Effexor withdrawal: Is it normal to feel shaky and cold?

@dd1, welcome. You will find many tips and success stories in these related discussions:
- As promised, my successful tapering off Effexor (Venlafaxine) https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/as-promised-my-successful-tapering-off-effexor-venlafaxine/
— Tips on minimizing withdrawal symptoms from Effexor (aka Venlafaxine): https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/tips-on-minimising-withdrawal-symptoms-from-effexor-aka-venlafaxine/

The most commonly shared tip is "go slow". Fellow members like @grandmar @texasduchess @sheffieldsmith @jeffc16 @simon007 @intendtorecover @misterb3 and @jakedduck1 are sure to repeat that mantra. 🙂 And can hopefully also share further tips on how to manage the taper and side effects like shaking and feeling cold.

What dosage were you at when you started your taper? How long did you take 112 mg before moving to 75mg? And how long have you been on 75mg now?

Hi there
For info I started when I was on 75mg per day and tapered down over 4 months following the tapering down advice provided.
I’m pleased to report I had zero side effects (which I’m sure we’re down to ‘taking it slowly’) and I’ve been Venlafaxine free now for several months.
A pill cutter is an absolute must in my view (picked mine up on Amazon) and a calendar to keep you on track (I used the calendar on my phone).
I’m quite sure I couldn’t have done it without following your advice in the post - it really does work.
Once again - a heartfelt thankyou!

I have been on Effexor for about 10 years, 37.5, but I have been on some kind of antidepressant for about 35 years. My psychiatrist increased to 75, then 112 in the spring because my depression had gotten worse due to some things in my personal life. Things had gotten better, so he suggested that I titer down because people really were not supposed to stay on an antidepressant all their life, and my anxiety had gotten worse. I have been down to 75 for about a week and a half.