tapering of SSRIs and tips to reduce SSRI discontinuation syndrome

[psytaco]

Sorry if this is in the wrong forum, usuallu just live in AUS drug discussion, so feel free to move mods.

I have been taking zoloft 50mg daily since around August. Over the last few months I believe my depression and anxiety has gone, I have found no need to go to a psychologist anymore, and rarely feel depressed, and my anxiety is very low. I would say I am completely better. I now have a beautiful and supportive girlfriend, have moved away from a very stressful living environment, and am alot more financially secure. Also, I am going to travel around south america for half a year so want to be off them by then.

I want to give up because I feel that it stops me from experiencing a normal range of emotions (both strong happiness and saddness). Also it has killed my sex drive and makes orgasm very hard to reach.

I spoke to a doctor whom I don't normally see (family doctor in my hometown) and she recommended halving my dose to 25mg for a month and then stopping.

I am going to err on the side of caution and try and take about 35mg for 2 weeks then drop to 25mg for a month. From there go down to 12mg for 2 weeks or so and then stop altogether.

My questions are: is this a sensible taper? Is it to fast?
Most doctors have said that zoloft at 50mg is unlikely to cause SSRI discontiunation. Has anyone experienced of this dose? I am a big guy (95kg but in good shape -lift weights alot).
For those cutting back on zoloft what type of symptoms did you have? How long did the symptoms last?
Also, how common are the brain zaps from zoloft at this dose?
Are there any good supplements people would recommend? I take fish oil at the moment, and protein powder for bodybuilding.

I plan to keep eating well, exercising daily, and keeping stress to a minimum. I will also be abstaining from drugs and drinking very little during this time.

thanks for reading all this guys. feel free to share your SSRI discontinuation stories too.

 

[n3ophy7e]

Hi psytaco, I think that your plan sounds absolutely fine. I havne't been on Zoloft so I can't comment on that personally but if some doctors have said that 50mg isn't likely to have any risk of discontinuation syndrome, and if another doctor said that you can just cut down to 25mg for a month then quit altogether, then your taper schedule sounds pretty safe. Are you able to talk to your regular doctor about this before you start the taper? Just for your peace of mind?