Hacking Escitalopram posology

Post Reply New Topic

Hi,

Anyone here tried reducing Escitalopram dependence by, for instance, not taking it during the weekend?

Is it possible for the brain to "learn" the benefits of it during these interruptions?

I have used this approach with Omeprazole: instead of everyday, I started taking it 3 days a week, then 2, then 1 and then I dropped it completely (this process probably took more than 1 year). I took Omeprazole for several years (maybe 10 years). It's now been several years without Omeprazole.

So is it possible to do the same with a completely different drug like Escitalopram? I've taken it for several years also (5 or so).

I'm specifically interested in posology hacking, meaning that I know the usual "you should take it like the doctor prescribes", etc.

Anyone knows it in depth? Is this a reasonable thing to try? I've been trying this already, since I'm concerned with the effects of taking this drug for long periods of time (years).

Thanks.

Well a DOCTOR would know, not random strangers on the internet. There is usually a set of generic medicin that you can alternate with to avoid getting addicted. Talk to your doctor.

I learned a new word today (posology).

I'd sure discuss it with your doctor. Also, I'm not familiar with this drug.

If I am weaning off a medication, I just gradually drop the daily dose, by breaking the pill in half and asking the doctor for smaller and smaller dose size pills. Some medications cannot be cracked or are difficult to crack like omeprazole (at least the brand name is). I usually spread it out over a period of weeks, like 5 days or so for each drop in dose.

Hi,

Escitalopram has a half life of about 30 hours, which is why it is usually prescribed once daily. If you take it less frequently you will just end up with rather pronounced peaks and troughs in your system, which will probably only serve to exacerbate any side effects or withdrawal symptoms. The advise by Noca to gradually wean your daily dose would be the best way to try and come off the drug. That way you will have a more gradual and smoother reduction of the drug in you system over time.
Omeprazole, unlike Escitalopram, does not penetrate the central nervous system. Therefore, taking it intermittently will not have any noticeable effect if you are no longer experiencing the symptoms you were prescribed it for.

I hope that this is of some help.

My doc recently had me taper off the ulcer dose of omeprazole down to my normal GERD-preventive dose of it. She said otherwise you get a rebound effect. I never realized that before.

I'd always ask my doc about how to discontinue or reduce a drug.

It's great to know I have a doctor who respects me and whom I trust!