Posted by kakalak on September 19, 2011, at 10:31:08
I've been on 300mg of Effexor XR for the past 6 years. For numerous reasons I am switching to an MAOI. Under the care of an amazing pdoc (never thought I'd say that), I tapered off of it in 1 week without the aid of any other drugs. The thought being that there was no reason to prolong the inevitable (almost unbearable) withdrawals. I agreed with course of action. I am currently on day 3 of no antidepressants (in well over a decade) and am unable to take anything other than ibuprofen. I have experienced a full Effexor withdrawal once before, thanks a problem with my insurance, and knew exactly how bad it would be but have never gone more than 2 days without it. How long do the withdrawal symptoms typically last? So far each day has gotten worse. I feel like an addict and have had to talk myself out of taking more Effexor to stop the pain I'm going through. I have another week before I start my new meds and am not sure how I am going to make it through work each day. I keep reminding myself that the new meds will hopefully be so much better for me and that the worst case scenario is that I go back to Effexor.
Currently experiencing: brain zaps, hot flashes, dizziness, crying spells, terrifying nightmares & severe anxiety before falling asleep, paranoia at night, body shivers, confusion, and unable to concentrate.
I understand everyones experience is unique but am curious about your experience. How long before the withdrawal symptoms went away for you?
poster:kakalak
thread:997176
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20110914/msgs/997176.html