Severe effexor withdrawl

[mggs]

I was put on effexor about 25yrs. ago for severe PMDD. Since I am now menopausal my doctor has weaned me off it. I have been completely off it now for about 1-1/2wks. and have been experiencing withdrawl symptoms. I am very depressed, cry at the slightest situations, have mood swings, and feel suicidal at times. I am generally a happy outgoing person, but have felt withdrawn, hopeless, and lack of purpose in my life. I am afraid of these feelings because I have never experienced anything like this. What can I do to combat this withdrawl. If there is nothing I can do, how long do you forsee it lasting. I do not want to go back on this medication. It has some devastating effects!

[mggs]

I would like to say I'm feeling much better. I had to be put on Prozac, and my doctor will try to wean me off it at a much slower rate. I find this absolutely disgusting that the Effexor causes such severe withdrawl symptoms. Something is terribly wrong with these type medications. I was put on the meds. for my PMDD. I no longer have this but yet have developed an addiction to the drug. If I have trouble getting off the Prozac, I will have a serotonin blood test done. If my level is low than I will adjust the medication accordingly. Depression in this case could be due to my levels being low, its a symptom not the main focus of what's going on. I have never in my life been a person who suffers from depression. I think these drug companies are making sure to focus on the symptom of depression vs. what is causing it. I wonder how many people truly suffer from depression(caused by an external stimuli)or have a chemical imbalance. If the latter is true, than this is what should be the main focus, not the symptom. Just another way these companies are making money. I am in the medical profession, so I feel okay in saying this.

[LeftCoastChick]

Having a chemical removed from your brain may have that side effect, BUT if it continues and you are still having suidical ideations, you may have a chemical imbalance. I was switched categories of drugs from SSRI's to a mood stabilizer and my PMDD came back full force, I was suicidal and had rages. I hid out at home because I was afraid of what I would say.  It's been a battle the last 6 months, but I just got put on Wellbutrin and I'm hoping it will help the PMDD.  

Keep an eye on yourself, if it continues for a month or more see your doctor, many women have a difficult time during menopause and don't realize it.  I worked with 3 meno women and it was pure hell. I had to check everyone to make sure of moods, and then that would gauge how I would handle the day.  I ended up getting fired, and never got a reason why, funny enough another menopausing woman took my job.

[remar]

I'm sorry to hear your going through this. I've been through effexor withdrawal myself so I know how you feel. It will get better. All people are different and it's hard to tell how long you'll go through this. It took me several weeks but it might be a much shorter time for you. Hang in there when it gets bad and tell yourself that it will get better. Take care. Remar