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Effexor withdrawal
Hello everyone, I have been in effexor for fifteen years been on 150 for seven. Finally found out a lot of my issues were do to ADHD so was on the wrong med. Finally think I found a good ADHD medsso been trying to lower my dose of effexor with psychatrist help. I went from 150 to 75. During the first few weeks felt vertigo and Shakey that went away. Then about four weeks into it felt body shocks. Now I feel like itchiness in scalp and tingling and brain zaps. Is this a normal side effects? Also thinking I jumped to big of a dose so thinking about going up 37.5 then taper off again from there. I do have a psych and he recommended that he is fantastic. It's been hard and stressful. But I am getting through it. Thank you for listening. Blessings.
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To @frouke
Thank you for your reply. I am so isolated and have to rely on my husband for everything. I haven’t left the house in weeks as I don’t want my neighbors to see me in this condition. They have no idea what’s going on. I am sure they are wondering where I am as just several weeks ago I used to walk with my husband around our neighborhood greeting everyone as they walked their dogs.
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1 ReactionTry not to think about what the neighbours are thinking, I can’t be bothered because there’s nothing I can do about it, I always get reclusive when I’m not well. If the withdrawal is having such a bad effect on you then it’s probably something you need more help with, I know it’s not what you want because they’re just going to use more medication but even if it’s just to get you through the toughest times it will help you stay strong, try using some protein drinks to keep yourself hydrated and get some energy, I use them when I’m feeling weak. I sincerely hope that you feel better soon, please stay connected and let us know how you are doing, best wishes.
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1 ReactionAnyone in the group that’s in protracted withdrawal from nortriptyline?
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2 ReactionsThese antidepressant withdrawals are brutal. Trying to find a doctor that understands is near impossible.
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1 ReactionI came across this Mayo Clinic site because I was searching for some help. I'm a mom and professional who keeps it together when I need to. But, I'm dependent on Effexor and alcohol to cope with stress and depression. I have a loving husband who's aware of it, but I manage to always still handle what needs to be done. This is my 2nd time on Effexor when I was off of it for a while, but didn't think any other antidepressant would work for me. So , here I am on it again. I really want to wean off, but so afraid of the side effects I experienced before. I struggle with depression and anxiety, but know i'm making it worse by combining alcohol. Anyone wean off of Effexor easier by going on a different antidepressent while weaning off? I feel like my life is going to go downhill soon if I don't get control of all of this, so I joined a group that may be of help.
One thing is clear, there is nothing helpful coming from the etoh, and it will probably interfere with any path you may be on to better health. Try and find a good therapist, or someone you can share with freely at least once a week.
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3 ReactionsAgree with @shmerdloff! Better to get control of your ETOH (alcohol) use first then tackle the Effexor. I would fear that you would tend to use the ETOH to help with withdrawal effects of Effexor then you would certainnly have a huge issue to manage!
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1 ReactionThat’s sounds like a good idea. Thank you!
I was diagnosed with General Anxiety Disorder about 12 years ago and was put on Effexor. 2 years ago I had a lengthy episode to the point it was necessary to increase my Effexor dosage to 375 mg daily. I’ve been relatively stable since then and now trying to reduce my dosage. I am scared to reduce the dosage because of how bad I felt 2 years ago. I have worked hard at giving myself different tools to use (DBT, Music therapy, meditation, breathing techniques)
I don’t have a lot of medical support as the Psychiatrist that worked with me for almost a year passed away and there was nobody to replace her. I live in a very small rural community. The locum for my town told me to try reducing from the 375 mg to 300 mg daily. I’m on Day #4 and so far so good. I am wondering if I am going to experience negative symptoms, how long it might be before that happens? Thank you
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2 ReactionsUnder the circumstances, you can be your own best resource. 375 is the highest dose. Coming down 25 a week, or what you feel comfortable with, could work.
There is a Catch 22. You might do fine on much less than 325, but simply knowing that you are reducing the dose could cause increased anxiety.
A kind of placebo reaction in reverse.
Mostly, keep trying to find a physician who knows what she's doing. Having professional back-up can help you feel more secure.
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