12 Weeks Without Dupixent

Since May of 2017, I decided to taper off Dupixent just to see how my body would hold up on its own. My long-term goal is to be drug-free and healing from eczema as naturally as possible.  You can read more about my first article on this topic here.

Personal disclaimer: Please note that I am not a doctor nor a medical professional. I do not condone anyone tapering off or withdrawing from Dupixent or any drug without their doctor’s approval or without knowing the possible side effects and danger. I am very well aware that I am stopping Dupixent at my own risk.

Getting past 8 weeks

Up until this point, surpassing 8 weeks without Dupixent was challenging. Every time I came close to the 8-week mark, my skin was uncontrollable – extremely itchy, dry, and discolored. My hair would also be falling out and a cold sore would appear on my lip.

When it would get this “bad” and I would no longer want to suffer, I’d simply re-inject myself and start the tapering process all over again. Fortunately, I had an abundance of Dupixent in my fridge for use.

Breakthrough

But this phase of tapering off was different.

When I reached the 8-week mark this time around, my skin was slightly flaring up but it was still manageable. It was dry and itchy, but nothing I couldn’t handle. My hair was doing just fine and no cold sore was in sight (thank heavens!). I remember asking myself, “Do I want to inject myself with Dupixent just in case? Even though I technically feel fine?”

I didn’t inject myself. Instead, I became curious to see what would happen if I continued healing naturally without Dupixent.

Curiosity creates celebration

Not only did I surpass my breaking point, but I also passed the 9th, 10th, and 11th week mark! (*Insert happy dance here*) This is amazing! The excitement I feel in this very moment even typing about this brings me joy. This is great news as it shows that my body is healing on its own. It also gives hope to those who believed or were afraid that they would have to be on Dupixent for the rest of their lives.

This is a breakthrough and turning point not just for me, the eczema community as a whole.

Healing from within

Now that I have reached 12 weeks and I couldn’t be happier with the way my body is responding and healing, I want to give you some tips on how I’ve stayed healthy.

Deeper healing meditations

Meditation has been and is a significant component in my healing. It consistently brings me calmness, clarity, and an undeniable faith and knowing that I am going to heal. I’ve been practicing doing longer and deeper meditations where I envision myself healing from within. This type of meditation, that lasts anywhere from 10-15 minutes, supported me in getting over a massive flare-up in just 4 days.

Working out anyways

I’ve made a big commitment to myself that even when I flare and don’t feel like exercising, I go anyways. This is a great form of relieving stress, as well as getting rid of the toxins in my body. In the beginning, working out can be challenging, but when I’m done, I feel great and happy that I did it! And my body thanks me too.

Eating clean

Although I am fairly good at eating clean, I’ve upped my game when it comes to veggies and fruits. I do my best to stay away from processed foods, dairy, and wheat. Although I enjoy my pizza once in a while, I ensure that my overall diet and exercise makes up for it.

Stay tuned for more information on my healing journey!