 [ Symptoms ] trying to stop effexor but can not debilitating withdrawal symptoms will not go away what can i do [ Disease ] most helpful answer i guess my first question would be why you are trying to stop taking the effexor generic name venlafaxine generally this medication is prescribed for depression or different types of anxiety disorders do you feel your condition has improved and you no longer need the medication for it do you feel taking the medication is causing intolerable side effects no matter why you want to stop taking venlafaxine please talk to your health care provider if the medication is causing side effects your medical provider may be able to switch you to a different medication if you feel your mental health condition is under control at this point so you no longer need medication for it your health care provider can advise you about how to safely stop taking this medication venlafaxine effexor is not a medication that should be stopped suddenly as you have learned this approach can produce bad side effects in particular if you have stopped taking velafaxine and are experiencing feelings or thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself or hurting other people you should seek immediately medical attention by calling 911 i wish you the very best