Effexor

Effexor or Effexor XR is the brand name for venlafaxine (oral). Effexor is a type of antidepressant that belongs to the category of drugs known as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SSNRIs). The drug restores balance of a few specific natural substances within the brain that aids in improving some mood disorders. The conditions for which Effexor is used are:

• Major depression: Increased feelings of worthlessness and guilt, change in sleep habits, difficulty in concentrating, and suicidal thoughts are the symptoms.
• Generalized anxiety disorder: Persisting anxiety for a minimum period of six months along with any three of these symptoms: fatigue, restlessness, irritability, and sleep disturbances are the signs of generalized anxiety disorder.
• Social anxiety disorder: Persistent fears as well as avoidance of social gatherings, unfamiliar people and apprehension of possible criticism or scrutiny by people are the primary signs of a social anxiety disorder.

Effexor is ideally taken twice or thrice daily. Effexor XR which is in extended - release form, can be taken once a day. Effexor should never be taken with any MAO inhibitors. Many a times, fatal reactions have been reported due to the simultaneous use of Effexor and MAO inhibitors. Individuals having liver disease, kidney disease or hypertension should be cautioned against using this drug.

The symptoms of Effexor withdrawal are as much severe as any other symptoms associated with general antidepressant withdrawal, and sometimes even more. Patients on even low dosage can experience the severe withdrawal reactions related to Effexor. The withdrawal symptoms can last for a period of two months to even a year. Since Effexor has a short “half life”, there are chances of developing withdrawal symptoms even with a single missed dose. The typical symptoms associated with withdrawal from Effexor include:

• Anxiety and confusion
• Agitation
• Tremor
• Sweating
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Sensory disorders like electrical shock like sensations
• Headaches
• Excessive exhaustion
• Dryness of mouth
• Insomnia
• Vision disorders

Certain useful steps are to be followed during the process of withdrawal from Effexor to minimize the intensity of the adverse reactions. These are:

1. Do consult your doctor: The first and the most vital part of Effexor withdrawal involve consulting your doctor and seeking his advice. Following strict guidelines as laid out by the doctor should be of foremost priority in a patient’s mind.
2. Tapering of dosage: Instead of abrupt discontinuation of Effexor, the dosage is usually gradually lowered to make the body acclimatized with the change and reduce the severity of the symptoms. Sometimes tapering of dosage that spreads over weeks, months and even longer can help. Suppose a particular patient is taking 150 mg per day, he or she can cut the dose by 75 mg for about a week, continue with this dose for another week before stopping it. In patients with higher severity of symptoms, the 75 mg dose may be continued for a month before complete cessation of the drug. Another alternative is to have the present dose on a particular day and have half, the day after and continuing in this manner for seven days. Then the dosage has to be dropped by half and continued for some more time before attempting the next reduction in dosage. You must report the changes that you go through on a regular basis to your doctor during the withdrawal process.
3. Set a congenial environment: When you attempt withdrawing from Effexor, make sure that the environment that you stay in is full of supportive and adjusting set of people. You may be experiencing the typical symptoms associated with Effexor withdrawal like agitation, temper outbursts, and general irritability. The people around you should be tolerant, understanding and empathetic about your condition to help you cope with the withdrawal symptoms better. Going on a short vacation during the initial two weeks is also of great help.
4. Prepare your body: Perform physical exercises daily to build a strong body before attempting to withdraw from Effexor. A strong body and a healthy immune system help fight with withdrawal symptoms effectively. You should also pay importance to the intake of healthy unprocessed foods full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
5. Penning your thoughts: When you are attempting to withdraw from Effexor, sometimes writing down your innermost frustrations, anxiety and incoherent thoughts can help to release your energy and relieve agony.
6. The most important factor that comes into play while withdrawing from any drug is the patient’s own will. The individual should be motivated enough to lead a healthy life and make efforts to overcome the symptoms of withdrawal as best as he can.

Following these guidelines along with complying with the instructions of a healthcare provider will make the withdrawal process smooth and trouble free.