Depression

[wonder502]

I've been taking effexor for 13 years now. I feel like I'm ready to come off it. Many reasons why I don't want to take it anymore. I'm scared of the withdrawal effects. It's been in my system for many years. I wonder if there is anyone else who has been on it as long as I have, and can relate or give advice as to how to come off of it. What did they experience. Because I have been taking it for so long, does my body think it needs it. Is my body addicted to it.

[4Maddie44]

I have been taking Effexor XR 150mg for 9 years.  I don't consider myself addicted to it.  With my doctors help I am withdrawing, and I am now into my 8th month of doing this.  I have had no bad days at all.  When I stopped cold turkey once before I had many withdrawal symptoms, but this time, as I am doing it so very slowly, I have been great.  Really well.  No withdrawal symptoms at all - honestly.  

Firstly it was my doctor's idea to come off it, and I have seen her regularly, the last time was today.  I am now at the tail end of withdrawal, but I don't care how long it takes.  The longer you are on it, the longer the withdrawal should be.  Think a year in your case.  Talk to your doctor and get their help.  You will be OK if you don't withdraw too fast.  

[spider6]

Hi, I have taken effexor before but it was such a very long time ago and not for very long as it didn't suit me so I don't really remember the withdrawals as I was on mega doses of tranquillizers too. Buuuuut, I have read many times on this forum that you must wean off slowly....again WEAN OFF SLOWLY if you want to be successful. I'm sure someone is going to give you some great advice.  Also why are you not asking your doctor about this? Anyway, best of luck, be careful.