I stopped taking Effexor after almost 2 yrs of daily use. I had wanted to go off for awhile but just never followed through. Finally, and luckily there was a med screw up at the pharmacy and I couldn't get any for another 3 weeks- until I saw my Dr. I had read all the horror stories, but went COLD TURKEY anyway. Its been one week today, and do I feel totally "normal", no. But hardly a horror story. I drink lots of water, exercise, work 40 hrs a week, and happy to say I am not finding myself depressed either. Be careful of course, but judging from my experience, I kindof wish I had the guts to do it before now!