EffexorXR withdrawal symptoms

[cowgyrljess]

I was on EffexorXR 150mg for two years.  It seemed to be working good, but my one close freind said I acted "strangely" to her since I had been on the drug.  Not having insurance, Effexor XR is quite pricey, $150 + a month and I had felt it was time to get off the drug.  I had been reading (and crying while I read) other peoples experiences stopping Effexor.  My doctor put me on a slow three month withdraw program.  and I can say I am day #2 off EffexorXR!  But that is about the extent of the excitedness.  Can't sleep, or when I do, nightmares and starnge dreams insue.  "brain shakiness," nausea, stomach pain, body aches, chills and sweats and dizziness.  Needless to say, I am not driving, and have taken up eating for that seems to be the only thing that helps me.  I guess everyone is different, but I wish that these symptoms would lesson, I feel like I am going through hell.  Isn't there anything "natural" out there that might help?  I wish a doctor would write back. I wish you all the best in getting off this terrible drug.

[remar]

I had a terrible time too getting off of effexor. All people are different like you said so it's hard to tell how long your going to go through this. What your feeling is normal when quitting this med. Did your Dr. suggest another med? Switching to another antidepressant will probably leeson your withdrawal for the effexor. I know that some of the antidepressants you can get as generic, much cheaper. I take paxil and get it for $4.00 and that's a months supply. Do you want to try another med? You can check at walmart or some grocery stores and see what antidepressants they carry that are on their list of $4.00 meds. I hope this helps some.I've heard that gabba helps with the withdrawal but I did'nt try it when I quit effexor. Hang in there, these symptoms will go away.  Take care. Remar

[LeftCoastChick]

So I have to ask, are you stopping the med because of peer pressure from a friend as it seems? Or do you truly feel no need for the med  or is it the drug cost?  Many people use these drugs for long periods of time without issue. All the drugs in this category have those withdrawal symptoms to some extent.. It depends on how quickly your drop your levels, what your symptoms are going to be. What was your dose and where are you at now?

There are cheaper alternatives in the SSRI class of meds which are similar to the one you are using now. I would speak to your doctor before doing anything rash. Paxil has some really bad side effects as well. If your gp isn't willing to change to another drug, I would suggest you ask to see a psychiatrist, whom is specifically trained in psychopharmeceuticals.

Many people will switch to another drug in the same or similar class, if they feel it isn't working as well. GABA is not safe in any way to use. There are no natural solutions for the withdrawal effects. Ativan and other tranquilzers can provide temporary relieft, but in the end you will get some of the withdrawal effects. I've been through it twice with effexor and cymbalta, and I had to split my capsules into minute doses at the end of my time taking them both. These drugs don't always work, and some work better then others. Most depression is caused by a chemical imbalance of the brain, so getting a good combination of drugs can be tricky. It's important to see a psychiatrist in any case.

The site is mainly for peer support and coping mechanisms. We can't give medical advice per se but can given suggestions, we can't assume any responsibility for information posted. You must seek a professional for any specific information.

I hope things smooth out for you soon, and see your doc!