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If your physician referred you to The Road Back and you are not sure which supplements you
need for Effexor side effects, click here and you will go to the correct supplement package.
If you wish to remain on Effexor but eliminate current Effexor withdrawal side effects, click here.
If you want to taper off the Effexor and you are not sure where to start, you can click here and
read the bestselling book, How to Get Off Psychoactive Drugs Safely or send Jim Harper an
email at Jim@theroadback.org and he will guide you through the process of Effexor withdrawal.
Venlafaxine Effexor Side Effects
If your physician referred you to The Road Back and you are not sure which supplements you
need for Venlafaxine side effects, click here and you will go to a page that has links to the
correct supplement package. Venlafaxine is a prescription medication used to treat depression,
anxiety, and certain other mood disorders. While it can be effective in managing these
conditions, it can also cause a range of side effects, some of which can be serious.
Nausea: One of the most common side effects of venlafaxine is nausea. This can range from
mild to severe and may be accompanied by vomiting. Nausea can make it difficult to eat or
drink, which can lead to dehydration and other complications.
Dizziness: Another common side effect of venlafaxine is dizziness. This can make it difficult to
perform daily tasks, such as driving or operating heavy machinery. It can also increase the risk
of falls and other accidents.
Headaches: Many people who take venlafaxine experience headaches. These can range from
mild to severe and may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as dizziness or nausea.
Insomnia: Venlafaxine can interfere with sleep, leading to insomnia or other sleep disturbances.
This can have a negative impact on overall health and wellbeing.
Fatigue: Some people who take venlafaxine experience fatigue or lethargy. This can make it
difficult to perform daily tasks or engage in physical activity.
Anxiety: While venlafaxine is often prescribed to treat anxiety, it can also cause anxiety as a side
effect. This can be particularly challenging for those who are already struggling with anxiety or
other mood disorders.
Sweating: Sweating is another common side effect of venlafaxine. This can be uncomfortable
and may lead to dehydration if not managed properly.
Sexual dysfunction: Venlafaxine can interfere with sexual function, leading to decreased libido,
difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, or difficulty achieving orgasm.
Dry mouth: Some people who take venlafaxine experience dry mouth. This can be
uncomfortable and may increase the risk of dental problems.
Constipation: Venlafaxine can interfere with bowel function, leading to constipation or other
digestive problems.
Diarrhea: In some cases, venlafaxine can cause diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms.
Weight changes: Venlafaxine can cause weight gain or weight loss in some people. This can be
particularly challenging for those who are already struggling with their weight.
Increased blood pressure: Venlafaxine can cause an increase in blood pressure. This can be
dangerous for those who have hypertension or other cardiovascular conditions.
Abnormal bleeding: Venlafaxine can interfere with blood clotting, leading to abnormal bleeding.
This can be particularly dangerous for those who are taking blood thinners or who have a
bleeding disorder.
Seizures: In rare cases, venlafaxine can cause seizures. This is more likely to occur in people who
have a history of seizures or who are taking other medications that lower the seizure threshold.
Serotonin syndrome: Venlafaxine can increase levels of serotonin in the brain, which can lead to
serotonin syndrome. This is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate
medical attention.
Mania: In some people, venlafaxine can cause manic episodes. This can be particularly
challenging for those
Hyponatremia: Venlafaxine can cause hyponatremia, which is a condition where the level of
sodium in the blood is too low. This can be dangerous and may require medical treatment.
Suicidal thoughts: Venlafaxine, like other antidepressants, can increase the risk of suicidal
thoughts or behavior, particularly in children, adolescents, and young adults. Anyone taking
venlafaxine should be closely monitored for signs of suicidal ideation or behavior.
Withdrawal symptoms: When stopping venlafaxine, some people may experience withdrawal
symptoms, including nausea, dizziness, headache, insomnia, and irritability. These symptoms
can be managed with careful tapering of the medication.
Liver damage: Venlafaxine can cause liver damage in rare cases. Symptoms of liver damage may
include abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), and dark urine. Anyone
experiencing these symptoms while taking venlafaxine should seek medical attention
immediately.
Allergic reactions: In rare cases, venlafaxine can cause an allergic reaction. Symptoms of an
allergic reaction may include rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, and difficulty
breathing. Anyone experiencing these symptoms while taking venlafaxine should seek medical
attention immediately.
Cardiac events: Venlafaxine can cause changes in heart rate and rhythm, which can increase the
risk of cardiac events such as heart attack or stroke. People with pre-existing cardiovascular
conditions may be at greater risk for these complications.
Glaucoma: Venlafaxine can cause an increase in intraocular pressure, which can exacerbate
glaucoma or lead to the development of the condition in people who are predisposed to it.
Skin reactions: Venlafaxine can cause skin reactions such as rash or hives. In rare cases, it may
also cause Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a serious and potentially life-threatening skin condition.
Hemorrhage: Venlafaxine can increase the risk of bleeding, including internal bleeding or
hemorrhage. This can be particularly dangerous for people taking blood thinners or who have a
bleeding disorder.
Akathisia: Venlafaxine can cause akathisia, a condition characterized by restlessness, agitation,
and an inability to sit still. This can be extremely uncomfortable and may require a change in
medication.
Hypermotility: Venlafaxine can increase bowel motility, which can lead to diarrhea or other
gastrointestinal symptoms.
Respiratory distress: In rare cases, venlafaxine can cause respiratory distress, which may be life-
threatening. Anyone experiencing difficulty breathing while taking venlafaxine should seek
medical attention immediately.
Neurological symptoms: Venlafaxine can cause a range of neurological symptoms, including
tremors, seizures, and confusion. These symptoms may be more likely to occur in people taking
high doses of the medication.
Mood changes: Venlafaxine can cause mood changes, including irritability, aggression, and
impulsivity. These symptoms may be more likely to occur in people with a history of these
behaviors.
Renal impairment: Venlafaxine can cause renal impairment, which is a condition where the
kidneys are not functioning properly. This can be dangerous and may require medical
treatment.
Visual changes: Venlafaxine can cause visual changes, including blurred vision or changes in
color perception. These symptoms may be more likely to occur in people taking high doses of
the medication.
Gynecomastia: In rare cases, venlafaxine can cause gynecomastia, which is the development of
breast tissue in males. This can be distressing and may require medical intervention.
Ocular effects: Venlafaxine can cause ocular effects, such as dry eyes or changes in vision. These
symptoms may be more likely to occur in people taking high doses of the medication.
Urinary retention: Venlafaxine can cause urinary retention, which is a condition where the
bladder does not empty properly. This can be uncomfortable and may increase the risk of
urinary tract infections.
Anemia: Venlafaxine can cause anemia, which is a condition where the body does not produce
enough red blood cells. This can lead to fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms.
Edema: Venlafaxine can cause edema, which is swelling in the legs, feet, or other parts of the
body. This can be uncomfortable and may require medical intervention.
Hearing changes: Venlafaxine can cause hearing changes, including ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
or changes in hearing sensitivity. These symptoms may be more likely to occur in people taking
high doses of the medication.
Pancreatitis: In rare cases, venlafaxine can cause pancreatitis, which is a condition where the
pancreas becomes inflamed. This can be extremely painful and may require hospitalization.
Thyroid dysfunction: Venlafaxine can cause thyroid dysfunction, including hypothyroidism or
hyperthyroidism. These conditions can cause a range of symptoms and may require medical
treatment.
Tardive dyskinesia: In rare cases, venlafaxine can cause tardive dyskinesia, a condition
characterized by involuntary movements of the face and body. This can be distressing and may
require a change in medication.
Hypoglycemia: Venlafaxine can cause hypoglycemia, which is a condition where the blood sugar
level is too low. This can be dangerous and may require medical treatment.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome: In rare cases, venlafaxine can cause Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a
serious and potentially life-threatening skin condition. Symptoms may include fever, rash, and
blistering of the skin and mucous membranes.
Cataracts: Venlafaxine can cause cataracts, which is a condition where the lens of the eye
becomes cloudy. This can lead to vision loss and may require surgery to correct.
Peripheral neuropathy: Venlafaxine can cause peripheral neuropathy, a condition where the
nerves in the hands and feet become damaged. This can lead to numbness, tingling, and other
symptoms.
Hepatitis: In rare cases, venlafaxine can cause hepatitis, a condition where the liver becomes
inflamed. Symptoms may include jaundice, abdominal pain, and fatigue.
Pulmonary hypertension: Venlafaxine can cause pulmonary hypertension, a condition where
the blood pressure in the lungs becomes elevated. This can be dangerous and may require
medical treatment.
Osteoporosis: Venlafaxine can increase the risk of osteoporosis, a condition where the bones
become weak and brittle. This can increase the risk of fractures and may require medical
intervention.
Hypermagnesemia: Venlafaxine can cause hypermagnesemia, a condition where the level of
magnesium in the blood is too high. This can be dangerous and may require medical treatment.
In conclusion, venlafaxine is a medication that can be effective in managing depression, anxiety,
and other mood disorders. However, it can also cause a range of side effects, some of which can
be serious. Anyone taking venlafaxine should be closely monitored for signs of side effects and
should report any symptoms to their healthcare provider. It is important to follow the
prescribed dosing instructions and to not abruptly stop taking the medication without medical
supervision. If you experience any concerning symptoms while taking venlafaxine, seek medical
attention immediately. It is always important to discuss any concerns or questions about
medications with a healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Additionally, it is important to note that the list of side effects provided above is not exhaustive
and that individuals may experience different side effects than those listed. Some people may
experience no side effects at all, while others may experience several. The severity and duration
of side effects can also vary from person to person.
If you are considering taking venlafaxine or have been prescribed this medication, it is
important to have an open and honest conversation with your healthcare provider about the
potential risks and benefits. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh the potential side
effects against the benefits of the medication and can work with you to develop a treatment
plan that is tailored to your specific needs and health history.
It is also important to be aware that venlafaxine can interact with other medications,
supplements, and substances, including alcohol. Always disclose all medications and
supplements you are taking to your healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Part 1: Introduction to Effexor Withdrawal.
Effexor, also known as Venlafaxine, is a medication used to treat depression and anxiety
disorders. While it can be effective in managing symptoms, many individuals who take Effexor
find that they become dependent on the medication. This dependence can lead to withdrawal
symptoms when they try to stop taking the medication. Withdrawal from Effexor can be a
challenging experience, and it's important to understand the process in order to manage
symptoms effectively. .
Part 2: Common Effexor Withdrawal Symptoms.
Withdrawal from Effexor can cause a range of physical and emotional symptoms. Some of the
most common physical symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue.
Individuals may also experience flu-like symptoms, such as muscle aches and chills. Emotional
symptoms can include irritability, anxiety, and depression. In some cases, individuals may
experience suicidal thoughts or behaviors. .
Part 3: Timeline of Effexor Withdrawal.
The timeline of Effexor withdrawal can vary from person to person, depending on factors such
as the dose and duration of medication use. Generally, withdrawal symptoms can begin within a
few hours of the last dose and can last for several weeks or even months. The first few days of
withdrawal are typically the most intense, with symptoms peaking around day three or four.
Symptoms may gradually improve after the first week or two, but some individuals may
experience protracted withdrawal, in which symptoms persist for several months or longer. .
Part 4: Managing Effexor Withdrawal Symptoms.
There are several strategies that can help individuals manage withdrawal symptoms from
Effexor. One of the most effective is to taper off the medication slowly, under the guidance of a
healthcare provider. This allows the body to adjust gradually to lower doses of the medication,
minimizing the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Other strategies that can help manage
symptoms include getting regular exercise, practicing relaxation techniques, and getting support
from friends and family. In 1999, The Road Back found; 50% of the people trying to withdrawal
off an antidepressant could make it through withdrawal but they still suffered withdrawal side
effects. This withdrawal was accomplished by only using a 10% reduction of the medication
every 2 weeks. Of the 50% that could make it off the antidepressant, 40% went back on the
antidepressant because the withdrawal symptoms were too severe, and they saw no hope in
ever living a normal life again. .
The Road Back began investigating other options than a slow and gradual withdrawal. In 2000,
The Road Back began a trial using a whey protein shown to increase the glutathione in the body.
The success was immediate. We found; 90% of those that went back on their antidepressant
could now go off their antidepressant, do very well with the taper and remain off the
antidepressant. .
During the next 10 years, The Road Back continued testing other nutritional supplements to
improve the program and during the decade several changes were made to the supplements
recommended. .
In 2010, a major breakthrough was accomplished. In 2010, our founder Jim Harper, discovered a
gene that becomes altered with the use of every psychotropic medication. This gene, the JNK
gene, was virtually responsible for most every psychotropic medication withdrawal side effect.
Not only during withdrawal but also when a person is taking the full dosage of the medication
as prescribed. .
Part 5: Effexor Withdrawal, Where we are in 2023, and The Road Back Program .
The Road Back Program uses formulated nutritional supplements to address; the JNK gene,
glutathione as well as aquaporins to help eliminate Effexor withdrawal. Over 19 million people
throughout the world have now used The Road Back Program to get their life back. .
Part 6: Risks of Effexor Withdrawal.
While most individuals who withdraw from Effexor will experience only mild to moderate
symptoms, there are some risks associated with the process. In some cases, withdrawal can
lead to severe or even life-threatening symptoms, such as seizures or suicidal thoughts. It's
important to work closely with a healthcare provider to manage withdrawal safely and
effectively. .
Part 7: Conclusion.
Effexor withdrawal can be a challenging experience, but it's important to remember that
symptoms are temporary and can be managed effectively with the right strategies. By working
with a healthcare provider and taking steps to manage symptoms, individuals can successfully
withdraw from Effexor and regain control of their mental health. If you or a loved one is
experiencing Effexor withdrawal, seek help from a healthcare provider as soon as possible. .
Part 8: Additional Effexor Information The majority of people attempting Effexor withdrawal
experience an antidepressant withdrawal syndrome. This is also known as Effexor
discontinuation syndrome in the United States. In Europe it is called Effexor withdrawal side
effects. The F.D.A. estimates 10% of those experiencing Effexor withdrawal will go back up on
the Effexor because the withdrawal symptoms are too severe.
The most common and debilitating Effexor withdrawal side effect is called "brain zaps." Brain
zaps are described by people experiencing it as a; electrical jolt that tends to run from base of
the neck up into their head. Another side effect that tends to run with brain zaps is a shiver, a
feeling as your head is floating, dizziness, and/or a whirling sensation in the head.
These symptoms can come in waves or even be persistent. The good news; in 2002, our
founder, Jim Harper, discovered the correct type of Omega 3 taken in the right quantity will
eliminate these devastating head symptoms quickly. Usually within a couple of hours.
The body in a normal state uses the oil from our diet, specifically from omega 3 found in fish, to
build and replenish the end point of areas in the brain that sends and receives electrical signals.
We are using easy to understand terminology, so it is easy to understand. Let's leave the
technical jargon to physicians. These brain zaps have nothing to do with serotonin levels or
other made-up reasons. It is simple really; our body works in a very natural way with how it uses
amino acids, proteins, fats in food and all other diet items to maintain a balance. When you
introduce any toxin that disrupts these processes the body reacts.
The most common Effexor Venlafaxene withdrawal symptoms reported include:
Flu like symptoms
Insomnia
Anxiety
Brain zaps
Tremors
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Increased suicidal ideation
Nausea
Headache
Mania
Hypomania
Ringing in the ears
Aggression
Confusion
Imbalance
Mood swings
Please note: These are the most common Effexor withdrawal side effects but far from all
potential Effexor withdrawal side effects.
There is a warning the FDA has put a black box warning on Effexor. WARNING: SUICIDAL
THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS
See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Antidepressants increased the risk
of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in pediatric and young adult patients (5.1) Closely monitor
for clinical worsening and emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors
You may have been prescribed Effexor within a very short doctor visit. There was no
investigation into other life factors, lab testing, or any conversation about what side effects
might present. The failings of this approach may cause quite a burden on the patient.
Depression, insomnia, anxiety, fibromyalgia, and other symptoms that Effexor is often
prescribed for might stem from; diminished vitamin D levels, over active JNK gene, specific
proteins that need to be silenced, dietary concerns and food allergies, mitochondrial
dysfunction, neurotoxic accumulation, and many other reasons. A full physical from an
understanding physician is ideal, before prescribing Effexor.
Do Your Symptoms Require Effexor?
The Road Back Program uses nutritional supplements to help with the Effexor withdrawal. Most
people feel a very fast relief from the Effexor withdrawal once they begin taking the
supplements and we feel the odds are high; if would have taken nutritional supplements like
these before starting the Effexor you would have been prescribed the Effexor in the first place.
In 2007, Jim Harper was giving a speech to a group of psychiatrists in Ireland and during his talk
he mentioned his mother just passed away 30 days ago. He went on to describe how he made
sure to take his JNK Formula each day to help the body cope with the stress being put on it do to
his loss. He went on to say, "The JNK Formula will not remove the emotional loss and how I feel
but it will keep the body strong during my time to grieve."
How Do You Survive Effexor Withdrawal?
Surviving Effexor withdrawal depends on what you do at this very moment. If you keep doing
the same thing you have been doing and you are in a heavy Effexor withdrawal, nothing will
change for the positive, That is a given.
If you decide to do the Effexor withdrawal as an inpatient in a drug rehab center DO NOT DO
THE 9 DAY PLAN BECAUSE THAT WHAT INSURANCE ALLOWS. Over the past 22 years I have
worked with far too many people who were sold on a rehab facility, stayed the 9 days because
insurance would only pay for that amount of time. The unscrupulous facility took them off the
Effexor in 9 days as they promised and by the time the person got off the airplane after their
return home they were in full withdrawal. You can't do an Effexor withdrawal in 9 days.
The Road Back Program can normally help you get back on your feet again but the rehab facility
approach of this type is not worth the price you will pay mentally and physically.
You will find a few other outpatient Effexor withdrawal programs on the internet now and Jim
Harper is not aware of one that will cause you harm like the rehab facilities mentioned.
However, every other program on the internet was trained by Jim Harper years ago and they are
doing what Jim Harper and The Road Back did during that time frame. Almost 2 decades ago Jim
Harper trained several physicians and good intentioned people how to get a patient off Effexor.
Jim went into detail of the process and what nutritional supplements were used and why they
were used. At that time of The Road Back the success rate was not as high as desired and over
the following years Jim changed the formulas used with the supplements several times to use
new information with DNA testing.
Long story short; you will likely wind up using an Effexor withdrawal approach The Road Back
used in 2003, that was scrapped for something more successful. If you are currently in Effexor
withdrawal, send Jim Harper an email and he will personally guide you through the process so
you can get back on your feet quickly and have a very successful Effexor withdrawal. It does not
matter if you have been on Effexor for 1 month or 20 years. Recovery can happen and the good
part is it does not take more time because you have been taking Effexor for years. When Do
Effexor Withdrawal Symptoms Start When Discontinuing / Quitting Effexor?
Effexor withdrawal usually begins between day 1 and day 3 of adjusting the Effexor. For some
people this is not the case but eventually most everyone hits some dosage of the Effexor when
reducing that jars them. Effexor withdrawal begins and they have no idea what they should do.
Their physician does not know what to do. They wind up in a spiral downward and wind up on a
new medication to try and stop the Effexor withdrawal. The best case is the additional drug
does that, but you are now on 2 drugs instead of only Effexor.
What is Effexor?
Effexor is an antidepressant medication developed in the 1970s with FDA approval granted in
1991. This SSRI drug is prescribed in treating adult depressive disorders (MDD), panic disorder,
obsessive compulsory disorders (OCD), social anxiety (SAD), post-traumatic stress disorders
(PTSD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
If you have anxiety before taking Effexor, or anxiety begins while taking Effexor, odds are the
anxiety will continue to get worse. Effexor alters dopamine much like the antidepressant Effexor
and anxiety is a byproduct of these two drugs.
What Is Effexor Used For?
Effexor is an antidepressant medication approved to treat adult MDD (major depressive
disorder). The Black Box warning on the drug’s packaging mentions that the drug should not be
prescribed to anyone under the age of 25, due to heightened risk of suicide. There is an
exception to this for patients under the age of 25 who have been diagnosed with OCD
(obsessive-compulsive disorder).Potential suicidality is associated with all Effexor and may be a
concern leading to consider Effexor withdrawal, which is recommended to be done always
under medical or caregiver monitoring.
Adult-only approved uses for the drug provided in a clinical or treatment setting include:
MDD: Major Depressive Disorder
PTSD: Post-traumatic stress disorder
PD: Panic disorder
SAD: Social anxiety disorder
OCD: Obsessive-compulsive disorder
PMDD: Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
Effexor Side Effects
The full list of Effexor side effects is quite staggering. In 2004, Jim Harper used the Freedom of
Information Act to get the full list of Effexor side effects. Jim received the information, and it is
500 sheets of letter size paper, single space, a number 10 font size, 3 columns per page. In other
words, thousands of known potential Effexor side effects were disclosed. Some of the other
Effexor and Effexor withdrawal side effects:
Serotonin syndrome: A life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical care in a hospital
emergency clinic or ICU. Symptoms to watch for include sudden fever, losing consciousness,
inability to move or speak, copious sweating, dilated pupils, chills, tremors, convulsions,
diarrhea, agitation, restlessness, racing heart, etc.
Suicidal thoughts (common) Suicide attempt (common)
Hyperkinesis (muscle spasms, movement disorder)
Worsened depression
Aggression
Paranoia (rare) Anxiety
Mania (common)
Convulsions
Unconsciousness
Coma
Teeth grinding
Akathisia (relentless internal restlessness and discomfort marked by repeated motions, pacing,
rocking, etc., that can lead to suicidal thoughts as a means of relief)
Tachycardia (racing heart, even when the body is at rest)
Rash
Itching
Burning, crawling feeling in the skin
Fever
Tics, sudden jerky movements, myoclonus
Emotional blunting
Behavioral apathy, SSRI-induced-indifference
Pain on urination or difficulty urinating
Cloudy urine
Headache
Sexual impairments, i.e., anorgasmia, inability to ejaculate, lowered libido Mood swings
Pain around the eyes or eye sockets
Sleepiness
Bladder pain
Prickling skin sensation
Numbness
Sensory disturbances
Insomnia
Depersonalization (common)
Nervousness
Nightmares (paroniria)
Hostility
Nausea
Diarrhea
Weight gain
Some documented Effexor birth defects and injuries include:
PPHN or persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn, a heart and lung condition which
can result in respiratory failure, decreased oxygen to the brain, and multiple organ injuries.
Congenital Heart Defects connected to Effexor and other SSRIs include ventricular septal defects
and atrial septal defects, also referred to as “holes in the heart”, related to heart murmurs,
suppressed appetite, breathing difficulties, tiredness, inadequate growth, etc.
Increased Risk of Autism has been extensively reported but evidence has not yet been
considered conclusive enough for regulatory bodies to ban prescribing to pregnant women.
Increased Risk of Clubfoot connected to SSRIs during pregnancy as reported by NIMH, where
exposure had the highest increase in clubfoot of all SSRIs.
Increased risk of atrial/ventricular defects and craniosynostosis was reported in a Canadian
study from 1998 to 2010 and published in the June 2015 issue of the American Journal of
Gynecology & Obstetrics.
Effexor Withdrawal, What to Expect
If using The Road Back Program, you should expect to feel a lot better within the first couple
days of the program. If you do nothing, expect to continue to feel as you do now. Possibly worse
as time goes on. The chance of feeling better if you do nothing is nil.
In 1999, The Road Back only had people taper the Effexor gradually and slowly. They still
suffered. Around 50% could get off the Effexor but most went back on the Effexor because they
continual Effexor withdrawal side effects would not diminish or go away.
We wish there was a better answer for you than the above but with working with over 19 million
people over the last 22 years, the truth is the truth. No way to water it down to make it sound
better.
Some may think it is just their depression returning but who would not feel depressed if they
were still going through Effexor withdrawal months after stopping the Effexor. We can't stress
enough; what you do or do not do at this moment in time is critical for your future. Take your
time if possible. If you have brain zaps go buy any omega 3 fish oil, even the wrong omega 3 fish
oil will help somewhat. While you read this you may want to pause and go take a walk. Look at
the trees, the sky or anything off in the distance. Getting your attention off your mind and body
may do wonders. Keep this close to your heart; There is Hope and There is a Solution. We are
speaking directly to YOU.
A 30-day supply of the nutritional supplements will cost you around $80. If you feel it is worth
around $80 to take a chance that all of this can go away in a couple of days, then take that
chance. Over the past 22 years many have sent an email to Jim Harper and said they were not
sure what to do about the Effexor withdrawal. Even after reading this information. The people
that tried something else generally came back within a few months and were in worse shape
than before. We do not want this to happen to you. But if so; Jim will still be here to assist.
Can Effexor Make Depression Worse?
Common sense answers this question. If depression is one side effect of taking Effexor, then
Effexor can cause depression. You do stand a greater chance of Effexor causing depression
during withdrawal than while simply taking the Effexor as prescribed. The depression during
Effexor withdrawal can be due to the other Effexor withdrawal side effects you are experiencing.
Who will not start to get depressed if you have anxiety from morning to night, can't sleep and
your head feels like it is on fire.
Effexor Aggression in Children
Children are more prone to aggression when taking Effexor than adults. It occurs in 10-20% of
children taking any SSRI antidepressant. Two clinical trials performed by Pfizer, aggression was
the most common reason noted for Effexor discontinuation.
Can You Get Addicted to Effexor?
Yes and no. This is where Effexor dependence is a matter of wording. Medically speaking in the
United States Effexor is not addicting. In Europe it is viewed as addicting. The bottom line is;
Once you take Effexor for 7 days the Effexor has made its way through your body. If your body
no longer has the Effexor in its system, your body will react to the Effexor being gone. Much like
a person that eats a lot a sweets every day. Your body will react when the sweet substance is
not present. Call it addicting, as we would, call it a dependence as United States physicians will,
it is what it is. If you do not provide the substance the body reacts, and you also have mental
feelings that are not positive. We can get into the insulin discussion etc., but we are only talking
about a substance being present and then not and the body and mind reacting in a negative
manner.
What is the difference between Effexor and a Benzodiazepine?
Effexor is an SSRI medication, an antidepressant, used to treat depression and anxiety.
Benzodiazepines are prescribed mainly for the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders but
also prescribed off-label to treat depression.
These two types of drug have different chemical components and were designed to work on
different brain receptors and neurotransmitters, but some of their effects can be seen to
overlap. Benzodiazepines are thought to mainly affect GABA transmission, which can slow the
central nervous system to reduce anxiety, while Effexor is designed to block the reuptake of
serotonin.
Benzodiazepines are known to be more prone to dependence/addiction than Effexor. While the
withdrawal symptoms are similar between both drugs, Effexor’s half-life is 22-36 hours, and
Benzodiazepines half-life is much lower. Benzodiazepines can have more severe complications
if abruptly stopped, including seizures. For safe Benzodiazepine or Effexor withdrawal, either of
these drugs must be slowly tapered to allow the central nervous system and neurochemistry to
safely normalize.
Choosing to withdrawal from the Effexor first or the benzodiazepine first needs to be evaluated.
Use Chapter 23, The Science to decide is part of that equation. Depending on the
benzodiazepine you may be taking with the Effexor, if you reduce the Effexor first it may make
you go into withdrawal on the benzodiazepine, even if you did not reduce the benzodiazepine.
How long does Effexor stay in your system after the last dosage?
Our founder, Jim Harper, made great strides with determining this question. Using his DNA
testing company in 2004-2005, Jim conducted hundreds of DNA tests to determine how fast or
slow medications took to metabolize. In roughly 34 percent of the population the Effexor can
take as long as 48 hours to clear the body. In others, as little as 8 hours can occur for the Effexor
to clear the body. Depending on other habits you may have, Effexor could clear faster or even
take more time than the 48 hours. If you smoke cigarettes and stop smoking while taking
Effexor, the Effexor dosage you are taking will decrease by 15%. On the other side of this, if you
start smoking while taking Effexor, the Effexor dosage will act as though it is 15% higher than
you think it is. This is because cigarettes induce an enzyme used to metabolize Effexor and
anything using that same pathway will shoot though much faster. Caffeine restricts that same
enzyme, so if you start or stop drinking coffee while taking Effexor you will either go into
withdrawal or feel an overdose, even though you have not changed the Effexor dosage.
This is why The Road Back Program wants you to not change smoking habits or caffeine habits
during the Effexor taper.
Can you overdose on Effexor?
Yes, it is definitely possible for Effexor poisoning to occur. A substantial Effexor overdose
requires emergency medical intervention to prevent major health problems. This list of Effexor
overdose symptoms would be the same as those Effexor side effects listed above, but more
severe.
According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), the use of intravenous benzodiazepines is
sometimes required during Effexor overdose to prevent seizures. Extra cooling measures must
be used to reduce hyperthermia, always under the direction of EMT or other medical staff
attending to the patient.
Treatment for Effexor Withdrawal
Effexor has become one of the most frequently prescribed antidepressants in the US. Of equal
importance is that depressive disorders have become one of the most frequently diagnosed
conditions. These two facts together underscore two important steps toward improved health:
Providing safe treatment programs for those who have decided on Effexor withdrawal and
offering drug-free options to regain natural mental health without the need for prescription
medications.
The Road Back Program was described by Dr. Hyla Cass M.D. in this way:
Here's an essential handbook on how to safely and more easily wean yourself (under medical
supervision) off the heavily over-prescribed psychotropic medications. I have used the program
with my patients and it works!"
Hyla Cass M.D. Author of Supplement Your Prescription
Send an email to Jim Harper by using the Contact link on the top of this page or read How to Get
Off Psychoactive Drugs Safely by Jim Harper and follow the program for Effexor withdrawal.
Why Jim put his entire book on our website for free is so you can instantly read the material and
start this process if you are ready now.
One last thing Jim asked us to provide at the bottom of each page of Effexor descriptions:
There is Hope and There is a Solution
Venlafaxine ( Effexor )
Side Effects