How to get off of Effexor XR?

I have been trying for the past month to reduce my Effexor XR.  I can't seem to get below about 250 mg/night.  Even with this dosage, i get only about 5 hours of sleep.  My treating psychiatrist in trying to phase in Anafril eventually moving it up to 100 mg./night.  Any suggestions?  I am taking 45 mg. of serax also at night for sleep.  Thanks for your help!

[HFHS-M.D.-HG]

Dear Anonymous

Effexor XR need to be slowly tapered to prevent any possible withdrawl (withdrawal) symptoms. You can discuss with your psychiatrist about other available medications such as Ambien, Sonata etc.

Sincerely
HFHS-M.D.

[melanie]

I am on Effexor also and I do not sleep well either.  I have been on Ambien 5-10 mg a night to get to sleep.  Getting to sleep is the problem.  I also find that I do not REM much is sleep whereas I use to dream all the time.  After researching this drug, I've found that it inhibits REM sleep.  I'm getting off of it and switching to another drug.  FYI - this is not the only side effect I have.

[olive]

effexor xr has been very helpful for my depression (300mg in the a.m. and 37.5 of regular effexor in the afternoon).  it is a soothing medication but when i forget to take it i get very uncomfortable!!!  i am motivated to continue taking it and want to take more.  i am also taking seroquel for another set of symptoms, but a very low dose and it happens to help me sleep.