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Tips on minimizing withdrawal symptoms from Effexor (aka Venlafaxine)
Depression & Anxiety | Last Active: 3 days ago | Replies (6363)Comment receiving replies
I have taken Effexor for about 3 years. Recently I began to eat healthier and feel better about myself so I asked my doctor if she would help me to wean off my Effexor. She gave me a schedule where I gradually weaned off for 2 week increments and finally to the last 2 weeks of 37.5 mg. each day. My last dose was 4 days ago. I was okay on day 1 without any, but the following day I have started to have episodes of nausea, light-headed, just physically feel miserable.I really do not want to take this medication, will this last a long time? I could use some advise. I feel like if I call my doctor's office, they will just give me more and I will have to start all over again. Please give me some advice.
Replies to "I have taken Effexor for about 3 years. Recently I began to eat healthier and feel..."
@annmarie1964, we took your questions to a Mayo Clinic pharmacist, and this is what she suggests:
"@annmarie1964, I am sure your doctor would be happy to provide an individualized taper for you. Everyone is different and what works well as a taper for one person might be too fast or too slow for the next patient based on dose, duration and patient-specific factors like your genetics and how your body metabolizes that specific drug.
There is no way for your doctor to know that a typical dose isn’t working for you unless you communicate with them.
It is so important to work with your doctor for recommendations on altering your medication regimen and especially if a change in regimen makes you feel bad. Feeling distraught when tapering antidepressants is something you should mention to your doctor right away.
Eating healthy and getting enough exercise are admirable goals that can make a big difference in how we think and feel. I hope you continue to feel better but also feel that you can include your doctor if you feel bad again. Your doctor is there to help you feel your best and I am sure will encourage and applaud your efforts toward a healthy lifestyle and also provide alternative medication regimens if needed."
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Thank you for your helpful suggestion and understanding. Today and each of the days have been getting better. Last night before bed I felt a bit more like myself. I found some ginger pills that have helped my nausea and the headaches I have kept under control with Ibuprofen. Also have tried to double up on the Omega-3 tablets that I normally would take. I just feel like I need to work through this on my own, I do not want another doctor to just throw a pill at me...it just creates more difficulties in the long run. I was so distraught a few days ago and would have basically done anything to relieve my physical symptoms. I feel like I am coming out on the other side now and the worst is over (knock on wood). I just want to keep making healthy choices and not be taking so many prescriptions that are for problems that healthier eating may solve. Again, thank you for your kindness and message.