Posted by Harry J on November 25, 2002, at 20:48:03
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR? YES! , posted by Shel on July 18, 2000, at 1:35:45
I have been on Effexor XR for about 6 months now. I was first diagnosed with post traumatic shock syndrome in 95 as a medic in Detroit. Shortly after I had a daughter born profoundly handicapped. She died about 7 months ago at age 16. Up until then I had been on just about everything, with Paxil working the longest and best.
Effexor has been a miracle drug for me. However, unlike the typical reaction time for it to start working (usually 2-3 weeks), I have found that it works within a matter of days. Similarly, if I should go without it for more then three days things happen fast. I not only get quickly and deeply depressed, but I actually get psychotic in a way I have never been before. This happened twice, once on a business trip where I forgot my medicine. The second occurance was an admission for chest pain to the hospital. I did not remember the right and told them the paxil. When I left the hospital I did not know who I was or what I did for the next two days. I have never been diagnosed manic or psychotic. I believe it reacts similar to that which Prozac was suggested to have worked: such a fast come down that you actually go far beyond even "your" normal depressive states.
I have no knowledge of anyone else on it and therefore subsequently cannot tell you if this reaction is typical. I am thinking about seeking an alternative medicine, which as you all know is not easy. However to think of going through another episode of withdrawel almost makes suicide look like a much better option. At least that is my opinion.
With regard to Dr. Bob's discontinuation note on the site I also experienced a mild flu like symptom. That was however the least of my worries.
poster:Harry J
thread:13781
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20021122/msgs/129305.html