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How To Wean Off Effexor Slowly Without Any Side Effects? 

I have weaned off of Effexor, my last pill was 4 weeks ago. I am experiencing extreme emotional periods, some lethargy, body aches and severe mood swings. Is this normal for withdrawing from this drug? If so, what is the average time length for experiencing such harsh symptoms? I was taking the drug for 3 and a half years before weaning off. Thank you.
Mon, 13 Jul 2015
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hello thanks for asking from HCM for your health related queries

I can understand your concern. Effexor or Venlafaxine is a SNRI drug. The drug is common drug for anxiety and depressive disorders. Withdrawal symptoms occur if the drug is stopped abruptly or weaned off rapidly after prolonged regular intake. So to prevent withdrawal syndrome it is advisable to reduce the doses gradually over 6-10 weeks. Even after such gradual tapering mild symptoms might persist. The mood swings, body aches, lethargy, emotional swings etc symptoms you are having are due to these withdrawal only. Wait for some more days and these symptoms would reduce in severity. Medicines like low dose Benzodiazepines can help to reduce the mood swings if used on SOS basis. Consult your psychiatrist for prescription.

Thanks, I hope this helps you. Take care

Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi,
Psychiatrist.
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How To Wean Off Effexor Slowly Without Any Side Effects? 

Hello thanks for asking from HCM for your health related queries I can understand your concern. Effexor or Venlafaxine is a SNRI drug. The drug is common drug for anxiety and depressive disorders. Withdrawal symptoms occur if the drug is stopped abruptly or weaned off rapidly after prolonged regular intake. So to prevent withdrawal syndrome it is advisable to reduce the doses gradually over 6-10 weeks. Even after such gradual tapering mild symptoms might persist. The mood swings, body aches, lethargy, emotional swings etc symptoms you are having are due to these withdrawal only. Wait for some more days and these symptoms would reduce in severity. Medicines like low dose Benzodiazepines can help to reduce the mood swings if used on SOS basis. Consult your psychiatrist for prescription. Thanks, I hope this helps you. Take care Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi, Psychiatrist.