@arachel, @tennbee, others, my two cents worth: After weaning the Effexor go for weaning the Ambien. I've been on klonopin and Ambien for 25+ years and they have brought me to a very deep and dark hole. I'm trying very hard now to dig my way out. I weaned off the Ambien easily by going straight to the klonopin. But both were making me feel horrible once I hit 65 yrs! There are lots of other sleep therapies out there and yes I'm still searching. But right now a good night 's sleep is worth sacrificing. Best of luck in your decision.