Effexor XR and few days

This is my 4th day off effexor. For the past 3 nights, I have been almost asleep...when I am awakened by a 'shortness and uneven breathing'. This happened constantly..every time I would almost nod off...i would be awakened with a jolt as if I couldn't breathe. Last night this went on for a few hours, but I finally got some sleep. Has anyone else experienced this? I was on effexor for 8 months...the dr. increasing it gradually up to 300mg. per day. I have weaned off slowly, until 4 days ago, going from 75 to none. It has been 4 days of hell...with evil sick dreams, brain buzzing, migraine type issues, etc. I have never experienced anything like it. I would suggest anyone considering taking this drug...DON'T!!! I was on prozac for 14 years before this, and the symptoms were minimal. But i became immune to it. I have chosen to be none medicated from now on. I will deal with my anxiety and depression with exercise, and by the grace of God. Please Help if you have any suggestions to get me past the next few days...How long can I expect this awful withdrawal..I feel so sick it's almost to weird to describe. I heard taking benadryl helps. I have taken a few...but don't feel too different.
Looking forward to your help..Thanks in advance.

I have been taking this drug 75mg everyday for 6 months. at first I was feeling so much better. This past winter I have been sick constantly. I almost never get sick and I have had every virus that has went around. now I am feeling so weird sleep disturbances weird dreams, not being able to sleep but being exhausted.. I have gained weight and want to eat all the time. I am going to the doctor in a few days and will be asking to be weaned off this drug.