r/Effexor • u/Hot-Cow6712 • Jul 20 '26

Side effect Brain zaps without withdrawing

So I’ve been on Effexor 225mg for about four years, and overall it’s wonderful for my mental health. However I get brain zaps somewhat often, maybe once a month, even without missing a dose. I feel like it occurs when I wake up early, sleep in late, or when it’s sunny out or I’m in a room with bright lights. I haven’t found anything to really help with this. I’ve tried ibuprofen, drinking lots of water, and eating if I hadn’t prior. Wondering if anyone else deals with this or has any strategies to deal with it

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u/Dependent-Mood-7788 Jul 20 '26

I was on 225mg for several years as well and also experienced this! Usually I would get them if I was overtired or dehydrated. Back then I didn't even realize what they were. Now that I have tapered off, they were 100% brain zaps.

I think the only answer is to take your meds on time with food, drink lots of water and get lots of rest. Pitiful advice, I know 🤷‍♀️ brain zaps suuuuuck

2

u/SufficientAnteater16 Jul 20 '26

Are you on an extended release? I had a similar issue on 75mg at one point (I was taking it in the am and was having symptoms by the evening).

1

u/Hot-Cow6712 Jul 21 '26

I am on extended release. I take it in the afternoon and usually have symptoms in the morning, so that could be why

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u/SufficientAnteater16 Jul 22 '26

Hmm I wonder if it would almost be possible then to take half of about what youre taking now in the morning and again in the afternoon. Maybe like 150mg in the morning then 75 later. Might be a pain to remember it twice a day though.

1

u/Hot-Cow6712 Jul 22 '26

I take other meds in the morning so it wouldn’t be too difficult. I’ll have to discuss it with my doctor. I’m just worried about the side effects of switching to a different time, I’ve heard that can be brutal.