I have taken Effexor XR for about 5 years, which followed a course of Paxil. The Paxil was preceded by a course of Zoloft. The anti-depressants were given to me because I have a physical disability with chronic pain, and anxiety that began at the same time as the pain. Anxiety was the worst, but as my life tanked from inability to do many things, the depression grew. Zoloft did not help much; I gained 60 lbs. on Paxil. When switching from Paxil to Effexor, I lost about 20 of the 60lbs. Effexor was given to me at 75 mg per day; then to 150 mg. of Effexor per day in a.m. A new doctor changed me to Effexor XR 300 mg. per day, taken 150 mg. twice a day. Though i lost about 20 lbs. after stopping the Paxil, the weight started going back on until i was back at 60 lbs. over normal. After some time, I felt that I was doing well mentally, and I discontinued one of my Effexor pills per day. That was about 1 year ago. About two and 1/2 weeks ago, after attempting to lose weight unsuccessfully for months, I dropped to 75 mg. per day for about 3 days and then stopped taking Effexor completely. [I realize the stupidity of doing this without a doctor's supervision. However the Dr. that prescribes my meds is a pain management doctor who pays very little attention to my overall medications and is more concerned with making sure I do not exceed pain med prescription.]
Also, several days ago i checked in with my G.P. and told her what I had been doing. She seemed to think that I was fine.
Though I initially felt some mild side effects from withdrawal (slightly lightheaded at times and occasional headache) the main problem that I seem to have is anger. I feel fine most of the time, but I am very quick to tear up over very mildly sad/cute or whatever situation. And I seem to get very cranky at the drop of a hat. I notice that one second I am fine and the next I am really mad about something fairly trivial.
Big question: is this anger a side effect of stopping the Effexor? it seems almost like a hormonal surge, but i'm 58 years old, so that seems unlikely. How long will it take before this stops? How long before my body adjusts to it's previous state and metabolizes the way it used to? Or will it? I really need to be myself in 2 weeks as i am getting married. There may not be a wedding if i cannot control my anger. Any help you can give me is greatly appreciated.