Please suggest how to prevent withdrawal symptoms from occurring after stopping antidepressants.
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I think I am going through withdrawal symptoms because of antidepressants. My doctor says I should not undergo these symptoms but I really think I am going through them. I was taking Effexor but then I stopped taking it and I feel awful. I was trying to switch from Effexor to Wellbutrin so I have been taking Effexor and Wellbutrin together because it is the only way I can function. Is this safe? Sorry I have no clue what to do. Please suggest some solution.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
Venlafaxine is known to cause withdrawal symptoms and it cannot be just stopped like that in the first place. There are different ways to try to stop it. I would suggest: Switch from Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (Venlafaxine) to a TCA (tricyclic antidepressants)-type antidepressant and then taper the dose slowly. Reduce from 112.5 mg to 75 mg, to 37.5 mg over four to six weeks. Dissolve the whole tablet in 6.7 fluid ounces of juice. Drink 6.42 fluid ounces for three days and discard the rest. Drink 6.08 fluid ounces for three days, discard the rest, and so on. It will be a bit slow, but you will not have any problems.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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