![[dr. bob]](/dr-bob-sm.gif)
Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 809 to 833 of 10407. Go back in thread:
Posted by willow on April 16, 2001, at 21:02:44
In reply to Re: I Love Effexor, posted by Finallyhappy? on April 16, 2001, at 20:55:03
"I may have the side effects everyone is talking about when I stop taking this medicine ..."
I wish I had kept the link I had found concerning effexor withdrawal. It had explained how quickly it left the body. When stopping the medication it should be done slowly and there are other medications which can help. You'll notice a lot of the people with problems didn't take enough time tapering down. It took me about six months to get up to 150mg so I'm not assuming that I can quit it so quickly.
I too think this drug is just a little short of a miracle!
Willow
Posted by Denny on April 16, 2001, at 22:17:36
In reply to Re: I Love Effexor, posted by Marilyn on April 16, 2001, at 15:00:20
Hey Marilyn,
The point is I have gone off Effexor numerous times and felt so awful when I relasped into depression that I have to start taking it again! When I've stopped taking it cold turkey or tapered off too quickly I experience those withdrawl symptoms also: although I find them to be a minor annoyance compared to the anxiety, depression and irritability of mental illness. And if I've offended anybody with my sarcastic comments about Scientologists I apology.
Posted by Dr. Bob on April 16, 2001, at 22:45:08
In reply to Re: I Love Effexor, posted by Marilyn on April 16, 2001, at 15:00:20
> You poor little thing. Just wait untill you wanna get off effexor....just wait.....
Please be civil, thanks.
Bob
PS: Follow-ups regarding this may be deleted if not redirected to Psycho-Babble Administration.
Posted by jerz on April 16, 2001, at 22:51:10
In reply to Re: Hate it! , posted by JAMMER on April 13, 2001, at 15:00:57
> > I AM GOING OFF THIS AWFUL MEDICATION. IT HAS MADE ME EXTERMELY NAUSEOUS AND I HAVE BEEN VOMITING FOR 2 DAYS. I HAVEN'T WANTED TO GET OUT OF BED AND I FEEL VERY DEPRESSED. HATE IT! I'LL NEVER TAKE THIS AGAIN.
>
> > It is VERY important to wean of this medication slowly. Tapering slowly to lowest dose over several weeks, then splitting the dose in half for 2 weeks, and half again is what I'm doing, taking it everyday. For XR, 37mg 2 weeks, 18mg 2weeks, then 9mg for weeks is my plan. I'm at the end of 1st week at 18mg.
>
> Yes, getting off this med SUCKS........At the end of 2nd day with no use brain shivers set in with other negative withdrawal symptoms. (see my previous posts).
>
> My experience has taught me to get back on it. and begin tapering by reducing the dose. and all the ugly withdrawals, will subside. Mild headaches and some anxiety are my only symptoms.
> Best wishes
> JammerJammer, to get to 9 mg, are you simply dividing your 37.5 contents into fourths? I'm at that point now. My doc thinks I'm 'crazy' for dividing the little balls, but then he's never tried to wean from it... Thanks for the info. Continued luck with the weaning. Jerz
Posted by jerz on April 16, 2001, at 23:11:28
In reply to Re: Goofy or Anyone how do you know the mg in EFXR, posted by goofy on March 30, 2001, at 12:02:36
> > Goofy, thank you for getting back to me. It sounds like this is the best solution from what I have read in these emails. Were you able to function on the job, etc.? How bad were your side effects? Can you share some of your experience of withdrawl with me and include severity of them? I think it will help me stay focused if I know what to expect. I appreciate your input.
> > If I am prepared and know there is an end to the withdrawl symptoms I know I can do it! Fish
> >
> > I don't reccomend opening the capsules because the granules are of varying sizes and so you won't know how much you are really taking at one time.
> > >
> > > some of the granuales are fused together and some are a little smaller it is very easy to eye ball this and divide the granuales equally by size. As far as the dose it may differ a slight bit but I don't think it matters that much. It was time consuming but it was worth it!
> > >
> > > goofy
>
>
> Hi Fish,
> I expected not to be able to function coming off effexor. The side effects I encountered while going off effexor were very mild and I was able to still function. I was a little fuzzy, tired, emotional and I had some achiness and electrical jolts to my body. None of these symptoms were consistant. I would notice them at different times while I was coming off the effexor. I also noticed a positive difference in the way I felt even with these symptoms. Everybody reacts different, but I was able to still function and be productive. Iam now 20 days free and I feel 100% better. There is a light at the end of the tunnel. Good luck.
> goofy
>Goofy or anyone else weaning... has anyone experienced weight LOSS while on Effexor XR, but then weight GAIN during the weaning process? I lost about 15 lbs when i went on Effexor, I'm assuming from the affect on my appetite, but since I've begun the weaning process, I've gained about 15 lbs. Anyone else have this problem? Thanks, Jerz
Posted by Pamela on April 17, 2001, at 10:00:51
In reply to Re: Goofy or Anyone how do you know the mg in EFXR, posted by jerz on April 16, 2001, at 23:11:28
> > > Goofy, thank you for getting back to me. It sounds like this is the best solution from what I have read in these emails. Were you able to function on the job, etc.? How bad were your side effects? Can you share some of your experience of withdrawl with me and include severity of them? I think it will help me stay focused if I know what to expect. I appreciate your input.
> > > If I am prepared and know there is an end to the withdrawl symptoms I know I can do it! Fish
> > >
> > > I don't reccomend opening the capsules because the granules are of varying sizes and so you won't know how much you are really taking at one time.
> > > >
> > > > some of the granuales are fused together and some are a little smaller it is very easy to eye ball this and divide the granuales equally by size. As far as the dose it may differ a slight bit but I don't think it matters that much. It was time consuming but it was worth it!
> > > >
> > > > goofy
> >
> >
> > Hi Fish,
> > I expected not to be able to function coming off effexor. The side effects I encountered while going off effexor were very mild and I was able to still function. I was a little fuzzy, tired, emotional and I had some achiness and electrical jolts to my body. None of these symptoms were consistant. I would notice them at different times while I was coming off the effexor. I also noticed a positive difference in the way I felt even with these symptoms. Everybody reacts different, but I was able to still function and be productive. Iam now 20 days free and I feel 100% better. There is a light at the end of the tunnel. Good luck.
> > goofy
> >
>
> Goofy or anyone else weaning... has anyone experienced weight LOSS while on Effexor XR, but then weight GAIN during the weaning process? I lost about 15 lbs when i went on Effexor, I'm assuming from the affect on my appetite, but since I've begun the weaning process, I've gained about 15 lbs. Anyone else have this problem? Thanks, JerzYes, Jerz, in fact I gained 8 lbs in 5 days. It reminded me of the Nutty Professor when he had the bad dream about getting so big only I was awake. My doctor said this is normal. Read my next thread for more details.
Pamela
Posted by Pamela on April 17, 2001, at 10:59:36
In reply to Re: Hate it! , posted by jerz on April 16, 2001, at 22:51:10
> > > I AM GOING OFF THIS AWFUL MEDICATION. IT HAS MADE ME EXTERMELY NAUSEOUS AND I HAVE BEEN VOMITING FOR 2 DAYS. I HAVEN'T WANTED TO GET OUT OF BED AND I FEEL VERY DEPRESSED. HATE IT! I'LL NEVER TAKE THIS AGAIN.
> >
> > > It is VERY important to wean of this medication slowly. Tapering slowly to lowest dose over several weeks, then splitting the dose in half for 2 weeks, and half again is what I'm doing, taking it everyday. For XR, 37mg 2 weeks, 18mg 2weeks, then 9mg for weeks is my plan. I'm at the end of 1st week at 18mg.
> >
> > Yes, getting off this med SUCKS........At the end of 2nd day with no use brain shivers set in with other negative withdrawal symptoms. (see my previous posts).
> >
> > My experience has taught me to get back on it. and begin tapering by reducing the dose. and all the ugly withdrawals, will subside. Mild headaches and some anxiety are my only symptoms.
> > Best wishes
> > Jammer
>
> Jammer, to get to 9 mg, are you simply dividing your 37.5 contents into fourths? I'm at that point now. My doc thinks I'm 'crazy' for dividing the little balls, but then he's never tried to wean from it... Thanks for the info. Continued luck with the weaning. JerzCrazy well,,,,that is what everyone esle is saying. Oh well....HA A little effexor humor!
I too am dividing the little balls and am down to 15 of them, potent drug You bet it is. I have been weaning for 3 months and still not there, but soon. I wrote a long thread but it hasn't posted yet.. If it comes out you might want to read it.
Hang in there it does get better.
Pamela
Posted by jerz on April 17, 2001, at 23:01:33
In reply to Re: Hate it! , posted by Pamela on April 17, 2001, at 10:59:36
> > > > I AM GOING OFF THIS AWFUL MEDICATION. IT HAS MADE ME EXTERMELY NAUSEOUS AND I HAVE BEEN VOMITING FOR 2 DAYS. I HAVEN'T WANTED TO GET OUT OF BED AND I FEEL VERY DEPRESSED. HATE IT! I'LL NEVER TAKE THIS AGAIN.
> > >
> > > > It is VERY important to wean of this medication slowly. Tapering slowly to lowest dose over several weeks, then splitting the dose in half for 2 weeks, and half again is what I'm doing, taking it everyday. For XR, 37mg 2 weeks, 18mg 2weeks, then 9mg for weeks is my plan. I'm at the end of 1st week at 18mg.
> > >
> > > Yes, getting off this med SUCKS........At the end of 2nd day with no use brain shivers set in with other negative withdrawal symptoms. (see my previous posts).
> > >
> > > My experience has taught me to get back on it. and begin tapering by reducing the dose. and all the ugly withdrawals, will subside. Mild headaches and some anxiety are my only symptoms.
> > > Best wishes
> > > Jammer
> >
> > Jammer, to get to 9 mg, are you simply dividing your 37.5 contents into fourths? I'm at that point now. My doc thinks I'm 'crazy' for dividing the little balls, but then he's never tried to wean from it... Thanks for the info. Continued luck with the weaning. Jerz
>
> Crazy well,,,,that is what everyone esle is saying. Oh well....HA A little effexor humor!
> I too am dividing the little balls and am down to 15 of them, potent drug You bet it is. I have been weaning for 3 months and still not there, but soon. I wrote a long thread but it hasn't posted yet.. If it comes out you might want to read it.
> Hang in there it does get better.
> PamelaThanks Pamela. I did get to read your other thread. Glad you've been able to rejoin the board. I've been following, though I haven't posted anything until recently.
I'm currently at the approx. 9 mg, which I guess is about 20-25 of the granules. I've been on that for 2 days and so far, I've just had a headache later in the evening, both days. On the second day, I experienced some of the dizziness, but it wasn't too bad. We'll see what day 3 brings.
My 14 year old daughter is also weaning and she's had a bit more trouble. I think this is because she was on a higher dose and for a longer time. She went from 9 mg back up to 18.75 (`50 granules)because of severe nausea and dizziness. I think she's going to have to wean at a much slower rate. Ironically, her appetite has decreased since we began weaning, while mine has increased dramatically. I've gained 15 lbs in the past month. That's probably the worst part so far. Hopefully it's temporary.
Good luck with your weaning. Jerz
Posted by JAMMER on April 18, 2001, at 8:30:36
In reply to Re: Hate it! , posted by jerz on April 17, 2001, at 23:01:33
All, I don't worry too much about what people say or think concerning weaning from Effexor. I know the results I've had. Several more days at 18mg and I'll drop it to 9mg. Still only side effect is headache, anxiety dropped off.
Good luck to all, those who like and benifet from it, and those who don't and are working at comming off it.
-Jammer
Posted by JAMMER on April 18, 2001, at 8:40:42
In reply to Re: Hate it! , posted by JAMMER on April 18, 2001, at 8:30:36
> All, I don't worry too much about what people say or think concerning weaning from Effexor. I know the results I've had. Several more days at 18mg and I'll drop it to 9mg. Still only side effect is headache, anxiety dropped off.
>
> Good luck to all, those who like and benifet from it, and those who don't and are working at comming off it.
>
> -JammerI SHOULD HAVE STATED: I'm not concerned with negative statements, although I accept people have them...
Jammer
Posted by Pamela on April 18, 2001, at 9:56:50
In reply to Re: Hate it! , posted by jerz on April 17, 2001, at 23:01:33
> > > > > I AM GOING OFF THIS AWFUL MEDICATION. IT HAS MADE ME EXTERMELY NAUSEOUS AND I HAVE BEEN VOMITING FOR 2 DAYS. I HAVEN'T WANTED TO GET OUT OF BED AND I FEEL VERY DEPRESSED. HATE IT! I'LL NEVER TAKE THIS AGAIN.
> > > >
> > > > > It is VERY important to wean of this medication slowly. Tapering slowly to lowest dose over several weeks, then splitting the dose in half for 2 weeks, and half again is what I'm doing, taking it everyday. For XR, 37mg 2 weeks, 18mg 2weeks, then 9mg for weeks is my plan. I'm at the end of 1st week at 18mg.
> > > >
> > > > Yes, getting off this med SUCKS........At the end of 2nd day with no use brain shivers set in with other negative withdrawal symptoms. (see my previous posts).
> > > >
> > > > My experience has taught me to get back on it. and begin tapering by reducing the dose. and all the ugly withdrawals, will subside. Mild headaches and some anxiety are my only symptoms.
> > > > Best wishes
> > > > Jammer
> > >
> > > Jammer, to get to 9 mg, are you simply dividing your 37.5 contents into fourths? I'm at that point now. My doc thinks I'm 'crazy' for dividing the little balls, but then he's never tried to wean from it... Thanks for the info. Continued luck with the weaning. Jerz
> >
> > Crazy well,,,,that is what everyone esle is saying. Oh well....HA A little effexor humor!
> > I too am dividing the little balls and am down to 15 of them, potent drug You bet it is. I have been weaning for 3 months and still not there, but soon. I wrote a long thread but it hasn't posted yet.. If it comes out you might want to read it.
> > Hang in there it does get better.
> > Pamela
>
> Thanks Pamela. I did get to read your other thread. Glad you've been able to rejoin the board. I've been following, though I haven't posted anything until recently.
>
> I'm currently at the approx. 9 mg, which I guess is about 20-25 of the granules. I've been on that for 2 days and so far, I've just had a headache later in the evening, both days. On the second day, I experienced some of the dizziness, but it wasn't too bad. We'll see what day 3 brings.
>
> My 14 year old daughter is also weaning and she's had a bit more trouble. I think this is because she was on a higher dose and for a longer time. She went from 9 mg back up to 18.75 (`50 granules)because of severe nausea and dizziness. I think she's going to have to wean at a much slower rate. Ironically, her appetite has decreased since we began weaning, while mine has increased dramatically. I've gained 15 lbs in the past month. That's probably the worst part so far. Hopefully it's temporary.
>
> Good luck with your weaning. Jerz
Jerz,
My heart goes out to both you and your daughter, what a sad situation for both of you having to expeience this at the same time.
Especially at 14, she probably doesn't understand alot of it, huh?
I'll tell ya the dizziness is the scary part to me, I feel as though I am falling when it comes on. I actually did fall, almost went down my stairs but luckily my husband was right behind me.
I can just see the "papers" now woman dies from fall.... weaning off of Effexor. Do you think that would get their attention? Probably not!I saw on the news last night how the FDA is again harrasing the "Supplement" world saying how none of their products are FDA tested, etc etc. I had to laugh, thinking abut how many and how long I have been taking numerous supplements and the worst thing that ever happened to me was when I took Dandelion Root, it affected me like sniffing alot of pollen would if you were allergic, it made me tired and stuffy (for 1 day) then it was gone. Wish we could say the same about our Effexor!Anyway... I too wish you all of the best, please tell your daughter.... life won't always be like this. There are many good things out there too!
Pamela
Posted by Fish on April 18, 2001, at 10:07:52
In reply to Re: effexor xr and side effects, posted by Judy on April 23, 2000, at 22:43:54
Ann, I have had excessive sweating for the year and a half I have been on the XR version. My doctor tested me for menopause (I am 39) and he said I am not going through it. I am currently weaning myself off the medication, am down to 18 mg and the sweating and hot flashes have dramatically decreased. I was actually cold this morning and had to turn up the heat. Never thought that would be a treat, but it was! Your doctor can do a simple blood test to determine if menopause is your problem. Good Luck. Fish
Posted by Fish on April 18, 2001, at 10:30:23
In reply to Re: Goofy or Anyone how do you know the mg in EFXR, posted by jerz on April 16, 2001, at 23:11:28
Jerz, my weight has gone up and down while on Effexor XR, but I have a definite increase in appetite while weaning. I personally crave chocolate and other feel good foods. I think I am comforting myself through the side effects of withdrawl from the drug. I am experiencing dizziness, vertido, and flu like symptoms at the end of everyday. It starts right around the time the next dose is due. I am weaning slowly so I don't know how else to do this without side effect. Increased appetite may be a reaction to the change in your body. Are you eating more? You may be, but haven't really been paying attention? Hope this helps. Fish
Posted by jerz on April 18, 2001, at 11:44:12
In reply to Jerz, your question about weight gain, posted by Fish on April 18, 2001, at 10:30:23
> Jerz, my weight has gone up and down while on Effexor XR, but I have a definite increase in appetite while weaning. I personally crave chocolate and other feel good foods. I think I am comforting myself through the side effects of withdrawl from the drug. I am experiencing dizziness, vertido, and flu like symptoms at the end of everyday. It starts right around the time the next dose is due. I am weaning slowly so I don't know how else to do this without side effect. Increased appetite may be a reaction to the change in your body. Are you eating more? You may be, but haven't really been paying attention? Hope this helps. Fish
Thanks Fish. Yeah, my appetite has certainly increased during the weaning. I'm craving carbs of any kind. I'm sure it must be that the Effexor acted as an appetite suppressant, and now that we're gradually getting it out of our systems, it's having the opposite effect. Yippee. Maybe once it's completely out, I'll have some weight loss luck! Thanks for the reply Fish.
Posted by Pamela on April 18, 2001, at 15:35:41
In reply to Ann's question about sweating, posted by Fish on April 18, 2001, at 10:07:52
> Ann, I have had excessive sweating for the year and a half I have been on the XR version. My doctor tested me for menopause (I am 39) and he said I am not going through it. I am currently weaning myself off the medication, am down to 18 mg and the sweating and hot flashes have dramatically decreased. I was actually cold this morning and had to turn up the heat. Never thought that would be a treat, but it was! Your doctor can do a simple blood test to determine if menopause is your problem. Good Luck. Fish
Ann,
I was having hot flashes or so I thought just in the last few months (only on the drug 8 mos total), but I thought maybe I too was going through menopause at 45. I wasn't either, but also didn't know it was one of the side effects until it was brought up on the threads, thanks!
All makes sense now.
I am at 15 granules and they have stopped, so there is hope.
Best Wishes,
Pamela
Posted by Gbear on April 18, 2001, at 16:58:51
In reply to Re: New User, posted by DavidHIFI on April 16, 2001, at 8:58:34
> > Hi there,
> >
> > My doctor just prescribed me Effexor 37.5mg for 7 days and then increased to 75mg a day. I do have anxiety and maybe mild depression, or what the doctor says could be SAD (seasonal affective disorder) after reading some of the previous posts, I'm a bit leary of even starting this medication. Guess I could just use a bit of support and encouragement and maybe a few good reasons why I should start on this med.
> >
> > Thanks for any help
> >
> > Cindy
>
> Hi Cindy,
> As in previous posts I'm going to suggest staying at the 37.5 for up to the 6 weeks that, it is said, this drug needs to do its' work. Ask your doctor if he feels that's okay. You can always increase to 75 (or more) but perhaps your system is sensitive and you can feel better at the low level. I, too, think some of the extra deepness of my funk is SAD, and I've decided to stay at 37.5 until I finish my initial 30 day supply which, along with the first 7 day sample, would work out to 5 weeks. I'll see how I feel than....
> Good Luck and keep us posted.
> DavidHi Cindy,
I agree with David. Try the smaller dose for awhile, please! This is a very effective drug, it is also strong. If you are able to maintain at work and home, what's the harm in giving it a couple weeks. I have been on it for I forget how long (a side effect), and would rather not have had to rely on ANY drug to keep me stable, but it's working, so...Gbear
Posted by Quasibarbidoll on April 18, 2001, at 20:16:04
In reply to Re: I Love Effexor, posted by Denny on April 16, 2001, at 22:17:36
"And if I've offended anybody with my sarcastic comments about Scientologists I apology." -Denny
accepted-
Good luck to all of you struggling to withdraw,-I will no longer post on this "moderated" board, more friendly to drug company shills than to the First Amendment.
Good bye!
Posted by Leo on April 18, 2001, at 23:26:44
In reply to Anyone had success on Effexor XR? , posted by jp on October 24, 1999, at 14:59:14
Out now almost 3 months. The fatigue is still there and occasional bouts with the dizziness and dysphoria. It looks like Wyeth has been busy on this site. It is remarkable how when factual information and reports start hitting these effexor sites, that there is an moderate to massive influx of "good" experiences....most obviously written by some drug savy indivduals. And then there those that write and make know sense at all. Makes you wonder. Anyway, Pamela I'm glad to see your're back. It appears that you have passed through the agitation stage. Horraaaayy!!! I hope things are steadily improving. And those of you that appear to be giving advice on dosage amounts......you are playing Russian roulette with people you do not know. I would strongly suggest that you encourage anyone who is struggling with this drug to take a handful of these posts and get to their doctor.
I was on vacation, a cruise. First time I've been on one in a long time. Had a fantastic time.
Things do get better when you get away from this drug.
Regards,
Leo
Posted by hotlynau on April 19, 2001, at 1:24:52
In reply to Re: Hate it! , posted by Pamela on April 17, 2001, at 10:59:36
Hi I am a newie< my name is Lynne from Australia.
Have had FM for 10 years. been on Paxil? for 2 years and due to loss of sexual libidio GP put me on Effexor_xr 75 mgs. and god have I been sick. gp DID NOT tell me about side effects getting started!! so I feel really cheated. I get enough pain from FM without getting more from this drug.
SO just starting to get over a month of hell for this is and now discover that this drug can give you weight gain. This is the worst news as I was lapbanded in December last year for obesity. so far I have lost 14 kgs and no way do I want to put it on again. Again I am so angry with my GP for not knowing this and prescribing this drug for me. Now i will have to go through horrendous withdrawel to get off. Getting off Paxil was hell, makes me think that effexor will be much worse. Its not fair!!!!
Posted by Pamela on April 19, 2001, at 8:10:03
In reply to Re: New User, posted by Gbear on April 18, 2001, at 16:58:51
> > > Hi there,
> > >
> > > My doctor just prescribed me Effexor 37.5mg for 7 days and then increased to 75mg a day. I do have anxiety and maybe mild depression, or what the doctor says could be SAD (seasonal affective disorder) after reading some of the previous posts, I'm a bit leary of even starting this medication. Guess I could just use a bit of support and encouragement and maybe a few good reasons why I should start on this med.
> > >
> > > Thanks for any help
> > >
> > > Cindy
> >
> > Hi Cindy,
> > As in previous posts I'm going to suggest staying at the 37.5 for up to the 6 weeks that, it is said, this drug needs to do its' work. Ask your doctor if he feels that's okay. You can always increase to 75 (or more) but perhaps your system is sensitive and you can feel better at the low level. I, too, think some of the extra deepness of my funk is SAD, and I've decided to stay at 37.5 until I finish my initial 30 day supply which, along with the first 7 day sample, would work out to 5 weeks. I'll see how I feel than....
> > Good Luck and keep us posted.
> > David
>
> Hi Cindy,
> I agree with David. Try the smaller dose for awhile, please! This is a very effective drug, it is also strong. If you are able to maintain at work and home, what's the harm in giving it a couple weeks. I have been on it for I forget how long (a side effect), and would rather not have had to rely on ANY drug to keep me stable, but it's working, so...
>
> GbearCindy,
I am, sure you have read some of my other threads so you know I am in the process of weaning off Effexor.
But I will share something with you regarding SAD. There are two methods that help with SAD. I don't know where you live, but if it is a climate that it gloomy alot of the time then you might try a tanning booth. Corny as it may sound it helps tremdously, it is the lights that give you the spectrums of the sun needed for this disorder. If you are not into tanning....there are special lights you can buy that are full spectrum for SAD. The actual set-up can be a little expensive ($150.00 ish) but if this is ongoing then it won't seem like much money and they last for a long time.
IN MY OPINION, if this is the extent of your emotional state, I truly believe that Effexor is far too potent of a drug for you to be on. Heed the others advice and stay at a low dose for awhile, I was only on 75 mg (8 mos) and the withdrawals have been horrendous.
Good luck and if you need help finding the lights, I'd be glad to help you research.
Sincerely,
Pamela
Posted by Pamela on April 19, 2001, at 8:39:57
In reply to Fibromyalgia and gastric lapband! , posted by hotlynau on April 19, 2001, at 1:24:52
> Hi I am a newie< my name is Lynne from Australia.
> Have had FM for 10 years. been on Paxil? for 2 years and due to loss of sexual libidio GP put me on Effexor_xr 75 mgs. and god have I been sick. gp DID NOT tell me about side effects getting started!! so I feel really cheated. I get enough pain from FM without getting more from this drug.
> SO just starting to get over a month of hell for this is and now discover that this drug can give you weight gain. This is the worst news as I was lapbanded in December last year for obesity. so far I have lost 14 kgs and no way do I want to put it on again. Again I am so angry with my GP for not knowing this and prescribing this drug for me. Now i will have to go through horrendous withdrawel to get off. Getting off Paxil was hell, makes me think that effexor will be much worse. Its not fair!!!!Lynne,
No it is not fair, the only thing we can do though is support each other. I personally do not feel that GP's should be prescribing ind altering drugs. If you read some of my previous threads you will see that I went to ER over the side effects and was told I had an inner ear infection and a virus, the following Monday I called my psychiatrist and he laughed and said, "No it is the Effexor." I truly believe even he did not know the magnitude of the withdrawls. I have since educated him with many print outs of the threads and Leo's research docs. He is a fairly humble man and has handled this pretty well.
As for the weight gain, I don't know that it happens to everyone, but I too have now gained about 22 lbs in 8 mos. (I am not sure how much 14kg's are) I was just reading last night about an herbal supplement from Canada that talks about Seratonin boosters (ie: SSSRI's being some) and that when you come off of them your Seratonin drops so quickly that you crave massive amounts of carbs which then stimulates the Seratonin. I can definitely attest to that. I have been eating carbs like a mad woman and yes it makes me feel physically better. I have always eaten pretty healthly and maintained a nice weight. Are you seeing the same doctor thst did the surgery? Might talk to him if not.
Last but not least, Effexor killed my sex drive and I had only been married for 1 month when I went on it. It has been quite a struggle as you can imagine. No problems prior to that.I don't want to sound like doom and gloom because I am almost off and feeling MUCH better, so you need to weigh all of "YOUR" facts and feelings along with hopefully a psychiatrist Then make an informed decision.
Prayers are with you.
Pamela
Posted by Fish on April 19, 2001, at 8:49:36
In reply to Re: Goofy or Anyone how do you know the mg in EFXR, posted by Pamela on April 17, 2001, at 10:00:51
Hi Goofy and Pamela ... both of you were so helpful in giving me information on how to wean and what to expect. It is almost three weeks now. I am down to 18 mg a day. It's been rough, side effects are bad at the end of the day, but I am able to function (work, being mom and student). I am very tired. Seem to want to sleep all the time. Feel like I ran a marathon by the end of the day, but my side effects are milder .... I feel like I have a brain again! And I have actually been cold (sweating has decreased dramatically). I am trying to be patient with decreasing dosage. I think I went from 37.5 to 18 mg too quickly. Only gave it a week ... side effect really bad for a few days. Anyway, again thank you for your support. How are you two doing? Fish
Posted by Pamela on April 19, 2001, at 8:52:57
In reply to Withdrawal Update, posted by Leo on April 18, 2001, at 23:26:44
> Out now almost 3 months. The fatigue is still there and occasional bouts with the dizziness and dysphoria. It looks like Wyeth has been busy on this site. It is remarkable how when factual information and reports start hitting these effexor sites, that there is an moderate to massive influx of "good" experiences....most obviously written by some drug savy indivduals. And then there those that write and make know sense at all. Makes you wonder. Anyway, Pamela I'm glad to see your're back. It appears that you have passed through the agitation stage. Horraaaayy!!! I hope things are steadily improving. And those of you that appear to be giving advice on dosage amounts......you are playing Russian roulette with people you do not know. I would strongly suggest that you encourage anyone who is struggling with this drug to take a handful of these posts and get to their doctor.
>
> I was on vacation, a cruise. First time I've been on one in a long time. Had a fantastic time.
>
> Things do get better when you get away from this drug.
>
> Regards,
> LeoHi Leo,
So glad you are back. Although I was unable to post for awhile I still read everyday and wondered what happened to you. Glad it was something good. A cruise sounds great right about now.Anyway,,, as for the weaning advice. As we have read... ALOT of the poeple aren't getting the help they need from their docotrs for weaning off because the doctors either are educated or don't believe what we are going through is real.
After I got to half of 37.5 (18.75) per my doctor... he too, said I should be fine to quit. As you know from my previous threads that was not the case. So I took it upon my self to start counting the little granules.
I have since educated him with alot of the information from these threads and your research info. I agree that we should not be prescribing to people, but what do you think they should do if they are not getting the help they need from their doctors.
Any insight would be welcome!
I personally see you as the STABILITY AND WISDOM of this site. Other than Dr.Bob of course (SCHMOOZER) (SP)!
I trust you will direct them in the right direction.Glad you're back please keep us informed.
Sincerely,
Pamela
Posted by Fish on April 19, 2001, at 10:48:54
In reply to Re: New User, posted by Pamela on April 19, 2001, at 8:10:03
First, I want to say that I absolutely support everyone on this thread who have expressed concern and anger over
extreme side effect from this drug. I know from experience that these side effects are real. I have had some really
ugly side effects on this the drug ... but I must, in good conscience, say a few things about anti-depressant drugs in
general. Although I do believe that the side effect of Effexor(XR) are probably more severe than other drugs in
this class, I must state that I do believe all anti-depressant drugs have similar side effect. About 8 years ago, my
mother died (my best friend) and then a number of other unpleasant things followed. I wasn't sleeping and went
into depression. I took Prozac ... didn't help, but still stayed on it for about a year. When I stopped taking it (as
my doctor insisted you don't need to wean so I didn't), I had terrible vertido and nausea for about two weeks.
The side effect from taking Effexor and weaning off Effexor are more dramatic and intense, but the drugs ability to
combat depression is also stronger (in my opinion and from my experience). It actually worked for me. These
drugs have not been on the market long enough to know the possible long-term effects (anyone is welcome to
correct me on this if I am wrong, I welcome the information). Anyway, what I am trying to say is, I think people
need to know what they are up against, in general, if they choose to take an anti-depressant. I want to stress
again, as I did in an earlier message, that when you are in a depression, most people will do just about anything to
get out of it (unfortunately, some people even choose suicide). I don't advocate taking a drug that's symptoms
make you worse, but I do have to say, from what I have learned from other people and through my own
experience, ALL or MOST anti-depressants have side effects and they vary with different people. I am angry that
I did not know the possible side effects of Effexor XR, I'm not angry that I had them (I hope this makes sense).
Taking anti-depressants isn't an easy decision, but I think we need to mention that Effexor XR is an extreme
version of this class of drugs, both in cure and side effects (my opinion), but I also think it is important to point out
that ALL anti-depressants seem to have some level of unpleasant side effects and that people should be aware of
this when making a decision to take them. If drugs are needed to help people get out of a potentially dangerous
and debilitating emotional state, then maybe those side effects won't matter for a period of time, but ALL
information should be available when the decision is made. Just my opinion ... and my observations. Fish
Posted by CindyG on April 19, 2001, at 12:02:07
In reply to Re: New User, posted by Pamela on April 19, 2001, at 8:10:03
Hi Everyone,
Thanks so much for all of the advice. I've been on the effexor for 4 days and I don't think I've been able to stay awake for more than 2 hours at a time without taking a nap. Won't work if this is still going on next week when I go back to work!!! Also not a good thing with 3 kids at home. Am seeing the doctor tomorrow and see what he says about this, whether to stick it out or not.
Pamela, thanks for the advice on the tanning. I'm from Canada, the northern part and we get winter like 8 months out of the year. My sister-in-law owns a tanning salon (convenient or what?) and I will go for some sessions and see what happens. I've also thought of trying some Kava for my anxiety.
Will keep everyone posted.
Cindy
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