Hello @dixiesister, and welcome to Connect.

Speaking from experience, unfortunately high blood pressure or hypertension is one of the possible side effects with long-term use of Effexor. But more concerning is that you "Do not stop taking this medicine without checking first with your doctor. Your doctor may want you to gradually reduce the amount you are taking before stopping it completely. This will decrease the chance of side effects, such as agitation, confusion, headache, irritability, numbness or tingling feeling, restlessness, trouble sleeping, or unusual drowsiness or weakness." https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/venlafaxine-oral-route/precautions/drg-20067379

I'd like to invite @nanke99 @richyrich @cathy615 @hayleesmommy @bekinprogress @careth2 @linxy @elecia87 @lolita9 @salela, and others in this group to share their thoughts and insights as well.

@dixiesister, would you be able to share some more details? For how long have you been taking Effexor? May I ask why you decided to stop? We look forward to getting to know you.