Posted by gabmeister on June 23, 2006, at 16:07:10
In reply to Re: Effexor withdrawal - physical symptoms, posted by over 55 on June 21, 2006, at 9:30:20
Hi Over 55... Thanks for thinking of me. Well I'm weaning. I'm going down 18.75 at a time (learned that from past experience). Doing pretty good overall but am slightly nauseous at times and have to take gravol (I think in the States it's called dramamine - but can only take half a tab of that 'cause a whole tab puts me to sleep - not a good thing when you're at work). The one thing that bothers me the most is what I call "brain shivers" (possibly similar to your "zaps"?). I've been on the 18.75 lower dosage for about 2 1/2 weeks and am going another 18.75 lower starting tomorrow. Will stay at that til I adjust again. Then down another 18.75. Last time took me 3-4 months to get off but it was the only way I could do it. In fact, right at the end I was actually finding it absolutely needed a 1/4 of a pill every 2 - 3 days. That's how addictive this stuff is. I remember at one point almost giving up and going back on, but a co-worked convinced me I had come too far and needed to stick it out. Which I did.
Unfortunately the depression reared its ugly little head again after about 1 1/2 years.
I find right now, as someone else posted, I'm sleeping less; feel a bit more energetic; and yes, the house is a bit tidier. I could actually get myself together enough last weekend to plant some flowers in the yard. May not sound like much but hadn't done that in 4 years.
I also hadn't left the house in 4 years (except to go to work) and I'm now at least able to go into the yard.
I'm actually starting to (slowly but surely) "feel" again, if that makes sense.
I live day to day and just keeping hoping I don't have symptoms I can't deal with, or if I do, that the worst happens at home, not work.My doc also didn't understand about the "brain shivers" / zaps. They should live a day in our shoes and they're figure it out pretty quick. But then again, I wouldn't wish this on anyone.
Thanks for asking about me. I think about all you guys and slip in a little prayer every nite.
We will get through this.
Be strong.
poster:gabmeister
thread:459548
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/wdrawl/20060602/msgs/660672.html