a part of this amazing CHW group. ❤️❤️❤️
I took my last bead in May (2025) and I’m doing great ❤️.
I was put on 60mg in 2018 for fibromyalgia. I was so grateful to find this group because I honestly thought I’d have to be on this forever. I would experience the worst brain zaps and disorientation when I’d forget a dose. I followed the tapering rules and my whole taper was uneventful! I now use Rowe Casa Organic products when I do have issues with my pain and honestly I have so many of their products because they are organic, non toxic and have made such a difference in how I feel. The thought of tapering can be overwhelming but it’s so worth it! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for creating this group that has saved so many ❤️. Good luck to all of you on your taper. I look forward to reading your own post of being off of this successfully 🥰.
Thanks to this group! I took 2 years to finally get off D. I wasn’t able to quit cold Turkey due to withdrawal symptoms. So when I found this group it gave me the tools to take control. I now am able to cry tears of joy, sadness and bittersweet tears that come with being on Earth 60 years. Currently, I am on a dream vacation in Sedona and sight of the beautiful mountains and unique forests made me cry tears of deep appreciation. This was not possible on D. I am so happy to have my emotional life back.
Wow! I’ve been tapering for months and I’m realizing my emotions are coming back in a good way! Just watching something emotional sparks reaction. I’ve been stone cold for years not realizing it was from this medicine! 
Tomorrow I take my last bead!!! I think 5 years of tapering following all the advice from the mods here – thank you all for the advice and support! Good luck to everyone still going… slow and steady!!!
I finally did it. My last pill of this poison, ever. While I took a lot longer than most to taper, I want people to know that it’s okay to go at a pace that works for you ( that is safe of course.) I started my taper when I was about 20 years old. I just turned 25 a few months ago. I want people to know that tapering can be difficult, but life still goes on and don’t let it set you back!!! During these years I met the love of my life and got married, started and finished nursing school, passed my NCLEX and now work as a NICU nurse, bought my first house, and now completing this huge milestone of successfully tapering off of C!!! I want to thank this group for the support, and mostly my mom. My mom stumbled across this group and she is the one that helped me taper. My mom was my biggest advocate. She helped me count the beads, and was really the only person in my inner circle that understood what weaning off C meant. I know it can be hard to tell others that you are weaning off of a pill. People question you, doctors question you (happened to me SEVERAL times), and people may laugh or think it isn’t necessary. But I am here to tell you that your journey is VALID and to NEVER let anyone make you feel less than for caring about your health and taking it into your own hands. The journey may be long but it is WORTH IT 💯
Two days ago, I took the very last bead of my 5-year taper from D^Lox. It’s been an arduous and humbling journey. I was 68 when I began—now 73—and there were times I wasn’t sure I’d make it. I could not have done this alone. The guidance from the admins and moderators, and the wisdom shared by so many fellow members walking this same path, made all the difference. I’m deeply grateful to each of you. Your support has helped me reclaim my life. With thanks and solidarity 💛
I will be forever grateful for finding this group it truly has been a rollercoaster. Today I am on my last bead and I honestly can’t believe it and could not have done it without the help and guidance from this group. I fell upon this group out of desperation. From my personal experience, my pharmacist, my rheumatologist and my family, no one understood just how much C made me so sick and debilitating that I couldn’t function. But you did!
For those of you beginning to taper off and or in the mist of this journey, please be patient you can do this!
OXOX— feeling emotional.
Hi everyone! I’m just about a month out of taking my last bead.
What I have noticed in the last week is giving me so much hope that I may get better. Being on this med and the LONG taper was horrible and when I say horrible, that’s not even a strong enough word. My entire life has been turned upside down and it has been so many years that I didn’t know if it was the med or something else anymore. I’ve been diagnosed with CFS this past year. My nervous system has been a complete disaster. I couldn’t control my temperature (sweating always) and I rarely would sweat prior to this. Thought maybe it was hormones. Again, after so many years it’s hard to tell. BUT…….this past week, I have started to feel cold again. I have started to get my appetite back. The heavy brain fog has shifted and I don’t feel like my legs are heavy with fatigue. I have been walking and doing small exercises again. The fatigue for me has been down right unbearable. I had to stop exercising because I couldn’t tolerate it anymore. I had to quit working full time. I have lost touch with many people because I barely left the house anymore. I really thought this was my life now. My eyesight has not gotten better but overall I am starting to feel like ME again. I’m hoping this isn’t a fluke but I have not felt this way in years!!! I’m so happy to see a glimmer of the former me. I never struggled with depression prior to taking this med and it definitely caused it…or because of all the problems I became depressed. Either way, I’m having my doctor put this in my chart as a severe allergy. I NEVER will ever take this again. Anyway, sorry for the long post but I definitely liked hearing when/if people started to feel better. Best of luck to everyone on this journey and don’t ever let anyone make you think that tapering this way is crazy. It’s absolutely necessary to get better. ❤️🩹
Tremor in neck gone!
Scalp itching gone!
From about twenty beads to 8 has been very healing and uneventful. I’ve taken 41/2 years from 30 mg to 8 beads. It’s been a rollercoaster ride for sure and the most challenging things I’ve ever done. One thing that has helped tremendously is no processed, no sugar and low histamine foods. Breath work, walking and guided meditation has helped me heal my brain and nervous system. It takes your willpower, strength and perseverance to get through this. Just keep going and be gentle and kind to yourself 😘
I started this drug in 2008 to deal with nerve pain following a spinal injury. I’m proud to report that after tapering from 60 mg for the last 4 years (now 2025) , I am finally off of this poison. I hated the brain shakes and dizziness for being even just an hour late for a dose. Each step down brought brain shakes and body aches but at last I am done. 🎉🥳
To all of you out there tapering, it’s a long road but worth it. Slow and steady wins the race!! Cheers!
Going to start my “1 BEAD” tomorrow! It’s been a long journey and I’m positive it’s going to be worth ridding myself of this poison! It’s been a long 5 years tapering off many mind altering prescriptions that I was taking for 30 years 🤩! I’m excited and feeling hopeful that my body will heal and that it will be amazing to experience feeling I haven’t felt in a very long time! To all who have been injured by the medical monopoly, I wish you an easy recovery ❤️🩹 and much happiness ❣️— feeling OK.
Hello everyone. I’ve been meaning to write this post for a while, but once you’re off these medications, you want to forget all that you’ve been through. I am four months out from my last dose of Cymb. I micro tapered for five years, maybe a little bit over. Jumping off the last bead was very scary for me, but it turned out to be no different than any dose drop I made previously. Being off this medicine for a while, I can offer encouragement and that I have noticed decreased pain, and I’m hoping that gets continually better. When I get close to my period and on my period, symptoms increase. However, compared to what they used to be, this is not so bad. There were times during withdrawal that I felt that I couldn’t get out of bed, because the pain was so excruciating. No matter how many times and in different ways, I tried to convey the physical pain to people, unless you’ve been through it, you simply cannot understand. I’m happy to also report that I’ve noticed positive skin changes, less fatigue, a more regulated mood, and various other positive things. Most importantly, the pain is less than it was, and I hope it just keeps getting better, though I know these things take time. I was initially prescribed this medicine after I cold-turkeyed off another psych med, and I had no idea that I should not have done that, because I was following doctor’s instructions. I developed chronic pain after that first cold turkey, and then prescribed this medicine. Things exploded with pain. There have been times when I wondered if I would survive the taper. My life felt as if it had been stolen, and that is putting it mildly. Plenty of others have gone before me in their tapers and have successfully made it through. I write this to encourage those of you who are still experiencing the hell that comes with being on this medicine, and tapering it. To call it medicine is absolutely inaccurate (for many). I know everyone’s body is different, but I imagine that many of us are in this group because of the negative things we’ve experienced as a result of these medicines. If I can help even one person get through this, I will. There is hope on the other side, and even more hope to come as time moves along. I hope and pray that each of us here finds healing.
I followed the plan of tapering as set forth by this group and was one of the lucky ones I guess because I did not have any withdrawal symptoms.
That said, I had to take a very careful look at why I was taking the medication and immerse myself into a plan that would help me to deal with those symptoms and not just detox and leave myself with nothing.
I took the drug for pain and so I interviewed PTs until I found the perfect fit and started therapy before I started detoxing. I also interviewed and found a therapist that was a good fit for me and we spoke several times a week initially and then tapering off to weekly visits. She was fabulous about my scheduling issues and after I was established, we did TeleMed visits. For me, addressing the initial cause for seeking out this medication and providing ongoing support were critical to my taper.
I want to be very candid about the lack of support I received from the medical community. My physician refused to assist me and so I began the taper and just continue to refill my prescriptions each month. It took a long time to completely detox, but once I was done , I simply had her assistant delete it from my list of medication‘s.
Many people have shared their stories in this group, and if you look through them, you will find that many people who spoke openly with their physicians about detoxing, were also not supported, and many of them were simply cut off with no additional prescriptions. Above all, you do not want that to happen to you.
Oh, and I almost forgot the best part. Once I had completed my taper, and I no longer needed the prescriptions, I fired my physician.
I just wanted to say thank you to everyone that ever posted a question in this group, anyone that has offered support to another, the admins for all of their knowledge. I took my very last bead a few days ago and have been filled with nothing but gratitude for being given the tools to successfully come off of this medication as comfortably as possible.
When I started this journey, I was in 60mg and desperately wanted my life back from C. I followed the advice of a psychiatrist that dramatically reduced my dose from 60mg to 40mg, a few weeks later to 30mg, and then another reduction a few weeks later where they told me take 20mg every other day for two weeks. Eventually I was told to just stop taking C all together. I started experiencing debilitating withdrawal symptoms and was running out of hope to ever feel like myself again, until I found this group.
I followed the advice of the admins and started tapering from 20mg February of 2022 and I am finally FREE! I never thought I would see the end of counting beads, I couldn’t imagine getting to this point. Finally after almost three years, I’ve reached the finish line. It is possible! If you’re struggling to start, if you’re not able to see the light at the end of the tunnel, I’m just here to remind you to keep going! One step at a time. If I can do this, so can you! Much love to you all and I hope you have a fantastic holiday season. Thank you for everything.
Just wanted to post in here my success story!! I followed the bead counting method and it took me 2 years and 1 month to taper completely but as of January 16th I took my last bead and I feel amazing!! No withdrawal symptoms, no bad side effects. I feel like me again (I also got off birth control around the same time so it could be due to that also) but please be encouraged that this method works and there’s hope and freedom on the other side!!!
You guys don’t have to submit this for the page as it’s not a question or I don’t need any help right now. But I just wanted to thank you for all you admins and moderators for everything you do. You guys have always been kind and humble and helpful in every way you can. I among lots of others, are so very appreciative of you guys. We wouldn’t be able to do this without your encouragement and support. 🩷🩷🩷
I’m posting some of my tapering journey here to offer some hope and encouragement to people who are struggling with their tapering or concerned about starting to taper. Here it is with my mistakes and successes.
At first everything about tapering seemed like it would be easy. My doctor told me it would be and tapered me off 60 mg in one month. This was absolutely and completely crazily wrong and I immediately went into a devastating breakdown. My whole life went out of control. Luckily I found this group and was reinstated to the lowest possible dose, 20 mg. I immediately felt better, stabilised for 3 months and then began to taper.
Handling beads was very difficult at first. I could not believe how incredibly tiny each bead was. Counting took me at least a couple of hours every 2 weeks and I hated it. I bitterly resented having to do it and hated everything about C and the situation I was in. Over time it became much easier and now it takes me 20 minutes as I have far fewer beads to count. I don’t even think about it but back then I told myself, “You have to stick with it. You do not have any other choice”.
[Editor: we provide a weighing calculator, as well as a counting calculator, and a weighing tutorial when there are hundreds of beads at the beginning of your taper, see pages on this site.]
I constantly calculated how long it would take to get off C. It became the focus of my life and was hugely distressing. One day, I realized I had to stop obsessing over the end date. I had to accept that it would take a long time and that all I could do was to try to reduce my withdrawal symptoms as much as possible during the process, however long it took. Changing my attitude from ANGER about C to ACCEPTANCE was key for me and made a big difference. My withdrawal has been a nightmare – far worse than I could have imagined and is complicated by my long history with C and other antidepressants, very difficult health challenges and other personal difficulties.
So where’s the good news in all this? Is tapering worth it? Should you start? In my opinion, yes, yes and yes!!
When I’m not having withdrawal symptoms, (anger, tears, depression, insomnia, irritation), I feel really well, better than ever, and unlike genuine depression, the symptoms always pass. Knowing this helps me through. These days, I can laugh till I cry, I feel more social, I have more energy and I have times where I experience true happiness. I know I’ll continue to struggle with withdrawal as I get lower in dose but the good days are a 1000 times better than the old days of being numbed down and dumbed down by this poison. I’ve got nothing to lose except this horrible drug and everything to gain. I’m three years in and I’m sticking to the advice and tapering plan from this site. I don’t care how long it will take although of course I wish it was over. The mods, admin and members here are the only people who truly understand this process and I’m immensely grateful to them. My advice is to follow the plan, find support here, don’t try to cut corners and keep a record of your progress.
Roll on the good days and good luck to everyone! 😀
If you decide that you are going to follow the recommendation of the mods, which I highly recommend, tell your doctor you changed your mind about stopping the med and ask them to put you back on it. That way you can do a proper, and safe taper. I delayed starting my taper for over a year. I am now over a year into tapering the way this group recommends, and am doing well. My cousin and husband are also tapering as recommended by this group and they too are doing well.
Wanted to pop in and give encouragement to all of you tapering from this or helping a loved one through it. The slow taper is worth it. I’m so grateful for the help of this group. I may owe my life to you all and to this process. I’ve been off of c¥m8@1t@ for over a year now, and I promise everything gets better! Hang in there. You are important, and there is light ahead✨❤️
I never thought I’d make it to this post! But I’ve been tapering off of 60mg since January of 2019, which I was on for at least 5 years. And tonight… I FINALLY took my last bead of cymbalta. Been a long journey and never would have happened without this group 🥰 In comparison my taper wasn’t terrible. Moodiness/anger and headaches were my sign it was time to hold a taper. Slow and steady was the theme. I can honestly say I’m in a good place mentally and physically. I’m happy and healthy. Was able to lose 30 pounds finally and have kept it off for a year now, something I couldn’t do on cymbalta or even early in my taper journey.
You can do it too. Listen to the people in this group, read the files, and TRUST the process. Have patience. It works
Please try to remember that members who are hurting & struggling the most are who post the most needing assistance from admin. Moderators say all the time that we don’t hear from those who are working successfully at their tapers & not needing help. We all use this group in different ways, myself included. I am at 25 beads (3.7mg) – I choose to follow the group and try to help out with questions while I taper. Some members don’t interact at all, and just quietly work through the bumps of tapering, and may even “mute” the group. It can be overwhelming at times seeing all the pain members are in caused by this drug & others. My opinion – there’s so much more positive coming from this group than we truly realize.
Agreed… ty moderators👍 At one point I was in denial of the difficulty associated w quitting this drug. A fast taper taught me that … but moderators got me back on track w a suggested schedule to re – instate and slow taper … down to 19 beads … slow and steady wins the race
I listened to admin and did 3% drop every 2 weeks / I am down to 32 beads from 60 mg
Don’t worry about how long it takes. Find the rate of decrease that your body can function with and go with that. I’ve been at it 5 years and have another one to go… I don’t care. I’m active and have only minor withdrawals a few days a month. Be good to yourself. There’s no prize for a quick taper.
I was on the same dose, it took me a couple years, but it was completely worth it. Stay the course, you got this.
At one point in time, before I started the slow taper, I thought – NO WAY – I can’t do it that slowly – and I’d try to drop faster wanting to get off the terrible med. Continually failed, until I stabilized and then began the slow journey toward freedom. It took me 4 years – and then 8 months to finally be free of the pain. I just want to say to you – it is not an easy journey, but you can do it.
Hello all,
I just wanted to announce that I am finally on one bead ! What a feeling!! I know I am not done yet, but it’s been over 2 years since I’ve been put on C, and the side effects were insane!! Thank you Maria Pastoor for encouraging me to drop. I am on day 2 at one bead and no withdrawal symptoms ! I still feel the fatigue and the brain fog but nothing debilitating !! Can’t wait to get off of this poison !! Wishing you all the best in your tapering and recovery ! Sending positive thoughts and a big thank you to the amazing admins !
I’m in my fourth and hopefully final year of my taper off 60 mg. I’ve stuck to the max 5% drops every two weeks and held longer when traveling or when needed. The protocol put forth here has worked amazingly for me. I’m down to 20 microbeads and hopeful I won’t have any withdrawals in my final stretch. The amount of time necessary to taper is / was overwhelming but I stuck with it. And, you can do the same – it’s worth not having any withdrawals. You got this!
I’ve been going slow for years now and now down to 3 beads from 60mg.
I could not do 5%, I found out right away that was too much for me. I went to 2% and gradually worked myself up to 4% which worked best for me. About 18 months into my taper I tried 5% and did well. I tapered from 120mg in 2-1/2 years.
After a little over 3 years I have finally taken my last bead today. I followed this groups’ recommendations by decreasing 5% every 14 days. I printed the spreadsheet, counted the 3 capsules and worked out my starting point which was 1042 beads. I was on 120mg daily for 6 years. I was prepared to go slower, always listening to the feeling in my body but the last few beads have been a bit hard. Brain fog / concentration is so much better now, I haven’t lost the 40kg I put on but hopefully the weight loss will start now. I have been in this group for over 5 years reading all the advice, reading all your comments, constantly praying for all of us. Thank you to Toni for starting this group and to all the admins & moderators who continue this group to help so many of us. I feel very proud I’ve reached the end. The best advice is do not tell your doctors you’re going to taper. This drug needs to be banned but unfortunately doctors think it’s a miracle drug. To the people here who haven’t started tapering yet, I understand you’re petrified but once you start you’ll be motivated to keep going. To the people still tapering, congratulations keep going, the end is so near and you should be very proud. Love to you all ❤️
9 months off here! I feel good! Tapering was one of the most difficult journeys in my life. Worth it though. I finally have no lingering symptoms. They didn’t go away right after the last bead, it took months before the major emotional swings subsided.
I am finally feeling like myself again.
One year today I won the battle with Cymbalta!! This legitimately is the worst drug on the planet!! It took me 10 years of compounding but I finally got there 🥊 If I can make it you’ll can make it stay strong life will get better ❤️🩹
A miracle happened last week when I saw my Doctor. He took my hand, looked at me and told me he was sorry for the harm these drugs (du crud & Ly tic crud) have caused my body. It meant the world to me! There is hope!
It’s been a while since I’ve posted, so I wanted to give an update. It’s been 6 months and one week since my last bead. I lost about 15 pounds right away, and then stalled. And I’ve been hovering at 25 pounds down, for about a month. I’m definitely not happy, that it’s not coming off more quickly. But considering that I gained over 75, I’m still celebrating the win, and I’ll keep on going. From January to about March/April, I was still battling occasional brain zaps, and VERY high anxiety levels, including adrenal surges, and very high blood pressure. My blood pressure is still slightly high, which I’m on medication for. The anxiety is still present sometimes, but not nearly as bad as it was. And the heart palpitations have stopped, except for an occasional episode, during an anxiety attack. The brain zaps are completely gone. HOWEVER. I still feel a million times better than when I taking C. I didn’t think everything would magically disappear, just because I stopped taking it. I had a feeling that it would still be a bit of a battle. And it is. But it’s ok. Every pound lost, every day without a zap, or an anxiety episode, is a win. And every day without taking it, makes me feel better and better. I’m on the road to being completely back to myself. Yes, I still have some physical stuff, and the anxiety sucks. But my mental state is a million times better. Does it happen this way for everyone? No. Every journey is different. But keep fighting, friends. I promise you that better days are coming, even if they take a little longer than expected. You WILL get there. Just hang on. Sending love to everyone. 💜
[posted 2023/06] On August 28th, 2019, I embarked on my journey to taper off of a very high dose of Cymbalta. Painstaking, frustrating, but so worth it. I’m happy to say today is my last bead. I have found that today more than ever we need to be our own advocates and knowledgeable about our healthcare. Especially our mental health. Thank you to this group and others like it for showing me the way. It can be done!
I’ve been off for 7 years. While I did taper and followed the advice of this group, in hindsight I went faster than I probably should have. I feel I have permanent effects that I can’t prove are related. Life goes on. I miss Toni as she was a source of inspiration and a virtual friend when I needed support. One of my favorite quotes that I shared with her..
“I love when people who have gone through hell walk out of the flames carrying buckets of water for those who are still consumed by the fire”.
I cannot believe I am saying this, but I just took my last bead of poison! 🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼. There is no way I would’ve made it without this group!!! I feel so empowered that I trudged through slow and steady. Most of the time, I wasn’t able to drop the full 5%. Part of the time it was only 2% or 3%, but it was still a drop. Now, the withdrawals may kick my hiney for a few days, I don’t know, but I will prevail!!!! I started this safe taper a couple years after I had dropped from 60mg to 30mg in about three months. I didn’t know any better. I suffered for it. Was very s****idal. Thought I was gonna lose my mind!!!! I didn’t see how I could ever be free from it. Thankfully, one of my daughters found this group for me. I appreciate all the encouragement and advise! If you think you can’t, let me assure you that you can! God Bless you all!!!!
14 months off. Blood pressure dropped and weight dropped. I had gained way over 100 pounds. I was always thin! No more profuse sweating. All I did was taper off of C. My doctor wouldn’t allow me to taper and so I found a doctor who would help me to do it safely. I just want to offer a little hope. This group was so helpful to me as I was confused by the symptoms and side effects my doctor told me were not real after over a year on C. You all got this.
I gave the admins of this group the whole power of helping me get off. Your group was knowledgeable and fast to help me to ween off this drug without horrible withdrawals. I listened to what the moderators and did what they suggested…..I had many questions and I can’t thank you enough. I tell people all the time to listen to your advice. And NOT TO DO IT ALONE
My one year off will be the end of this coming Aug!! I’m doing good and no side effects after. I’m glad it’s over. So if you are wondering you can do this and you are going to be alright!!
9 months since my last bead. Still have some health issues that I feel are related to C (but can’t prove).
Yes getting used to more normal life again 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
It took me 5 years of tapering to get off. I went too fast at first so I had several bouts of holding…
Well!! Peeps, today is it..what a journey!! 5 years of tapering off this poison. Not without many obstacles but I feel free!! Stay the course and listen to your body! I’m dealing with lots of anxiety but working through it. I’m so thankful for this group, the moderators and you incredible people walking this journey. I will be an advocate making sure people understand this drug and effects. Lots of love
I got on this poison on my 32nd Birthday and Today is my 48th and after 3.5 years of tapering,
I AM DONE!!
I have a long journey yet but hit a milestone of breaking the 100 bead mark. I’m at 99!! I’ll keep plugging along and hope my taper continues to be uneventful. Best wishes to everyone on their journey! Glad to have a supportive, understanding group traveling with me.
May I just say I must share the heartfelt feeling that overcomes me every time I see a post in our group and the moderators are so quick to answer each and every one of them and if you notice new posts new people come in every day and the moderators are right on them and they’re there to answer questions and help anyone. I just want to say this has been the most supportive group of people I have ever known or met through social media that I feel so connected to and actually cared for. So I just wanted to send a big shout out to all you moderators and to all of you supporters and all of you who are going through this journey. I commend you all for being a part of this group and for being vigilant and kind to everybody. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.
Last bead, last week. In 7 days I will end my taper process that I started in October 2020. 2.5 years later I will be able to leave C**** behind. It has been a process full of different moments, some of them very complicated, but did I also have fabulous ones.
In these almost free of medication moments, I coud tell I feel overall okay. I have days and times of huge anxiety, fears, sadness. But I am proud to be able to feel them, live with them and continue walking.
For all of you who are in the process of tapering, or considering starting the process, I want to tell you the following: be VERY patient. Haste is the worst enemy. Listen to your body, be patient and trust that you will be able to do it.
Last but not least, I didn’t want to finish this post without first thanking all the moderators and people who run and make it possible for this to work, thanks a million for the enormous support you offer to thousands of people. Also, thank the members of the community who have offered support at all times. A big big hug! ❤️❤️ — feeling happy.
Today is the day!
I started taking this s#!+ around 2010 and was at 60mg. I have been tapering for close to three years. It’s been a slow and painful journey.
I am so grateful for this group and the mods/creators who maintain it. It was here I learned about slow tapering. This group saved my life! I feel more like my old self every day.
For those that are struggling or starting, read the pinned posts. Take in as much information as you can before starting. Listen to your body, and go slowly with no less than 2-3 weeks between drops, longer as you get to the end. You can do it!!!!!
I can’t believe this group exists!! I thought I was alone in how Cymbalta impacted me. It was a horrible ride. I had no idea this is such a problem for so many. It’s the only time I’ve ever had a serious problem with meds. I wish others didn’t have to suffer like I did, but it’s also kind of validating that I’m not alone.
Down to 1 bead!! I never thought I would get here. Thank you so much for this group it is literally a lifesaver
I am finally free if this hell drug. After tapering and weaning off for what feels like forever, I officially been off Duloxetine for a whole week. I have been trapped by this drug for over ten years and finally I have broken free! Couldn’t have done it without my partner who has sat every night and counted beads/weighed each pill slowly decreasing the dosage.
I have been tapering for about 6 months or so now and I want to share a message.
With a heart filled with gratitude, I write to this group. There was a time when life’s challenges felt insurmountable, but through the collective wisdom and support of this remarkable group, I found my path to light. In the echoes of my own transformation, I know that if the seeds of change can take root within me, they can flourish in each of you as well. Let my experience be a testament that even amidst the darkest storms, the sun can rise again. Thank you for being the guiding stars that illuminated my path. Let us walk hand in hand, supporting and inspiring one another, for together, we forge strength and resilience.
A special thanks to Anita Krukas for being so helpful when I first joined this group
The day is here. I never thought I would be here writing this post 🥹 I’ve watched others over the last 2 years post this and have been so happy and proud of them and this day to me always seemed so far away…… but here I am! One little bead, one little pill 🥹 Just know to those of you that were me 2 years ago….. YOU will get here and you will be free from this poison one day. It’s not been fun or easy but I put my head down and put the hard work in. This has been truly one of the hardest things I’ve ever done and when I started I was in the darkest place I have ever been. So when you feel like giving up keep fighting and doing the work because I promise you are worth it!!! I also would not be here without the support of the admins and this group so thank you to all of you. Keep fighting and doing the work because it’s worth it and so are you
After a little over 2 years, I’ve finally made it to under 100 beads! Looking forward to a future without this thorn in my side!
I wanted to briefly update and encourage you all. I’ve been tapering very slowly following all of the recommendations given in this group and I am at 5 beads now. I can’t say I’m back to myself again. My memory is affected, but there may be other reasons for that. I’m still carrying a lot of extra weight but I’m doing some things to get back into a healthy routine. It’s so tempting to just stop cold turkey now but I know from reading the research here that this is the time for me to stick to my slow drops in dosage and take it even slower if needed. I just want you all to hear it from another person who is in your boat. Follow the SLOW TAPER method. I regret the large jumps I made before I knew I needed to keep my drops at 5% or lower and hold them a couple of weeks.
…four years ago, … I was so discouraged. But I’ve felt better and better every month since then.
I would just like to thank the admin of this group for all of their kindness, insight, and support. They volunteer their time to help all of us and I appreciate them more than they will ever know. They do not claim to know all the answers but steer us where to find them. If they aren’t sure about a subject they will say they aren’t and to let’s see what other members say. … I just want the admins to know you are appreciated by me and so many others. You have all been great in my journey and I couldn’t do this without you and the positive support from other members. THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart
16 years on this medication, and 3.5 years of tapering. I’ve been off for 3 months now and doing well. I do have to take natural supplements for my anxiety but besides that, I’m good 😊 This group saved my life and made me stop feeling like I was crazy and the best part was I learned to advocate for myself.
I tapered for 4 years and 3 months from 80 mgs. I’ve been C-free since June and feel like my old self. The only thing I occasionally notice is some ear ringing, especially when I’m tired. But it is minimal compared to what I endured while tapering.
Don’t be discouraged. It really does get better. I was on C for about 14 years including just over 2 years tapering. As I neared the end I felt more and more like my old self. I have been off just over a year and am so glad to be free of it! I do still have some insomnia and tremors that I believe are C related. Unfortunately years before finding this group I followed provider instruction to drop from 60 to my original 30 mg all at once. It was after that when insomnia started.
The best advice is to listen to your body. Everyone has a different experience. Take your time between drops so you have minimal symptoms.
Dear 2-years-ago me,
Just wanted to let you know that all of the 36 kilos (almost 80 pounds) you gained with Cymbalta, were gone after you’ve stopped taking it. They came off even faster than you gained them! Your average heart rate is back to normal, high blood pressure, sweating and panting, anxiety attacks – are all gone. Blood tests are back being normal. You are also not suffering from the heat like you did back then.
Pain is still here, but you have learned to manage it. After not being able to walk or stand put for more than a few minutes due to pain, you now walk 10,000 steps a day and sleep relatively okay most nights. You still can’t do sports or drive far, but you can concentrate enough to work part time from home and support yourself and your dog.
Coming off was very painful, but you have learned many good things about yourself – mainly how sensitive and strong you are.
So, dear past me, and everyone around who are still dependent on Cymbalta: first of all, it’s OK you guys. Secondly, side effects are reversible. No matter how horrible if is right now, it *can* be different. Coming off of this drug isn’t easy, but it is very worth it.
Shana Tova everyone may we all have a good year.
Congrats to you!! You should be so proud of yourself. I just finished several weeks ago and still feeling good. You can do hard things and this is proof!!
Didn’t get a picture, but I took my last bead last night. Started tapering off 60mg in November 2020. So, it’s been almost 3 years. Beads 16-14 and 10-8 were tough. Lots of anxiety and insomnia. Finally, I’m free!!!
One. Single. Bead. Hallelujah!!! I’m not sure how long I’ll stay on just one. Recommendations and advice are appreciated. December will be three years. My goal is to be finished by 12/30/23 if at all possible, so that would be 10 weeks on one bead. Whew.
I just wanted to offer everyone here some words of encouragement. My daughter has been tapering for a year and half. 5% every 2 weeks and it’s going well. She still has some nausea but she is functioning, going to school full time, playing volleyball and enjoying life. This is doable if you follow the advice given on this page. Just to give you an idea, it took one year to go from 60mg to 20mg and it’s take 6 months to go from 20mg to 10mg. Its a marathon not a race but things are getting better at the lower doses. I only look a couple months ahead at a time. I sit down once a month and make her pills for the month. I know that it will take 6 months to go from 10mg to 5mg so that is the only goal right now. Sometime in the Spring we will be at 5mg. I find it’s best to just have short term goals and not think about the end point. Hope this helps. Hang in there. Stick with it. Every little drop makes things better. ❤️
Two years, 7 months, 2 weeks, and one day of weaning. About to take my last dose of this nightmare. I’m 17 pounds down, and feeling better every day. To the entire admin/mod team: THANK YOU!!! Y’all literally saved my life. And there are no words, that can express my gratitude. I could never have done this without you. To everyone else: your time is coming. Don’t quit, even on your hardest day. I promise it gets better! Love to all. ♥️
I’ve been tapering for officially a year now and over half way through. I haven’t been coping too bad, so really hoping the next year is just as easy. 🤞🏻
February 2020 I started my taper from 60 mg. Took my final bead last night. If I had not found this group, I would still be on C. I, like all of you, was left with withdrawals when trying to come off. We need to be forever grateful that this group exists. Please don’t let fear keep you from starting or continuing your taper I was scared too. I only had a few withdrawal symptoms along the way and have already lost 15 pounds and hope that will continue. Good Luck to everyone, hang in there no matter how long it takes!!!
I’m so glad I joined this group. Thank you for all your posts, I’ve made up my mind about NOT taking this drug after everything I’ve read. I did my research and come to the conclusion that I will put up with what I’ve had for 30 years, Fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis. I’ve tried other drugs in the past and they didn’t work ether. Your posts have been very helpful, thank you.
This group is what is keeping me going. Often Hanging On by a thread I feel. Deep despair, anger, out of sorts, etc. Thank you for this group! The Admins/Mods are fantastic!! Thank You, Thank You, Thank You all! Truly! I want to feel better. This is truly difficult. Hugs everyone. I care.
It is almost 1 year since I found this group and my life has turned around 180 degrees. This time last year, I was the sickest I have ever been, with no answers. I was repeatedly at the doctor’s with what we all recognize here as severe withdrawal symptoms (but doctors kept missing). I was in daily pain from my knees and trying to work full-time as a teacher. I was beyond sick with no explanation.
Now: I am happy, NO withdrawal issues, stable on 60 beads, tapering slowly and safely. I retired early out of necessity and got a flexible part-time online job that I love. I have two new knees and I am recovering well from surgery. Life is so different and I was struck by immense gratitude this morning as I thought about how different reality is now from 1 year ago, thanks entirely to this group.
I still have a long way to go as the taper slows down but I’m committed to doing it the proper way as I recognize now how crucial it is to follow the guidelines down to the last bead.
THANK YOU for turning my life around. I couldn’t be happier (unless it was last bead day!)The work you do here is changing lives and I couldn’t be more grateful. For others needing encouragement, please know that it can get better even while tapering! I have my life back.
I wanted to share… I took my last pill 7 days ago. I was super worried about how I would feel after the last pill, but I have had no problems at all.
I know when you come to this page you see a lot of people with questions and problems.
Just know…. there are people who are successfully tapering off who don’t post or comment. I only posted in the early days when things were hard and I needed support.
You all got this! Just keep going slow.
Down to 10 beads and boy have I regained the ability to feel emotions. I’ve cried more the last week than I have in 15 years. I’m doing a very slow taper. Been tapering almost 3 years now from 60mg
My doctor put me on 20 mg C. I’m only on day 2 but after reading this group, that’s a wrap. I’m thankful for this group and would rather know what I’m getting myself into even though after day 2 I’m already feeling relief 😢 Have you all found gbptn causes same issues? I tried it before but it didn’t work well for me. I was so excited about this drug! I need something extremely soon. TIA
Hello everyone yesterday was awesome I haven’t felt this good in years I almost felt like my old self don’t feel too bad today neither I only want those windows permanently wishing you all well too☺️
Took my LAST dose today! 🙏💃🏻🙏 Beyond thankful for this group and all of its participants. Best advice is to just start, hold when you need to, and take things one day at a time. It took me about two years of using the weighing method and I highly recommend it if you’re struggling with counting beads (I absolutely could not figure out a good way for me). I know the weighing method is less popular- so if anyone has questions, I’d be happy to share my techniques!
Wishing you all the best! 💕
Just want to say a big thank you to this group, for making it possible for me to finally get off of C after spending 10 years of my life on it. The resources prepared me to advocate for myself with Drs and family, which was invaluable. I can only recommend to others that are unsure of what to do, to take the group’s guidance. All the best to everyone.
Well, the day finally came!
After 10 years being on this drug plus 6 years tapering off I took the last bead 4 weeks ago and survived to tell the tale. There were some withdrawals even at 1 bead, major anxiety, brain fog, aches and pains etc but as the month progressed they have become less and I am satisfied I am done. Thank you to the moderators of the group and members for their support, my doctor for his encouragement and my daughter who went through this before me and backed me all the way to the end. Now if only I could stop the craving for sugar and lose the 50lb this poison has gifted me I would be very happy. Slow and steady wins this race, accept the good days and the bad. Reinstate if necessary and don’t give up, you will get there in the end. 😀
This is it friends .Tail end of a 26 month taper closely following this group’s suggestions and feedback in times of need. My journey was relatively uneventful in terms of withdrawal symptoms and / or residual side effects. I would say headaches, temperature sensitivity and 1st year occasional bouts of anxiety were worth reporting. Not strong enough to impact titration schedule (5%, 2 weeks throughout). As a sidenote I used a 30mg prescription only for a short 3 years, previous attempts to stop had failed miserably.
Hi. I wanted to check in because I’m having a great taper!! I’m a newbie in week 10, I started at 20 mg and I’m tapering by 5% every two weeks. I’m feeling better and happier than I have in the 10 years on C. I’m only concerned because I see people say that they have to reduce by only 1 bead and hold for longer times at the lower doses.
Today was the day.
My anxiety levels are higher, and the related spectrum of highs/lows is incredibly vast – I’m almost embarrassed of how far my mood can swing in a single day. But I’m still managing to do well at work, and I feel like my “tell” where I’ll know that I have to count out some beads to go back on C will be if I’m unable to work, or do basic daily tasks. And, I have loads of C if I need to go back on. But tomorrow will be the first day I try not to, in more than 10 years❗️
I’m scared of what may come next, but tbh more excited than scared. I quit my benzo in 2020, I quit alcohol in 2022, and now this. Looking forward to being reintroduced to my brain in its most “natural” or untouched state. Then, figuring it out from there 🤷🏼♂️
Never would’ve gotten here without this group! Seriously. Thank you. And best of luck to everyone. Go S L O W, try to accept the (hopefully temporary) discomfort with the knowledge that it will, be brave, and be proud of yourself for doing even the smallest things. They add up to greatness.
Hi All,
I just wanted to happily let you know that I finished my 2,5 years long taper on 1 January, 2023. Now it is 29 January 2024 and my dream came true, my beautiful little baby boy was born a few weeks ago, he is the reason of my taper. Take care and have a nice day.
Celebrating 3 years today since I started my taper! I always thought it was so appropriate that this anniversary was on Groundhog’s Day. 😂 When I started, I was taking two pills, to equal 90mgs. I am now down to 37.5mgs! Just pushing on through, one day at a time. Less and less poison in my veins.
The biggest piece of advice that I can give to anyone starting, especially if you’re panicking, is to divide this into two parts. The first is to go through your pills and get the average bead count (according to the group’s instructions) and start by just taking those pills that you have evened the amounts of beads in BEFORE you do your first drop. Stabilize with those pills, first, for a month, and you’ll probably be shocked at how much better you will already feel. (And angry at big pharma for having such careless quality control.) Everything else is part two.
If I had to do it over again, that’s what I would have done. Because once we re-started and did that, everything changed. It really makes for a much smoother start and transition. So many people come here, myself included, with an overwhelming amount of anxiety and symptoms, scared, not knowing what to do or if they can do it. I think if I had realized that I was feeling like this because the capsules are not evenly balanced in the first place, I may have found some comfort in knowing that as soon as we balance them, a lot of the problems should calm down. It just makes sense. If you can help someone who is holding on by a thread (like I was) to just get to that point… explain about the uneven beads bouncing your brain around like a tennis ball… then tell them not to worry about tapering yet… that’s step two. The first drop and everything that comes after, is the second part, that comes later. For now, don’t think about the time it would take, or calculating the drops or whatever, just do yourself the favor of stabilizing at the dosage you are at. Then later, when you are feeling better, let THAT you handle the decision to taper and calculating everything and starting the first drop. I know it feels devastating to hear, for the first time, about safe tapering and how long it takes. It’s a LOT to try to take in all at once. And most people who come here out of desperation are usually not in the mental space to deal with all that at the moment. So maybe it would help to just help them onto the first step. All they want is to feel better. So just focus on that part, the first stabilization.
Hopefully, hearing that can possibly help someone else. It really feels like it was just last month. I forget to let myself realize how far I’ve come. Acknowledging these milestones and giving myself some credit for having gone through all of this, and survived, is so important. I would encourage everyone to check in occasionally, especially those with positive reports, but also, just for your mental health. It helps when we’re out here just surviving. ✌️
My husband has been on this stupid med for 6 years and is tapering off.
By year 3 of being on 60mg, he developed non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and type 2 hypertension, extremely high cholesterol, when he was perfectly healthy before! We tried to talk to his med manager about it all and she basically treated us like idiots. So, about halfway through his taper, almost all his liver labs returned to normal and so has his blood pressure and cholesterol!!!
He was on 3 different BP meds at 40 years old and I was so terrified he was going to stroke out,
This drug is poison. Can’t believe they just stick people on it with no warning it can kill you and take off so many years of your life. He also developed tremors. Those aren’t going away yet but hopefully they will. His memory went to crap. It was horrifying and affecting his job! He’s been getting better.
Can’t wait for him to get off the rest of it.
That’s all. That’s my post. I’m disgusted.
Instead of investigating why his health went to hell in such a short amount of time, they just stuck him on more meds and lectured him about his exercise and diet. He eats better and less than I do, and fasts, but gained 40 lbs in like 2 years.
If you are reading this and they are trying to put you on this drug, think twice. It’s literally poison and should be investigated.
Counted up 14 more weeks of beads with 100 more weeks to go been doing this since first part of 2016 and should be off by December 2022. Been a long go but I did it slow. I just wish I could stop it today but I vowed I would do this the correct way and staying with it till the end.
And the victory won!!!! I had not the first issue. The administrators are knowledgeable and won’t steer you wrong. RIP Toni Sammie. She started me in this trip and all the administrators were able to step up to the plate. I used the phrase “God didn’t build Rome in a day” knowing it would be a long road ahead and I know if I can do it so can anyone else. You just can’t toss in your hands up in the air and toss in the towel. C*a had control of my life and I made the best decision to never let it control me again. So my piece of advice. Hang in there. You have this and yes my life is so much better. I do have to deal with Fibromyalgia more again; but, the Fibromyalgia devil is better than the C*y*a devil fir sure
I can’t believe that finally I got to the single digits. I am at 9 beads now and it was a hell of a ride so far but I have to stay positive and believe that I can make it. My sleep is very bad, insomnia is tough but I keep fighting and trust the process.
Thanks for the tremendous amount of support and help what this amazing community offers every day for us.
I just want to say thank you to everyone in this group. My mom was prescribed this drug under another name for her fibromyalgia and the doctor lied to her and told her “no” when she directly asked if it was an antidepressant. Because of this group she will not take it. We really appreciate everyone here and want to thank you for your openness. You’ve saved a life.
Hello all! It took me four years of tapering, plus one year of no Cym and I feel great! 5 years ago I went off cold turkey, and within five days I really thought I was losing it. I couldn’t stop crying and I had brain zaps, which for me feel like vertigo. That’s when I found this group. Thank goodness for the moderators and everyone here 🙂 I used the spreadsheet and slowly tapered down, sometimes stopping for months at a time. I was nervous about going off the last bead, but I did it, and I’m here to tell the tale.
I took one bead for 9 to 12 months (can’t remember how long now). The arc of the symptoms, of the year with one bead, closely matches this past year. At first, I had more symptoms, and slowly it began to get better. During the last three months, I have felt significantly better. The last three months my life has been very stressful, so I’m happy to see that symptoms have abated despite the stress.
The biggest problems have been anxiety, irritability, muscle twitching and sleep. Ironically, I took C to help with one of the physical problems I have which is severe TMJ and fibro. I had a jaw joint replacement on the left side and two orthopedic surgeries. Of course, where do I get the muscle twitching the most? My jaw. You would think my psychiatrist might’ve thought twice about giving a medication, which causes bruxism, to someone like me. I also get the twitching in my legs and I have multiple adrenaline jolts that occur as I’m about to fall asleep. Occasionally, they wake me up from a deep sleep. In the last three months, they significantly decreased and I think it’s been about six weeks since I’ve had any.
Things that have helped:
- I started talk therapy before I went off the last bead and it has really helped. My anxiety was very high during the year with one bead and the beginning of the year when I went off of Cymbalta completely. About a year ago, I started meditating. I use the insight meditation app. It’s free. I highly recommend it.
- I read Trudy Scott’s book “the anti-anxiety diet solution” and I take the supplements she suggests. The Kal brand of mag. glycinate has helped a lot.
Interesting things I’ve heard about:
There is a Harvard psychologist named Dr Chris Palmer. I heard him interviewed on the Mel Robbins podcast and he has found a correlation between a keto diet and a reduction in mental illnesses. I’ve heard many people in this group say that eating a high protein diet helps them with withdrawal symptoms.
What’s next:
I’m on three other medications. The next one to go is 1 mg of V@1ium that I take every night. It’s to help with jaw clenching. I used to take more plus X@n@ x. Every time I try to get off the last 1 mg a stressful situation occurs and my jaw gets tight. I’m planning on going off slowly by chipping bits off. It’s such a small dose, but since my experience with Cym, I feel like I should be cautious.
I wish you all good health and peace on your journey. Be patient. Your body and mind will heal
I am getting my life back
At 105 beads from 245
I can now play sport, my tingling almost vanishing
This group saved my life
Today I’m celebrating 1 yr of tapering🎉. That sure went fast!! I was nervous to get started, but followed the guidelines here, bought some tools, and got to work. Now I’m at about 10mg from 30. My symptoms have varied, but have been mild and manageable. If you’re nervous to start, just do it! Time will pass either way. You can do it!
After 6 years of tapering I’m finally down to my last ever bead. It’s been a long terrible journey with my anxiety being the absolute worst ever to the point I thought I was going to be locked up. I had support workers come out to me and had the hospital mental health team support me also. I can’t believe what this med has done to me. My anxiety is almost gone and slowly getting back to my old self. Thank you so much for all your support , without this group I couldn’t have come off this terrible med. Good luck to everyone still fighting, don’t give up,the good days get better, persevere and taper very slowly to achieve the best results. Ty. Xxx
Hit the 40s!!! 49 beads tonight 💙
2 and a 1/2 years in, about 2 years to go. So pumped!! Started at 109 beads (30 mg).
It’s taken me 2 years to go from 30mg (245 beads) to 13mg (109 beads). I still have years to go unfortunately. I can only drop 1 bead every 3 – 4 weeks so I can still function my daily life. Otherwise the side effects are debilitating.
2 YEAR UPDATE!
2 years ago today I took my first steps on this journey. Trusting my doctor’s advice and on 60mg for many years, I spent two weeks on 40mg, two weeks on 20mg, then zero. Welcome to hell! I no longer knew who I was and I became desperate.
Thank goodness I found this site! The moderators talked me through re-instating and how to taper slowly. Since then I’ve gone up and down emotionally and physically. I’ve cried more tears than I thought possible, I’ve had more moods and reactions than I could imagine, and at times I’ve felt like completely giving up.
Slowly, slowly underneath it all though, I feel I’m moving forward. I have more energy, I have really good days and I can laugh again. There are times when I’m hopeful, happy and healthy.
Over the last 2 years if I’d stayed on 60 mgs, I WOULD HAVE TAKEN 44,000 MGS!! Now that I’m on 66 beads, even if I had to stay at this level for the next 2 years, (which I won’t!) I will take 4,800 mg. Just knowing this I feel better! 😃
There is no way I could have done this without the tremendous support and encouragement of the moderators. What a great team of people! Thank you and thanks and good luck to all the group members on the same journey. We’ll get there! 🌹❤️🌹
Well I’m so happy to write this post to announce that I am finally free from this poison 👏 took my last bead yesterday it’s not been an easy journey….been tapering since September 2017 from 120mg….thank you all for the encouragement guidance/support I will be forever grateful 🥰 sending love & hugs to you all ❤️
3 years free as of Feb 11!!! (2024)
After almost 5 years of tapering I took my last bead about 3 weeks ago. The first week was challenging with the brain zaps and I was tempted to just take that 1 bead again 😔 I seem to have stabilized but have not yet given myself the win. I can’t actually believe that I’m C free! When I joined this group there were around 16,000 members. [ed. As of 03/2024 38,800]
I was clueless as to how to get off C. Dr said I only needed to take it for 6 months😂. I am so grateful to the founder of this group firstly and also the admins for their guidance and definitely the members for their support. Wishing everyone love and healing 💕
I took my last pellet today. I am finally free of cymbalta! A little over 3 years of tapering. Some of my symptoms are slowly getting better, looking forward to feeling better! Thank you for all the help and encouragement.
With slow taper 1 bead every two weeks, now at 54 beads I have had no withdrawal symptoms but I’ve had terrible ones that almost took me out bc I had gone CT twice before I realized they mean it when they say don’t CT ever antidepressants! I feel though already like my brain has healed tremendously and is continuing to do so! Diet, exercise, meditation and doubled omega oils has helped my recovery no doubt!
FINISHED!! It wasn’t easy. Many times I wanted to just quit, but slow and steady wins the race. Thankful for this group. I would not have been able to get off of this poison without the guidance that was provided. So many great resources and the admins truly want to see everyone freed from this horrible drug. In the beginning, I thought I could probably taper faster than the guidelines; proved myself wrong. I was just being inpatient and it reflected in bad side effects. So I stabilized and did it the right way. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. I hated counting beads and I was at the lowest dose, but it had to be done. I wish everyone well and pray that you too will be free. Stay the course. Finish the journey. 💪🏼👊🏼🫶🏼
Took my last pill this morning! My journey has not been too bad. I am glad, though, to be free of this drug. Thanks to this group for all the help and advice!
I feel so good right now but I know I will drop one bead Sunday. That means I’ll struggle for two weeks before I feel this good again. (From 441 beads to 37 beads in approximately five years.)🙏🏽🩷🙏🏽
I’ve ‘just kept weaning, just kept weaning’ and I’m taking 70 beads now !! I have been going very slowly and got impatient and went from taking 80 beads to 70 beads. It’s been about a week but if I exercise hard, take evening primrose and maca life and fish oil, I seem to be ok. But I’m going to stick to a 2% taper until the end because I just don’t want to experience any side effects as a (not single for much longer!) mama. I’m engaged and we’re getting married in July!!! So I definitely don’t want side effects as we endeavor to ‘blend’ our kiddos!
As I taper, I notice my body beginning to ‘come back.’ My eyes aren’t nearly as dry anymore, it’s wonderful!
Hoping on here to share where I am! Man it’s a long process and I started years ago and have ever so slowly tapered, holding for longer periods as needed and as life happens. Hoping I’ll join those of you who have made it fully to the other side sooner than later! The fiance is so encouraging and proud of me :):) So that helps, too. 🙂
Hello my fellow C warriors!
So, I just wanted to pop-in and give some update.
I successfully dropped to 2 beads and I am so excited to be completely off if this poison! I have been doing mostly all right, but for the nausea and weight gain! The weight gain is driving me insane! I am almost 30 lbs heavier than my heaviest healthy weight! I am watching my food and calorie intake and try to keep active! Still the scale is only going up 🙁
Any suggestions? I am also nervous about dropping to 1 bead. I have been holding at 2 for about 2 weeks!
[Ed. Losing weight gained typically starts after completing the taper, once your brain restores more normal function.]
So ok, I’ve been taping off for about a year or so. I haven’t had any symptoms and I even once missed a dose and didn’t notice. Which is good.
Down to 10 beads . Yayyyy
Hey guys, just wanted to post a positive post taper experience since seeing them while withdrawing always helped me. It’s been just about a year after my last dose and so far I’ve been able to get hired for a full time position that I love and I’m getting my life back in order. I was just able to get a car and I’m feeling like myself again. I still have some waves here and there but they’ve been short and manageable when they’ve shown up. I don’t think I would’ve been able to do it without having this group to scroll through when things got tough and the spirals got dark and felt impossible to escape. Even though I mainly lurked and didn’t really post, this group really got me through hard times. This withdrawal causes this crazy tunnel vision and the symptoms can consume and mask any visual of the light at the end of that long tunnel but it’s there. Wishing the best for everyone on their different journeys
There are tons of stories on here of successful tapering. You just have to search for them. I’m a success so far. My dr prescribed a quick 2 week taper & it was one of the worst experiences of my life. I had to spend 6 months stabilizing before I could start the taper method suggested here. I’ve been tapering for 13 months now with very little issue. This method has been a life saver and I’m now on 10mg after being on 30mg for about 17 years. If I had stayed with the Dr prescribed method I would likely have been completely debilitated for years. Probably would have been bed ridden & out of work. The slow method I’ve had little issue with and have continued on with my life as usual. Whatever you do, do not go cold turkey or a quick taper. It’s not worth destroying your life for. Time will pass either way. You might as well pass the time healthy and safely. Best of luck to you
I drop 5% every 2 weeks. Sometimes I hold another week if I feel crappy. I saw something that said to rate your symptoms from 1-10. 1 being not bad at all, 10 being the worst. If you’re feeling between 1&3 then it’s ok to taper down another 5%. So even if I am feeling a little withdrawal I’ll still drop. Then I’ll usually have to hold the next taper another week or so. I’m trying to stick to the schedule and I give myself grace when my body or mind feels like crap. Hang in there.
Hello warriors. It’s been a while since I’ve posted here. I’ve spent the last 10 years tapering off medications. I started with Lyr, then Cym, Morph, Xan, and I’m halfway off Flex now. I took breaks in between each taper. My life changed drastically after I had tapered off Cym. It was the medication that was causing most of the problems for me. I’m taking another break right now because my children are having a 65th birthday party for me in June and I’m getting married, so I will be moving. It will be a busy month, but I’m excited about life again. I can do everything I could do before Cym, a bit slower of course because I’m more than 15 years older and almost a senior citizen now lol If someone would’ve told me 10 years ago that I would be off these medications and healthy again I would never have believed them. But as I always say now, ‘There is life after Cym!’ And love ❤️ Here is a picture of my fiancé and I the day we got engaged. We’ve been together over 10 years now so he’s been with me through it all. He’s a keeper.
Hello everyone. I’m a old member and my taper has been going very well . Slow and steady , around 4 years so far . I am at 10 beads now . Nothing really crazy , some fatigue, a little insomnia. I really haven’t had much to complain about .
I want to thank everyone for all the information you share as I read avidly and feel incredibly informed and motivated by all of your stories and encouragement. I have been slow tapering from 30 mg for about a year and am currently at 53 beads of my 20 mg rx. There have been a few drops where I held for three to five weeks, but for the last several months I have been feeling amazing and dropping 5% every two weeks. As I read through all of these posts, I am worried that it will all come crashing down and withdrawal symptoms will emerge. I guess I’m just looking for some support that it is ok to trust the taper and the two week timeline if there are not symptoms of withdrawal. Thank you
I started my tapering a week ago. The only symptom is that I have a lot of dreams.
I am going down from 30mg my first 5%.
Hi I’m new to the FB group but not to the CHW site where I learned about the slow taper method. Down to 25beads and hanging on for dear life at times. Is anyone else on other “meds” as well as C? I’m on 2 and plan on getting off of each with the slow taper once I’m off of this. I’m VERY fortunate to have a Dr who is 100% on board with me getting off of this stuff and fully supports the slow taper method, she actually said “they don’t educate us enough about getting patients off of this stuff” I was floored and grateful for her honesty. Thankful to have found you all.
My doctor looked at me like I was crazy 6 months ago when I said I was doing this. At my recent visit she was very supportive. Seemed like she did some homework.
My doctor was in disbelief that people needed that long to taper off, but she didn’t laugh. We’ve had some pretty heated arguments too, but she’s a good doctor and recently told me she no longer orders C. I doubt it’s just me, tho, she’s probably done her homework. She still thinks I’m not capable of counting beads. I was mixing and giving meds before she was in diapers.
Dear c h w group – I am happy to report that I am 13 months off of “C”. Best decision I ever made, never going back. I got insomnia while on it and have had to go on to sleep aids to combat it still. Evil poison, how can anybody with any degrees possibly prescribe this? Happy journey to all still trying to get off of it, you can do it!!
I dropped 1 bead today!!! I’ve been on 50 beads for a whole year. I’m finally in the 40’s! I’m the snail in this group.
Dear Friends, I just wanted to mark the milestone I have reached today…I am officially now at 30mg, having tapered for one year down from 60mg. I know the second half of this taper will take longer and potentially be a bit rougher, but I feel so so proud of myself for getting to this point. Thank you to every single person who has ever commented and to every moderator on here. We can all do this. Sending strength and hope to All.
Hello all,
I just wanted to announce that I am finally on one bead ! What a feeling!! I know I am not done yet, but it’s been over 2 years since I’ve been put on C, and the side effects were insane!!
Thank you Maria Pastoor for encouraging me to drop. I am on day 2 at one bead and no withdrawal symptoms ! I still feel the fatigue and the brain fog but nothing debilitating !!
Can’t wait to get off of this poison !!
Wishing you all the best in your tapering and recovery ! Sending positive thoughts and a big thank you to the amazing admins !
I’m dropping another bead today!! The past 3 weeks have been uneventful since I dropped 1 bead after holding for a year. Hopefully I’ll be able to continue to drop every 3 weeks now.
The snail 🐌 is on the move.
Just to say… you know, I am really pleased with my little ol’ self.
After many years of not tolerating even the slightest, tiniest drop ( I do the weighing method), I have started to be ok with dropping 0.001mg. Three times in the last four and a half months and more over a long period at that measurement. It probably seems tiny to most, but I am not even noticing it. So after years and years at 60mg, coming down, reinstating ( successfully), I am now close to 40mg, comfortably. Keep going, slowly. Every tiny drop means that there is less of this poison in your body. ❤
I was counting and making my last few weeks of C ever ! When I got down to the capsules I put one bead in, I looked at that bead with great joy and pride in my heart that I finally have made my last doses. I looked at that tiny bead in absolute amazement, how in the world are beads so small, so powerful ? If I hadn’t been there and done that, lived through symptoms that I wouldn’t wish on anyone, I would argue that, that one bead wouldn’t even matter, even 2 of em or 3 of em. It’s mind blowing still, but I respect that one little bead for the power it holds, and continue to pray this medicine gets pulled off shelves everywhere one day.
Well I’m still tapering but starting to have complete reconnected moments, only started happening as I decreased Cymb.
Gained 80 lbs. when I was on C, lost 70 last part of tapering and after. Took 5 years to taper.
Below 100 wow
So far 18 month managed to get to 99 today vs 245 beads
Need encouragement for the next year
Again thanks to the amazing group without them i would have lost my life
Last Bead taken 11/11/17- I was on 60mgs for over 7 years. I still have ringing in my ears very bad but at least I am no longer putting that poison in my body. Some of the many side effects I have had are, brain zaps, nausea, headaches, weight gain, dizziness, emotional dysfunction, lake of empathy, seating, insomnia, rage, pain in all my joints, nightmares, fatigue, suicidal ideation, ant the list goes on. Wouldn’t have even know about most of these issues before I joined this page. I know I still have time until the drug is completely out of my system but hey Ive came a long way and I can see an opening in the darkness.
Was put on Dulexotine, 60 mg, for chronic pain. Took it for 3 years until I started constantly sweating, tremors, tinnitus, mouth sores, and thought it might be related to this drug. Per pharmacist instruction, weaned off April, 21, 2017, every other day for 2 weeks, then every 3rd day for 2 weeks, then stop! Wrong! Too late to re-instate so have been cold turkey since May 17, 2017. After almost 9 months, most side effects have stopped, except tinnitus, but better, still have mild sweating, way better than before, now I only sleep about 5 hours a day. Hoping that gets better soon as well. Generally feeling myself again! Forget quite a bit more though. Hoping that will also pass. Waves and Windows!
Prescribed cymbalta in 2010, 60 mg, up and down 60 to 30 on and off for 7 years.
Came off completely Aug 2017. Psych recommended halving my 30mg capsule for two weeks and then just stop.
WORST time of my life for approx 6 months! Finally at 7 months off and starting to feel normal. Protracted withdrawls were major irritability, anxiety and severe depression.
After 16 years of being on Cymbalta and weaning 2 years and 6 months—I am Cymbalta Free! My journey wasn’t an easy one…
Before I delete my Facebook profile I wanted to stop by one last time and say thank you to this group. I will not sugar coat the hell that C has caused me, suicide, anger, rage, tears. The mental anguish, physical pain, and what I believe is a TBI. I’ve lost almost all trust in doctors and have no trust in the pharma industry. I’m down from 120 to 5 mg. It’s been a long long two years to get to this point. My weight is dropping, I can finally work again, but my easy going laid back smiley personality is forever gone. Luckily, my husband and family have and will continue to have my back. I can’t turn back time and honestly am so tired of having to constantly explain myself that I’m moving forward and leaving the negativity behind me. This group rocks. Twice ya”ll have literally saved my life and I thank you so much. Toni, Maureen, and the rest of the admin crew….I do not know how you do it.
But you do, so I will end by thanking you for saving my life.
I am finished, thank God!
Prescribed Cymbalta in January 2016 at 30 mg for chronic back pain. Increased to 60 mg. two weeks later. Experienced insomnia. Decided to get off after 7 weeks. Dr. said take last 4 pills I had every other day until done. I did this but started having terrible withdrawal symptoms. Found this wonderful site. Went back on after a week off but only at 30 mg. Took 14 months at slow taper to finally get off. Horrible drug and horrible withdrawals. Feel great now! I cannot thank Toni Samanie, Maureen Helm, other moderators, those who shared their stories and the many who encouraged along the way enough for all they have done and are doing to save so many lives in the process. Thank you and God bless you.
Last damn bead 4/2/18. I was prescribed Cymbalta because United Healthcare REQUIRED me to use this drug instead of Lyrica which my Dr WANTED me to take. I didn’t want to take Cymbalta. My Dr didn’t want me to take Cymbalta but who the hell are we? My insurance company gets the say on what I will take. Oh, and of course a dose increase as it didn’t work!! Oh yeah one more thing….. IT STILL DIDN’T WORK after the dose increase. It was prescribed for nerve pain in my leg ( RSD ). Anyway, that’s all behind me now. This group was the only place I heard of tapering with the bead counting. All doctors looked at me like I was crazy when I reported brain zaps. ?. A big thank you to this group!!!
So I have been a member for a while now and mostly im quiet and just observe. I had to share though, I am now 1 week free of this horrific medication. It took me a year and half of slow and steady tapering but I did it. Today is the first day since my last dose that I’m really starting to feel like myself again. It has been an emotional, painful, powerful journey and at times I really didn’t see an end in sight. Many times I thought about surrendering myself to the meds because it had to be better than the withdrawal. But each day was another day down, another day towards thr end. And finally all those little days are behind me.
Don’t give up.
Remember how much your body is adjusting and how it takes time to get off of it.
Slow and steady. You will get there. Love to all
Last bead 4-20-18. Was on 30mg for close to 6 months before starting my taper. About 10 months later and I’m free!!
Commenced on 60mg. maybe 2004? Other than pregnancies and breastfeeding, remained on it solidly until 2015 (my dose had been increased to 120mg. during 2014), when I found this page and began tapering. Last dose 1 bead 28/04/2018. Thank you Toni and Maureen. I would not have succeeded were it not for this page.
I haven’t posted before but followed closely as I spent the last 14 months weaning off of 30 mg that I was only on for 3 months. So glad to be done.
Started Cymbalta postoperatively for nerve pain in February 2015 and was titrated quickly up to 60 mg per day. After tapering down for over a year, I took my last pill on May 4, 2018 by the grace of God and Toni’s dear support group. You are all God’s angels to me. If I can do this, you can do it too.
60 mg around summer 2010
I started tapering in 2016 (I’m not sure of my exact date but very close to the time i joined this group because I initially tried going by my doctors taper which was horrible and led me to this life saving group!)
Last dose was March 11, 2018. Freeee!!
Started taper from 60mg
r ago im down to only 40 beads remaining….
I still have a way to go but hopefully i can do this withhout too much more pain… it hasnt been pleasent
I started my taper August 2017 at 350 beads and just finished with one bead on May 14th 2018. Thank you for all the support along the way! I’m
So thankful for this group and to be off this nasty drug!
I don’t remember how I found this group, I think someone referred me. Throughout the past twenty years and half as many Dr’s and at least as many different medications. Pain, depression, anxiety. Weight gain, loss of cognitive abilities. Destruction of my digestive system. Lost work, lost time and nearly lost my mind. Then came Cymbalta. Helped a little bit for my diabetic neuropathy but the side effects were the worst of all the other meds. Finally unable to work, now on disability, so nauseous couldn’t get out of bed most days except for the bathroom horror.
So about two months ago I went on a forced CT. It’s important that you know this was forced upon me by insurance providers and was not my choice. I had not yet learned of this group and wasn’t aware of the horror I was about to face.
Chills, sweats, hallucinations, uncontrollable crying and shaking. Confusion, spikes and crashes, shocks and zaps. After four weeks things finally calmed down a bit. I saw my doctor who said she wanted me to go back on it! Me, not knowing any different and trusting her judgement, began again with 30mg. Immediately (within three days) began having visible side effects. Decided this wasn’t for me and again quit CT. Again with withdrawals. Then I found this group but it was to late, I was committed to getting this crap out of my system. So now here I am, about two months later. I feel really good! I still have some chills and shivers and yesterday I almost started crying but now that I know why I’m able to control that.
So I’m clean for the most part. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to quit gabapentin, my nerve pain is just to much. The point of my post is that I in no way advocate a cold turkey stop but I wasn’t given the choice. Do not let your loved ones be given this poison and don’t give in to so called “experts”
Peace Love Happiness
Took my last bead 5/22/18. I had been on Cymbalta for 5 years. At one point I was taking 120mg. This latest attempt to taper took me just over a year.
Kept forgetting to comment here. I started in January 2005. Was at 60mg for most of the duration. I started tapering May 10, 2016 and last dose was the middle of December 2017. I really haven’t improved much, it seems, but here’s to hoping and I’m thrilled to be off of it!!
I’m taking my last bead, ever. It’s only thanks to this group that I’m alive to be taking it. Before Christmas, under Drs instruction and with no knowledge of this group, I entered my third, horrendous withdrawal. I’d been on this drug for 8 years and in December, I managed to get myself down to 20mg successfully. I just couldn’t get myself past that point. When i tried, I thought I was dying. If I didnt die, I contemplated doing it myself. Just so dark with no way out. Then I googled Help with Cymbalta and here you are. I can’t thank the admins enough. Thank you ISN’T enough to someone for giving you life. Im now excited to find out who this person is without cymbalta and I’m enjoying the ride. Here’s to years of happiness, tears, memories…all the things that Cymbalta robbed me of. Thank you Toni. Thank you.
Last bead 6/24/18
Max dosage 60 mg. Don’t remember how many years but have taken many different anti-dep over past 30 years. Last dose was July of 2017. Forced CT. Doing well with some residual effects remaining. No more night sweats, less heavy sweating with exertion. Also stopped smoking 1 month ago today.
Max dose 60 mg, free from this poison Spring of 2018! I feel human again!
Last bead was on 1/2017, after being on for about six years. Just can’t get the 50 pounds off, but grateful to be off. I only was on 20 mgs but it took me a year and a half to get off, and it was rough, but glad I could do it, only with this group’s wisdom, my perseverance, and my husband’s patience and bead-counting skills. What a long strange trip it’s been…
June 22 at 1:17 AM
I’m taking my last bead, ever. It’s only thanks to this group that I’m alive to be taking it. Before Christmas, under Drs instruction and with no knowledge of this group, I entered my third, horrendous withdrawal. I’d been on this drug for 8 years and in December, I managed to get myself down to 20mg successfully. I just couldn’t get myself past that point. When i tried, I thought I was dying. If I didnt die, I contemplated doing it myself. Just so dark with no way out. Then I googled Help with Cymbalta and here you are. I can’t thank the admins enough. Thank you ISN’T enough to someone for giving you life. Im now excited to find out who this person is without cymbalta and I’m enjoying the ride. Here’s to years of happiness, tears, memories…all the things that Cymbalta robbed me of. Thank you Toni. Thank you.
Started in May 2016 for fibromyalgia pain at 20mg with an increase to 30mg a few weeks later. The pain improved for the first four months. Then I ended up in the ER for heart symptoms. It turned out that my heart was fine. The next day my primary care doc increased my scrip to 60mg and added Trazodone for sleep. My FM pain had become worse than before C. My migraines were very frequent. Insomnia got worse and worse. Somehow my intuition was functioning and I never went to 60mg.
I didn’t know any better and started taking my leftover 20mg capsules. Then I found this group and did the slow taper for the most part.
I held my taper for six months at one point hoping the migraines and insomnia would subside but they did not.
My headaches largely resolved when I went gluten free.
I crawled up Mount Doom with the support of this group and dear spouse. I cast the last bead of evil into the lava in early June 2018.
In 2015, my Neurologist prescribed Cymbalta 30mg for chronic migraines and soon increased it to 60 mg after the “benefits” diminished. I decided it was time to begin tapering when he eventually increased it to 90mg. I could see the cycle would only continue and the side effects were awful if I missed a dose. I’m delighted to report: I’ve been off Cymbalta for 6 weeks and am excited to be feeling like my old self. I took my last bead before Mother’s Day, which was a great gift to myself. Thankfully, the post-taper brain zaps seem to be gone now. I appreciate the support I’ve received from this group during my taper! The journey was difficult, but definitely worth staying on track to be rid of Cymbalta. PRAYING for you
1st dose 60 mg December 2013 for fibro/anxiety
After 1 week of horrible side effects 2 years ago of my doctor not wanting to renew rx I tried to go cold turkey. I literally was crying wcery day, getting brain zaps and almost suicidal. Saw another dr who put me on 30 mg. Took me a while to adjust to that but I soon felt normal. A few months later I tapered to 20 mg and have been on since. 1 started taking one every 4-5 days to try to wean down. Once it was on its way out symptoms were too severe too handle. 2 weeks ago I dumped 1/2 the capsule out and sealed it back up! I swallowed it thinking I would be doing the same thing for a while but once the withdrawals started kicking in I pushed through it! Mild brain zaps and nausea were my only symptoms! Still get them in waves but nothing I cannot handle! Thank you to everyone in this group. I pray for all of you!
Started in about 2008. I took up to 120 mg. I took about 2 years to taper. I have been free about 6 months.
I haven’t posted in this group for a long time. I believe it’s been at least 2 years. I was taking cymbalta for major depression disorder.
Cymbalta made me suicidal to the point of researching the medication I had in the house to know how much of each to take to end my life. I had the medications in a gallon size zip lock bag. In a fit of rage (also caused by cymbalta) I accidentally told my best friend and boyfriend my intentions. She took my bag of meds home with her and still has them to this day. Cymbalta turned me into the opposite of the real me… so very argumentative, I would look for a reason to go crazy on someone, anyone. My depression was 100 times worse!! I had panic attacks, felt like everyone was out to get me, nobody loved me. It was truly the worse time of my life !!!!
I found this group and without my doctor knowing I started the process of decreasing. Yes it was hard but I counted every little devil bead.
I MADE IT!!!! I have been cymbalta free for at least 2 years !!!!! I still battle depression, but now I know there are people that love me, I dont start the arguments anymore, I dont scream and yell, and most importantly IM NO LONGER WANTING TO TAKE MY LIFE!!!
I want to say THANK YOU to everyone in this group for helping me! Cymbalta does so much more then hurt, it can kill if you let it!
120mg daily, for 9 long years, to treat severe anxiety and depression stemming from 4 years of rape, aged 8 to 12. Too many health problems from this poison. Decided to quit but would need to handle my trauma first. Been seeing a psychologist for a while, then, over a year ago I lay there at night and told my (now deceased) rapist he had taken up enough of my life and he could piss off. Found this group and all of you have helped me to get off this horrible poison. Thankyou so much. I love you all.
Well guys ive made it
My final bead of Duloxetine !!!!!
What a journey its been , suicidal thoughts, derealisation, depersonalisation, depression, pain, dizziness, balance issues, brain fog, confusion, sensitivity, chronic fatigue, vision problems, OMG the list just goes on.
Weaning off this death drug for 11months never thought i would see this day !!!!!
A massive THANKYOU to this group especially admin for all help and support you gave me. My physical state not great but by god my mental state loads better. I pray i improve more over the coming months fingers. Thoughts and prayers go to everyone still on their journey, please keep going you all can do it. Toni , Maureen and all admin keep up your amazing work ?
I WILL SURVIVE !!!!!
Love and Best Wishes to everyone
God bless us all! 2-1/2 months off this poison and ALL muscle jerking and twitching has stopped, and I can sleep again. Stay the course dear friends. Stay the course. Victory will be yours.?
After 7 years of being on Cymbalta and weaning 5 years –
120mg for two years, than 5 years to settle –
I’m Cymbalta free since the 08th of July 2018.
Even if I’m still struggling with the withdrawal symptoms, I’ve made it. Finally – now 6 weeks Cymbalta free…
August 30th was the end of my year long taper. I took 60mg for 12 years. It still took another few weeks after my last bead to completely rid my body of this poison. Go slow, be patient and you’ll get through. Strange pains, rapid heartbeat, tinnitus, & hand trembling all cleared up after detoxing from this drug. Hang in there! There is light ahead! Much gratitude to this page for the information and encouragement when I needed it. Blessings!
Finally free October 2018. Started on 30mg in April 2017 due to pain and nausea. 3 procedures later and fibroid removed, I was advised to drop 10mg by my GP. 5 days later found this group I don’t know how, I was in awful withdrawal. I felt disconnected, outside of my body, unable to function. So scary. I started tapering 9th September 2017 with the full support of my specialist and had my last bead on 10th October 2018. I was lucky my gastro specialist fully endorsed this groups advice
Could not have made it without this group, admins, moderators, friends and the very special Toni Samanie. I am a moderator and as I continue to heal, I plan to really increase my time on the site helping others, authorising members and posts etc. Even those who ignore tapering advice need support when the consequences hit, so very much hoping to support Toni’s vision for the group.
Tapering is safe, it works, it’s not easy but finding your sweet % for tapering is half the battle. Congrats my fellow warriors we beat this drug!
First prescribed (Duloxetine) Cymbalta, 30mgs, once daily in 2014. I began to slowly experience a change in myself. At first, I didn’t realize or connect this with the medication, which I feel had actually been helpful, until it began not working. The negative change was nearly imperceptible, but family noticed my lack of interest. I was also prescribed (Bupropion) Wellbutrin XL 300mg, once daily at the same time as the Duloxetine. I took them both daily; one at night and the other when I woke. I’m currently still taking the Bupropion, but considering my options about going forward with this drug. At some point I began investigating and happened upon the Cymbalta Hurts Worse group. My taper began October 22, 2016 at approximately 2.5% with a drop every 14 days. I had to hold two tapers an additional 14 days, to be on the safe side during the entire process. I experienced headaches, insomnia, nighttime nausea, severe confusion, memory loss, word retrieval issues, difficulty doing basic bookkeeping and a zombie-like lack of emotion. Along with crushing fatigue and strange, non-irritating red blotches on my shins. I slowed dramatically after I reached the “single-digit mark” and began removing 1 bead every 14 days, even taking 1 bead in a homemade capsule for the last taper of 14 days. I finished today, October 17, 2018. I am eternally grateful for this group, for the unceasing helpfulness of the administrators and for the general feedback of all the members. I will never view medication the same way again as a result of this experience. To those who are contemplating beginning to taper or to those whose patience is wearing thin, I say persevere and keep up the great work. Many, many thanks to the kind folks in this group
Was on C for 12+ years. Started tapering 60 mgs. Was prescribed for depression and RA. Followed the tapering instructions to the letter. 10% and held 2-3 weeks when I got down to 10 beads could only remove 1 bead at a time. The last 4 beads had to stay on for a month down to the last bead. Finished August 30, 2018. By following the instructions in the files I had very little side affects. I’ve been able to lose 50 pounds. Slow and steady is the name of this game. I feel blessed to have found this group. Thanks to all who work so hard to help folks get off this poison.
95 weeks. Finally finished. I found it ver tough but this group helped so much. Thank you xx
First day free – Dec 23 2018! 60 mgs prescribed Jan 2011. Still at 60 mgs when starting taper Oct 2017. Reduced 10% every 10 days without wavering. A million thanks to the kind peope of CHW! Don’t know where I’d be without you.
Free from that poison for almost 2 months now and feel so much better…still have issues with neuropathy in my legs, but I use cod oil and cream for that.
It has been 18 months since my last Cymbalta and I feel great! I have my life back thanks to this awesome group. Never again to antidepressants!
I was on 30mg on 10/16. Started tapering April 2017. Slow and steady. Took my last bead 2/28/19. Was on it for nerve pain
Started Cymbalta August 2014 whilst
In a psych hospital with intractable anxiety & depression I ended up on 180 mg
October 2014 bloods confirmed Lyme Disease -started treatment
Started tapering November 2015
Took my last bead March 2019
It was a long & difficult road with many ups & downs including pain gut problems increased anxiety but I know my body is going to be better without this toxin.
I have learned many useful tools to help myself good diet swimming essential oils meditation and the love of family
I took my last bead on December 31st 2018. I would never of got here without this amazing group. This is a marathon not a sprint but believe in the process, it can be done safely. I owe so much to this group. The information on here is invaluable. Thank you xx
I was on 30 mg & 60 mg at one point! I began taking them over 5 years ago for nerve pain and anxiety! Began my taper December 2018 @ 10% each week!
Took my last bead today 4/19/2019!
I had been on the 30mg for awhile so began my taper there! I had and avg of 150 beads! I was able to drop the 10% and held for a week! I had very little side effects! Brain zaps, dizzy and nightmares! But, I knew my brain had to adapt! It wasn’t anything I couldn’t handle! I’m one of the lucky ones!
I am a survivor as well!! But honestly…..it hasn’t been a year yet…..and I’m experiencing a real LOW period. Don’t want anti-depressants because I don’t trust them!!!
First dose 3/17 30mg for nerve pain.
Last dose 5/17/19-1 bead
Had some tough patches at the end, but looking back, it wasn’t as bad as it seemed. Never had brain zaps….
I completed my taper in January…I have finally experienced real feelings, some good, some not so good. I have kind of a low grade depression and have tried, through exercise, to counteract that. The worst thing is the neuropathy in my legs….grrrrr….
I am officially, and happily Cymbalta free since May 2018.
Thanks to this group, its system and support, I feel really good today.
I will never be near any drug like this again.
May the Universe help all of you in the tapering process.
VERY LAST BEAD!!!
“I am a Cymbalta free Warrior”
BYE BYE GOOD RIDANCE CYMBALTA!
What can I say. So glad to be finely off this horrid drug. It has been one hell of a journey tapering.
I started taking out 5% of beads on the 20th March 2017 that was still too high.
Going down to 2% of beads weighing every 14 days which led to better withdrawals. Weighing them was so much better.
I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia over 12 years ago when I was put on Cymbalta 60mg daily by a rumatologist , not knowing how bad this drug was, with not just withdrawels of coming off it, but how sick it made me over the years with permanent illnesses over time.
I was slowly loosing the Penny I once use to be.
Cymbalta has caused:
24/7 loud tinnitus permanent
6-8 times a year suffer with UTIs living on antibiotics and repeat scripts each time… Lasting 2 weeks each time on antibiotics.
So the antibiotics made more damage to my gut.
Heart VEB more frequent heart beats.
Anxiety is so bad and got worse over the years.
Bad Depression and suicide thoughts. The black dog is real.
Caused diabetes as I was always craving sugars and carbs.
Memory loss
No sense of direction
Lost my emotions
Zombie
Lack of consintration
Memory loss
Loosing clumps of hair
High Cholesterol
Chronic fatigue
Weight gain
Dizzy spells
Muscle spasms
Nausea
Nightmares
Insomnia
Irritability
Vision problems
Vertigo
Extreme mood swings
I have so far rid of my diabetes another less drug to take. Watching what I eat, eating healthy high protein, low carbs,no sugars, gluten free, drinking lots of water, keep up with my probiotics, mega Magnesium, Fisher oil, multivitamins and very gentle exercises. Yoga or Tai Chi or walking my Mia furbaby. Hope in time to come off all my other drugs high cholesterol, beater blockers and reflux tablets. As I finely end this journey over 12 years on Cymbalta.
I would like to personally thank Toni Samanie who is responsible for this very supportive page “Cymbalta Hurts Page” can not thank you enough and the Amazing admins, Maureen, Denise, Debra, GD, Becky and who ever I forgot you are all angels.
You have been amazing. So many lives are here with us today because of you including myself.
I just want to let everyone know who is thinking about taking this journey, who has just started this journey or are nearly at the end of your journey. You can do this. Listen to your own body it will guide you into the right direction with your tapering.
It is not a race, slower the better for your withdrawals. I hardly had any withdrawals in the end.
I got down to 9 beads and my withdrawals where so bad I had to stay at 9 beads for a good 6 months.
I started over 2 years 3 months ago with my tapering and it went really quick. From 420 beads in each capsule down to none. With all the support through this amazing page helped me get through my rough days and it was good to also help and support others in need.
Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. All the very best to everyone who goes on this journey.
I am looking forward to my Cymbalta free life. I am finely getting my life back, starting to see clearly now and notice my memory is slowly coming back. And I find myself very emotional now and cry a lot like I use to. I know it may take another year to come 100% good. But the worst is over. YOU HAVE GOT THIS!. Don’t forget to treat yourself after your long journey. You deserve it. I am grateful and so proud of myself. Now to try and work out what to treat myself for a reward any ideas?.
Started 30mg June of 2010
Began taper 2017 from 60mg and took last ugly bead today, June 17, 2019
Already feeling more alive, lost 10lbs, fog is lifting. Gabapentin is next on my endangered list to completely eradicate! This group was essential in preparing me after doctor advised me o just drop to 30mg for a week, then every other day for a couple of weeks and stop no problem. Thankful that my acupuncturist told me that was not the way to do it! I found this page, bought supplies and 2 years later DONE!!! Thank you to those brave souls who blazoned, suffered, encouraged, listened, mentored the rest of us. Am I in pain with nerve damage, Lupus, Fibro, neuropathy, post cancer treatment? Yes but at least I can remember better, am enjoying my grand babies and fur babies, feeling like I actually want to be a part of the human race instead of just watching it. Still have moments of raging feelings but at least I can sometimes corral them now.
Worst symptoms:
SWEATING
insomnia
Monotone/numb emotions or amplified anger
Heart murmur
Neuropathy
Teeth, eye, ear problems
HUGE weight gain
No energy or desire to do what i love
Hair loss/nail weakness
Memory of a dead flea
Concentration of burnt toast
NO sense of humor
Constant UTIs or yeast infections
I know the waves will come but at least there will also be windows so I know one day I can finally say I am a Cymbalta survivor.
My best advise is to order your supplies, prepare at least a months worth of that first decrease. I did this and left them for a while and then one morning I just decided “TODAY IS THE DAY”! I did keep a log with dates/amounts for a long time and then I decided not to because I found I would expect the side effects a few days after each decrease. So I would count out 2-3 weeks worth of capsules, label a snack baggie with each mg amount and just refill the pill minder not really knowing no the exact day of the decrease. If I experienced bad effects, then I would just count out another week until everything chilled out, then would carry on with next bag. Worked for me because I refused to let this nonsense rule my life any more than it already had. Best day was last month when I counted out a months worth of 1 bead capsules, saved 2 capsules full for just in case, handed the rest to my husband and told him to take them to the drug take back day and said “bye Felicia” to this crud! You can do it, too but do what works for you. Use the spreadsheet, count, weigh, whatever works for you. YOU CAN DO THIS and the rest of us are here to answer ?s, calm your fears, support, applaud, cry, rant, whatever you may need
Goodbye Cymbalta forever!!!
Tonight I will take my last bead of this poison !!
I started taking Cymbalta about 5 years ago for fibromyalgia. It worked for a little while, then it just stopped working. I just thought it was the fibro acting up.
I lost my insurance almost 2 years ago, and I started tapering off the wrong way. Please do not ask me for details. About 2 weeks later, I found this amazing group, and began tapering off the right way. I just know that God was protecting me from the horrible withdrawals that I should have been going through, and I give Him ALL the glory for allowing me to have a mostly uneventful taper. I was one of the very few people who could do 10% every 10 days. I only experienced a little bit of anxiety, and some hyperactivity, both of which was very manageable for me.
It has taken me about 20 months to taper off.
I want to thank Toni Samanie for creating this group, and I also want to thank our moderators, who give so selfishly of their time to manage our group. It has been my pleasure to be a moderator in here, and I will be staying on to help out in any way that I can.
A huge thank you goes out to our active members who continue supporting, and cheering on everyone.
I want to encourage everyone to find the perfect percentage rate and holding time for you. That is how you will have a successful taper. It just simply cannot be rushed.
Everyone please continue spreading the word about our group so that we can help others safely taper. Print out our files, and share them throughout the medical community.
I pray for you all everyday! — ?feeling fantastic.
Off this mess- not medicine finally! I have been feeling a lot more like myself for a while. I’ve always been someone that feels things deeply. I cry at sweet commercials but always have. I’ve been able to slowly over the last 6 months of my taper lose #20 of the weight I’ve gained using Keto diet which I plan to continue. Truly appreciate this group even though I haven’t been very outspoken. I would have never continued to taper in a healthy way had I not accidentally come upon this group. Like so many others I initially listened to my Dr & did a few big drops & felt horrible when I found this group. I recalled my sister quitting another med & us rushing her to the ER. So thankful to Toni Samanie for this group! I know I’ll get thru the ups & downs now that my body can truly begin to heal!
Here’s my celebration song!
https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=VRVPLPFoJL0
Rare Earth – I Just Want to Celebrate
I was on 30mg of Cymbalta for 5 years Fibromyalgia treatment started to reduce in Sep 17 and took my last bead five days ago happy to report feeling good.
I started my taper the first few days of June, 2017. Took my last bead today, August 31, 2019. My deepest thanks to Toni, all the admins, and all the supportive members of CHW. I will now be my better, healthier self. One of these days, I may even be thinner again! (Slow and steady!)
I’m done!
Kerri Varela- Started taking cymbalta 60mg June 2016.
Started taper February 2018
Took last dose August 16, 2019
I feel so much better! Terrible headaches gone! Thank you to everyone in this group for all the advise & support
This morning I took my last capsule! I was on 60 mgs. for pain following an auto accident. The Dr. only ever called it Duloxetine- my mistake for being so naive. It took about 18 months with tapering 10% every 2 weeks. Other than brain zaps and sweats and a few extra pounds and uncontrollable emotions at times, I did alright. I’m so sorry for those of you who continue to suffer in the grips of this monster- only one Dr. out of 6 or more I’ve seen made any mention about tapering safely, and she was VERY concerned I was doing it right. Best wishes to all of you- truly! You can do this!!!
Just finished a 2.5 year wean from Cymbalta 60mg. Mostly only 2% drops. Had withdrawal symptoms throughout the wean which made it tough at times but I was determined to stick it out and glad I did. My advice don’t be reluctant to go slow and expect it to be tough but hang in there!
I feel like my daughter is off and in a good place now. Her windows are becoming the new normal. Thank you all for the support.
Start date 2011 on 30mg
Started tapering 2018
Finished tapering october 21st 2019
Start date 2013.
Started taper August 27th 2018
Finished taper October 26 2019!!
I am so grateful i found this group. Thank you for giving me my life & mind back!
Start date 2013 for nerve pain due to AS (ankylosing spondylitis) however diagnoses at the time was DJD (degenerative joint disease) I was also on narcotics for 3 years. 1.25 years clean from that too. I had back surgery in March 2018 and so no longer needed pain relief. So I quit them. With NO WARNING or KNOWLEDGE about the hell I was about to ensue. 2 weeks of brain zaps and dizzy spells and nausea to passing out while working (child care) I finally put 2 and 2 together and started them back up. I went from 90mg to 30mg and then took one small pill outside of the capsule at a time. Every month. Took 1.5 years. I’m 1 week off and still getting eye movement noise but only in the morning before getting out of bed and getting something to eat. I’m so happy to be rid of this torcher.
Started Cymbalta in 2016 for anxiety and depression, also diagnosed with BPD and was caught in a nationwide shortage December 2017, had to CT and had 8 weeks of absolute torture, was prescribed another medication and unfortunately suffered with that as well. Agreed with my psychiatrist to trial Cymbalta again in June 2018 (silly me trusting him but I learnt a lot and have now stopped seeing him) had many many side effects but started tapering safely and my last bead was October 4th 2019! There were many times I wanted to give up but I am so thankful that I stuck it out and now am free!
I’m FREE of this poison. Started taper in Jan 2018
4 years off all ! I have some rough moments or days but I just let it go and ask for help.
I did not sign this wall off fame, but I am off, after safe tapering, now for at least 2 years.
Hi, I took my last bead Tuesday of this week. I have had a very long almost 2 year tapper starting Jan 2nd , 2018.
So happy to be free!!!! Thank you all for the support
Start date 2017
Successful on being tapered off 2019.
So… it’s been about a month since Cymbalta attacked my liver and I had to do my last Cymbalta step down a bit sooner than planned. (I had to taper a bit quicker these last 30 mg due to toxic Hepatitis)
I am now completely CYMBALTA FREE for 15 days. I have withdrawal but for my liver health and recovery, I didn’t really have a choice. My body hurts, I have brain zaps, cry very easily from excess emotion… but I am surviving! If not for this site, I would not have known how to taper, I would never have gotten past my first dosage step down, and I am not sure I’d have been able to face this last step without hospitalization!
A HUGE thank you to everyone here. I will survive this! My liver is already less inflamed, and even using a faster taper than I had planned, it sure as hell made life survivable (my first step down I hadn’t found this site yet and dropped 30 mg dosage cold- I had never been so sick! And I still had a 2nd 30 mg evening dose plus an am dose of 60 mg to go through!) it has taken 2 years and a half- but I am on the other side!!!!!
You all helped me face this and I will face this bit of withdrawal gratefully. It is no where near the horror of my first, non tapered steps 2+ years ago.
EVERY ONE OF YOU ARE LIFE SAVERS! Be strong! We got this!
Good evening/morning/afternoon…whatever applies!
Yesterday marks two years that I am off Cymbalta! It was one of the best decisions I’ve made. For 6 years I was at 60 mgs (my doctor thought I was at 120) and tried to quit cold turkey. Worst two days of my life! That’s when I found this group and reinstated. Due to marital issues, I only took 12 months to wean off. Within the first month with no cymbalta, I started to lose weight without changing my diet at all. I had gained 40 lbs while on the medication, after 6 months off I had lost 32 lbs and as of today it’s all off, plus more.
I no longer sleep for days at a time, I have interest in doing activities that I lost interest in, I don’t get angry as quickly or as extremely and my libido is coming back. My family and friends say I look and seem more alive… which makes sense as I no longer feel like a zombie.
Even with all the positive outcomes, there are still some things that haven’t returned to pre-cymbalta functioning. My word recall is horrible, short term memory is better (but still bad), simple daily tasks seem impossible at times (I also have fibromyalgia and A.D.D., though).
Bottom line, although there are some days that I get upset thinking “is this the best I’ll ever be?”, it’s still 100% better than being on Cymbalta!
I thank my lucky stars to have found this group before it was too late and wish everyone gets through this as quickly and easily as possible. For those of us that have already stopped, I say “Well done!”
We are all warriors and the support in this group helps us to win the battle.
My longest fb post ever…thanks for reading!
Great update ! Down to 3 can’t wait !!
I’ve been successfully weaned off of Cymbalta for over 2 months now. Thanks to this page I was able to safely taper off of my 90 mg that I’d been on for 10 years. I had tried to wean 30 mg at a time per my doctor and never felt sicker. Once I found this group, I was able to taper off slowly. Thank you!!!!!
2/13/20 took my last bead! Started May 2017 after chemo induced neuropathy. C and gabapentin made it worse. Was on 20mg C and 200mg gabapentin. Tapered gabapentin first over 6 mos in 2018 then C taper started Aug 2018. Had some rough patches when I tried to rush it-very rough even after when I held for months but I am done and feel better for it. I could not have done it without the help and teaching of this site. Thank you all!
Took my last bead 2-15-2020 after starting 1110 days ago.(2-01-2017) It’s been a long journey but here I am. Abdominal issues were my biggest side effects. Took 60 mg for about 18 years. Never want to be on this medication again. Here I go with a Cymbalta free life!
I forgot to sign, started tapering Feb 2019, last bead was Dec 24, 2019. Thanks to this group, you are truly appreciated.
Took my last bead Jan 4. I’m ever so thankful I found this group & learned the safe way to taper from this evil drug. It took me 26 months from 30mg. I don’t look at it as time wasted, but as an investment for my health.
I started Cymbalta when it had no generic so a very long time ago. I was prescribed it for fibromyalgia which it only helped for a couple of weeks. This was back when I trusted doctors to know what they were doing and trying to help. At one time he raised my dose to 90mg but I soon went back down to 60mg.
2 years ago I started weighing beads and counting, What started with 365 beads is now down to the last bead today. I appreciate this group.
Started it…took 2 times and quit. Ive never had such violent stomach issues. Totally done with it!
Was on 30mg for about 5/6 months. Was given it for anxiety post surgery. Started my taper in Jan/Feb 2018 with a 2% drop and increased as I went along depending on how I felt. Never went over 7 %. Finished Feb 2020……
You ALL make Me cry. I’m FREE because of “ALL OF YOU”, because We have the very BEST facts and support that is key to success on this journey. Our ADMIN is always at our sides guiding and directing and if We all continue to follow these pages We will see others 1-2-3 years off this poisin still with issues and some with none.We are always welcome here to share our issues and for Me, It has been life saving. MAHALO !
Thank you for all the good, solid advice. I’ve completed my slow taper approximately 6 months ago and am living fully again. I was prescribed Cymbalta to help with migraines, which it did not do. I’m so appreciative of the guidance and encouragement received from the moderators.
After being on C for years, & after tapering for 19 months, in July of last year I took my last micro bead! I was on 60 mg, 1X a day for fibro. & yes, I’m still having residual side effects, which I hope will eventually subside. I’m no longer suicidal, my essential tremors are gone, my hair quit falling out & is growing back, my skin is better, I’m not as angry as I used to be, no more Dysphagia, excessive sweating, brain zaps, stuttering & the list goes on. At one time, I couldn’t even form a sentence! Also, like I said before, I’m still having some residual side effects though, mainly with my stomach. I will never take C or any other prescription drug, ever again! My blood pressure is back to normal, however I do still have RLS, and I’m having a hell of a time falling asleep at night. Cymbalta, gabapentin, cyclobenzaprine, tramadol, fentanyl & caffeine are now on my allergy list. I’ve been allergic to caffeine for most of my adult life, & as far as the prescription drugs, my pain management doctor put me on gabapentin knowing that it took me 19 months to taper off of cymbalta & within a week, I was going to run my car head-on into a semi! The last time I seen her in her office, I was hysterical! & when she asked me what was wrong, I told her it was the gabapentin doing it & she looked me right in the face & told me there was no way thats possible, even though my blood pressure spiked up to 180/101! She actually wanted to refer me to a psychiatrist! To make a long story short, I left there that day, went home & wrote a seven-page letter to her & a copy of it went in my medical records. I’m in pain everyday, but NO more prescription drugs for me! I’m strictly going the homeopathic route now
Wow what a story ! You make my life seem good ! But I Zm strictly prescription free down to 1 mg of C nearly finished abc my brain is so much better and more functional and my weight is starting to come down ! I am more awake !
I’m finally off of it! Finally, after almost two years! Amen! I now laugh, cry, get nervous, get sad, and get mad like a normal person. I haven’t cried watching a sad movie in years. Now I do. I have my life back. Thanks to this group. Thank you so much and keep up the taper no matter how long it takes
Started april 2017. 20 mg. On antidepressants for 15 yrs. Did 18month taper. Last pill was January 3,2020. Slow and steady is the best. Thanks to this group support! I’m free after all these years. Praise God!
Off and living once again. I feel reborn. My brain breathes once again.
Started January 2016. Max dose was 60mg… finally finish March 31st 2020 !
I don’t believe I’ve ever signed this board. I started Cymbalta in 2009. Started to become symptomatic in early 2014. Requested my doctor to take me off, she said “no” I need it for fibromyalgia. I found this wonderful group off of one of my other groups. I then started slow taper in 2014 I had my last bead 6/21/2016. Best decision ever made; no more brain zaps, weight loss etc. although I do have some other ongoing issues from using Cymbalta (60 mgs in morning and night) which I hope in time may dissipate; sleep issues and such. No matter what I am so grateful to be a Cymbalta Warrior. I will be more than happy to help, share and such with anyone who wants to know about this drug and/or needs help/support.
Last bead today 5/23/2020. Took over 2 years. I was on 60 mg twice a day. I feel so much better. It was hard. Now to start reducing Lyrica. I hate the way Drs just kept layering more and more without thinking they were making me worse. Tomorrow is my 63rd birthday. Happy Birthday to me.
120 mg or 1100 beads per day to done- 39 months of tapering. Long haul! You can do this. Don’t give up!
I’m done! 60mg to 0mg. Took me 1 year. So grateful to be free of this poison!
I’m off! Yay! First diagnosed for fibromyalgia & prescribed cymbalta, gabapentin, tramadol & amitryptaline in 2009. I decided to get off by halving my dosage in 2017 & got PAWS. I reinstated & started a tapered withdrawal, finishing 1 month ago. I’m having some sleep & pain issues but delighted to be off cymbalta, amitryptaline & tramadol.
Count me in! I took my last 1 bead capsule a few days ago. Took almost 16 months to taper 10% every two weeks, but it’s done now!
I was prescribed in 2005 – just after it came out. I never noticed it helped my chronic pain. I was resigned to taking it forever because the tapering seemed so daunting. But once I started, it wasn’t so hard.
Fortunately I never had many of the side effects so many of you have, but I wanted to stop a medication I didn’t think I needed.
I wish everyone success. It’s do-able.
I started Cymbalta in 2015 for fibromyalgia. Then by April of 2018 I reached my breaking point. Between the anxiety, depression, pain, and other overwhelming side-effects… I was nearly su!€!dal. Then by some miracle, I found this group. I started my taper on April 10, 2018 and my symptoms never got worse than they were at that point. As I tapered down, very slowly symptoms started disappearing or lessening. Now here I am on October 10, 2020, two and a half years later taking my very last bead! It took a long time, but I did it safely. Am I 100% mentally healthy? No. Definitely not. However, I am MUCH better than I was two and a half years ago. I still have a way to go, but I have no reason to believe that the Cymbalta ever helped me. If anything, my pain increased and I developed mental health issues I’d never had. I know my brain still has a lot of healing to do. However, the major side-effects have been gone for awhile. No more: night sweats, night terrors, hallucinations, brain fog, dizzy spells, fevers / burning cheeks, flu-ish feeling, mouth sores, severe lethargy, bizarre rashes, difficulty swallowing, odd smelling breath, twitching eye, massive muscle cramps… and probably more that I’m forgetting!! I’m still having issues with feeling sore all over, dry mouth, shaking hands, headaches, crying spells, and digestive distress. And I have to lose the 40 pounds I gained on this. UGH! I know my body and brain have to heal from this awful poison…I’m looking forward to a Cymbalta-free life. I just want to give everyone hope. If I did it, you can do it too!
I can’t thank this group enough for all of your support! I could never have done this without this group!!
I made it I started 20mg of Cymbalta in 2018. I started my taper September 2019 and I just finished my last bead on December 13. I am so looking ahead to be able to have some happy feelings and no anger. I could not have done this without this wonderful site. I thank you all that have helped me and are still helping me ?
Finally done after almost five years tapering. It has been hell. Cymbalta stole my life and ruined my health. I hope to get both back again. Love this group, it has been a Godsend.
Didn’t know there was a wall of success! I’m so excited that I’m almost 6 months FREE from Cymbalta after 11 years of side effects that ended up almost killing me. I’m feeling better than I have in a very long time and 23lbs. down! I’m so thankful to this group and will stick around to help others as much as I can!
I took Cymbalta for 6 years after developing HP and pre diabetes gaining 30 lbs and having chronic stomach issues I decided I wanted to get off this poison.I came across this group and read up on how to taper and in the beginning I was so upset cause it was going to take so long I just wanted it done but I am so glad I found this group and done it the right way 17 months later I am free and feeling good I just want everyone who is thinking of tapering or is tapering you can do it this whole wall is living proof and I am glad to say the weight has come off while tapering
Today is my one year Cymbalta Free anniversary.
I would never had made it through without this group.
Thank you for everything. You saved me and I am eternally grateful.
I was on C for only 18 weeks. 60 mg. I quit CT before i found this group. I quit 38 months ago. I am still in hell. I have gained 140lbs. My legs hurt so bad. I can kind of get marginal reliefe from tylenol. But 6 pills a day. The Dr stuck me on it for shooting nerve pain in my back and my left leg. I am very concerned about what the tylenol is doing to my kidneys. I feelni am loosing some weight. But not fast at all.
Hey everyone. I wanted to give you all some encouragement that there is hope. I struggled terribly on Cymbalta and tapering was tough too. I never thought life would be ‘normal’ again. It had a massive impact on a relationship of 7 years with my partner which ended. I have now been Cymbalta free for 14 months. I have lost 20 kg and mentally I am a lot more stable. I have met my new partner and it is going amazing. We just had our 1 year anniversary. I have also started studying full time, Diploma of Interior Design. No way could my brain of functioned to study whilst on cymbalta. It was hard enough just showering and cooking for the kids! Whilst it has taken a few years… life does get better. Keep going guys. There is light at the end of the tunnel. Sometimes I couldn’t see the light and felt like I was drowning which is why I’m posting to let anyone struggling know that there is hope xxx
Hi everyone! I finished my taper on December 15, 2020. I started Duloxetine in August 2019 and was on 7 days at 30 mg before my doctor bumped me to 60 mg. I took the higher dose for 6 days and then decided I wanted off. Went cold turkey for 8 days when the withdrawal effects hit me hard. I had the most frightening panic attack which was then followed by feelings of self harm, anxiety/inner agitation. I found this group and reinstated at 60mg after stabilizing for a couple of weeks. Back then the guidance was 10% drops every 10 days for people on the meds for a very short time. I did well on my taper except for when I drank. Drinking made everything worse and I posted on the site for members not to drink as it makes things worse (even if at first it seems to help). I tapered from 29-Sep-19 to 15-Dec-20 at the 10% rate. Towards the end of my taper I held for 14 days and when I got down to my last couple of beads 3-4 weeks. I didnt have any side effects except for the times I drank. During June 2020, I developed really dry eyes and eye pain. Initially I thought it was an eye infection and got treated for it. But the dryness and pain never subsided. I read from posts that this might be a side effect of tapering. My eye doc said that some people just have dry eyes. So I dealt with it and used tons of preservative free eye drops from June to Dec 2020 to help ease the discomfort. In Dec-20, when my taper was complete and I still had issues..I went to another eye specialist. Turns out I have scleritis. It is not Cymbalta related. But I was put on NSAIDS for 4 weeks in January 2021. Those did not help. I am currently on a high dose of prednisone which is working to decrease the inflammation. I’ve been on them for a little over 2 weeks. I say all this to say that I had a successful taper. Just found out I had an autoimmune disorder along the way. I haven’t had any psychological problems since the completion of my taper 2.5 months ago. I still take supplements..D3, Super B Complex, Calcium, Fish Oil, Magnesium Glycinate. Wish everyone the best!!
I did it! I was on C for 5 years, tapering for 3. I had a safe and healthy baby whilst on this poison also as I couldn’t just come off.
I started at 120mg, told to go to 60mg snd was so badly poorly I landed in hospital.
I’ve since tapered slowly and reduced my beads.
I am now 9 weeks free off this poison and done it all as guided but sadly my body is struggling and have nausea everyday all day, poor gut health, can’t sleep, low mood,severe anxiety, and shaking/tremble.
It’s been hell, and I’ve been so close to just taking some off that crap again!!
I’m still free and my symptoms are subsiding slowly, but my life has been flipped upside down.
I finished my taper Feb 24, 2021. I was prescribed this drug for arm pain that I still had after shoulder surgery. This drug worked until it didn’t. I never intended to be on a prescription drug so I decided after 1 year to get off it. I did taper too quick in the beginning but then leveled out and tapered slower. All in all it took about 18 months to taper down from 60mg which is quicker than recommended. I’m so happy to be free of this drug. There is light at the end of the tunnel so never stop!
Last bead taken a couple of hours ago – FREEDOM DAY at last! Thank you SO MUCH everyone ?
Thought I would share my story here!
I’m done!!!! Finished! Se acabó! Finito!
Done with Cymbalta!!
I started to wean
ears/4months ago from 60mg. I was put on this horrible drug for chronic pain. I developed Tinnitus soon after as we as restless legs syndrome. I became zombie like with no feelings or emotions. Irritable bowel on and off. Weaning was a challenge. But here
I am, it is so worth taking the time to follow the guidelines.
I will of course stay on to supper others. I am eternally grateful to have found this group. The moderators are amazing!
I feel free! I still have tinnitus. My bowels are slightly better. I’ve lost 30 pounds. My restless legs are slightly better. I’m seeing a sleep neuro who agrees the RLS are likely linked to Cymbalta and hopes it may go away all.
I tapered following the group’s guidelines 5% every two weeks. The couple times I tried a 10% drop I regretted it. Stick to 5% every 2 weeks!!
5% drop every two weeks for almost 2 years and I am DONE! I took my last bead last night. I would have been done with my taper sooner had the pandemic not started, I held for longer periods of time last spring. Almost 2 years to come off of 20mg that I was put on for pain and for being sad that I was living with chronic pain. It didn’t work. But it made me unable to cry, totally blunted emotions (and I am a person who cries very easily usually…both for happy and sad reasons). I had horrible GI issues. I gained weight. Insomnia. So I decided to come off and was told to taper every other day. I had the worst vertigo and vomiting. So I found this group and followed the guidelines. I’m SO looking forward to a Cymbalta free life! I was angry and resentful at first that I had to count those little beads. It was overwhelming, but it got easier and just became part of my routine. I had minimal withdrawal symptoms. Slow and steady is the way to go!! If I can do it, you can too! Thank you Toni Samanie for starting this group…we are your legacy.
I got on cymbalta in December of 2017. I accidentally missed a dose 2 days in a row and hell ensued. I realized then what a powerful drug this was and how hard it would be to get off it. I decided to start my taper once I stabilized. I started my taper in April of 2018 and finished in September of 2021. It was a long journey with many ups and downs but SO worth it! While on C, I was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and POTS. My symptoms for both have decreased as time has gone on and I’m hopeful a few more years of focusing on my health will result in even more health gains. Thank you Toni. We couldn’t have done this without you.
I was put on Cymbalta for pain and anxiety. 30 mgs. Was on for about 6 months. I was sleeping all the time, sweating, gained weight, developed high Blood pressure, high A1c. I could barley move. I told my Dr I wanted to stop taking it and she said no problem you are on a low dose. Day 4 the withdrawals hit me. I was so sick. I found this group on Facebook and reinstated. Stabilized and began counting beads. I feel great, have been able to cut one BP med dose in half. I’m walking and doing yoga and swimming. I will never ever ever take another antidepressant. Thank you Toni for staring this group.
I’m done with Cymbalta. Started taking it in December 2009. 60mg daily for nearly 10 years. So many health issues started in those 10 years. I lost my thyroid had a total thyroidectomy in Sept 2016. All went downhill. I found this group and started slow tapering in April 2018. Today on 13 November 2021 I finally took my last bead. I started tapering from 585 beads. It was a roller-coaster ride. But I finally made it. My advise is take it slow don’t rush it. Slow and steady and you will finish the race and heal. Hang in there. You’ve got this. Now looking forward loosing 25kg.
I joined this group in Aug. of 2015, and today, (4/11/22), is my first day off this poison. For the first time in like 20 years, I’m not on an antidepressant. My journey was long, yes, but there were circumstances that complicated it.
My story:
Around 20 years ago, I bought into the gimmick of the “chemical imbalance” narrative, that was pushed by many medical professionals. My main complaint was being socially awkward, which I now realize has more to do with my being an introvert. I, of course, had other insecurities, and much growing up to do, but nothing to constitute being medicated. Through the years, unfortunately, I had allowed doctors to bridge me from Z0l0ft, to PrOzac, to Pax1l, Lexipr0, the list goes on, NONE of which miraculously cause me to be comfortable in social situations, and only worsened (caused) my depression, which became a never ending cycle (being bridged worsened my symptoms). Through the years, as many of you know, the brain fog, depression, weight gain, brain zaps, fatigue, had set in, and by then doctors had added N0rcos, and Ad*erall to the mix for other issues. Shortly after being switched to Cymb^lta, things spiraled downward even worse, and I began having strange symptoms (muscle spasms, twitches, ect.), which I now believe to be a protracted form of Serotonin Syndrome, caused by the cocktail of prescribed medications. When the medical profession failed me, left me with more questions than answers, AND had attempted to add even another poison, Wel1butr0n, fortunately, I found this site. I struggled with coming off of the Ad*erall and N0rcos, and finally, having quit them rather abruptly, left me in PAWS for the next couple years. Still, I tapered when I could, but had to pause my taper, and hold for extended periods of time, due to severe lows, which unfortunately included SI. It was all I could do to force myself to shower. As the PAWS finally began to let up, I continued a more steady taper. It has taken me this long, but as PAWS is a hell on Earth that I never wish to revisit, I’ve tapered SLOWLY to avoid it, at all cost. Having taken this long, I feel confident of no surprises here at the end. I have taken it slowly, and know what to expect with each drop. For anyone wondering if there is hope after this poison, there IS. It’s NOT about rushing off of this, but rather allowing your brain and body to heal as you slowly taper. As I’ve tapered slowly, over the last nearly 7 years, I have been able to lose weight (down like 70 pounds from when I started tapering). I can FEEL! I can (and often do) cry, tears of JOY as well as any sadness. I get chills listening to music. I am happier than I ever was on any of those poisons. I have much more energy. My memory has vastly improved. I don’t take one bit of it for granted. I am SO grateful! I am NOT the same person those toxins had turned me into, and I’m SO thankful. To anyone reading this, looking for hope, keep pushing forward. Pause when you have to. Listen to your brain and body, and know that it is SO worth it. There IS light at the end of this hellish tunnel. I promise.
I’m happy and proud to say it’s been 6 months since my last bead! I’ll stick around in case I can support anyone! Don’t give up the fight! It’s so worth it! And to the Admins and moderators, thank you for your love and support! I couldn’t have done it without you!
The day is finally here. The last day of my taper !!!! I was put on this drug 4 years ago for “old lady bladder” after my pcp heard that it works for that. After less than 2 years I was forgetful , stumbling , sweating , hot flashes ( I’m way past menopause) , decreased libido , emotionless, 40 lb weight gain to name just a few. So began my taper journey after finding this group on June 1 2020. Started with 342 beads. I went slow -5% every two weeks and only had to stop once due to the sweating starting back when I was around 100 beads.
Forward to today – I am done. I am beginning to feel emotions , still a bit of brain foginess but nothing like it was , I’ve dropped 10 pounds so far. No more stumbling or sweating.
I want to thank everyone , the members and admins that helped me along the way and kept me safe during this taper. I was blessed to have found this group. Think I will stick around a while just to be able to encourage others on this journey. Know that ther is life after cymbalta. Much love to everyone Char
Today was my last bead! Started April 2017 slow at 5% then till today 10/15/2022 my last bead. Can’t tell exactly when I changed from 5 beads removed each capsule every 2 week, then 4 beads removed each capsule every 2 week, then 3 beads each capsule removed every 2 week, then when I got to 50 beads a capsule dropped by 2 beads removed each capsule every 2 weeks till 22 beads a capsule then 1 bead a capsule removed every 2 weeks till the finish line Long and sliw but I won the race with no side effects
Today is the Day with a big freaking capital D!
I not only turn 30 but I also officially take the very last pill ever after tapering for 4 1/2 years (17th May 2018)!
Until you do it yourself, you can’t possibly imagine how it feels right now after crossing the line.. It’s been a bumpy, exhaustingly road but somehow I did it and I’m so happy I had the patience to do it the right way!
There’s not enough words for thanking all of you in this group for your unconditional support, advice and encouragement; You saved my life!
I am finally Cym Free! I started tapering March 2017, and because of many bumps in the road I have had a very slow journey, but I am happy to say I have been off six weeks with minimal problems and each day just gets better and more normal. I am so very thankful for finding this group and learning the correct way of weaning my brain and body.
You too can be a success story since you also have the direction and support of these fabulous mentors and peers who will be here to walk you through to the last bead.
I thank God for Toni Samani and all of the wonderful mentors who give of their time and their very self.
God bless you all! Love and prayers.
I took Cymbalta for 13 years and when I asked the doctor to take me off they doubled the dosage to maximum allowed. That then made me have S.I. thus ended up in the hospital. Changed doctors and was tapered. Then completely removed and told I was tapered completely at 30 MG. Months of withdrawals later doctor put me back on it to stop said withdrawals which then made S.I. so bad I ended up hospitalized again. Thus pulled off cold turkey again. I found help through holistic doctors using a controversial substance. This controversial substance immediately stopped all withdrawals, seizures, brain zaps, and S.I. This particular controversial substance is a natural plant that is unfortunately illegal in most states. This really bothered me that a natural plant stopped and reversed the damage Cymbalta caused. I haven’t taken Cymbalta since January 2023 and took the controversial substance in February end result now no medications at all not even the controversial substance. Meditation has helped me heal completely. On April 21, 2023 after 13 years of being in a wheelchair I walked for the first time thanks to meditation healing me from CRPS, degenerative disc disease, and several other problems…including bone regrowth in spine where they had to remove a spinal cord stimulator that almost paralyzed me. I woke up Aprill 22, 2023 and have walked unassisted since that date thanks to meditation. I wish everyone successful healing journeys. You can do it!!!
Wow, Peggy Jones! For anyone wondering, we can’t talk about certain substances in the main part of this group because they’re illegal somewhere (we have membership worldwide) and/or some people have had severe reactions to them. However, you may discuss them in the comments on this file:
https://m.facebook.com/groups/Cymbaltahurtsworse/permalink/750669331755484/
Finally done with this poison last bead taken 07/03/2024…..started this journey sept 2017 120mg it’s not been easy just listen to your body & listen to the advice from the moderators of this group because they are amazing…thank you so much for the information , I really appreciate it…
I was prescribed in 2021 lowest dose for severe back pain and stressful life event. Was on it for one month, and got worried when I saw the black box warning regarding liver damage. My prescribing doctor never had my enzymes checked, and didn’t think it was a big deal. I had them check and they were elevated. I quit cold turkey and what a NIGHTMARE that followed. I had outbursts that I can only describe as tourette syndrome type, I could NOT th I nk, follow a recipe, talk, anything requiring congnition. I had from family and friends and the public for a month and thank God my brain and body began to heal. I found a solution to my back pain by zoom appointments with Dr Mitchell Yass in Jacksonville, FL he was a God send, and even the spine medical model is F L A W E D! People suffering for decades on prescribed drugs and failed surgeries. Dr Yass understands the human body and I became PAIN FREE in 6 weeks, and my problem is solved forever. It’s muscular–not nerves and herniated disc’s, the mri should not be used to diagnosis. Solve the real problem, don’t mask it with drugs. Thank you for this group, I wish I had known about slow taoer, but the prescribing Dr told me that low dose would not affect mem HE WAS SO IGNORANT AND WRONG! I am astounded what medicine is fling to people. I’m glad to be off this drug, dealing with my stress by going thru my stress and not around it, and being pain free. & I survived a horrific hell of withdrawal
I am so grateful to this group because I am now C free! I followed the guidelines and had a successful and
uneventful taper (thank god). I can’t thank the moderators enough for the work they put in to keep us safe. Do the taper correctly and listen to the moderators. Its the only safe way to get this done. Love and safe tapering to you all!
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