i was on effexor xr and quit cold turkey. I had no side effects that I can remember by stopping it. I did not even taper it off. I felt that it was better for me to do it that way. I know that the same may not work for you, but good luck in getting off it. Have a good day
I didn't take Effexor XL, but I did take Effexor XR. I experienced side effects while I was on it and withdrawal symptoms that lasted for 6 months. My side effects/withdrawal symptoms included: brain zaps, extreme sweating, dizziness, dry mouth, fatigue, major headaches, nervousness, vertigo, and confusion. When I started taking it, I lost 20 pounds in 2 weeks! I was wanting to lose weight, but in a healthy way. My advice to you is get off of it asap. Talk to your doctor about any medications such as other depression medications to help with the withdrawals. During my 6 months of withdrawals, those symptoms tappered off after about a couple months, but I got horribly depressed, and felt like I would never feel like myself again. However, a couple weeks ago I realized that I am happy and not feeling those horrible feelings. I am on Prozac, which helps, but I just recommend working out, taking fish oil, and just talking to other people via the internet about your feelings. Just realize that you are not the only one going through what you are. You may not ever feel as bad as I did, but if you do just know that you will eventually feel like yourself again. It may take months to a year, but you will feel better! If you need anymore advice or help, email me at ***@****. I hope this helps you!
Hi,
Thanks for writing in.
According to one study more than 78% people experienced withdrawal symptoms from Effexor. It is best to avoid sudden discontinuation as this leads to severe withdrawal symptoms.
Another strategy used is switching to fluoexetine and then discontinuing it gradually. This way the withdrawal symptoms from Effexor do not appear.
Please discuss this with your prescribing doctor. Take care!