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Tapering: Effexor

researching

1 posts

Denver

Hi, I'm cynthia lakes

June 10, 2026··
I have been on Cymbalta, Venafalaxine 75 mg XR for close to 20 years. I can’t even tell if it’s working any more. I have been having anxiety and depression while on it, but working with a therapist helps! Worked on calming things that help. Somatic exercises, and Vagus nerve work. It has helped. I want to taper off, it sounds scary!

Effexor — 3 count of 75mg XR — 15 years — researching taper | without clinician

2 Replies

Based
BasedStaff3mo ago
Community AnchorEffexor
Hey Cynthia! Your story is very common. People often dont see a significant improvement after getting on meds and thats the exact reason many want to taper off. Feat not about the taper! It may seem scary but in a few years youll look back and be proud and happy you did it. If you need more info check out the learn section. And once you start tapering please let us know how its going with check ins! Wishing you all the best!

Creator of Taper Community, here to help you.

Catina
Catina3mo ago
Community AnchorEffexor
Hi Cynthia! Nice to have you here. Sometimes these drugs can cause the very problems they're supposed to "treat." You may find that tapering off will actually bring you some relief. Are you planning on tapering the Venlafaxine first? I know you're scared, but you're doing the best thing by being here and approaching things with gaining knowledge about Hyperbolic tapering. And you're never alone! Your fellow members will be here with you every step of the way. You've been on these drugs a very long time, so it will be important for you to taper slowly and allow your brain enough time to process the changes. Have a look around the site. There's lot of helpful information. Let us know if you have any questions! You've got this! Catina 🩵

Venlafaxine (tapering) - Current dose 17.92 mg
Trazodone - 50 mg
Levothyroxine - 25 mcg

“Your brain and body know how to heal. Trust the process and keep going.”

Please Note: I am not a healthcare professional. Any advice given is based on personal experience and that of others in the lay withdrawal community.

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