Posted by BJL on October 24, 2003, at 17:58:32
In reply to Advice on taking Effexor XR, posted by ktmwife on October 24, 2003, at 17:23:55
ktmwife, hello and welcome! By experience and by what I've read from others on this website, I don't think we could actually tell you what you will experience because each person is different. If it's not a chemical reaction causing your problem, then the medication may do nothing; if so, you may find incredible improvement in your spirits. However, please be aware that these effects don't come overnight. It took me about a month before I noticed. Actually, it was my friends and family that noticed the difference before I was aware of it. I was no longer as anxious and nervous in public.
BUT....I gained over 60 pounds in the 3+ years that I was on Paxil and Effexor, both are terrible for that! I guess it's not that way for everyone, but I've seen quite a few that have gained weight. I felt tired all of the time and ended up taking wellbutrin to offset that (another $150 a month). Also, when you go off Effexor, it's horrible...and I mean horrible! I had two weeks of severe dizziness and off and on nausea. It's been over a month, and I still feel occasional "zaps" in my body (kind of like an electrical shock).
I won't knock Effexor or Paxil, because they did work for me, but they also have their side effects, and I want you to be aware of them beforehand. I know that there are many other medications out there, and you may have another option. Just research and be sure before you jump into anything.
I wish you a ton of luck and hope that you are feeling perky and happy soon!
-Bobbi-
poster:BJL
thread:13781
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20031021/msgs/272863.html