Understanding How Effexor Works
Effexor causes a suspension or build-up of serotonin and norepinephrine molecules outside their normal pathways. Examples of some of the functions of serotonin, an inhibitory neurochemical, include mood and behavior regulation, gut health, digestion, and memory. Some examples of the functions of norepinephrine, an excitatory neurochemical, include regulation of cardiac output, regulation of blood sugar, signaling when other hormones should be released, blood flow, airflow, and many others. This hormone is colloquially known as the “fight or flight” hormone.
It is presumed that the restriction or build-up of these neurotransmitters will improve mood in the short term. This is a temporary effect. However, after a relatively short time, these natural molecules become vulnerable to degradation and loss through various processes, such as enzymes and other waste-removal systems in the body. Like pumping a gas pedal when the tank is empty, the drug will begin to lose efficacy, as a neurotransmitter deficiency can develop. Sometimes a prescription will be “upped” to compensate, again temporarily, but long-term use can lead to dependence. The CNS/brain adapt to the presence of the drug, and its effectiveness wanes over time. This is called “tolerance.” After dependence and tolerance develop, stopping the drug (especially if done abruptly) triggers Effexor withdrawal symptoms which can persist for a very long time.4,5
Effexor Withdrawal Symptoms Range from Mild to Severe
Effexor withdrawal symptoms can begin within a day or 2 of reducing or stopping the drug. Research shows that these withdrawal symptoms may persist well after discontinuation, which suggests that the reduction was faster than the body could tolerate. The higher the dose, and the longer the drug was taken, and the abruptness of stopping are all factors that need to be taken into account when planning tolerable and safe Effexor withdrawal. A large internet forum when analyzed, showed that 50 months was the most common length of SNRI withdrawal.
3 For some, Effexor withdrawals can be mild and for others, debilitatingly, ruinously harsh. For a long time, doctors and patients alike have been misinformed on the subject of antidepressant withdrawals, and it has taken a very long time for published literature to begin to acknowledge the extent of the problem.4,5
Please don’t lose hope. There are holistic solutions that can help make the journey a successful one. These will be discussed further in this article.
Guidance for Effexor Withdrawal
If you can, work with a trusted prescriber, or better yet, a team of supporters who you trust and who are willing and able to assist you. Currently, the brand name Effexor is only sold as an extended release capsule. The capsule contains beads. Generic venlafaxine comes in a tablet, which can be cut. For more specifics on how to cut, and how to use the bead-counting methods, more information is available on our Effexor tapering pages. You can also research natural remedies for Effexor withdrawal that can ease the process on our Effexor alternatives pages.
Before you begin, it is recommended to become familiar with common Effexor withdrawal symptoms, so you can recognize these and not be surprised or start thinking you are just going nuts. No, please remember, the withdrawals can be quite harsh, especially if the withdrawal process is too fast for your own body’s capability to adapt easily.
If the withdrawals become too intense or uncomfortable, one can adjust the dosage up again, and resume the reduction at a much slower pace once the current set of withdrawals level out. This may mean several weeks, before another reduction is attempted. Go slow, and go well.
Success Story: Reclaiming Wellness
Mark, a 38-year-old teacher, struggled with Effexor withdrawal’s dizziness and anxiety. At Alternative to Meds, a plan combining a 12-week taper, omega-3 supplementation, sauna cleanse, nutritional overhaul, exercise, and a wealth of other adjunctive therapies restored his balance and confidence.
Inpatient Effexor Withdrawal at Alternative to Meds Center
Alternative to Meds Center is an inpatient treatment facility that uses holistic antidepressant withdrawal techniques under medical supervision. A gradual reduction is implemented, supported by a wide range of Effexor alternatives and treatments that can help ease withdrawal symptoms while making the transition to drug-free.
We are insurance-friendly, and welcome your call to find out more about the program, your length of stay, what to bring, and any other questions you may have for your or your loved one’s treatment.
With an individually structured tapering plan, holistic antidepressant alternatives, and comfort therapies at hand, the level of care is unmatched. Call us today and find out how easy it might be to come to us for safe and comfortable Effexor withdrawal and renewed natural mental health.
Suicidality
