Posted by NZgirl on December 20, 2005, at 16:21:04
In reply to Re: Is there any painfree way to get off Effexor?, posted by blueberry on December 15, 2005, at 17:24:27
I have read many many postings from people wanting to get off Effexor, or trying to get off Effexor - the vast majority have made comments that it is one of the most painful, difficult things they have ever had to do. It was for me too. I have read a small handful of posts where people say they managed to get off Effexor with very little side effects - they are the lucky ones and from what I can gather, are few and far between.
I agree with the previous posting - depending on your dose, and how long you have been taking Effexor, I would allow many months to get off it, reducing in small amounts (about 5 - 10%)every 2 weeks. There are lots of suggestions on other postings here telling you how to do that. You will need to be cutting up pills, or breaking open the capsules. Apparently some people have managed to get the drug in liquid form which makes things alot easier. Make sure you take it every day - dont try to reduce by skipping days as you will just be in withdrawal and you will feel terrible.
There are also plenty of suggestions for meds to help with the withdrawal - Benedryl and Ginger the 2 main ones. Suggestions also include fish oil. Try to eat a healthy diet, cut out caffiene as it makes it worse.
Good news though - it does get better, you will get better. I am about a month off Effexor now and I am almost back to normal - it has been a very difficult time and I'm fortunate to have an understanding boss and family.
Good luck
poster:NZgirl
thread:588883
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/wdrawl/20051018/msgs/590727.html