DON'T TAKE EFFEXOR unless you want be on a med forever. I did not...

effexor is very hard to get off of- it causes brain shivers and even suicidal thoughts. most people stay on it.
try taking niacin (the flushing kind). my friend was on antidepressants for 15 years and i got him off using niacin. the amount he takes varies on what kind of day he is having. some days he's flushed after taking 300 mg; others after taking 1200 mg
now he takes time released niacin so he can always keep a base level in his body without flushing and it seems to keep his moods pretty level.
since he's been off his meds, he hasn't had chronic migraines or muscle aches
try it- add a bit more each day as you cut down on your effexor dose. good luck

BTW, the purpose of effexor IS to keep you on it forever! that's how drug companies make their $$.