1. < Depression & Anxiety

Tips on minimizing withdrawal symptoms from Effexor (aka Venlafaxine)

Posted by richyrich @richyrich, Nov 2, 2016

I have been taking Effexor/Venlafaxine for years and tried to get off it a few times but each time I try to give up the chemical withdrawal symptoms are a horror story and I give up giving up. Anyone got any tips or tried and tested strategies? Thank you

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gagelle | @gagelle | Jan 18, 2018
In reply to @lukekee "Hello All! I wrote a couple weeks ago about being prescribed Effexor for menopause symptoms and..." + (show)
@lukekee

Hello All! I wrote a couple weeks ago about being prescribed Effexor for menopause symptoms and when it quit working I went on Prempro. The gyno that put me on both acted like just quitting the Effexor would be fine since i was only on 75 mg for about 3 months.
I decided to taper myself so went down to 37.5 mg for a few days and started Prempro at same time. Don't know which or maybe both caused it but I had a horrible migraine for 3 days where I couldn't hardly get out of bed and couldn't work. After the 3rd day the headache went away and I decided right then to not take another Effexor EVER so I totally quit and actually thought I was doing fine but after reading some of these recent posts I'm beginning to wander if maybe some of my symptoms which i have thought were completely menopause related might actually be from stopping this drug.

It's been a 1 1/2 weeks since i quit taking Effexor completely and since then I have been so emotional and cry over everything especially anything that upsets me even a little. This is really strange behavior for me and people who know people have commented that something isn't right with me because I am not and have never been a crier. Not that I think there is anything wrong with crying ( I don't); it's just that is not in my personality and my staff and bosses have noticed it. It is very embarrassing to be discussing a work issue and have tears come to my eyes and get all choked up when trying to talk. I have always been more of the Kiss my a**; this is the way it is going to be kind of person. Not unkind but never a crybaby. I certainly hope this passes soon (if it's related to the Effexor) because it is really impeding my job performance and my personal relationships too.

I hate feeling like this but not sure how to overcome it but I can tell you for sure I won't be trying to overcome it by going back on Effexor because one way or the other: This too shall pass; it might pass like a kidney stone but it will pass! 🙂

Jump to this post

Too many physicians prescribe antidepressants off-label as a kind of panacea. They often cause more problems than the original illness. I had a friend who's doctor prescribed Prozac for his back pain. He had a terrible reaction to that drug. He started getting seizures and became completely despondent. After he stopped taking the drug, his seizures didn't stop. He went to a good neurologist who determined that his condition wasn't being caused by any physical disease. The Prozac released emotions that he couldn't deal with. While in therapy, he remembered that he was sexually molested as a child by an older sister. The whole point of psychotherapy is to bring up painful emotions but in a controlled manner. The mind has to gradually assimilate painful events. Antidepressants are unpredictable. A psychologist once told me that they're kissing cousins to LSD. Patients are rarely informed of the risks because many doctors believe the pharmaceutical companies' propaganda.

REPLY
Parus | @parus | Jan 19, 2018
In reply to @lukekee "Hello All! I wrote a couple weeks ago about being prescribed Effexor for menopause symptoms and..." + (show)
@lukekee

Hello All! I wrote a couple weeks ago about being prescribed Effexor for menopause symptoms and when it quit working I went on Prempro. The gyno that put me on both acted like just quitting the Effexor would be fine since i was only on 75 mg for about 3 months.
I decided to taper myself so went down to 37.5 mg for a few days and started Prempro at same time. Don't know which or maybe both caused it but I had a horrible migraine for 3 days where I couldn't hardly get out of bed and couldn't work. After the 3rd day the headache went away and I decided right then to not take another Effexor EVER so I totally quit and actually thought I was doing fine but after reading some of these recent posts I'm beginning to wander if maybe some of my symptoms which i have thought were completely menopause related might actually be from stopping this drug.

It's been a 1 1/2 weeks since i quit taking Effexor completely and since then I have been so emotional and cry over everything especially anything that upsets me even a little. This is really strange behavior for me and people who know people have commented that something isn't right with me because I am not and have never been a crier. Not that I think there is anything wrong with crying ( I don't); it's just that is not in my personality and my staff and bosses have noticed it. It is very embarrassing to be discussing a work issue and have tears come to my eyes and get all choked up when trying to talk. I have always been more of the Kiss my a**; this is the way it is going to be kind of person. Not unkind but never a crybaby. I certainly hope this passes soon (if it's related to the Effexor) because it is really impeding my job performance and my personal relationships too.

I hate feeling like this but not sure how to overcome it but I can tell you for sure I won't be trying to overcome it by going back on Effexor because one way or the other: This too shall pass; it might pass like a kidney stone but it will pass! 🙂

Jump to this post

Oh my.

REPLY
crownjewel | @crownjewel | Jan 19, 2018

Does anyone have any suggestions for insomnia relief? I have tried melatonin, Benadryl, Tylenol PM. The PM's seem to have been working (1 at night) but now nothing! I have been sleeping only about 2 hrs per night for the last 5 nights...help!

REPLY
3 replies
gagelle | @gagelle | Jan 19, 2018

I would see a good physician. He/she would have to get a solid medical and psychological history to eliminate any conditions that might be the cause. Usually, if I'm sleep deprived for a day or two, my body makes up for it by giving me a longer, deeper sleep. The sleep deprivation you describe can be dangerous. You wouldn't want to operate a motor vehicle, for example. There may be other medications you're taking that are causing your insomnia. Or it may be a physical condition. I'm just guessing, of course. I don't want to alarm you but urge consultation with a doctor who will spend some time getting to the root cause of your insomnia. I would walk away from anyone who throws you sleeping pills. They only work for short periods of time as you quickly build a tolerance. They also interfere with the deep stage of sleep known as rapid eye movement. Paradoxically, they block the kind of revitalizing sleep that allows you to wake up refreshed. I would also stay away from melatonin. It is a complex hormone that has many risks despite its loyal following. I hope this helps.

REPLY
2 replies
Lisa Lucier | @lisalucier | Jan 19, 2018
In reply to @crownjewel "Does anyone have any suggestions for insomnia relief? I have tried melatonin, Benadryl, Tylenol PM. The..." + (show)
@crownjewel

Does anyone have any suggestions for insomnia relief? I have tried melatonin, Benadryl, Tylenol PM. The PM's seem to have been working (1 at night) but now nothing! I have been sleeping only about 2 hrs per night for the last 5 nights...help!

Jump to this post

Hi, @crownjewel, and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. I also wanted to suggest you take a look at our Sleep Health group,https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/sleep-health/.

A few discussions in particular that may be of interest to you are:
- https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/josephene-i-am-having-terrible-insomnia-as-well-nothing-seems-to-help/bookmark/?ajax_hook=action&_wpnonce=4b66815391 (about insomnia)

- https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/just-dropping-by/bookmark/?ajax_hook=action&_wpnonce=4b66815391 (about non-medicated insomnia remedies)

- https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/meditation-prior-to-sleep/bookmark/?ajax_hook=action&_wpnonce=4b66815391 (about meditation prior to sleep)

- https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/sleep-hygine/bookmark/?ajax_hook=action&_wpnonce=4b66815391 (about sleep hygiene)

REPLY
sadiesmom | @sadiesmom | Jan 19, 2018
In reply to @gagelle "I would see a good physician. He/she would have to get a solid medical and psychological..." + (show)
@gagelle

I would see a good physician. He/she would have to get a solid medical and psychological history to eliminate any conditions that might be the cause. Usually, if I'm sleep deprived for a day or two, my body makes up for it by giving me a longer, deeper sleep. The sleep deprivation you describe can be dangerous. You wouldn't want to operate a motor vehicle, for example. There may be other medications you're taking that are causing your insomnia. Or it may be a physical condition. I'm just guessing, of course. I don't want to alarm you but urge consultation with a doctor who will spend some time getting to the root cause of your insomnia. I would walk away from anyone who throws you sleeping pills. They only work for short periods of time as you quickly build a tolerance. They also interfere with the deep stage of sleep known as rapid eye movement. Paradoxically, they block the kind of revitalizing sleep that allows you to wake up refreshed. I would also stay away from melatonin. It is a complex hormone that has many risks despite its loyal following. I hope this helps.

Jump to this post

I have turned to Melatonin for sleep the past couple of months. Due to my grief the holidays are especially hard and I can barely make it. What does Melatonin do to us? UGH! I thought it was natural and safe. I've come to the conclusion, we can't put any kind of pill into our systems.

REPLY
amylove1 | @amylove1 | Jan 20, 2018

Hello. I read your post and thought I would share my experience. I finally am past the effects of Effexor withdrawal. I took this medicine for a few years after the death of my parents. The process of coming off off this drug was incredibly slow. The withdrawal symptoms that are listed are very real and intense.
It took me 6 months to finally take my last dose. Tapering off over a 6 month period seems long but it worked. I was very sick and the brain zaps were the worst.
I ate absolutely zero fattening foods. I flushed out my system with an incredible amount of water. I took vitamin C and exercised everyday.
I had to back off caffeine and get lots of sleep.
I had heard the Effexor bonds to fat so being healthy Is the key.
I also read a new book to help promote new cell growth and use creativity like drawing. It sounds ridiculous bit it worked. The brain zaps, confusion, and eye twitching were the worst for me.
I have been 3 weeks clean from this drug and would never take another antidepressant.
It was very difficult but possible. The intensity of the symptoms subsided slowing but after a week of my last dose I could see a dramatic difference in symptoms.
Please take care of yourself and know your not alone. I had great support and also stayed really calm and relaxed. Exercise was a tremendous help. Don't panic. Stay calm. Remember your brain will heal from this. It just takes patience.
I did not feel suicidal coming off the medicine. I was told replacing antidepressants is not a good idea until you completely are clean from another.
I did not replace Effexor with another. I finally feel like myself...
Good luck.

REPLY
5 replies
karenu | @karenu | Jan 20, 2018
In reply to @amylove1 "Hello. I read your post and thought I would share my experience. I finally am past..." + (show)
@amylove1

Hello. I read your post and thought I would share my experience. I finally am past the effects of Effexor withdrawal. I took this medicine for a few years after the death of my parents. The process of coming off off this drug was incredibly slow. The withdrawal symptoms that are listed are very real and intense.
It took me 6 months to finally take my last dose. Tapering off over a 6 month period seems long but it worked. I was very sick and the brain zaps were the worst.
I ate absolutely zero fattening foods. I flushed out my system with an incredible amount of water. I took vitamin C and exercised everyday.
I had to back off caffeine and get lots of sleep.
I had heard the Effexor bonds to fat so being healthy Is the key.
I also read a new book to help promote new cell growth and use creativity like drawing. It sounds ridiculous bit it worked. The brain zaps, confusion, and eye twitching were the worst for me.
I have been 3 weeks clean from this drug and would never take another antidepressant.
It was very difficult but possible. The intensity of the symptoms subsided slowing but after a week of my last dose I could see a dramatic difference in symptoms.
Please take care of yourself and know your not alone. I had great support and also stayed really calm and relaxed. Exercise was a tremendous help. Don't panic. Stay calm. Remember your brain will heal from this. It just takes patience.
I did not feel suicidal coming off the medicine. I was told replacing antidepressants is not a good idea until you completely are clean from another.
I did not replace Effexor with another. I finally feel like myself...
Good luck.

Jump to this post

You sound like you’re good in a good place ! Yay! I’m planning to start a withdrawal of the effexor. I’ve been taking it for about 10 years -150 mg. I’m going open the capsules and take a few grains out at a time . I’m sort of concerned about work... i’ve had the brains apps when I forgotten 2 days dose and those are horrible ! My doctor was out of her office having a baby and her staff took three weeks to call in my prescription it made me realize that I was being held hostage by a drug . I had called and advance because I knew the pharmacy needed a new prescription luckily I had enough to get me through ...just!

REPLY
karenu | @karenu | Jan 20, 2018

So has anyone had issues continuing to work while going through “successful “ withdrawal? By successful I guess I mean being able to taper off completely? I work nights in a hospital I’m not an RN but I do work directly with patients . I’m going to have to put my 16-year-old dog down soon so I am definitely going to wait to begin until I recover from that but I am really trying to plan this out before I start. All the feedback has been so helpful!! thank you everyone for sharing!

REPLY
2 replies
lukekee | @lukekee | Jan 20, 2018
In reply to @amylove1 "Hello. I read your post and thought I would share my experience. I finally am past..." + (show)
@amylove1

Hello. I read your post and thought I would share my experience. I finally am past the effects of Effexor withdrawal. I took this medicine for a few years after the death of my parents. The process of coming off off this drug was incredibly slow. The withdrawal symptoms that are listed are very real and intense.
It took me 6 months to finally take my last dose. Tapering off over a 6 month period seems long but it worked. I was very sick and the brain zaps were the worst.
I ate absolutely zero fattening foods. I flushed out my system with an incredible amount of water. I took vitamin C and exercised everyday.
I had to back off caffeine and get lots of sleep.
I had heard the Effexor bonds to fat so being healthy Is the key.
I also read a new book to help promote new cell growth and use creativity like drawing. It sounds ridiculous bit it worked. The brain zaps, confusion, and eye twitching were the worst for me.
I have been 3 weeks clean from this drug and would never take another antidepressant.
It was very difficult but possible. The intensity of the symptoms subsided slowing but after a week of my last dose I could see a dramatic difference in symptoms.
Please take care of yourself and know your not alone. I had great support and also stayed really calm and relaxed. Exercise was a tremendous help. Don't panic. Stay calm. Remember your brain will heal from this. It just takes patience.
I did not feel suicidal coming off the medicine. I was told replacing antidepressants is not a good idea until you completely are clean from another.
I did not replace Effexor with another. I finally feel like myself...
Good luck.

Jump to this post

I am off this drug completely and I’m mostly past the bad withdrawal symptoms like crying, horrible headaches, and being unable to control my emotions.

I do still have some symptoms that I believe are related to going g off Effexor that I hope pass soon. These are:

Overwhelming fatigue
A feeling of uselessness
Brain fog
Irritability

These are minor compared to the crying crap! I thought I was having a breakdown until I realized it was the Effexor.

I too never plan to take another anti-depressant but I would love to find something natural that would help me feel more normal. Something that really doesn’t have any side effects and really works.

Good luck to everyone.

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