How Long Does Effexor Withdrawal Last?

Effexor (venlafaxine) withdrawal symptoms typically appear within 24 to 48 hours and go away within three weeks, but can last several months. During this time, you might feel nauseated, dizzy, short-tempered, confused, restless, and/or distracted.

Effexor withdrawal is a form of antidepressant discontinuation syndrome, a well-known phenomenon that can occur in people who stop taking an antidepressant abruptly. Because of this, healthcare providers typically decrease the dosage gradually when stopping the medication is necessary; however, symptoms of withdrawal still can occur.

What Does Effexor Withdrawal Feel Like?

When decreasing or stopping an antidepressant, a neurochemical change takes place in the brain. As the brain readjusts to the new environment, symptoms of withdrawing from Effexor may include:

• Agitation or irritability
• Anxiety
• Changes in appetite
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Mood changes
• Nausea or vomiting
• Nightmares or other sleep issues
• Paresthesias (a prickling or tingling sensation)
• Sweating

Effexor Withdrawal 'Brain Zaps'

Some people report experiencing 'brain shivers' or 'brain zaps' when they are late taking their prescribed dose of Effexor. People often describe these sensations as a very brief, repetitive electric shock-like feeling that remains confined to the brain or head.

Others report the sensation spreads out to other parts of the body. The sensation can be triggered by moving your eyes and is often accompanied by disorientation, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), vertigo, and/or lightheadedness.

There is no current evidence that suggests that brain shivers or brain zaps represent any danger. However, these electric shock-like sensations can cause you to become alarmed or worry and happen frequently enough to disrupt daily life or quality of life.

Coping & Relief for Effexor Withdrawal

Effexor withdrawal symptoms develop quickly, so if you are experiencing withdrawal symptoms from missing a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next scheduled dose, simply skip your missed dose and stick to your schedule.

While symptoms will typically go away in a few weeks, there are ways to make Effexor withdrawal more tolerable during this time. Here are a few steps to consider:

• Team up with your healthcare provider. They are your best ally when it comes to preventing and coping with symptoms of antidepressant withdrawal. Discuss the benefits and risks of stopping Effexor and work together to figure out how (and when) to slowly stop taking the drug.
• Ask about OTC medications. Consult your doctor about any over-the-counter medications that can help ease Effexor withdrawal; for example, sleep aids, anti-nausea medications, and pain relievers.
• Consider psychotherapy. According to investigators at Harvard Medical School, engaging in psychotherapy while discontinuing an antidepressant can decrease your risk of having a relapse.
• Seek support. Consider asking a close friend or family member for support and let them know what to expect as you work with your physician to wean off the drug.
• Keep up with follow-ups. It’s important to keep in touch with your healthcare provider as you are weaning from the drug as well as after you’ve stopped altogether. Depending on how you feel, you may need to book ongoing monthly check-ins until discontinuation symptoms have eased and there are no signs of relapse.
• Practice self-care. As you are going through withdrawal, it’s more important than ever to exercise, eat healthfully, get regular sleep, and practice stress management. These acts of self-care can help keep your mood stable as you taper off Effexor. 

Effexor Withdrawal Warnings

Some Effexor withdrawal symptoms can cause disorientation, which can be dangerous when driving or operating heavy machinery. Although rare, stopping Effexor on your own can result in severe and frightening reactions.

If you or someone you love experiences any of the following symptoms, call 911 or seek medical help right away:

• Delirium
• Suicidal feelings
• Psychosis

If you experience worsening anxiety or depression during withdrawal, and these symptoms last more than a month, it may mean you're having a relapse and need ongoing mental health treatment. Talk to your care provider if you have any concerns.

Long-Term Treatment of Effexor (Venlafaxine) Withdrawal

When you've decided to stop taking your antidepressant, it might be tempting to toss out your medication. Instead, take your time and work with your physician to gradually decrease your dose over an extended period of time.

How you'll do this will depend on several factors, including:

• How long you've been taking the drug
• Your current dose (if you're on a low dose, you'll be able to taper off more quickly)
• Past experience with withdrawal symptoms
• Overall health

Sometimes, even if you are slow and deliberate when weaning off an antidepressant, you still may experience symptoms. In these cases, your physician may prescribe Prozac (fluoxetine), which has been found to help ease discontinuation symptoms.

Additional Resources

In addition to teaming up with your healthcare provider and asking a trusted family member or friend to help you through this period, you may find it helpful to reach out to others who are also going through Effexor withdrawal.

The National Association for Mental Illness (NAMI) and the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) both offer online discussion groups where you can connect with others who may share similar experiences. You may also be able to find groups on Facebook, in which members can offer each other tips and support.

Takeaways

While Effexor withdrawal symptoms are rarely life-threatening, they can be uncomfortable and interfere with your daily life. The key to preventing withdrawal is to take your medication as prescribed and approach any dose changes under the close guidance of your physician.