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Brain shivers, also known as "the electric brain thing", "the Zaps", "Blips", "Effexor shocks" or "brain spasms", is a rare but notorious withdrawal symptom of certain antidepressants. It is most commonly associated with venlafaxine (Effexor), but has been reported with other antidepressants as well (paroxetine and sertraline). The symptom remains rather controversial; Wyeth's original pamphlet for venlafaxine did not mention it, and many medical professionals are still unaware of the possible occurrence.
The effect appears to be almost unique to those antidepressant chemicals that have an extremely short half-life in the body; that is, they are quick to disappear completely. This attribute of abruptness leaves the brain a relatively short time to adapt to a major neurochemical change when you stop taking the medication, and the symptoms are caused by the brain's readjustment. There is no evidence that the shivers present any danger to the patient experiencing them.
"Brain shivers" are said to defy description for whoever has not experienced them, but the most common themes are of a sudden "jolt", likened to an electric shock, apparently occurring or originating in the brain itself, with associated disorientation for a few seconds. Immediately following this shock is a light-headedness which may last for up to ten seconds. Some have suggested the experience resembles a "funny bone" except that it shoots through the entire body, starting from the head. It may be initiated by sudden eye movement, and is often perceived as unpleasant. The effect may be similar to drunkenness without any cognitive loss. Driving with brain shivers is not advised.
As withdrawal time increases, so does the frequency of the shocks, before they wane completely. At their peak, "brain shivers" have been associated with severe headaches. They may last for a period of several weeks after the last dose, but usually resolve completely within a month. However, the effect may only last a few days.
The suggested action if one experiences this while withdrawing from antidepressants is to slow the tapering process. Like any withdrawal effect, this should be reported to the prescribing physician. If necessary, the tapering process may be slowed to well below the manufacturer-suggested dosage drop of 37.5 mg per week (for Effexor).
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"Brain shivers"