If you or someone has been put on Venlafaxine, then you likely already know that it is one of the most prescribed antidepressant drugs. Under a number of different names including Effexor, Venlafaxine belongs to a class of drugs called SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors). Venlafaxine is typically prescribed to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and panic attacks.
Even when it does succeed, most users discover that they experience withdrawal after they stop using it. Today, in this article, we’re going to bring you up to speed with what Venlafaxine withdrawal is, why it happens, and how you can be treated for it in safety.
What is Venlafaxine Withdrawal? Venlafaxine Withdrawal
Venlafaxine withdrawal is a physical and emotional feeling experienced by an individual when he or she reduces or lowers the drug—especially if they do so too quickly.
All of these are included in what is referred to as discontinuation syndrome and are more likely to occur with antidepressants like Venlafaxine that have a short half-life (i.e., that exit the body quickly).
Why Does Withdrawal Happen?
When you have been taking Venlafaxine for a certain time, your brain becomes accustomed to the medication in your body. The medication levels out chemicals such as serotonin and norepinephrine that affect mood, sleep, and energy. Stopping the medication abruptly can interfere with this equilibrium and lead to withdrawal side effects.
Most Common Venlafaxine Withdrawal Symptoms
You’re not like everyone else, but these are the most frequently reported ones:
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Brain zaps (a strange electric shock to the head)
- Upset stomach or nausea
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Irritability or mood swings
- Panic attacks or anxiety
- Vivid dreams or insomnia
- Chills or sweating
- Flu-like symptoms
The symptoms are extreme to mild and for several weeks to a few days.
How Long Does Venlafaxine Withdrawal Last?
There is no magic equation, but typically, symptoms manifest in 1 to 3 weeks. Some get better in a few days, but others—especially on high dose or long term—have weeks or months.
The following things make a difference in withdrawal time:
- Dosage
- How long you are on it
- Whether and how you taper or go cold turkey
- Chemistry in your body
Tips to Overcome Venlafaxine Withdrawal
If you are stopping Venlafaxine, here are some helpful tips:
- Never Cold Turkey
Always first talk to your doctor when quitting or reducing your dose. Suddenly stopping increases the chances of severe withdrawal side effects.
- Taper Gradually
Most doctors recommend tapering, which means slowly reducing the dose over a few weeks. This gives the brain time to adjust.
- Eat Healthy and Hydrate
Your body should be cared for as it adjusts into rhythm. Drink water, consume good foods, and reduce alcohol consumption and caffeine.
- Don’t Neglect Rest and Sleep
Sleep and tiredness are inevitable. Rest a lot and employ relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
- Check on Your Symptoms
Keep a symptom diary so you’ll be able to monitor your symptoms. You and your doctor will both know what’s going right and what isn’t.
- Ask for Support
Inform friends or family members about what you are experiencing. Emotional support does make a difference.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Seek Medical Help
Call your doctor when symptoms become too overwhelming. Sometimes changing to a different antidepressant for several weeks smooths the withdrawal.
What Other People Say: Real Stories?
The majority of users were happy to know that most go through the same when threatening Venlafaxine. Others compared it as “tough but doable,” while others mentioned it was one of the worst experiences of their mental health journey. The moral? You are not alone, and it does get better with time and advice.
Is it Worth Stopping Venlafaxine?
That depends on your situation. Some people feel stable and want to manage their mental health without medication. Others may need to stay on Venlafaxine longer, or explore other treatment options.
Always consult a healthcare provider before making decisions. If your medication is helping, there’s no shame in continuing. If you’re ready to stop, do it safely and with guidance.
When To Talk To A Doctor Immediately?
Call your doctor if you feel:
- Illegal or suicidal depression
- Sudden anxiety or panic attacks
- Delusions or confusion
- Bad dizziness or palpitations
You will always need to put your safety and your own well-being first.
Last Words
Venlafaxine withdrawal will be unpleasant, but short-term and bearable. Make it so through careful planning, doctor’s care, and self-nursing.
If you’re thinking about stopping Venlafaxine, talk to your doctor, taper slowly, and be kind to yourself during the process. Your mental health journey is unique—and every step forward, even the tough ones, is part of your growth.
Gracenie Stamperon
is a dedicated wellness enthusiast and content creator for My Healthy Living and Strategies, a platform focused on promoting holistic health, balanced living, and personal well-being. Gracenie’s passion for healthy living stems from her lifelong interest in nutrition, fitness, and mindfulness. With a background in health education, she brings a wealth of knowledge and practical strategies to help individuals achieve their wellness goals.