There’s definitely something connected between going off Effexor and tinnitus. I developed pulsatile tinnitus as well as phantom smells of cigarette smoke. What’s more, I got vertigo and dizziness (they cal is PPPD) as well. It is not going away. It was suggested I go back on anti anxiety meds (which I have) as well as medicine for bipolar (a mood stabilizer). My mood has definitely improved but, sadly, this dizziness and vertigo and swimy headedness remains. I hope there is some research on Effexor and the vestibular system, because mine is shot.