I believe that these brain zaps are called lhermitte's
lhermitte's
a shocking sensation that can radiates down the back and in the head)
Brain zaps, also known as "brain shocks," "brain shivers" or "head shocks" are a fairly common withdrawal symptom experienced during discontinuation (or reduction of dose) of SSRI and SNRI antidepressant drugs
The phenomenon is most commonly associated with Paxil, Prozac, Effexor, Zoloft, Cymbalta, Luvox, Celexa, Lexapro and Ultram.
Benzo tolerance withdrawal(body is used to certain amount of benzo and needs more to function..just like tolerance to pain killers) and benzo interdose withdrawl(you can withdraw from xanax 3-4 hours after you take it because the drug is eliminated, leading to rebound anxiety/zaps withdrawal symptoms) for drugs with short half lives(ativan,xanax) can cause brain zaps which can be severe and last a while even after you've been off the drug for months. I believe its due to your brain learning to function again without the synthetic gaba(benzo,alcohol) which causes an increase in electrical activity in your brain. I know that coming off benzo drugs or alcohol cold turkey or too quickly after long term use can lead to seizures, so i would not be suprised if these brain zaps were in the seizure family.
Brain zaps are also common coming off of antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and certain pain meds like ultram(due to it increasing seratonin) but they don't usually last nearly as long as long term tranquilizer use. They can rarely happen goin on to and staying on antidepessants.
As long as the zaps are caused by tranquilizers/benzos, the only way to alleviate them is by raising your dosage(tranquilizers/benzo) or using your last known working dosage where you were stable(tranquilizers/benzo) and hoping you don't get tolerance withdrawal in time. If you ever want to wean off tranquilizers... you have to do it over a period of months to potentially even years depending on your dosage/time on to prevent hardcore withdrawal symptoms. Some people can cold turkey it and be ok.. but many people take months - years to recover this way.
For coming off antidepressants, usualy the worst is over in 2-4 weeks but there can be residual effects a few months later on.
Other central nervous illnesses(such as MS, lyme disease, syphillis, certain viruses, metal poisoning, etc) can cause brain zaps so if you havent been exposed to any of the meds/drugs, it would be advisable to be tested for the above.
In the meantime, to alleviate symptoms temporarily, sitting still or lying down without turning your head fast seems to work. I am not sure of any herbs/suppliments that will work consistently.
Vin
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Klonopin brain zaps
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HealingWell.com Forum > Diseases & Conditions > Anxiety - Panic Disorders > Klonopin brain zaps
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Garner
New Member
Date Joined Oct 2006
Total Posts : 7
Posted 12/19/2006 8:40 PM (GMT -6)
Anyone else get these the next day after taking a klonopin pil. I was taking a small dose of 0.25mg at bedtime now ive been taking 0.25mg during the day and a full 0.5mg tablet at night and now im getting zaps.
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bizybee
New Member
Date Joined Dec 2006
Total Posts : 16
Posted 12/19/2006 9:55 PM (GMT -6)
See my previous post (Anxiety Help...New Here"
I have been taking Paxil and get brain zaps at night and during the day. The only think I keep telling myself is "I'll be ok, it';s just the meds". However if they get worse talk to your Dr. which I am going to do, been on this med for 5 years now.
I know is sucks, horribly feeling!
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harry4
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Date Joined Mar 2005
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Posted 12/21/2006 12:13 AM (GMT -6)
brain zaps or electric shock feelings can happen to anxiety sufferers when not on any meds, also are associated with quitting a med such as an antidepressant
ublikely to be from klonapin but try another benzo perhaps
not a good idea to take any benzo before bed unless you cant sleep
re zaps from paxil, a swap to any other paxil type med could be discussed with doc, especially as paxil is often hard to eventually quit, see paxil discontinuation syndrome on the netrecovered former longtime anxiety and panic attack sufferer and helper of other sufferers but no training or qualifications in medicine or psychology, any remarks that may be taken as advice must be confirmed with doctor or other health professional
emails are welcome but do mention healingwell to avoid risk of deletion as spam
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rdmoklahoma
New Member
Date Joined Dec 2006
Total Posts : 10
Posted 12/21/2006 9:06 PM (GMT -6)
I have been having the brain zaps for about 2 yrs, without being on any meds. I just got a script for Lexapro, I am hoping it is going to help me deal with all my symptoms
Rhonda
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hypopaniac
Regular Member
Date Joined Dec 2006
Total Posts : 40
Posted 12/21/2006 9:14 PM (GMT -6)
I am taking Klonopin now and have not gotten the zaps. I did get the zaps when I was coming of Zoloft though.
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bizybee
New Member
Date Joined Dec 2006
Total Posts : 16
Posted 12/21/2006 9:17 PM (GMT -6)
HARRY....I am interested to know how you know that brain zaps can happen when not on meds by an anxiety sufferer? Not that I doubt you by any means, but I had the same thought and wanted to research it a bit.
Thank you in advance!!!!
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hopeful82
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Date Joined Jul 2005
Total Posts : 2433
Posted 12/22/2006 9:57 AM (GMT -6)
I never had zaps while on klonopin, and i would take anywhere from .25 to 1.0 mg at a time.
Ali
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"The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity. The optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty."
hopeful82@healingwell.net
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kathleen21
New Member
Date Joined Oct 2006
Total Posts : 4
Posted 1/2/2007 11:28 AM (GMT -6)
I have these zaps!! They are awful and I am starting meds to get rid of them; nothing has worked so far, as I am a zombie on Topamax and it makes me so DUMB! I can't rememer the easiest thing in the world. I am trying yoga and a detox diet to see if it will ease my anxiety. I
have posted on here before, but they scare me so bad, I had an MRI and an EEG done to rule out anything serious. Alothough the EEG came back abnormal, my neurologist said it was a type of migraine and we should try out some different meds. I think I brought them on by being so anxious all the time...just my .02! Hope this helps...I am looking to speak to someone who gets these zaps, without the med withdrawl being an option, please post! Thanks!
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shell67
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Date Joined Nov 2005
Total Posts : 1263
Posted 1/2/2007 12:18 PM (GMT -6)
Ive never had these zaps and ive been on klonopin for years, it sounds horrible though, im sorry you guys all have to deal with that.....
shell" Dwell not on the past. Use it to illustrate a point, then leave it behind. Nothing really matters except what you do now, in this instant of time. From this moment onward you can be an entirely different person, filled with love and understanding, ready with an outstretched hand, uplifted and positive in every thought and deed."
Eileen Caddy
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dawn30
New Member
Date Joined Feb 2007
Total Posts : 3
Posted 2/5/2007 4:40 PM (GMT -6)
I have been getting these zaps for about a year and for the last 2 weeks they have been very severe. It happens all day long everyday. At night for the last 3 nights, they seem to go all the way threw my body, but only while I am laying down. Does anyone get them when it goes all of the way threw your body at times?
I do not take clonopin, I take Ativan, which is in the same family.
I have been to several doctors and have had every test known to man and they all seem to come back normal. I have not tried to stop taking the Ativan, so I know that it is not withdraw, like some people have the zaps when withdrawing from paxil and other meds like that.
When I go to the dr. for it, they all think that I have migrains.
I have heard that taking Omega 3 helps the zaps, but I have not tired it yet. Has anyone had any relief in ANY WAY?
Thanks!
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Dee75
Regular Member
Date Joined Jul 2005
Total Posts : 178
Posted 2/5/2007 10:51 PM (GMT -6)
Please explain brain zaps. Thanks,Dee
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dawn30
New Member
Date Joined Feb 2007
Total Posts : 3
Posted 2/6/2007 4:44 PM (GMT -6)
Brain zaps are really hard to explain, it feels like a quick zap of electricity is going threw your brain. I have also heard people say that is is just like if you were driving 50 miles per hour and someone jumped infront of your car, that sudden feeling of shock that you get.. well that is just about what these brain zaps feel like. It is very hard to explain.
it is just a very quick jolt like feeling.
I get them all day long and they come out of no where.
My grandmother just told me that she was feeling the same thing, she calls them brain flashes.
She is also on Ativan.
I have come to the conclusion that all of this in in our heads and we need to find a way to he hypnotized to forget about the anxiety. We would need to be hypnotized, and then have no medication laying around, no one asking us about anxiety to remind us and maybe we could just forget that we have it.
i know that all of this is in my head. I can fell completely normal for a couple of hours and then remember that i have anxiety and all of the sudden, the symptoms return for no reason. I could be just watching TV with no worries and fell like crap as soon as I think of it.
I need to look into the hypnosis thing and see if it would actually work. I have not known anyone to be hypnotized for any thing.
Anyone think that this would work?
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Chris9
New Member
Date Joined Apr 2007
Total Posts : 6
Posted 4/6/2007 6:35 PM (GMT -6)
Dawn has explained them pretty well.
Has anyone recieved any treatment for these brain/body zaps that works? Please advise. I have these on a daily basis and they are debilitating. I have a good job both in pay and opportunity and have been off of work for 4 weeks because of the headaches they cause. I am extremely upset and discouraged by them and they have caused severe depression. I am 100% certain that these headaches/brain zaps started before I became very depressed. I was given resperidal as an antipsychotic which has not helped in any way. Headaches arise after multiple zaps. I have a lack of energy and sometimes feel nauseated because of them. They occure daily. I was on no medication before these zaps started occuring. They werre actually going on for 7 months before I went into the ER because of them. The reason I waited so long is that I thought they would go away. I have had a CAT scan and the doctor detected nothing in the images. I also read that omega 3 helps. PLEASE ADVISE IF YOU HAVE HAD ANY POSITIVE RESULTS FROM ANY REMEDY!!PLEASE!
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Silent H
New Member
Date Joined Apr 2007
Total Posts : 1
Posted 4/16/2007 9:19 PM (GMT -6)
i've been having brain zaps off an on for a couple of years and i just started taking omega 3 pills and they work to curb them pretty significantly. you can get pharm grade omega 3 which are pretty expensive, but i'm told they work the best, i'm on the regular store brand, though when i can afford the pharm grade i will do that.
there is also a website YOU MUST go to which is labelmesane.com which is about safely getting off antidepressants and in the process directly addresses the brain zap problem.
if you do these things, i really think your zaps will at least calm considerably if not go away completely.
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debaser
Veteran Member
Date Joined Nov 2006
Total Posts : 1518
Posted 4/16/2007 10:39 PM (GMT -6)
Something used to occur to me that I'm not sure was a "brain zap" or not. It sounded like a "zap". It was just a very loud, low pitched sound that lasted maybe a quarter of a second. They wouldn't happen often, but they almost always happened as I was laying in bed waiting to get to sleep. In spite of having health anxiety, I never thought much about them.
I don't remember having one since I started Klonopin, but that doesn't mean anything since I started only five weeks ago. I may have one tonight for all I know...or I may never have one again. Who knows...
But I am curious: does that sound like a "brain zap"?
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freezinginAK
Veteran Member
Date Joined Nov 2006
Total Posts : 1049
Posted 4/18/2007 12:45 AM (GMT -6)
Yes miny ppl with anxiety and other things like MS have these brain zaps, kind of feels like a shock or buzzing feeling that can run down into your body as well, and some have said that a P/A will follow from it but I have not had one with this brain zapping myself and I do eat a lot of fish with omega 3 in it but has not helped out with this but you never know till you try it for yourself and others have said that it can help with your anxiety as well.
Cowboy up
Forum Moderator Anixety/Panic
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harry4
Veteran Member
Date Joined Mar 2005
Total Posts : 1449
Posted 4/18/2007 5:09 AM (GMT -6)
the zaps are like an electric shock to the head, Ive had them, I dont think they are caused by meds, but I dont know what they are
they do no harm so best to ignore them
recovered former longtime anxiety and panic attack sufferer and helper of other sufferers but no training or qualifications in medicine or psychology, any remarks that may be taken as advice must be confirmed with doctor or other health professional
emails are welcome but do mention healingwell to avoid risk of deletion as spam
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Cordy
New Member
Date Joined May 2007
Total Posts : 2
Posted 5/23/2007 9:54 PM (GMT -6)
I've been coming off Clonazepam for the last 2 weeks and the brain zaps are killing me> I've read on several sites that taking Benadryl, Omega 3 or Nyquil helps. The only information I can't find out is how much of any or all of these to take. Please any suggestions before I go utterly crazy
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ryleigh
Regular Member
Date Joined Dec 2005
Total Posts : 251
Posted 5/23/2007 10:15 PM (GMT -6)
Hello All, My doctor told me that the brain zaps are caused by meds.. My friend was on zoloft for 5 years and went off because of the brain zaps.. I am on .25 of xanax once a day which is nothing and I just started getting them.. THey are so weird.. They are scary feels like I got struck my lightning.. I thing omg I have a brain tumor.. But then I think no it is just the meds.. Just thought I would put in my 2 cents.. Take Care....
Ryleigh
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Cordy
New Member
Date Joined May 2007
Total Posts : 2
Posted 5/29/2007 2:35 PM (GMT -6)
The brain zaps have been getting worse this last week. PLease if anyone has info on dosages for Benadryl or Omegas 3 i would really appreciate it
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harry4
Veteran Member
Date Joined Mar 2005
Total Posts : 1449
Posted 5/29/2007 2:42 PM (GMT -6)
Ive had them, like an electric shock in the brain, I think they are from anxiety rather than from meds
many report them they seem to be from anxiety and stress
recovered former longtime anxiety and panic attack sufferer and helper of other sufferers but no training or qualifications in medicine or psychology, any remarks that may be taken as advice must be confirmed with doctor or other health professional
emails are welcome but do mention healingwell to avoid risk of deletion as spam
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stkitt
Forum Moderator
Date Joined Apr 2007
Total Posts : 20712
Posted 5/29/2007 4:54 PM (GMT -6)
Hello Everyone,
Welcome Garner!
Great discussion. As usual this is one of those topics that has conflict re what is and what isn't the cause of these "brain zaps"
I have heard them described as shocks, fullness in head, shock down arms and tingling in fingers, just about anything related to the head.
The brain zaps are not a common symptom of anxiety, but its unclear what that really refers too. Worry and focusing on symptoms creates all sorts of odd sensations that are usually meaningless in terms of a medical diagnosis.
Many people have had CT scans and EEGs, plus a multitude of tests without finding a cause.
People on meds, however, experience brain zaps from a fair amount of the antidepressants and yes Klonopin can but rarely is associated with brain zaps.
I hope that the people suffering from these zaps may soon find relief.
Remember your physician is your professional on any of these conditions so please do not substitue the information here for a visit to your physician. yeah
Respectfully
Kitt
Moderator Anxiety ~ Panic Disorders
Dx: Anxiety/Panic, Depression
______________________________________________________
"If you doubt you can accomplish something, then you can’t accomplish it. You have to have confidence in your ability, and then be tough enough to follow through.”
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stkitt
Forum Moderator
Date Joined Apr 2007
Total Posts : 20712
Posted 5/30/2007 3:37 PM (GMT -6)
bumpRespectfully
Kitt
Moderator Anxiety ~ Panic Disorders
Dx: Anxiety/Panic, Depression
______________________________________________________
"If you doubt you can accomplish something, then you can’t accomplish it. You have to have confidence in your ability, and then be tough enough to follow through.”
~Rosalyn Carter
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sandeshells
New Member
Date Joined Nov 2007
Total Posts : 1
Posted 11/18/2007 6:31 PM (GMT -6)
I think I have had zaps, they felt like about a hundred rubber bands breaking in my head. It was the weirdest feeling I ever had. I felt they encircled my head and were popping one by one really fast. I take lots of med's but none of which any of you described. I am sorry you all have them but was relieved to hear that someone besides myself did. I only had them twice.. once lasted about a hour and was constant. the other time just a few pops. Listening to you all, i think I have a light case of them but now wish I could get off all meds.
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freezinginAK
Veteran Member
Date Joined Nov 2006
Total Posts : 1049
Posted 11/18/2007 9:48 PM (GMT -6)
I believe that these brain zaps are called lhermitte's ( a shocking sensation that can radiates down the back and in the head)
Cowboy up
Forum Moderator A/P
Happiness is sitting around a warm campfire with no worries or cares as day turns to night.
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Klonopin brain zaps
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HealingWell.com Forum > Diseases & Conditions > Anxiety - Panic Disorders > Klonopin brain zaps
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56 posts in this thread.
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singinmom
Regular Member
Date Joined Feb 2003
Total Posts : 39
Posted 11/20/2007 9:56 PM (GMT -6)
I am THRILLED to hear I am not the only one who gets brain zaps! I take Celexa and get them, but, I have to admit, I was having them even worse without medication.
Singinmom
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Allmixedup
Regular Member
Date Joined Oct 2007
Total Posts : 27
Posted 11/20/2007 11:07 PM (GMT -6)
I had these sometimes. I think it may have been from the Wellbutrin SR. I have taken Klonopin for a couple years now and haven't had them from it. But yes is can be pretty scary. It would sometimes trigger a panic attack for me. I would think I was going to die or something and my mind would just start racing, all negative unrealistic thoughts though. Thanks to therapy and CBT I have been able to cope well and live a somewhat better life. Good topic!! ThanksMod-severe depression, anxiety, panic attacks.
Meds currently on, Wellbutrin, Zoloft, Klonopin, Zyprexa
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dandoon
New Member
Date Joined Dec 2007
Total Posts : 2
Posted 12/20/2007 3:52 PM (GMT -6)
Hi there, for the first time in my life, I, too, have begun experiencing the "brain zap" phenomenon. They started around a year ago, when I was not on any SSRI, nor had I been in months (though I had been on SSRIs before in my life, including Celexa and Effexor). Since the brain zaps began, I have started taking minimal doses of Klonopin, thinking that all it is is "anxiety," but now I wonder whether the Klonopin is actually contributing to their exacerbation, since the brain zaps have been occuring more frequently and intensely lately. I'm so glad I found this forum, b/c the phenomenon is so strange and disconcerting and extremely difficult to describe to any healthcare professional. I've seen neurologists left and right and undergone a battery of tests, all of which have come back negative (no brain tumor, seizure disorder, MS). My neurologist ended up prescribing a motion sickness patch, which has not done anything. The onslaught of these sensations is totally random for me, and the experience is so intense that sometimes I feel my whole body shaking or that I am about to lose consciousness completely, and they are often followed by ear popping. I often simply experience really intense "pressure" (not pain) in my head, and sometimes it's followed by one of these brain zaps. The brain zaps travel from the head throughout my whole body, but sometimes they are just confined to my head. The brain zaps are seriously depleting my quality of life and contributing to creating intense anxiety for me. Is there anyone w/any advice on dealing w/these things, whether via medication or any alternative strategy? Also, could this be a symptom of another disease that is not easily diagnosed/detected, whether neurological or otherwise?
Thanks for your help and advice!
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dandoon
New Member
Date Joined Dec 2007
Total Posts : 2
Posted 12/20/2007 3:55 PM (GMT -6)
And yes, they are so scary that almost everytime they happen I get a mini panic attack, and feel I'm dying of a stroke/anneurysm, etc. (which then makes me take klonopin)...ugh, is there no solution?? How does one cope w/these things?
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serafena
Forum Moderator
Date Joined May 2007
Total Posts : 3715
Posted 12/20/2007 4:20 PM (GMT -6)
Ooooh boy,
I've been fighting my zaps for months now. I started having intense vertigo and then zaps on Effexor. We've had to s-lo-w-ly wean me off the Effexor to get rid of them, and they're not gone yet. I've not been taking Effexor for 2 weeks and I'm still having them.
serafenaSerafena
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Bipolar II
It is a melancholy of mine own, compounded of many simples, extracted from many objects, and indeed the sundry contemplation of my travels, in which my often rumination wraps me in a most humorous sadness. -- William Shakespeare
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greenway
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Date Joined Jan 2008
Total Posts : 10
Posted 2/26/2008 8:15 PM (GMT -6)
Greenway here, got new doc. not happy litterally told me last doc prescribed zoloft way to often and was a big proponent. New guy does not like to prescribe, does not like medication. Gave me Remeron and clonazaepam. Biggest complaint, Brain Zaps! I cant take any more, nearly debilitating. Olus one of the side effects of Remeron are the flu and flu like symptoms, fever shivering hot/cold flashes. Guess what I got it. Running a 102 for two days now. Doc. justy told me it is one of things that go along ith the meds. As far as the brain zaps he tells me it is two hard to nail down as to where they are coming from...anxiety, meds, withdrawl increase in dosage ETC. I told him that was a rerdiculous statement. I told him if he cant tell me what is going on who can. He told me that antidpressents are a two sided sword. The good eventually overpowers the bad. I am angry and am tired of feeling like garbage. I will never drink again, but will always say alcohol has been my best drug. I know I will not drink top feel better, but I am fed up.
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stkitt
Forum Moderator
Date Joined Apr 2007
Total Posts : 20712
Posted 2/27/2008 12:27 AM (GMT -6)
Greenway
Hello and I am glad you are vowing to give up the drinking. I am proud of you for recognizing what is going on and we are here to support you. Please keep posting and know that we are here for you.
Take care of you
Kitt
Kitt, Moderator: Anxiety ~ Panic ~ Crohn's
*~* http://www.healingwell.com/donate *~*
It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver.~Mahatma Gandhi~
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Howlyncat
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Date Joined Jan 2005
Total Posts : 24904
Posted 2/27/2008 8:04 AM (GMT -6)
Greenway
I am so sorry that it has come to this for you
But like Kitt I too am so proud of you ofr not going back to the booze ...it would be your biggest downfall IMHO
When you get to feeling like you are post plz start a thread of your own and what is going on with you if you want ........WE are here for you and will continue to be ........
STAY with us plz......
LYN DX With Crohns,Pyoderma Gangrenosum, Anxiety/ Panic and Other Disorders
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Feedo
New Member
Date Joined Aug 2008
Total Posts : 2
Posted 8/31/2008 3:52 AM (GMT -6)
turn I had been taking klonopine and abilify. Think it was the kolonopine that give me the brain zap so I stop taking it. Tried DHEA but still had mild zap after taking it but not as bad. Be careful with the doesage cause it may make you dizzy. Later started taking blood pressure pill and it helped tremendously. Zap disappearing.
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stkitt
Forum Moderator
Date Joined Apr 2007
Total Posts : 20712
Posted 8/31/2008 9:51 AM (GMT -6)
Feedo
Hello and Welcome to HealingWell. I have never heard of brain zaps from using benzodiazpines. That does not mean it could not happen.
Edit: I have found info that says you may have brain zaps from withdrawal of benzos. Kitt
Brain zaps, also known as "brain shocks," "brain shivers" or "head shocks" are a fairly common withdrawal symptom experienced during discontinuation (or reduction of dose) of SSRI and SNRI antidepressant drugs. The symptom is described as brief but repeated electric shock-like sensations in the brain and head. The effect is not only confined to withdrawal periods for all sufferers, but also are experienced while actually taking the prescribed medication (although less commonly), and have been known to continue for years after withdrawal from the associated medication.
The phenomenon is most commonly associated with Paxil, Prozac, Effexor, Zoloft, Cymbalta, Luvox, Celexa, Lexapro and Ultram.
Again welcome
Kitt
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Feedo
New Member
Date Joined Aug 2008
Total Posts : 2
Posted 9/1/2008 7:52 AM (GMT -6)
Could it be from Zyprexa withdrawal that I'm having the brain zap or is the klonopine?
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stkitt
Forum Moderator
Date Joined Apr 2007
Total Posts : 20712
Posted 9/1/2008 9:06 AM (GMT -6)
Hi Feedo,
I am sorry I posted the best I know on which meds produce brain zaps. Perhaps this is a question you may ask your physician as we cannot replace the professionals in answering these types of questions.
Take care.
Kitt
Kitt, Moderator: Anxiety/Panic & Depression
& GERD Forums
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pyamaddi
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Date Joined Sep 2008
Total Posts : 1
Posted 9/22/2008 3:12 AM (GMT -6)
ive been on paxil cr for 7 years and just recently went up in dosage to the 37.5. The wierd thing is, is that i started getting zaps when i went up in dosage a month and a half ago, hence the question why i would be getting them when im not trying to wean or just stop taking them. If anyone has any idea let me know! oh and i did have a ton to drink the night before i started getting the zaps. could that possibly be the reason? crap im 23 living a dream life but feeling like crap!!!!
Pya
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stkitt
Forum Moderator
Date Joined Apr 2007
Total Posts : 20712
Posted 9/22/2008 9:09 AM (GMT -6)
Pya,
Welcome to HealingWell. People do experience Brain Zaps when increasing the dosage of their medication. Also alcohol can interfere with the actions of your SSRI.
I hope you are feeling better soon.
Kitt
Kitt, Moderator: Anxiety/Panic & Depression
& GERD Forums
*~* http://www.healingwell.com/donate *~*
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It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver.~Mahatma Gandhi~
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singinmom
Regular Member
Date Joined Feb 2003
Total Posts : 39
Posted 9/23/2008 2:46 PM (GMT -6)
I've been on a number of antidepressants for anxiety disorder and they all seemed to cause the brain zaps. They subside after a while, but I still have them from time to time.
Singinmom
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Howdydudey
New Member
Date Joined Mar 2009
Total Posts : 1
Posted 3/14/2009 12:45 AM (GMT -6)
I've felt this burning sensation around my face and shoulders. Like an electric current.
It's only like once or twice every week or two. But it worries me.
I was concerned that maybe my body is wanting more of the benzoate I started taking 6 months ago to help me sleep.
I went through a really stressful period at work & wasn't sleeping.
I've realised that people pressure is a huge anxiety trigger for me. Wish I'd know that before I took that team leader job.
The secondment ended so did the stress but I'm left feeling like I'm addicted to this Murelax tablet which is a benzoate. I'm only taking 15 mg once before bed but when I've tried to stop I can't drop off to sleep. Tried using herbal remedites. I stopped taking Dopthep months ago. It sounds like that could be what is causing it instead.
When I had some nights where I still couldn't sleep the doctor prescribed it. It kind of helped but left me feeling like a zombie. When I stopped I started feeling happy again.
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stkitt
Forum Moderator
Date Joined Apr 2007
Total Posts : 20712
Posted 3/14/2009 11:20 AM (GMT -6)
Oxazepam is in a group of drugs called benzodiazepines. In the USA it is known as Serax. If your taking your nightly dose of the medication I do not know if what your experiencing is due to the medication but this would be a good question to bring up with your physician.
Also we love new members and if you would like to post in the welcome new members forum, we can all get to know you. :-)
Take care and stick with us.
Kitt
Kitt, Co-Moderator: Anxiety/Panic & Depression
& Moderator GERD Forums
*~* http://www.healingwell.com/donate *~*
Not a mental health professional of any kind
Peace does not dwell in outward things, but within the soul
Clickable Link: Anxiety-Panic Resources
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Vin
Regular Member
Date Joined Jan 2006
Total Posts : 298
Posted 3/14/2009 7:19 PM (GMT -6)
Benzo tolerance withdrawal(body is used to certain amount of benzo and needs more to function..just like tolerance to pain killers) and benzo interdose withdrawl(you can withdraw from xanax 3-4 hours after you take it because the drug is eliminated, leading to rebound anxiety/zaps withdrawal symptoms) for drugs with short half lives(ativan,xanax) can cause brain zaps which can be severe and last a while even after you've been off the drug for months. I believe its due to your brain learning to function again without the synthetic gaba(benzo,alcohol) which causes an increase in electrical activity in your brain. I know that coming off benzo drugs or alcohol cold turkey or too quickly after long term use can lead to seizures, so i would not be suprised if these brain zaps were in the seizure family.
Brain zaps are also common coming off of antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and certain pain meds like ultram(due to it increasing seratonin) but they don't usually last nearly as long as long term tranquilizer use. They can rarely happen goin on to and staying on antidepessants.
As long as the zaps are caused by tranquilizers/benzos, the only way to alleviate them is by raising your dosage(tranquilizers/benzo) or using your last known working dosage where you were stable(tranquilizers/benzo) and hoping you don't get tolerance withdrawal in time. If you ever want to wean off tranquilizers... you have to do it over a period of months to potentially even years depending on your dosage/time on to prevent hardcore withdrawal symptoms. Some people can cold turkey it and be ok.. but many people take months - years to recover this way.
For coming off antidepressants, usualy the worst is over in 2-4 weeks but there can be residual effects a few months later on.
Other central nervous illnesses(such as MS, lyme disease, syphillis, certain viruses, metal poisoning, etc) can cause brain zaps so if you havent been exposed to any of the meds/drugs, it would be advisable to be tested for the above.
In the meantime, to alleviate symptoms temporarily, sitting still or lying down without turning your head fast seems to work. I am not sure of any herbs/suppliments that will work consistently.
Vin
History: UC/Chrons since age 22, now 27. Several huge flares since then. Entire colon diseased at some point from cecum to rectum. Also had previous inflammation in terminal ileum.
Currently: flare -9/19/08 - now|Panic Disorder - 6/25/08 - now|Lyme Disease - 12/09/08 - now|Dysplastic Nevus Syndrome - 6 recent mod dysplasia moles excised, and many more to shave biopsy.
Drugs: prednisone 7.5mg|6mp 75 mg|lialda 4.8 mg|Paxil 50 mg|Klonopin .25 mg|Trazodone 50 mg|PRN Perc/Tramadol
Post Edited (Vin) : 3/14/2009 6:36:14 PM (GMT-6)
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Draziom
New Member
Date Joined Oct 2009
Total Posts : 7
Posted 10/11/2009 3:20 AM (GMT -6)
Brain zaps are EXTREMELY painful and are caued by SSRI antidepressant withdrawals. Benzos do NOT cause brain zaps and normal human emotions of "anxiety" does NOT cause brain zaps. I've had debilitating brain zaps which are so painful for 2 1/2 years which i got from a fast wean/long term use of high doses of SSRI's and SNRI Antidepressants done to me by a criminal psychiatrist which has not gone away in 2 1/2 years. I take Opiates for the pain it causes, as there is no alleviation to stop these zaps besides powerful narcotic pain killers. Brain zaps are extremly painful electrical prickling or pinching pains in the head (paraesthsias), which feels like birds pecking at your brain. Extremely uncomfortable and can drive a human to death.
Those who have taken SSRI or SNRI Antidepressants for a short time and at low doses will have their brain zaps alleviated in weeks to 2 months at most nothing to worry about short term and low dose users of SSRI antidepressants. Those who have taken SSRI/SNRI antidepressants for a long time and weaned or CT off the drug abruptly, will have a long duration of brain zaps. I've read that sometimes these painful zaps can be permanent as the antidepressant damages the functioning of neurons in the brain. Psychiatrists have experimented on many vulnerable people's brains with their SSRI antidepressants and deny their toxic drugs cause any side effect. (A futile attempt to hide their crimes).
If anybody has been harmed by a psychiatrist and you are having terrible symptoms which impacts your daily living, i suggest you file a lawsuit against the psychiatrist or file a criminal complaint about him/her to your local Police. and have him/her imprisoned for crimes against humanity.
Psychiatrists are aware of the damage they are causing millions of people but hiding their crimes and blaming the patient. Because the pain can not be seen, they laugh about it, knowing (they think) they can get away with their psychiatric crimes. Take my legal advice and do whats best to get the justice you deserve.
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stkitt
Forum Moderator
Date Joined Apr 2007
Total Posts : 20712
Posted 10/11/2009 11:03 AM (GMT -6)
Thanks for you comments and I have to disagree with the information you posted, also we do not generally use the forums to encourage people to file law suits.
Draziom said...
If anybody has been harmed by a psychiatrist and you are having terrible symptoms which impacts your daily living, i suggest you file a lawsuit against the psychiatrist or file a criminal complaint about him/her to your local Police. and have him/her imprisoned for crimes against humanity.
This is a peer support group.
Brain Zaps, Brain Shivers or Electrical shocks are a fairly common symptom from all Antidepressants, but also can occur with Benzodiazepines and Sleeping Pills. The symptoms are described as brief but repeated electric shock-like sensations in the brain and head, or originating in the brain but extending to other parts of the body. Sometimes it is accompanied by disorientation, tinnitus, vertigo and lightheadedness. Reference: The Journal of Neuroscience
Respectfully,
Kitt
Kitt,
Moderator: Osteoarthritis, GERD/Heartburn & Anxiety/Panic
*~* http://www.healingwell.com/donate *~*
"When you find peace within yourself, you become the kind of person who can live at peace with others."
"I am not a mental health professional, nor do I play one on TV, I just kind of talk like one!"
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Draziom
New Member
Date Joined Oct 2009
Total Posts : 7
Posted 10/12/2009 7:11 AM (GMT -6)
It is rare, but happens to some people that do have brain zaps from use of benzodiazepines of long term use, but to a lesser extent than SSRI Antidepressants. Brain zaps or "brain shivers" electrical parasthesias in the head from weaning off a SSRI Antidepressant is very common.
Edit: I am sorry you appear to have issues with psychiatrists and the prescribing of antidepressants. However, this is not the place to debate the ethics of psychiatrists.
11. No posts of an overtly political or religious nature OR posts promoting advocacy of particular personal, medical, legal, religious, political, or non-profit causes. The forums are intended for offering mutual personal support. Debating controversial subjects should be taken elsewhere.
Post Edited By Moderator (stkitt) : 10/12/2009 7:20:18 AM (GMT-6)
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vestabula
Veteran Member
Date Joined Nov 2008
Total Posts : 1917
Posted 10/12/2009 8:24 AM (GMT -6)
I found an SSRI withdrawal forum. There are over 1.5 MILLION members. These horrific side effects are not rare. They are normal even though Forest Lab(makers of Lexapro) states that only 2 people in 1000 with suffer ANY withdrawal. THAT is a crock.
I should have never looked at that forum but I was just trying to find some info on how long the zaps will last as I cannot even drive a car. Here is my favorite. "Hoorah...after two years I am only getting about ten shocks a day...I think I am finally recovering!" OMG...is all I have to say.
I honestly do not think it is totally fair to blame psychiatrists for this. Even on the official Lexapro site it does not mention withdrawal...only what to expect when starting the drug. It DOES say not to stop without consulting your physican...who knows nothing, in my opinion, because they have not been sufficiently informed about the dangers. Lexapro is the most highly distributed SSRI by drug reps in the country. You can walk into almost any doctors office and they have boxes of free samples. I have never paid for it and have about $500 worth of blister packs with NO info on them in my medicine cabinet. (except to keep stored at room temperature).
And what stops that zaps...going on another SSRI. That's like curing an alcoholic with the DT's who has been drinking vodka for twenty years by offering them a bottle of wine.
fibro, menieres disease, RLS, anxiety disorder, disc compression, scoliosis, spinal stenosis TMJ Meds: Lexapro and valium
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stkitt
Forum Moderator
Date Joined Apr 2007
Total Posts : 20712
Posted 10/12/2009 9:03 AM (GMT -6)
vestabula
May I suggest that you take into account the fact that the members in this forum already have issues with anxiety, some with very serious issues.
Medications are a necessary part of many member's lives including my own. I have weaned off of Cymbalta and working with my Psychiatrist I managed a very slow wean without any serious withdrawal syndrome.
I am going to take this opportunity to remind all members to NEVER rely on information or opinions exchanged via the forums or chat rooms to replace necessary, personal consultation(s) with qualified health or medical professionals to meet your individual health or medical needs.
With kindest personal regards,
Kitt
Kitt,
Moderator: Osteoarthritis, GERD/Heartburn & Anxiety/Panic
*~* http://www.healingwell.com/donate *~*
"When you find peace within yourself, you become the kind of person who can live at peace with others."
"I am not a mental health professional, nor do I play one on TV, I just kind of talk like one!"
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Draziom
New Member
Date Joined Oct 2009
Total Posts : 7
Posted 10/12/2009 9:29 AM (GMT -6)
I posted this to you before and yet you continue to want to bash and debate the ethics of Psychiatrists as well as medications.
11. No posts of an overtly political or religious nature OR posts promoting advocacy of particular personal, medical, legal, religious, political, or non-profit causes. The forums are intended for offering mutual personal support. Debating controversial subjects should be taken elsewhere.
Any further comments along this line and I will delete your posts.
If you are in need of support for you own anxiety or wanting to support the members here in HW please do continue to post............but NO more scare tatics and physician bashing.
This is a PEER SUPPORT forum.
Kitt
I'm not bashing i'm stating the truth you want to deny. "ethics of psychiatry"? You got to be kidding me. My posts were nothing of political nature but a warning to those suffering Withdrawals from dangerous mind altering psychiatric drugs. I'm not using scare tactics i am stating the FACTS and TRUTHS. I have evidence to back up what i say. I hope you have evidence to prove to me that psychiatry is "ethical" as you claim. Psychiatric drugs destroyed my LIFE!.
Post Edited (Draziom) : 10/12/2009 10:20:06 AM (GMT-6)
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badgenetics1
Regular Member
Date Joined Nov 2007
Total Posts : 146
Posted 10/12/2009 9:35 AM (GMT -6)
Spreading fear to those that already suffer from anxiety is NOT helpful. The proof is in the "pudding" my friend, many, many people have been on SSRI's for many years and there are not hospital wards filled with brian zap victims.
These drugs affect all people differently, we don't end up at at a psych office because we are just fine and just need a bit of chamomile tea...we are in need of help, usually pharmacuetical help.
I am sorry for all of you that have had negative experiences with meds, I have had them as well. I have also weaned off Lexapro with no brain zaps or brain damage. Also have weaned off benzos...key here is to use them wisely and go slow.
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Klonopin brain zaps
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HealingWell.com Forum > Diseases & Conditions > Anxiety - Panic Disorders > Klonopin brain zaps
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Draziom
New Member
Date Joined Oct 2009
Total Posts : 7
Posted 10/12/2009 9:37 AM (GMT -6)
11. No posts of an overtly political or religious nature OR posts promoting advocacy of particular personal, medical, legal, religious, political, or non-profit causes. The forums are intended for offering mutual personal support. Debating controversial subjects should be taken elsewhere. Limited religious references are allowed (ie. "my prayers are with you" or a brief quote as part of a larger post), but the forums should not be used to convert others.
Administrator notified.
Post Edited By Moderator (stkitt) : 10/12/2009 9:50:58 AM (GMT-6)
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Draziom
New Member
Date Joined Oct 2009
Total Posts : 7
Posted 10/12/2009 9:48 AM (GMT -6)
Re: badgenetics1
Edit: per rule 11.
Psychiatry has no place in society as it's not a science but a tool used to harm others for profit, social control, and population control. These are the facts. You can deny these facts, they are facts which can not be disputed. I totally and vehemently disagree with what you said. I speak from experience, study, research etc.
Any further posts of this nature will be deleted .
Post Edited By Moderator (stkitt) : 10/12/2009 10:08:18 AM (GMT-6)
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Draziom
New Member
Date Joined Oct 2009
Total Posts : 7
Posted 10/12/2009 10:00 AM (GMT -6)
Re: vestabula
You got to be kidding. Not fair to blame psychiatrists?. they're the ones inventing all these bogus diseases and profiting off them. It is right to blame psychiatrists absolutely.
Edit: Deleted per Rule 11. Administrator notified.
Post Edited By Moderator (stkitt) : 10/12/2009 9:57:49 AM (GMT-6)
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Draziom
New Member
Date Joined Oct 2009
Total Posts : 7
Posted 10/12/2009 10:15 AM (GMT -6)
Re: vestubula
If you feel you need a psychiatrist thats fine with me but do NOT tell people psychiatry is good, useful, and healthy. Psychiatry has killed and crippled millions.
No further posts from you will be tolerated in this Mental Health Forum.
Post Edited By Moderator (stkitt) : 10/12/2009 9:59:41 AM (GMT-6)
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vestabula
Veteran Member
Date Joined Nov 2008
Total Posts : 1917
Posted 10/12/2009 10:48 AM (GMT -6)
I DID NOT get this drug from a psychiatrist. My psychiatrist absolutely refused to give me an SSRI, feeling it was just a 'band aid' for symptoms that he felt could be resolved through other means. My rheumalogist prescribed this for me as I have fibromyalgia and RLS along with the depression I was going through after four deaths in my immediate family over a short period of time.
You obviously did not read my post correctly. I said that there is a SSRI withdrawal forum with over 1.5 million members. I found the posts extremely disturbing and depressing, as I know withdrawals are real, horrific and for some, linger longer than people withdrawing from heroin.
And.. your comment that if I have not had withdrawals after being on this drug for such a short time then to 'go for it?' I AM having withdrawals and they are horrible and life altering. I stated that a number of times in many posts which you obviously have not read. I am NOT pro SSRI and will never ever go on one again. But that is my choice. Others consider them life saving and that is their opinion and should be treated with respect.
Thank you for bringing such anger and venom to an anxiety forum. We need this kind of hostility and name calling like we need to be caught in a burning building with no windows and doors. I hope this entire thread gets deleted. What was initially a post asking for help has turned into the O.J Simpsom trial. Take your angst to an anger management forum.
fibro, menieres disease, RLS, anxiety disorder, disc compression, scoliosis, spinal stenosis TMJ Meds: Lexapro and valium
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stkitt
Forum Moderator
Date Joined Apr 2007
Total Posts : 20712
Posted 10/12/2009 11:07 AM (GMT -6)
Dear Members,
This thread is CLOSED . Please disregard any further posts from Draziom.
The A & P Forum is for people to give and receive both emotional and practical support as well as to exchange information. It is not a place for any public debates re the merits or ethics of Psychiatrists.
This is a safe haven for all with anxiety to come to and find help in learning how to deal with their issues and problems.
I thank you each in advance for your understanding and no further posts will be allowed in this thread.
Health and Happiness,
Kitt
************CLOSED**********
Kitt,
Moderator: Osteoarthritis, GERD/Heartburn & Anxiety/Panic
*~* http://www.healingwell.com/donate *~*
"When you find peace within yourself, you become the kind of person who can live at peace with others."
"I am not a mental health professional, nor do I play one on TV, I just kind of talk like one!"
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