VENLAFAXINE WIthdrawal

[peterdow]

I managed to stop talking VENLAFAXINE after tapering off very gradually with the support of my GP. I was on 150mg for 14 years and had tried several times to come off this antidepressant, without success. VENLAFAXINE  really helped my depression and anxiety, however it has some nasty side effects and is VERY difficult to get off. Although I've been off the drug for a couple of months, I still feel pretty rough most days. I feel exhausted much of the time and have very little motivation and drive. Does anyone know if this might be due to withdrawal from Venlafaxine? Has anyone experienced similar effects after stopping this drug?

[MJA1111]

I never thought I would get off Effexor, but the key was to take it slow. I halved my dose for 3 months, then halved again for another 3 months, and then did a month of alternate day dosing on the smallest of doses. These Dr's that suggest a 2 week tapering period do not know what they are talking about. I was lucky to have a good Psychiatrist who explained to me that there is no real evidence of the 'ideal' way to come off Effexor and there needs to be much more research on this drugs withdrawal effects. My Psychiatrist 'guessed' that by taking it very very slow it would allow time for my brain chemistry neurotransmitters to compensate for the absence of the drug. Under his supervision I found this so easy to do that I am now off this drug and have never looked back. find a Dr that is willing to work with you and support you and most importantly agrees that you no longer 'need' this medication. Michael

[4Maddie44]

How are you feeling now?  Please update us as we worry about others and like to know how they are getting on.  You are not alone, we are here to listen.

Take care

[4Maddie44]

As you are experiencing, Effexor is a very difficult anti depressant to withdraw from.  Like you, I too tapered off very slowly, over 10 months, with the support of my doctor.I was on 150mg daily for many years too.  I have been off the medication for nearly five months, and have had no withdrawal symptoms at all.  

I know when I stopped Effexor once before, depression did return within a year.  Perhaps what you are feeling is depression returning.  I have not felt like you since withdrawing.  Exhaustion and lack of motivation does not sound like withdrawal symptoms - but that is my personal belief.  

I hope others who have withdrawn successfully can help you, and let you know if they also felt the same as you.  I am so sorry, as I myself have energy and am enjoying my life.  I do feel a little l,ow first thing in the mornings.  I am taking St John's Wort to try and alleviate that, as I have read it helps with low mood.  I also take Vitamin B complex and Omega 3 supplements.  Just my personal belief that supplements can help.

I know you tapered off very gradually, but how gradually was that?  I suppose we all feel differently when we stop Effexor, so what I experience can be different to what you experience.  Withdrawals can last a long time.  Perhaps you will gradually feel better - I do hope so.  Have you discussed this with your doctor?  

Take care and keep us updated.