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As promised, my successful tapering off Effexor (Venlafaxine)
Depression & Anxiety | Last Active: 5 days ago | Replies (174)Comment receiving replies
I’m wondering if you could help me tonight. Monday, my doctor advised me to stop venlafaxine (dosage 150 mg a day) cold turkey. After 4 days, I am having brain zaps, terribly vivid dreams almost to the point of feeling I am hallucinating, not dreaming, and alternating exhaustion and feelings of nervousness. What do you think? It’s the weekend and I can’t contact her. I’m afraid to go to sleep and worried I won’t be able to function tomorrow, or end up in the ER. Should I try an Urgent Care?
Thanks…😟
Replies to "I’m wondering if you could help me tonight. Monday, my doctor advised me to stop venlafaxine..."
@tfolger, it is generally advised to taper slowly off a medication like venlafaxine. If you continue to have serious side effects over the weekend, please consult professional medical help at an urgent care facility.
This concerns only "brain zaps." I had at least one every day. My neuolorigist suggested Gabapentin, which she thought was a last-ditch attempt, but it was very effective. I took only about 5, one per day. Now, several years later, the zaps occur much less often. When I feel one, I take one Gabapentin as needed. I hope this helps. - Steve
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Good evening, @tfolger, and welcome to Connect. I'm sorry that your response to reducing your prescribed medicine has had side effects for which you may need help. I am sending this request to our moderator group. Hopefully, one of them will be able to respond quickly, even though it is Saturday night.
May you be free from suffering and the causes of suffering.
Chris