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Tips on minimizing withdrawal symptoms from Effexor (aka Venlafaxine)

Depression & Anxiety | Last Active: 4 days ago | Replies (6363)
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@nathan5

Hi everyone, I said I'd update after going to my doctor. He's put me back on 75mg of Effexor. He said not to feel bad about failing to get off them and to look at it as a test (a failed one) that the fact that my anxiety had got so bad, shows I still need it. He also gave me some Lorazepam, but I'm hesitant to take that.. He also referred me to an anxiety counselling service.
I've been back on Effexor since Monday, so far I still feel terrible. Last two days I feel like my chest and stomach are full of bees. Couldn't sleep last night so took a zopiclone which knocked me out. Took day off work today and snuggled up on couch (with the bees lol). It's 9.30 in evening now, pouring with rain outside and freezing. Just put electric blanket on my bed, so I'll have a nice warm shower, hop into bed and hope for best tomorrow!

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Replies to "Hi everyone, I said I'd update after going to my doctor. He's put me back on..."
texasduchess | @texasduchess | May 16, 2019

@nathan5
Hey, you tried! A lot of people on here have tried more than once. Nothing says you can't try again (in a year, or two). You learned a lot with this attempt and who knows? Maybe the manufacturer, or someone else will come up with a good way to get off Effexor. Hoping the anxiety counselling works and that you get back to feeling you can cope.

I understand that Effexor needs to "ramp up" before you feel better. "Sleep, energy, or appetite may show some improvement within the first 1-2 weeks. Improvement in these physical symptoms can be an important early signal that the medication is working. Depressed mood and lack of interest in activities may need up to 6-8 weeks to fully improve."--https://www.nami.org/Learn-More/Treatment/Mental-Health-Medications/Venlafaxine-(Effexor)

Nice to read that you're being gentle with yourself. A day off, a warm shower and a cozy electric blanket sound good no matter what ails you.

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