Tips on minimizing withdrawal symptoms from Effexor (aka Venlafaxine)

I think i will just email my dr on what I have been doing, in hopes she supports me wanting to get off the med. I did take 75mg an hour ago and it helped.

Just a suggestion. You may want to think about holding off any tapering until you can get back to you’re doctor in person. I know most are just answering emails and such at this time. This is really not a good time to taper. My own doctor has suspended all tapers until things get back to at least a little more normal. We’re living in extremely stressful times right now.

That was a wise action.
Remember, we can wallow in feeling bad or take an action to feel better.
I was on 17 antidepressants in my life time. Only Effexor worked.
It has a place in the drug world, but few MDs know how to wean folks off it.
I myself took weaning off it myself and could have destroyed my life as I know it or want it.
Bright Wings

The best thing you can do is get to reading the pages here.
There is no way we can repeat everything that works for folks....
Too many folks come here looking for answers to feel better. What works for one does not work for another.
Bright Wings
You are not alone

What would be accomplished by that??
Bright wings

That was going to be my next point, what steps are EACH OF YOU TAKING to NOT NEED the medication????
Bright Wings

With the Lockdown in most states, yes ,things are difficult.
Many people NEED OTHERS AROUND THEM.
Each of us needs a plan on how to stay mentally healthy in view of the lockdown.
Our normal routines are interrupted by CV.
However, we still have needs for interaction with others!
How are you going to get those needs met???
Bright Wings

Develop a plan BEFORE you need it.
Bright Wings

Hello. I just joined this group recently and have been trying to taper off of 150mg of Venlafaxine for almost three weeks. I can truly say that my side effects have been horrible. I have had brain shudders, trembling, flu symptoms, nausea, dizziness, and diarrhea. I am starting Prozac tomorrow and was wondering if that is going to start helping with some of the side effects? Also if anyone has any tips on how to manage the nausea and diarrhea they would be much appreciated! Thank you to everyone on this thread for providing support for me!

Welcome, yes, I have heard that prozac is a wonderful bridge to getting off the effexor.
One of the other helpers here used that very successfully. She will be along later.
.
Nausea, suck on ice chips. SLOWLY.....
.
Diarrhea, any antidiarrha medication from the shelf of the pharmacy, or call the pharmacy where you get the medication from for suggestions.
Yes tell them you are weaning off it and ask their suggestions.
Then let us know please...
Bright Wings