withdrawal symptoms

[wakullamama]

I have been taking Effexor & verapamil for over two years now. My neurologist put me on these medications to help with my migraine headaches, which are hereditary. I have no health insurance and can no longer afford this medication and I began to cut my dose down. I was taking two 75mg tablets of Effexor daily. I KNOW what it feels like to be without this medicine and I'm going thru the same symptoms right now. As I said, I was taking two 75mg tablets daily and I have gotten down to only 1/2 tablet. This has been over the last month. I feel dizzy constantly, have diarrhea, and shake constantly.  I don't feel like I'm "at myself"...I have to constantly think about simple, ordinary daily tasks. In fact, as I'm writing this, I'm having to go back and correct mistakes that I wouldn't normally make. I don't want to feel this way and I am terrified to try and drive anywhere!! How long is this gonna last and is there anything...ANYTHING I can do to help myself??? I'm a single mother with two children and my elderly father to take care of.

[Eddie1994]

So happy to hear you're doing better.  If I may make a suggestion, as you stated, things are pretty tight for you, but I would suggest you look into a new evolving medical non-drug technology called EEG Neurofeedback.  My wife is getting this treatment and I am wowed by the way it is helping her.  Her three day attacks are down to about one day now and this is after having only seven treatments.  Given your situation, maybe you could look into asking your state Vocational Rehabilitation Service to help cover the cost (each state may have a different name for the vocational service).  For more information on neurofeedback do a web search on ISNR neurofeedback.  

[wakullamama]

thanks....I'm doin better. I've been off my meds totally for almost a week....still having some brain zaps.

[Eddie1994]

As you know you are experiencing withdrawal effects from Effexor.  This drug should be guided by a physician to help minimize the effects.  If you have enough medication to get you through the next couple of days, call your Neurologist and explain your situation, they might be able to find an alternative or some type assistance.  You have quite a load on your shoulders without having to go through this.  Call your Doctor as soon as possible.  God Bless!