@menzies: I am a bit puzzled at the manner in which your doctor has advised tapering of Escitalopram. To the best of my knowledge, it should be gradual, i.e, from 20 to 15 to 10 etc, over several weeks, as you have been taking this medication for more than 10 years. Taking it for a few more weeks will not cause severe liver damage, beyond what has already happened. But it will reduce the severity of your withdrawal symptoms. And please don't taper the benzo at the same time; taper one medication at a time, not two. Escitalopram has the best side effect profile, so gradual withdrawal should not be difficult. Also curious to know whether your doctor intends to replace it with another antidepressant, and if so which one. Please stay calm, everything will be OK. All good wishes for your successful recovery. Regards.