I am currently taking 75mg of effexor daily and want to stop taking it, for I feel no longer need it. I just was curious what would happen if I stopped taking it suddenly. I was thinking of taking one every other day and then every two days so my body could adjust to the change. All information would be greatly appreciated.
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Q: What would happen if I stoppped taking my effexor?
Answers (3)
9/23/08 2:15am
Hi Catwoman,
It is always advisable to withdrawal from any antidepressant medication with the help of a Psychiatrist. And yes, they would have you gradually taper off of the Effexor rather than stop "cold turkey."
Specifically, when stopped suddenly, some people experience nausea, vomiting, headaches, numbness, tingling, and/or nightmares. This is another good reason to be working with a physician, in case you do experience any symptoms while getting off the drug.
Regards,
Jennifer L. Fee, Psy.D., Psychologist
*Jennifer Fee, Psy.D. is a Psychologist, not a Psychiatrist. Psychiatrists prescribe medications, Psychologists study them, but the majority of Psychologists are not authorized to prescribe meds. or give you specific advice about them. Dr. Fee's answers are not intended to diagnose or treat any medical or mental disorder. Any information given in a post about medication is for educational purposes only, and primarily to aid you in having an informed discussion with your own Psychiatrist/Physician.
9/24/08 1:29pm
Hello Catwomen
I just wanted to share this with you I have been taking Effexor since 1999, and at times I do feel like this medication is getting old and would like to stop it, thing is I know that in my case if I would stop it without supervision I would climb up the wall, even tought that at times I think that the medication (effexor) is not doing me any good, most of the times that I have those toughts I am in ''the bottom of the wave''.
So if I could suggest something to you: Never stop your meds on your own, see your doctor and if you still feel uneasy well get a second advice.
Fair Winds 
5/ 9/10 5:11am
I stopped taking it and tried to commit suicide twice in 3 days. Five days later... I cant sleep and when I do it is for an hour at a time and have nightmares... I'm cold and hot... shaky... sick... eyes hurt... head hurts... all because the insurance stopped paying for it and I cant afford it because I HAVE to have my pain meds more !!! Totally sucky situation !!!! They gave me this shit to stop my excessive sweating after chemo and radiation... like I didn't have enough problems !!!!!
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