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Tips on minimizing withdrawal symptoms from Effexor (aka Venlafaxine)
Depression & Anxiety | Last Active: 4 days ago | Replies (6299)Comment receiving replies
EFFEXOR...no matter the dose or the time on the drug is a medication that needs to be avoided at all costs. The withdrawal symptoms from effexor are intollerable I was on 225 mg for 5 months and my physician decided to stop my med cold turkey and put me on Lexipro . The withdrawal was insufferable and lasted 6 months . The only way I received any relief was thru my Psychiatrist who herself had been on Efexxor and understood the chronic withdrawal process. There are safer antidepressant meds that do not have the same withdrawal effects. anyone who has been thru this understands. If your provider suggests Effexor, REFUSE...Sincerely hope this helps someone. The life altering effects of Efexxor withdrawal will stop It's just very hard to see that light at the end of the tunnel when it's happening to you.
Dr. Michael Mann
Replies to "EFFEXOR...no matter the dose or the time on the drug is a medication that needs to..."
@mhmann
Hello,
I am sorry to disagree with you regarding the use of Effexor.
I have been on it for many years.
It is the ONLY drug that has helped me with my anxiety that was starting to cripple me.
I tried several drugs (with the guidance of a psychiatrist) and Effexor is the one I chose to stay on.
I did start to reduce once, a long time ago because the results were so good, that my PCP suggested I get off.
I started and my anxiety came back full force!!!!!
During a period of about 9 months, I tried other meds....didn't work.
Yes, withdrawal can be horrendous.
I am currently in the process of reducing my dosage to have a more 'normal' amount.
So, it is certainly appropriate for you to discuss your experiences, but I do not think we should tell people what they should or should not do.
I appreciate your concern and strong your strong feelings!
I believe it is our responsibility to research what we do and what we take, using us as part of the research.
Ronnie (GRANDMAr)
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@mhmann
Wow ... not sure how your doctor missed all the info about how to quit anti-depressants--poor patient care. Cold turkey is never pleasant AND is unsafe! Tell us how your psychiatrist helped.