Weight gain after stopping Effexor

[GossJo]

I have been taking Effexor XR for years and I am in the process of weaning off this drug.  I am down to 37.5 mg and am experiencing rapid weight gain and bloating.  Has anyone else had this problem while withdrawing from Effexor?  I have not changed my diet and exercise routine one bit yet still gain weight.  Help!

[Paxiled]

I've never taken that drug, too afraid of it, but it targets norepinephrine receptors as well as serotonin, and the former is basically adrenalin.  So you've stopped taking a very stimulating drug, which might have slowed your metabolism.  I would assume that if you successfully quit this drug eventually your body will find it's natural weight again.  In the meantime, you might consider taking adaptogenic herbs that balance the adrenals, as this drug has been working them hard, to see if that helps.