It's only been day 2 (insurance cancelled) of withdrawal & so far I've been feeling as though when I'm walking to whatever destination, my body arrives but my brain delays its arrival. I feel extremely anxious, nauseous, short-tempered, dizzy, sensitive & confused. I like how I felt while taking Effexor but these withdrawals are unbearable... how much longer can I expect to have them?
How long do Effexor withdrawal symptoms last?
Question posted by ambudai on 9 Feb 2014
Last updated on 3 August 2024
The information on this page reflects personal experiences shared by our community members. It is not reviewed for medical accuracy and should not replace professional medical advice.
170 Answers Page 12
Nazzland
10 April 2014
I have been on effexor for over 10 years. I originally was prescribed the med for anxiety. I have tried a few times to rid myself of the med but met with severe withdrawal symptoms. I also have brain delays. I am extremely short tempered and feel like I'm getting a cold. My head is heavy and when I move my eyes I get a strange feeling in my head. I cry a lot. I seem to be in a daze. It is simply awful. I have read and read on the topic. I brought myself down to .75 mg. Then, I took the pill apart and divided the beads. I did this for a few weeks. Then, I tried to go off completely but it's been a disaster. I have read that others separate the beads to roughly 35mg. They take it every other day. Then once every three days and so on until they are off. I am going to try this as I went from 35 each day to stopping and it hasn't worked. I feel horrible. Please anyone help!
Getting Off It
2 Sep 2014
I hope by now you are off effexor completely. I have been on 75mg for about a year and I started taking 20 beads out of the capsule for 7 days then I took 40 out for 7 days and so on. I am now down to 35 beads in the capsule and so far I have only had headaches, nausea and some brain delay. I also started this medicine for anxiety. Now it is time for me to get off because they are making me mean and I know from experience that when I act like that I need to come off whatever it is I'm taking. I don't want to depend on this drug for the rest of my life. I plan to cut the beads down to 25, 15 then 5 a day and if I feel like I can't make it I will open a pill and take out 5 beads and put on my tongue until I can finally get off this drug once and for all. I am determined to be done with them soon. I have had some withdraws since I begin cutting back the beads but it has not been anything I can't handle.I do worry about when I stop taking it completely.
Nazzland
2 Sep 2014
I beat the drug and I"m really happy. I did the above and it worked. Keep strong. Get off that drug. It's horrible.
Bmeyer95
8 Sep 2014
I'm also being tapered off Effexor. I'm currently on my last week where I'm dropping from 37.5mg to nothing. Last night I began the symptoms of vertigo, brain zaps, body aches, and just all around insanity. I had no control of my emotions. As of today, the brain zaps are horrible and I feel like mentally, I'm not here. If I move my head, it's as if I can feel my brain being electrocuted.
Sarsimons
14 Sep 2014
I'm on my 6th day of stopping (went down to 35mg) and slept until 4:30p! I don't even have to move my head to get the brain zaps. I think I'll try separating the pill and ween off of that. Effexor should be banned of the market.
Sarsimons
18 Sep 2014
I've been taking half the beads from a 37mg capsule and it has helped a lot with the symptoms. The one I have now is feeling like I have something caught in my throat and I can take a few bites of something and feel incredibly full. I will NEVER take this medication again. It should be banned off the market!
Bmeyer95
18 Sep 2014
It's been a week, and I had my dr prescribe me meclizine. That fortunately helped with the dizziness/vertigo.. Unfortunately my anxiety levels & the ability to control my emotions are off the chart. It takes nothing to throw me over the edge. I have Ativan to help, but that doesn't even seem to touch it. Fingers crossed in a few days I hope this will be all better. Ive been ordering every natural supplement under the sun to attempt to level myself out. I never wouldve started this medication had I know the side effects.
Getting Off It
20 Sep 2014
This is one of the worst drugs I have experienced with withdrawals. They seriously should band this drug. I was prescribed this drug for anxiety. I was on a 75mg for almost a year. Which has around 180 beads in it. I started out by removing the beads. I removed 20, 40, 60 and 80 for seven days each. Then I got all excited because at that point I wasn't really having much withdrawals at all. None that was really bothering me anyway. I guess once you get out around 90 beads you are somewhere around 37.5mg. So I removed 100 and once I removed 100 I knew I could count out 80 beads and continued taking 80 for 5 days. Once I was down to taking 80 beads the nausea started so I began to take benadryl one pill in the morning. They did make me a little sleepy at work, I have a office job and I am determined to beat this ugly drug. So my next week was 60 beads and then 40 beads still taking one benadryl a day.
I knew there was no way to do 20 beads and come off, so I began to take one benadryl in the morning and one in the evening and began a slower count down, but less days 35, 25, 20, 15, 10 and finally 5 beads for 3 days each. At this point I was counting the beads and placing on my tongue. On my last day of 5 beads I went to the doctor and they gave me Xanas 1mg (which I know no one wants to trade one drug for another) I take half a pill in the morning and half a pill in the evening which has helped with most of the withdrawals I have experienced. My worst part has been the nausea and she told me there was something they could give me in place of taking the benadryl, that didn't cause the drowsy effect, but I was so excited to know that was my last day of taking EFFEXOR that I forgot to get the prescription. I went to Walgreens on Friday which was yesterday and the pharmacist told me to take the Walgreen brand Wal-Dram 2 less drowsy formula which is actually a motion sickness pill. It says once a day, but I had to do two a day. I'm currently on my 3rd day of no EFFEXOR (whoohoo) and I plan to call my dr office on Monday and request that medicine she told me about for nausea since my dr office was closed on Friday. I think I can make it through with the medicine from Walgreen since it is the weekend. So don't misunderstand me I have had the ringing in the ears, short temper, crying, nausea, diarrhea, brain fog, but I don't think it has been as bad as it could have been. I just wished I had of took the prescription for the nausea medication on Wednesday when I went to the doctor and Thursday the Benadryl seemed to help and I was so busy I didn't call the doctors office back to request they call it in. Friday the Benadryl was no help and the doctors office was closed so I hit Walgreeen to ask the pharmacist what I could do until Monday. So with all that said I plan to take the Xanax half a pill in the morning and half in the evening unless I get to the point I don't think I need half a pill twice a day. I am scheduled for a doctors appointment for next month where she plans to lower the dose of the Xanax and I will stop that completely after that. I have to say EFFEXOR will never be part of my life again. I have come to far counting beads and dealing with the withdrawals I have had. I feel for everyone on this terrible drug that is coping with the withdrawals that I know could have been so much worse for me. I do take a Vitamin B and a B Complex and Vitamin D 3 everyday, but I took those before I ever heard of Effexor and that is one drug I wish I had never heard of. I did ask the doctor how long I would experience the withdrawals I was having and she basically told me they could last up to 10 days, but she thought since I had lower the dose gradually the way I did (I should have went a little slower moving from dose to dose) she thought I would be over the worst part in a few days and as determined as I am and she does knows when I set my mind to something I will accomplish it. I will let you know in a few days where I am on my path to having a normal life.
Getting Off It
24 Sep 2014
I am now on day 7 of no beads of EFFEXOR... the second - sixth days was the worst. Taking the motion sickness pills helped with the nausea so I will just keep taking them until it is completely gone. From day two to six I throw up almost eveything I ate and came to realize it was easier not to eat. So I had protein drinks and took the pills for nausea. The dizzyness and ringing in the ears are getting farther apart so I consider that a good thing. I have not had a headache today (but today is not over). The mood swings seem to be under control with the half a Xanax in the morning and half in the afternoon. As soon as the nausea is gone I'm going to try to wait until around lunch to take the half a Xanax and see if that will work for me and cut that down to half a pill a day. I have never taken a drug before that caused withdrawals that were noticeable so this has really took me by storm.
I started taking 20 beads out on July 18 and it took me unitl September 17 to take my last 5 beads. Believe me this is not an easy drug to get off from and you can't simply do it overnight. I thought going off the way I did was going to be a breeze, but I tell you it has been a nightmare, but one I can handle. I was glad two of my bad days was over the weekend. That did help a lot with having to come back to work on Monday. So actually Friday - Tuesday which was yesterday was the worst and I'm starting to feel a little better. I did eat some today and it stayed down. I do still have diarrhea, but hopefully tomorrow that will be gone. I feel a little brain delay and fog, but nothing like in the beginning. I thank God I have made it this far and not went back on them because I can see how easy that would be to do. I am not an expert by no means heck I had never heard of this drug until I started taking it about a year ago, but if you really want to get off this drug I think the only way to do it is to get yourself on the lowest possible dose and remove the beads like I did. I know I was on a 75mg but I have read where people are on a 300 and 400mg. Please just stick to cutting yourself down until you can get off. On the second or third day of being off totally plan to take a few days of vacation unless you have a office job where you can tolerate it a little better. Good look to all and hopefully by the 10 day I will be completely withdraw free and on my way to getting rid of the Xanax. THANK GOD!! I wish I had never heard the name of this drug before in my life. They should band this drug from the market the side effects are to high a risk for them to market it.
Krista1976
5 Nov 2014
Getting off it - new to this forum just wondering how you are now?
Getting Off It
14 Nov 2014
I stopped taking Effexor on September 17 after I got down to 5 beads, and I'm doing great. The first couple of week was a little ruff, but with the help of the nausea medicine and the Xanax I made it through. I'm not going to sugar coat it because there were times I just didn't understand how it could be so hard to get off it. I stopped the nausea medicine a couple of weeks after I took my last 5 beads of Effexor. I stopped the Xanax a month after my last dosage. Since them I have taken myself off Ambien by cutting down to 3/4 of a pill for 7 days, 1/2 a pill for 7 days and 1/4 or a pill for 7 days. I got some sleep reset and Gabatrol from the health food store and my deep sleep has improved so much it is unreal and my clarity of thinking is amazing. I never realized what these pills were doing to me until I came off from them and found out how much better I feel. Thursday November 13, last night I started the process of cutting down on Clonazepam.
That is the last drug I am determined to get off from. I know I can do it because I have come a long way in the past few months. I know there will be withdrawals to coming off this drug, but I'm prepared for them. I have nausea medicine and I still have Xanax if needed. I know it will take me several weeks to get myself off Clonazepam, so I will reply back if someone asked me a question to let you know where I am in the process. I think God I have made it this far coming off the two I have already got off from and I can't wait to get off the last one. The only prescription drug I want to take are ones that I absolutely have to like my thyroid pill. I do take a melt-away D3, a melt-away B12. I wish success to everyone that is trying to get Effexor, Ambien or Clonazepam. I don't know what to expect with withdrawals for Clonazepam, but I pray they are nothing like Effexor. Just keep the faith and be determined and you can win the war on getting off it.
rlj6807
18 Nov 2014
I've been on it since 2004, and have weaned myself down from 75 mg twice a day to half 1/4 of that once per day. I have tablets and can't cut them any smaller as they crumble. I am almost out and refuse to refill the prescription. So, as I am typing this I am on day 4 without any at all and it sucks! I have all the above symptoms. I feel like I should be in AA or NA or something. And my opinion is if they are going to prescribe that drug, an automatic enrollment in AA or NA should come with it! I can't even find the words to describe how much I hate this and how miserable I am. I don't know what to do!
victoriamarie89
5 April 2015
I have tapered down from 150 in 37.5mg increments every 3 days. once I got down to 37.5 I cut it in half and took that for 5 days. Then I tried cutting it in quarters and took it for two days. It has been two days since I have taken anything and I still have bad brain zaps, brain depays, dizziness, and vomiting. Please give me any advice or home remedies. This feels terrible!
victoriamarie89
5 April 2015
delays*
Inactive
21 July 2015
Your so right. I have tried to rid myself of the effexor. I have never felt this bad in my life that I can remember. I wonted to get off of it to see how I felt on my on. It is scary the thought of how bad it can make someone fill coming off this. My thoughts are I did not think it was good to take for ever. Help.
Donellion
4 Aug 2016
Did you try the 25mg tablets. You could take for a few months and then actually cut the 25mg tablets in half. I am at that point and trying to get off of it totally and it still an effort.
Donellion
4 Aug 2016
How long did it take for the symptoms of getting off of the Effexor take?
Willow6916
1 Sep 2016
I was on effexor for 9 years and for the last 10 months I have been weaning very slowly. Up until two days ago I was opening the 37.5 mg capsule and taking out the beads. Ten beads for a week... Then 20..and so on. I was up to taking 70 of the little beads out and then yesterday I said no more. Today is day two of not taking anything and so far it's not too bad. I'm getting the funny feeling in my head when I move my eyes... And feel a bit sluggish. I'm hoping this is the worst and it slowly goes away. Effexor helped me in the beginning for my anxiety but the side effects from it has made my life hell. I gained 100 pounds, had mood swings, tired all the time from insomnia. So looking forward to life without meds. Hoping as well to lose the weight as it was impossible to lose while taking Effexor.
sandersmarcia
21 Nov 2016
Two years later, how are you doing? Were you able to get off of it? I have been going off of it gradually, since August. I was on 225, down to 150, then to 75 and then 35.7. There is a 25 mg pill available. But my dr told me there wasn't. I have been toughing it out for almost 3 weeks now. Some better, but still sad and cry a lot. I am praying this gets better soon. I am into the 4th month of trying to go off. It is a terrible drug and has really messed up my life going off of it.Going through additional tough times, husband died, I made a cross country move to be near my daughter, retired etc. I have been to 2 therapists who were no help. I finally found someone who was able to take me, but has a huge practice and can't see me but once a month. I do feel like I will eventually be okay.
tlcgreengoes
27 Jan 2017
I have been on effexor for 4 years now and had the same symptoms as you. My doctor helped me wean myself down and after visiting another professional, I was able to switch to Trintellex. I was on 150 mg of Effexor and it worked great until... I got tired of the side effects if I missed one pill and the weight gain. I dropped to 75 mg for two months then the last five effexor pills I was told to take one effexor 75mg then the next day a 10mg Trintellex until my effexor was gone. Now I am on Trintellex and the only withdrawal I am experiencing right now is an itchy feeling above my shoulder. My brain feels so much clearer. I hope to wean myself off all meds totally with the help of my doctor.
Chasehunter810
4 Feb 2017
Dude I'm going through the same exact thing as I'm typing this. I've been on venlafaxine 150mg for anxiety for about 2 years now. Got married and tried to have kids, with no sex drive and blah blah blah I decided to get off of it, and try something else. Doc lowered the prescription to I think 75mg told me to take it for 15 days and while taking the new prescription and I should be fine. Well yeah freakin right. Sounded great and is ending aweful. I have terrible vertigo, those same weird like brain zaps when I move my eyes to the side. It's just really weird and unbareable. But as the days pass it gets better. I've been off of it for I'd say 2 weeks now and the effects have gotten better. Although they are still present, I'm almost getting to the point where I'm getting used to it. Still really blows, but I'm hoping in another week or so that I'll be withdraw free. I'll update everyone on this post when I feel normal again.
Don't freak out, it gets better I promise, try and find something to keep you occupied and keep away from big crowds and things that make your eyes go crazy. Good luck!
vegasb71
25 April 2017
I keep reading about the XR and removing beads to ween off. Sounds ibvious,but can someone walk me through this process of removing beads and how many I should take out at a time. I've been on for about a year. Was prescribed them for nerve pain from a broken back. This is the only med I've been on and am too lazy to remember to take the freaking pill until the next day when I go into withdrawals.
Piperrusty1
15 Oct 2017
I was weaned off 150 mg over the past year. When I got to 37 mg the Dr. said finish 30 days then stop. That was 2 weeks ago. I've been having emotional extremes of sadness and anger, hot and cold flashes, itchy skin, muscle pain and headaches. Today I woke up dizzy and I can't get out of bed. My dr. told me nothing about this. Should I try taking a pill again?
Feeling bless 49
25 Nov 2017
I have been on this drug at least 3 years. My withdrawals are like I have the flu and a stomach bug at the same time. I’m praying and wishing that my withdrawal would end it’s been 3weeks. Night sweats ,anxiety ,vomit cold and hot. Brain hurts eye hurts. Noises are very bothersome. Feel like cramp
FionaMoonBlossom
20 Jan 2018
I was on Effexor 75 for a long time. I plateaued and my Doc (GP) bumped me up to 150. The increase had almost the opposite effect. My husband and I talked about it and decided that I should speak to someone who is an expert in the field of medications for depression/anxiety/etc. GPs are great, but they know a little about alot of things. I needed someone who knew alot about depression. I made an appointment with a Nurse Practitioner who is a specialist (and has been doing this exact thing for 30 years.) I am now in the midst of getting off Effexor completely. We have done it slowly - She prescribed a small dose 2 x 25) of a medication called Lamictal (generic Lamotrigine.) Interestingly enough she is thinking I may have a mild case of Bipolar rather than depression. Lamictal is prescribed for seizures, but has proven to be a good evening agent for Bipolar as well. So far so good with that. I have taken that since the day after Christmas.
I went back to the Effexor 75s for about a month, then switched to Effexor 37.5. I took them for about 3-4 weeks and now am off completely. When I stopped the Effexor, The NP added .5 of Viibryd as my new antidepressant. However, just this past week, first, I was really over-the-top manic. (My house is really clean now!!) But then, when the mania reached its peak, that night (or really next morning) at 6 am, from a dead sleep, I had my first-in-my-life panic attack. I ended up in the ER and given Valium. They also sent me home with a prescription for 15 more Valium. My husband took me back to my NP that afternoon. She attributes the panic attack to the withdrawal of Effexor. Per her instructions, I have stopped the Viibryd for now and, if I feel the starting symptoms of a panic attack I am to take one 37.5 Effexor to alleviate those symptoms. She also said to take one of the Valium I was prescribed, I am trying very, very hard to never need to ever put another Effexor in my body. Currently, my only issue is crying at the drop of a hat. (No more happy dog or cat videos for me on Facebook for awhile!) 99% of the time I can handle the crying. It is getting old, but the alternative is worse. I have another appointment with my NP in 2 weeks (or sooner if necessary.) We will decide what to do as we move forward from that point on. I think the hardest part of dealing with depression is finding the right medications -- this trial and error is a tough road. But I know, in the end it will be worth it. It also helps that my husband is here because he sometimes sees me behaving "off" before I do. It is nice to have that heads up. By reading everyone's stories - you can see how different each person's issues are. I strongly urge you - any of you - NOT to do this alone. Find a professional to help you. Not just a GP. Someone who really, no kidding works with this day after day. While the ER gave me the right treatment - they just blew me off with anxiety. But after my NP explained everything, how Effexor works and what it does to my different levels - she knew immediately that my panic attack WASN'T anxiety. It was Effexor.
PHARM FREE
24 Jan 2018
Do some research on CBD oils.
I believe its helped reduced the intensity of my wd. I'm going thru wd (12mg to 6mg) but im functioning in my daily activities. Ive been on this crap for 20 yrs. Its been a long road. Started reducing from 125mg 6 months ago. Ive been reducing by 20% until i stabilize. Take a break and reduce again.
6mg and feeling like there is lite at the end of this dark tunnel.
Stay strong and check out the CBD oil.
ditomp4
9 Feb 2018
I was on 75mg of Effexor. Took a few beads out each week and got to 37.5mg after 6 months. Continued taking out beads and at the end of a year was finally off with only one withdrawal... brain shocks.
Palmeter
9 June 2018
I think Effexor is the worst drug ever I recommend no one even starts it I’m sorry for what your going through, if it helps at all know that I’m going through the same thing right now
Dollar110
27 June 2018
When you separated the beads did you put them in another capsule to take? Just curious, I am coming off of Effexor 75mg and now I am down to 35mg every other day for 3 days and then stop. I feel sluggish, mild headache, and dizziness thatis awful!!!
Randirichman
12 Sep 2019
I was in Effexor for 15 years. Psychiatrist supervised withdrawal over 5 months in 2012. Withdrawals were hell and torture on earth for years. I saw 5 other psychiatrists and tried dozens of other meds to no avail. 7 years later I’m suffering so much with diagnosed Neurotoxicity, Anhedonia and lost everything about who I was. I would choose to die but I have 2 children so I fight daily to stay alive. I’m on Disability and used to work in television. Losing my memory and suffer major depression. I isolate and have no interests. Pfizer should be sued and Effexor taken off the market. Effexor should be Illegal. My life is over and even though I exercise and eat well and see a wonderful therapist, my BRAIN IS DAMAGED AND LIVING IS TORTURE.
fatbalddaddy
6 March 2020
I have taken venlafaxine xr 75mg for about 15 years now. I believed it helped me to stick with the decision to stop smoking cigarettes.
I would still be taking it had I not lost my 90 day prescription last month.
The last pill I took was a week ago. Surprisingly I have not yet noticed any severe withdrawal symptoms. I wonder if the gabapentin that I take is keeping these symptoms at bay.
Also I do not work and do not have to deal with the daily B.S. that many others do.
Wish me good luck.
bakergirl2112
23 March 2014
I have been on effexor for about 2 years now and the same thing happened to me when my insurance was cancelled and I tried to quit suddenly but my symptoms got so bad at one point that I ended up caving and spending the 300+ dollars to have my prescription refilled. So I decided after that I was going to use what I had to slowly ween off of it as best I could. I started with a half a dose every day for a while until I felt I could go longer. Then it was every other day. After that I tried only taking them when I started to feel the nausea and vertigo coming on. After time it started to go longer. I could wait 2 or so days before taking another half a pill. At some point my body just started rejecting it. Every time I would take a pill I would vomit it right back up. I tested it after that and just didn't take any. I would get dizzy yes, but it was very tolerable. Soon enough that went away and now I feel better than I have in years.
I didn't realize how much that stuff took over my body. I feel free now. I would recommend getting off it if and when you can. There's also a few things you can do that help immensely. Vitamin 5-HTP, omega 3 oils, and a daily vitamin can help with the mood side affects. I found that a benadryl helps with the dizzy and vertigo and putting an ice pack on the back of the neck really helps with nausea. Now, I am no expert and this is just my story and how I got through it. I know it feels like the side affects will never go away, coming from someone who has beaten it, they will eventually subside. Just be strong :)
drummerseve
16 Dec 2014
Baker, how long did ur symptoms last? And did u get any protracted withdrawal down the rd? I tapered from 150 with the beads and have come off. I was fine for about three weeks and then i was crushed with ton of symptoms. Ive also been on them for ten yrs. Im going through some super rough stuff right now. How long until u noticed u were starting to feel better? And how do u feel now?-Mike.
Mittz
6 Jan 2015
Helllo,
I'm wondering how you are doing almost a year later? I am starting this journey today, slowly tapering off. I hope you're doing well and Effexor free. Please let me know when you have a moment. Thank you!
Mmei
26 Jan 2015
I'm tapering off Effexor xr and have stopped as of today. Last dose was like 25mg. I have increased depression and anxiety. Is this normal? I'm also on Remeron for depression as the Effexor did nothing for me.
Dahmmae1
1 March 2015
Would you provide an update & if you experienced occasional symptoms. Thanks for the Ray of hope
Mikhala
10 March 2015
drummerseve -- Withdrawal SHOULD get better as days go on, not worse. I would see a doctor and get checked. It definitely could be something else.
Hope you are well.
belleza
13 March 2015
Hi I was wondering y did u get vertigo?
JessieRae24
18 April 2015
I have been on a very high dose. 450 er for years and my insurance has been cancelled. I am trying to taper but am going through hell. Flu like symptoms, depression , loss of sensation, blinking lights in my eyes. Nothing 8s helping
JessieRae24
18 April 2015
I have been on a very high dose. 450 er for years and my insurance has been cancelled. I am trying to taper but am going through hell. Flu like symptoms, depression , loss of sensation, blinking lights in my eyes. Nothing 8s helping
Mikhala
19 April 2015
JessieRae24, take a lot of Vitamin C. I didn't believe it, but drinking a small bottle - or glass of orange juice when I started feeling withdrawal symptoms helped a lot!
I am still tapering very slowly - am at 4mg/day - from 150mg. and still get withdrawal when I take out a few beads... horrible stuff!
Michelleduncan
29 April 2015
I have stopped taking my 75mg tablets, three days or so ago and cannot believe the withdrawal symptoms - it is insane and cannot wait for it to be completely out of my system.
pammy69
7 May 2015
Am just trying now from today to come of 75mg of Effexor, I've only been on it one month and missed two tablets n the way my heart felt was unreal pulpation sand everything, so this is my reason to come of, what's the best way to do it to at least only have a few side effects thanks
NashvilleGirl
11 May 2015
Hi bakergirl2112
I was interested in what you outlined about tapering off Effexor XR. Once you stopped completely, how long did the dizziness etc last before it finally went away? 30 days? Thanks so much.
Meprit
27 July 2015
Hello, I've been completely off Effexor 4 months. Withdrawals were horrible . I do have good hours but daily dealing with agitation, anxiety and dizziness . These only last for short periods but still frustrating . My diabetes is non existent now, but I'm still struggling . How long did it take for you to feel normal.
jacefrehley
28 May 2016
I have been taking antidepressants for a couple of years for my mood. I was taking Loxalate and went off that with no noticeable side effects for 2 weeks before starting 37.5mg and then 75mg doses of Effexor. I have only been on it since March 14th. Since taking these drugs and more so with Effexor I have had erectile disfunction and reduced libido, which is hard for a married man. My marriage has come to an end recently and I am going through the greiving process but I want to be free of this horrible drug stopping me from enjoying one of lifes pleasures. I originally stopped taking it all together and had the horrble electric shock feelings in my neck, and insomnia. I went back to the doctor 6 days after stopping and she put me on a 37.5mg dose which I took for a week and now I take a 37.5mg every other day. I really notice the difference when I don't take it. On the on days I sleep better and feel better, more in control. Yesterday was an off day.
I didn't go to bed until midnight and I woke at 3, went back to sleep at 5 and woke at 7.30. I have 5 pills left and Im scared of going off them completely. I might go and get some more and take one every third day as suggested. From peoples comments there is a long period of withdrawal and if I come off it slowly I will get fewer or less severe withdrawal symptoms. I know it improves my mood but I can't live my life without sex, it's not fair on me or a potential new partner. I wish I'd never started on these pills, it was my wife who continually told me I was grumpy all the time and I needed to get on them and everything would be fine, well it's not and now my marriage of 17 years is over. I am going to try couselling and see if that can help me deal with my grumpiness and anger issues.
Pattibob52650
26 July 2016
I went from 75 to 37.5 Venlafaxine time released and had horrible withdrawal symptoms. Thought I was having a heart attack. I knew then I needed to get off this drug. I began taking one time released pill out of the capsule per night until I completely weaned myself off. This method works and have been off for 2 weeks now. I have experienced crying spells and emotional unsteadiness and trouble sleeping and heart palpitations. I am returning to some state of normalcy as the days pass. Had I known then what i know now I would never have started. Was given Venlafaxine for hot flashes after breast cancer surgery. Was never told how difficult it would be to get off.
Ribka252
11 Nov 2016
I wish I knew about these side effects. I tapered down over 6 weeks from only 150mg daily. I battle nausea and vertigo every time I change positions. I'm going to try the fish oils, the anger and crying has started.. I hate not having control with my body.
Thank you everyone that has been replying to the posts, there is a lot of good information and support I've seen
everydaybliss
21 March 2017
Thank you for this posting. I have been struggling with my final doses and increased withdraw symptoms that i feel.I was afraid I would feel like this for the rest of my life. Just glad to know that through time this too shall pass. kind regards
kmkelly_1998
6 June 2017
I have been tapering off for a few months. Gone from 75 mg to 37.5 to 18.75. I'm now trying 18.75 every other day. I hate the way I feel on my off day. I was never told how horrible getting off this stuff would be!
Gowright
20 April 2018
I’ve been on a Effexor for 10 yrs and after 10 yrs I’m finally getting off it. I am on 225g. I waited way to long to get off this medication. The withdrawals I’m feeling are nauseas, vertigo, emotional (crying) and slight headaches. I didn’t tell my doctor that I want to stop taking it. I’ve been seeing a great Chinese doctor that has been helping me get off of it. The way he has been helping me is I would take the Effexor for three days and skip a day for two weeks (I started on a Sunday) The third week I would take it for two days then skip a day for two weeks. The fifth week I would take it every other day for two weeks. The seventh ( which I’m on now) and final eighth week. I take it every third day. Skip two days then take the Effexor. Next week will be my last week. My Chinese doctor has me taking natural medicine and teas to help with the withdrawals. I’m also doing acupuncture too. I’m a big believer in Chinese Medicine.
My withdrawals started seven days ago and I feel so bad. I started taking my Chinese medicine four days ago so I hoping to start feeling better soon. If I knew just how hard it is to get off the Effexor I would of never taking it or I wish my doctor would of said something to me. I’ll keep you guys posted.
tiffanyhinks
16 May 2018
Great information to know! Thanks
tiffanyhinks
16 May 2018
Great information to know! Thanks
sara12345
10 Feb 2014
Many people need to withdraw from Effexor gradually. Abrupt withdrawal as you are doing can cause extreme side effects which can last far longer when you have stopped so suddenly. There are many reports from others about it being horrible to come off of it. Call your pharmacy and find out about possible cheaper ways to get it. And check out healthcare.gov to find out about far cheaper insurance policies. With insurance, Effexor can be just $4.00 a month. Health insurance could be vitally important depending on what happens to you. Under ObamaCare, you will soon be taxed for not having health insurance. Good luck.
kaismama
10 Feb 2014
The insurance companies have gotten out of control too. Mine has put all meds that are used for depression or pain on tier 2, so even tho I take generic I still pay $11 for it. Before I had no copay with it.
sara12345
27 Jan 2015
You are still getting the deal of the last decade at least. I would interested to know what insurance plan you have that you only have to pay $11 for a prescription. I pay anywhere from $5 to $80 for my prescriptions and I have the most expensive, best plan that is offered for individuals. A few years ago, I only paid $10 per prescription which was a tremendous deal at the time, but no more the last few years. The only thing that helps is that once I have paid my deductible and copays, all my meds and other medical expenses are fully paid for by my insurance, which doesn't take long with my medical expenses. What plan do you have?
YoungSally
15 June 2015
Also look to the drug companies --- if you want to continue taking the branded drug. I find that for some drugs, my physicians prefer the branded rather than the generic. The problem with the generic is that while they are "bioequivalent"... on the active ingredients... the non-active ingredients may differ from maker to maker and those can affect how well the drug works for you.
My insurance does not cover the branded Effexor, but ask your MD to fill out a preauthorization form and with a little haggling... you should be able to get it covered by your insurance. The next step is to get a discount card from Pfizer... with the combination of the Pfizer card and insurance you probably won't pay more than $4 mo for the branded Effexor... and if your insurance refuses to cover it it would be no more than $30 with the discount card.
Jimboquit1
22 July 2015
76.00 3 months supply 150mg extended release. I've been tapering off of it. Went to 100mg for 2 weeks and 50mg now for a month. I had 10 days supply left. I'm still having a hard time.
sara12345
23 July 2015
It sounds like you are going way too fast on your withdrawal. I took months to successfully withdraw from Effexor. Not that you will need that long. But judging by your problems, you are going too fast. So sorry to tell you this. Then after I successfully went through the withdrawal, I was so depressed for a month, that it was clear that I needed the anti-depressant. And you might indeed need the anti-depressant. Only you will know that. Wish you the best.
Shadow31689
27 July 2016
I have Fidelis and pay $15 a month
Neededsomthing
5 Feb 2017
I live in Canada and although we have universal healthcare ( with the way it is funded different from province to province). I have no drug coverage my generic Effexor rx cost us 78 ish for 225 a day for two months or 120 /75 mg caps.
kaismama
10 Feb 2014
There are places you can get help paying for it. The generic is out too. For instance if you join walgreen's club ($20 a yr) it would cost about $30 a month.
lsloan72
11 May 2015
I've yet to find a generic Effexor or even an insurance plan that covers it.
ArmyofOneDay
16 May 2015
Venlafaxine is the generic form!
Loveujesus
13 June 2015
Yes but they work the same!!
Imlobosmommy
23 Sep 2015
There was a comment that insurance companies won't pay for it. I have been on the generic since it came out and all of my insurance companies have covered it.
Shimcat
6 Aug 2016
GoodRx!!! Prescription drug and it will give you pricing for all locations. I was able to fill Effexor for $8 at Walgreens.
bigd1053
9 Sep 2016
I've been on the generic ever since it came out a few years ago. Slowly getting off now.
vbouzerrara
22 Sep 2016
Try rxoutreach.com
ffsta
15 Oct 2016
This is what I take. I pay $.23 up to $1.15 for all my prescriptions that are generic. Brand names are $2.30 per script.
turtlemomma
25 Feb 2017
The generic name for Effexor = venlefaxine and all pharmacies are aware almost 10 years as of 2017. I was told only generic is now available. Ask a pharmacist, don't assume. Their job
turtlemomma
25 Feb 2017
The generic name for Effexor = venlefaxine and all pharmacies are aware almost 10 years as of 2017. I was told only generic is now available. Ask a pharmacist, don't assume. Their job
LaurieShay
9 Feb 2014
Unfortunately, it can last quite some time. Hopefully by the end of the month you'll be feeling better, but the symptoms for which you taking the Effexor may return
ambudai
9 Feb 2014
I've read in another post that taking fish oil with vitamin C will reduce withdrawal symptoms. Have you any knowledge of this? I have taken fish oil before & I always seem to burp the flavor of the fish oil which isn't very pleasant. If I know that there is a strong possibility that it will alleviate effexor withdrawal symptoms, then it would be worth that nasty fish-burp flavor.
LaurieShay
9 Feb 2014
I am unaware of taking fish oil to help alleviate withdrawals. I take fish oil for my high cholesterol levels. There are brands that don't cause the fishy burps.
Corinne48
15 Sep 2014
Look for fish oil with no after taste.
Corinne48
15 Sep 2014
Look for fish oil with no after taste.
rlj6807
18 Nov 2014
This tells me nothing. How long is "quite some time"?
LaurieShay
18 Nov 2014
Took my body 2 months to adjust to being off the antidepressant.
MarieElena
16 Dec 2014
After suffering for over a week I tried the Vitamin C and fish oil and it worked. It is now a week later and symptoms are gone
Topcatroyal
10 March 2015
I have been off Effexor now for six weeks after starting at 75 Mg and spending two weeks at 37.5 and another two weeks at 18.5. I have taken the following during that entire 10 weeks.
1. Two Omega XL's and two Viva Lab Krill Oil tabs in the morning and the same at lunch time.
2. a vitamin B complex in the morning.
3. A two mile walk every day at a relatively sedate pace.
4. Lots of water and a variety of green and herbal teas.
I have avoided nearly all the supposedly normal side effects during withdrawal, luckily I guess. I did have some dizziness and light headed ness in the first week at 37.5, 18.5 also at zero, but it has passed. I got slightly emotional when I got down to zero for a couple of weeks, crying when watching House Of Cards on a couple of occasions, but that was about it for symptoms.
I think the Omega 3 in the Omega XL and in the Krill oil MUST have had a positive impact, but the Omega XL was very expensive(still cheap if it was THE major factor). The Viva lab Krill Oil was quite moderate buying six bottles of tablets at a time at about 20 a bottle discounted. I'm certainly going to continue with the Krill oil.
I had been taking Effexor 75 mg for six or seven years, so either I was very lucky, or the regiment that I listed above was effective. This is not a paid popliteal announcement, but hopefully somebody out there will find this helpful. Good Luck, Topcatroyal
2015ranson
11 March 2015
Omega 3-6-9 are for brain function according to my pcp. I have been taking them, b-12, b complex.
arstneio
21 April 2015
Freeze your bottle of fish oil pills and the taste should go away. And if the pills begin to stick to each other in the freezer, shake up the bottle.
emily13108
27 April 2015
I was having those horrible brain zaps and I took Dramamine (the less drowsy kind) as well as 2 fish oil (odorless and burpless) twice a day and a vitamin C tab once a day and my symptoms are non existent.
Klaudia317
25 May 2015
Unfortunately there is no exact time as to when the withdrawal symptoms go away. I'm on day 16 and had a very tough 4 last days with migraines that drove me to the er today. The fish oil does help but the worst are the zaps in your head that feel Licke you just licked a battery. The only thing I can say it does get better day by day and not taking it is the best thing for me. I feel that Effexor needs stronger warning labels because I've read tons of boards where people all have these symptoms and are truly suffering
lisa4800
30 May 2015
I've been taking Effexor XR over 12 plus years. I've been taking 600mg and recently cut it to 300mg. I do not feel so good at all.Extremely nauseated,sweats,shakes and just not feeling good at all. Weird dreams head feels funny just not feeling all that good.Any suggestions would be great.I just started the tapering.Missed the whole 600mg in one day and it was horrible.Actually slept all day with the weird dreams,sweats and other symptoms too.
LaurieShay
30 May 2015
You are tapering much too much at one time. Also, you are on a very high dose so it is going to take some time to slowly wean off. You really need to be under a doc's care to do this process. I wouldn't drop by half though. Don't know what milligram pills you have, but better to drop slowly than experience the withdrawals.
Daneye71
29 June 2015
I had bad experiences with low quality fish oil supplements. If you get a higher quality one, it's very much worth the money.
Ofc38
21 Oct 2015
I have been on Effexor for several years just form anxiety caused by claustrophobia. A year and half ago I decided to get off of it. I weened myself down from 75mg to 37.5, stayed on the 37.5 for two weeks and then down to half that dose for two weeks. I then started opening the capsules and counted the pellets. I started at 35 and reduced that amount by 5 pellets every two weeks until I got to 5, then I reduced the amount by 1 pellet for two weeks until I was down to 1 pellet for two weeks. After the complete withdrawal of the Effexor I felt fine with no side effects. That was in June of 2014, about Thanksgiving of 2014 on the way home from work I started feeling a great amount of claustrophobia. Things went down hill from there, no appetite, unable to sit down for any length of time, sweats and I had to take Xanax to be able to sleep. This lasted for about a week before I was able to get back on the Effexor, about 1 month later all was well after I reached the therapeutic dose.
I would like to know from a doctor if this is normal after the length of time I was off of the Effexor and if this would have gone away and if I would have been back to my self pre-Effexor days.
chuck1957
19 Jan 2016
as Laurie has said the fish oil I use without much problems taste etc is made by nature made company. but don't know about helping with brain zaps. I do know many that have been helped with Ibuprofen 200mg taking 2 twice daily WITH FOOD. worth a try but i can't swear by it.
Wendy33
18 March 2016
Is there anyth I got that can help make the days not so long? Something to lessen the Nausea and vomiting are terrible for me.. Please help.. I cannot stand this to much longer
relli
10 April 2016
I use Blackmores travel calm ginger for the nausea... I'm not vomiting but do feel like it but I will say these tablets are a god send when it comes to relieving nausea. Also drink some camomile tea, I found that also helps with nausea and it's calming too. I'm on day 10 of complete cold turkey... I was in 225mg of effexor. Other things I take is vitamin b... odorless fish oil tablets and pain killers for the headaches. Eating small snacks also helps. The withdrawal is basically like a severe case of the flu... I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy but it's much better than being on that nasty drug. I have bouts of energy here and there and I'm feeling normal... happy, not that fake happy that the drug created. It will get better and easier... oh and eat bananas!!
Shorty01184
2 June 2016
I was on 225 mg Effexor XR. While I could get out of bed, I suffered anxiety related chest pains that landed me in the ER (no anxiety attack). Anxiety, drowsiness, fatigue, insomnia, yawning, and I just didn't feel present. I couldn't concentrate. I felt drugged. I am on week 3 of weaning off Effexor after being complainant for 5 months. I also take:
1 fish oil
2000 vitamin d
500 vitamin c
Oderless garlic supplement (arthritis - it REALLY helps)
Cinnamon
Nothing has helped my withdrawal symptoms. I want to sleep all the time, but can't sleep, and I get dizzy anytime I lay down or get up, like it's vertigo! It's awful. But on week 3 I feel less drugged! Still on 75 mg of Effexor until my next appointment. On 300 mg of Wellbutrin, which was slowly increased (slowly - 7 days for decreasing and increasing).
Shorty01184
2 June 2016
Also, I was put on it after my grief hit me like a freight train. I lost my parents 9 months apart at the age of 30. I'm single and I was moms caregiver. Overwhelming grief and depression caused me to lose my job because I couldn't get out of bed. But Effexor was or is not worth the side effects.
Dawn Karen-Mae
27 July 2016
You need to wean yourself off of Effexor slowly. I went from 150 mg to 112.5 for a couple months to 75mg for a couple months I'm now down to 37.5 mg. I have only felt a couple brain zaps. No other symptoms so far. I have only been on 37.5 for a couple days. I'm not sure how it will be when I go off completely. if it's not good I will probably take 1 every other day for a couple months then spread it every three days for a couple months. Then 1 a week for a couple months. I hope you are off them now. It doesn't have to be unbearable. Dawn Karen - Mae
Tinamarie1968
27 Aug 2016
I'm going thru the same thing I just wanted to share something I did last night that may help a little my body started tensing up I but a ice back behind my neck and it helped my body loosen up and helped the headache and I finally was able to relax and sleep I slept for 8 hours
GMA7
2 Sep 2016
I hope you did not have to discontinue the Effexor abruptly. When discontinuing that medication, we often titrate down gradually... most often while starting a replacement drug... cross titrating the two for targeted symptom management.
sandersmarcia
7 Sep 2016
I have been on Effexor for 7 years. 3 months ago, I started experiencing the "rare" side effects: nausea, loss of appetite, 14 lb. weight loss, anxiety and panic attacks.
I have been tapering off of Effexor. I was on 225 mg. The first 2 weeks I went onto on 150 mg. The next 2 weeks I am taking only 75mg per day. I have had major problems on this level: loss of appetite, more weight loss, anxiety and panic attacks, insomnia. sweats and chills etc. The dr. told me to stay on this level 4 weeks. She will not prescribe anything to relieve the panic attacks and anxiety. I am just toughing it out. Still have to go down to 37.6 mg. This is taking forever
LaurieShay
7 Sep 2016
Unfortunate that the doctor won't address your symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks. Is the doctor going to prescribe something else for the reason you were on the Effexor?
aclotheshorse
13 Dec 2016
I think at least 2 weeks. It will get better and don't give up! Also, fish oil did wonders for my nausea and brain zaps.
satori1111
25 Jan 2017
You can buy fish oil from a company called Ascenta and it comes in different flavours. I prefer the chocolate one. It's about 46.99 and it's the best.
MRSCALDWELL2007
3 Feb 2017
I'm on day 3 with sever nausea, vomiting, swimmy head and mood swings. How long should I expect symptoms to last? What can I do to help alleviate symptoms?
LaurieShay
3 Feb 2017
The length the symptoms last is going to depend on how many milligrams you were taking when you stopped. As far as the nausea, don't let yourself get dehydrated. At least drink something like ginger ale to help. There really is no magic bullet to make it better. You can try some of the suggestions in the answers and comments to this question.
OllieT
7 Feb 2017
I have been on 150mg for several years and during this time I would start feeling terrible just hours within a missed dose.
My doctor knew this and when I told her I want off, she prescribed me Bupropion to take in addition to Venlafaxine- in hopes to buffer the withdrawal symptoms. I take 150mg of Bupropion daily but as I started coming off Venla I throw in an extra 75mg when I'm feeling wild.
150mg to 120 for a few weeks, 90, 60, 30 and I am on day 4 of nothin. Obviously it's not going so hot or I wouldn't be here.
It almost feels like the worst hangover AND being pregnant at the same awful time. Headaches, shakiness, constantly nauseated, confusion, bouts of hysterical crying (equally for sad and happy stuff!). My husband thinks I've gone absolute bonkers.
Im jumping on Amazon now to buy fish oil pills (I'm glad I'm not the only one with fish burps) and whatever else y'all have recommended. Fingers crossed it will dissipate within the week... Then it's just Buproprion to wrestle with.
James0127
23 Feb 2017
I haven't updated since I started weaning off Effexor EX
Jan 1 went from 150 mg to 112.5mg
daily I took a multi vitamin and 100 mg 5HTP on advice from my natural supplements friend
Starting Feb 1took 1 37.5 mg In a.m. with 1000 mg Salmon omega3 and I packet of Ener C
Took 100mg 5HTP in afternoon and in evening 37.5 mg plus 1000 mg Salmon omega 3 and 1 ener c packet
Symptoms all along but getting milder are
Dry heaves, headache, insomnia, zaps in my left limbs and extreme tinnitus.
Tomorrow Feb 24th will go to
1 100mg 5HTP plus 1 Ener C and 1000 mg Salmon omega 3 in morning
Afternoon 1 37.5 mg Effexor
Evening repeat a.m. dosage
Doing for one week then only going with my supplements daily no Effexor.
Each day I feel better and know after 12 years I can beat this
Supplements really help especially since I added Omega3 and Ener C
Good luck to all will post weekly to give updated
Feel free to ask any questions you may have
Chipper23
26 Feb 2017
My daughter was on Effexor X-ray without positive results and after weaning off the drug, horrible dizziness and nausea. What cured her in 24 hr completely after trying the fish oil and vitamins was CBD oil! It is legal in all 50 states and we bought our CBD oil gold label by cannevest at Bunns nature store. 60mg per gram. She put a orzo size noodle of cbd oil under her tongue and within the hour it stopped symptoms. This also helps her sleep at night . You won't get support from your neurologist or primary dr for this treatment because in PA they haven't bothered to educate themselves of this alternate therapy since it doesnt come from a drug company. It works!
Jeffreykihl
21 May 2017
I can hear my eyes move... yes hear them..is this at all normal, been off for 8 days now, actually believe i am going insane.
dlacerra
12 Jan 2018
I am currently going through this now. I was on 150mg for 1.5 years but I found this particular anti-depression drug caused me a lot of anxiety. The Dr. Increased the dosage to 250mg hoping to decrease anxiety and it had the opposite effect. It's been 3 weeks of gradually tapering off and it's been awful. I have never experienced anything like it. I truly can't even describe what this has been like. NOTHING was worth this and I mean nothing. I took a medical leave from work to do this and I realize I could never have worked and done this. Even now starting a new anti-depression drug at a low dose I still feel awful; dizzinesss, anxiety, uncontrollable sobbing, awful irriability, terrrible, continuous dreams and t his is with 2x a week therapy, guided yoga, guided mindful meditation. Wehen I furst decided to swich medications boith my Psychiatrist and Therapist offered a hospital stay to do this and I refused now I understand why th ey suggested it.
Related topics
effexor, withdrawal, insurance, brain, symptom
Further information
- Effexor prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Effexor (detailed)
Similar questions
Search for questions
Still looking for answers? Try searching for what you seek or ask your own question.