What kind of drug is this ?!!!!!!!!!

[shel06]

My son has been off his dose of 75mg. of effexor for 5 days....He lost his meds somehow..so I had to get another priscripition..which took time .....he is really sick and can't even move . He's dizzy and nauseous and has flu-like symptoms.....I am very worried...He's away at college....Here's the final analysis......I want him off this drug ....it causes more havac than help....I need medical advise on the best way to wean from this crazy drug!

Shel....a very concerned mom.

[HARRYBEADS]

Maybe this is not the right time to get him off the meds if they are working for him. After he is finished College and can afford to loose a few weeks may be a better approach.

just a thought
Harry

[loiloi]

Sudden withdrawal from venlafaxine can lead to the withdrawal symptoms you describe. It should not be discontinued suddenly, instead he should go down to 37.5mg for a time before coming off it. Or, his doctor might consider changing him to a different anti-depressant without as many withdrawal symptoms,(Prozac, citalopram ?)  then coming off that.
Venlafaxine (Exeffor) is usually prescribed for major depression, in emergencies, or when other anti-depressants have been ineffective.
Eloise xx