Stopped taking citalopram abruptly

Hi. I ran out of citalopram about a week ago.. I was fine for the first few days. Then on Sunday I started with runs and tummy ache.. on Monday I felt very fuzzy and week, flu like symptoms. I know it's not advisable to stop taking citalopram abruptly. What I would like help with is because I have gone over a week shall I just ride the side effects now

Thanks

[blackcat64013]

Hi Bambam31,

If you can see off the worst of the withdrawal symptoms going cold turkey, you are one tough monkey.

You should not consider stopping medication in the long term without consulting your doctor.

If you cannot see you doctor for a repeat prescription, your regular pharmacist can probably give you some tablets to tide you over until the next visit or arrange for your doctor to send through a repeat prescription.

There is a small chance that going back on the same medication won't work. Hopefully, this will not be the case.

Ask your pharmacist if they have message reminder system that you can join.

There are mobile phone apps to stay safe with your meds. Some also keep track of blood pressure, glucose and other measurements. You can easily share results with doctors to track better outcomes, faster.

Some are free and others are available for purchase. Check them out and find one that works for you.

[MAS_Nurse]

Hi Bambam31, I would just like to add my support the very sound advice given to you by 'blackcat' and 'findingdory'. I understand running out of medications or forgetting to take dose happens sometimes, but it is very important that you get in touch with your GP ASAP if you haven't done so already, because they are your primary caregivers and prescribers, and need to review your situation. These withdrawal effects with antidepressants and other types of medications such as opiod painkillers, are very unpleasant, and can exacerbate your MH symptoms, and should be monitored carefully, which is why it is advised not to stop them suddenly. The advice using some form of reminder to get a repeat prescription, using timers on your phone, etc are helpful. By flagging up with your GP and Pharmacist that you tend to forget, they may put in place a strategy to help. Keep in touch. Best Wishes

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Thank you so much for your support. I have spoken to a pharmacist this morning. Thank you once again