Weening

[Hokey Pokey]

Hi guys
I have been on an antidepressent called Efexor for 3 months now and I want to ween off them but don't know how.
any help?

[natasha]

In 3 months i doubt you are ready to come off them at all! Im sorry but having been off and on them for many years, 3 months just isnt long enough for them to help you well enough to come off them. I also think your GP or doc would agree.

Im sorry im not much help, as i really dont know how to wean myself off them when the time comes, i just don't think after 3 months you shouldn't even be thinking about it.

[Hokey Pokey]

That's ok I appreciate all the advice

[misskittyfantastico]

I'd really encourage you to talk to your GP about coming of your medication...anything to do with depression is rarely strait forward IYKWIM

[Hokey Pokey]

I've made am appointment for Thursday!
Will let you know how I go!

[misskittyfantastico]

I'm really pleased you did that, I'll be looking to see how you get on

[Hokey Pokey]

Thankyou

[Hokey Pokey]

After a long talk with my partner he has asked me (and begged lol) to finish this months supply of meds. I think he is worried about me going backwards again.
So I have decided to stick it out.... for a lil bit longer.

[Wivi]

Medications are tricky. I know that I get frustrated at times with mine because they make me tired and I have to go to bed at a very unsociable hour most of the time. I feel great in the day - but like you I have only been taking them for 3 months.

I would not wean off the tablets unless it was suggested by my doctor, from what I understand 6 to 12 months is the standard length of time for first time patients. Each medication is slightly different too so the way to wean needs to be specific for those meds.

I know it is annoying to take them. When I feel like stopping mine I think about how I felt before I started taking them and realise that I am sooo not going back there!!

[Scout]

Kristy, I'm also on Effexor but I've been on it for about 2.5 years. This is going to sound weird but I think they are great - this medication has given me my life back! I doubt I will ever come off mine - along with a lot of therapy (which to me is the most important part) combined with the meds, I'm happy, healthy, content and living my life.

At certain times, I have gone up and down in the dosage of my medication and I will advocate what others have said - don't do it without advice and the ok from your doctor. And.....3 months isn't really a long time, I would say 6-12 would be better (get some talk therapy too).

Weaning off of Effexor is hell and you generally will need help from your doctor in determining how best to reduce the dosage. Boy oh boy, I've had some shocking days when we've reduced my meds and/or I've forgotten to take them. . The "brain shocks" are the worst!

Good luck.