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  • What Is Effexor?What Is Effexor?
  • Effexor WithdrawalEffexor Withdrawal
  • Withdrawal SymptomsWithdrawal Symptoms
  • Discontinuation Vs. RelapseDiscontinuation Vs. Relapse
  • Withdrawal TimelineWithdrawal Timeline
  • Coping With SymptomsCoping With Symptoms
  • Question to AskQuestion to Ask
  • ConclusionConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesAdditional Resources

Effexor (Venlafaxine) Withdrawal: Symptoms, Duration, & How to Cope

Diana Rangaves, PharmD, RPh

Author: Diana Rangaves, PharmD, RPh

Diana Rangaves, PharmD, RPh

Diana Rangaves PharmD, RPh

Diana Rangaves is an accomplished pharmacist and expert in behavioral health pharmacology. Her areas of expertise include patient education, medication cost-reduction, and patient-centered treatment.

See My Bio Editorial Policy
Headshot of Heidi Moawad, MD

Medical Reviewer: Heidi Moawad, MD Licensed medical reviewer

Headshot of Heidi Moawad, MD

Heidi Moawad MD

Heidi Moawad, MD is a neurologist with 20+ years of experience focusing on
mental health disorders, behavioral health issues, neurological disease, migraines, pain, stroke, cognitive impairment, multiple sclerosis, and more.

See My Bio Editorial Policy
Published: January 25, 2023
  • What Is Effexor?What Is Effexor?
  • Effexor WithdrawalEffexor Withdrawal
  • Withdrawal SymptomsWithdrawal Symptoms
  • Discontinuation Vs. RelapseDiscontinuation Vs. Relapse
  • Withdrawal TimelineWithdrawal Timeline
  • Coping With SymptomsCoping With Symptoms
  • Question to AskQuestion to Ask
  • ConclusionConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesAdditional Resources
Dr. Diana Rangaves PharmD
Written by:

Diana Rangaves

PharmD, RPh
Headshot of Benjamin Troy, MD
Reviewed by:

Heidi Moawad

MD
Brand name:
Effexor XR
Generic name:
Venlafaxine (Extended Release)
Is the generic available:
Yes
Class of drug:
SNRI
Boxed warning:
Yes
FDA-approved treatments:
Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder
Common Off-label Uses (non-FDA approved):
ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
Common alternatives:

Zoloft, Prozac, Lexapro

View Drug Class, FDA-Approved Uses, Off-Label Uses, and more

*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.

Effexor (venlafaxine) is only available via prescription and should be taken as prescribed by a doctor. Stopping the medication without proper guidance increases the risk of Effexor withdrawal symptoms, such as worsening anxiety and increased sweating.

It is important to discuss medication withdrawal risks with your prescriber. If you want to discuss your current prescription with a provider or are considering a prescription for Effexor, online psychiatry platforms such as Talkiatry and Brightside Health can be good places to start. They offer assessments and prescription consultation, and can also discuss the risks of Effexor withdrawal and how to avoid it.

Boxed Warning: Venlafaxine (Effexor XR) - Risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in certain people

Click here to open and close the box warning container.

Venlafaxine, the active ingredient in Effexor XR, has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Venlafaxine can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults. Regardless of your age, you should talk with your doctor about serious risks with venlafaxine and any other medications before starting treatment.

What Is Effexor (Venlafaxine)?

Effexor (venlafaxine) is FDA-approved for use in the treatment of depression and anxiety, particularly major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).1 The medication may also be prescribed off-label (not FDA-approved) for other disorders, such as obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).2

Effexor is a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRIs) that regulates levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Increasing these levels can result in improved mood regulation, leading to decreased symptoms of anxiety and depression. SNRIs and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) work similarly. However, while SNRIs prolong the action of both serotonin and norepinephrine, SSRIs only prolong serotonin action.3, 4

Effexor is FDA-approved for treating:1, 2

  • Major depressive disorder (MDD)
  • Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
  • Social anxiety disorder (SAD)
  • Panic disorder

Effexor may be prescribed off-label for the treatment of:

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

What Is Effexor Withdrawal?

Effexor can only be prescribed by a doctor. Stopping Effexor abruptly can result in withdrawal or antidepressant discontinuation syndrome. After the body adjusts to the medication, immediate cessation can result in an imbalance of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. A person may also develop a physical dependence on Effexor, which can make them more likely to misuse their prescription.5 This is due to the effects of the medication decreasing as one’s tolerance increases. People should not increase or decrease the dose unless directed to do so by their doctor.

Stopping Effexor without proper guidance, switching medications, or missing a dose can result in withdrawal. A doctor can provide a tapering dosage to prevent withdrawal symptoms.

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Effexor Withdrawal Symptoms

The severity of Effexor side effects varies from person to person and can be influenced by one’s age, gender, or pre-existing health conditions. Stopping Effexor without proper guidance can lead to withdrawal symptoms, such as insomnia and increased anxiety. If symptoms become severe, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Always discuss these risks with a prescriber.

Common symptoms of Effexor withdrawal may include:1

  • Insomnia: Stopping Effexor can result in sleeping problems such as insomnia.
  • Confusion: Effexor cessation can lower blood sodium levels, which can cause confusion.
  • Increased sweating: Stopping Effexor can result in increased sweating.
  • Self-harm thoughts or behaviors: Stopping Effexor may increase the risk of self-harm thoughts or actions.
  • Mania: Those with bipolar disorder may experience manic episodes as a result of Effexor withdrawal.

Severe symptoms of Effexor withdrawal that may require immediate medical attention include:1

  • Suicidal thoughts: Effexor withdrawal can increase the risk of suicidal ideation or action.
  • Constant headaches: Effexor withdrawal can lead to continuous and persistent headaches that can grow intense over time.
  • Drowsiness: Stopping Effexor can increase drowsiness and the risk of accidents.
  • Dizziness: Effexor cessation can cause low blood pressure, resulting in dizziness. This can increase the risk of falls or accidents.

Discontinuation Vs. Relapse of Depression Symptoms

Stopping Effexor abruptly can result in discontinuation syndrome or a depression relapse. While they may seem similar, there are a few ways to differentiate between these two conditions. Typically, withdrawal results in flu-like symptoms, whereas a relapse in depression involves the re-emergence of negative moods or sleep issues.6

Withdrawal symptoms typically occur within a few days of Effexor cessation, while the onset of relapsed depression is slower.7

Discontinuation of Venlafaxine After Long-Term Treatment

Prolonged Effexor use can result in dependency. This can lead to unpleasant effects when stopping as their body becomes reliant on the drug for serotonin and norepinephrine regulation. After Effexor cessation, a doctor may consider recommending an alternative that better suits an individual’s needs, such as fluoxetine (Prozac) or vortioxetine (Trintellix).

Effexor Withdrawal Timeline

Effexor withdrawal symptoms usually emerge within a few days and may last for as long as three weeks. However, the duration of withdrawal depends on the individual. The severity of symptoms may improve over time, but it’s recommended to work closely with a doctor to ensure safety during this process.

Coping With Venlafaxine Withdrawal Symptoms

Symptoms of Effexor withdrawal can be challenging and, in some cases, severe. However, there are ways to prevent or minimize these symptoms. Tapering can minimize withdrawal symptoms. If withdrawal has already begun, a person should be sure to stay physically active, eat a healthy diet, and get adequate sleep in order to stay well.

Below are five strategies to help relieve symptoms of Effexor withdrawal:

1. Get Adequate Sleep

Improving your sleep habits can play an important role in withdrawal symptom management. Sleep greatly impacts a person’s mental health and getting enough of it is essential for maintaining emotional and physical well-being. It also ensures that you have the energy to tackle and overcome symptoms of withdrawal.8

2. Stay Active

It is recommended to engage in regular physical activity while experiencing withdrawal symptoms. There are many benefits of exercise for one’s mental health as it releases “feel-good” hormones known as endorphins. Regular exercise can greatly improve a person’s mood, and possibly prevent relapse in depression or anxiety symptoms after Effexor cessation.9

3. Make a Safety Plan With Family & Friends

If you are experiencing Effexor withdrawal, create a safety plan with trusted family or loved ones. This can help ensure that, if symptoms become severe or life-threatening, you will receive necessary treatment.

4. Maintain a Healthy Diet

A healthy and well-balanced diet not only improves your physical health, but also your mental well-being. You should start this before you begin to taper the medication so you can minimize withdrawal symptoms. Working with a dietician can help you achieve stability in a realistic and straight-forward way.

5. Take Some time Off

Focusing on your obligations, other responsibilities, or work can be especially stressful when experiencing withdrawal. Therefore, it is important to take a break from these in order to heal and recover quickly. Allow your body to rest.

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Questions to Ask Your Health Team

Before stopping Effexor, always discuss the risks associated with a doctor. They will provide a safe tapering dosage to prevent withdrawal or discontinuation syndrome.

Questions to ask your care team about discontinuing Effexor include:

  • Is stopping Effexor dangerous?
  • Are there risks of stopping Effexor?
  • When should I expect to experience withdrawal symptoms?
  • What should I do if something feels off during this process?
  • Who should I call and what should I do if I get sick?
  • Would starting a new medication help limit withdrawal symptoms?
  • Could my depression worsen after I stop taking Effexor?

Final Thoughts

Effexor can be an effective part of a person’s treatment plan. However, abrupt cessation of the drug can result in withdrawal. Because of this, it is essential to discuss a safe tapering dosage with a doctor to ensure healthy and safe discontinuation.

Additional Resources

To help our readers take the next step in their mental health journey, ChoosingTherapy.com has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. ChoosingTherapy.com is compensated for marketing by the companies included below.

Virtual Psychiatry

Circle Medical – Anxiety and Depression Treatment. Meet with an online doctor today! All prescriptions are based on necessity determined by a medical professional. Diagnosis and prescription over video. Insurance accepted. No membership or hidden fees. Same day appointments. Visit Circle Medical

Talkiatry – Get help from a real doctor that takes your insurance. Talkiatry offers medication management and online visits with expert psychiatrists. Take the online assessment and have your first appointment in days. Free Assessment

Therapy for Anxiety & Medication Management

Brightside Health – develops personalized plans that are unique to you and offers 1 on 1 support from start to finish. Brightside Health accepts United Healthcare, Anthem, Cigna, and Aetna. Appointments in as little as 24 hours. Start Free Assessment

Talk Therapy

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For Further Reading

Effexor (Venlafaxine) & Alcohol: Understanding the Risks
Effexor XR (Venlafaxine) Sexual Side Effects: What They Are & How to Manage Them
Effexor Weight Gain: Everything You Need to Know

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Sources

ChoosingTherapy.com strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.

  • DailyMed. (2022). Effexor XR- venlafaxine hydrochloride capsule, extended release. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=53c3e7ac-1852-4d70-d2b6-4fca819acf26

  • StatPearls. (2022, October 10). Venlafaxine – StatPearls – NCBI bookshelf. National Center for Biotechnology Information. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535363/

  • Sansone, R., & Sansone, L. (2014). Serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors: A pharmacological comparison. PubMed Central (PMC). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4008300/

  • StatPearls. (2022, May 8). Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors – StatPearls – NCBI bookshelf. National Center for Biotechnology Information. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/

  • Haddad, P. (1999). Do antidepressants have any potential to cause addiction? PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10512092/

  • Gabriel, M., & Sharma, V. (2017). Antidepressant discontinuation syndrome. cmaj. https://www.cmaj.ca/content/189/21/E747

  • Harvard Medical School. (2022, May 15). Going off antidepressants – Harvard health publishing – Harvard health. Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/going-off-antidepressants

  • Harvard Medical School. (2022, May 15). Going off antidepressants – Harvard health publishing – Harvard health. Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/going-off-antidepressants

  • Conn, V. S. (2010). Depressive Symptom Outcomes of Physical Activity Interventions: Meta-analysis Findings. Oxford University Press. https://academic.oup.com/abm/article/39/2/128/4566649

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