I'm sorry that I really don't have an answer for you, @imataurus. I have heard of this sort of every-other-day method for stepping down off of antidepressants generally. Whatever you choose, it may be helpful to keep a diary to keep track of how you feel each day, and maybe ask someone close to you to take some notes also, just to get that extra bit of perspective. A year from now it may be interesting to look back on. By then you'll have insight to share with someone else going through the same!
Like this member:
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/as-promised-my-successful-tapering-off-effexor-venlafaxine/

@imataurus, I'm tagging fellow members like @sheffieldsmith @aemarie @tfought1 @nanasusan @lorie1207 @deeschmee @texasduchess @sears @jakedduck1 and others who can share their experiences.

You can also read more in these helpful related discussions:
– My successful tapering off Effexor (Venlafaxine) https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/as-promised-my-successful-tapering-off-effexor-venlafaxine/
– Long term effects AFTER withdrawing from Effexor: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/long-term-effects-after-withdrawing-from-effexor/
– Tips on minimizing withdrawal symptoms from Effexor (aka Venlafaxine): https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/tips-on-minimising-withdrawal-symptoms-from-effexor-aka-venlafaxine/

An Effexor taper schedule may vary from person to person. Your question is a good one that I would ask your prescribing doctor to explain why this approach is advised for you and how the mechanisms of the drug's half like work.

I believe Texas Duchess successfully tapered Effexor by methodically removing beads in the capsules. She’s the go to on this forum.