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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by Janice1191 on May 6, 2002, at 21:38:50
In reply to Effexor and treatment of Phobias?, posted by wonderfoo on May 6, 2002, at 10:40:36
I have GAD and Panic Attacks. I took a class in California called 'Phobease - Curing Phobias and OCD'. It was the best thing I could have done for my panic attacks.
Do a search for "Dr. Fear" or "Phobease" you can buy the book online. Once you get the book, do the lessons with your therapist.
Meds won't cure your phobias, but CBT will.
Hope this helps.
> Just found this board this morning. I have generalized anxiety in conjunction with a pretty severe phobia of thunderstoms/tornadoes. Here's a little bit of my history: I was on Prozac a few years ago, which worked great for the depression and general anxiety but did nothing for the phobia. Then tried Zoloft, which I had no luck with. I have been "drug-free" for probably a year now, and have tried cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps a little. A few months ago I was given a three month sample of Effexor by my prmiary care physician, which I was resisting taking because I wanted to see if the therapy would do the trick. But now I truly believe that I need the one-two punch of meds and therapy. I was wondering if anyone knew or had experienced how effectively effexor treats phobias? Anyone in a similar situation?
>
> Looking forward to future posts. Any advice or thought would be greatly appreciated!
Posted by Butterfly on May 7, 2002, at 12:37:21
In reply to Anyone had success on Effexor XR? , posted by jp on October 24, 1999, at 14:59:14
Hi
I have started treatment with Effexor XR for GAD a week ago, and could already feel improvement on second day.
But among other related side-effects (nausea - gone after 2 days - , insomnia, sweating) I am also experiencing undesired sexual effects (delayed ejaculation) and wondering if anyone who has experienced this in early stages of the treatment has seen this probelm resolve with time, -and if so, after how much time.Thanks for your input
Butterfly
Posted by Harmony on May 7, 2002, at 23:25:59
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor for ADD?, posted by petters on May 6, 2002, at 0:21:32
> Hi...
>
> I have had success with Effexor for ADD. But you have to raise the dosage above 225 mg. This because the noradrenergic effect kick in on this dosage. Also the dopamin effect will start usually whith 300 mg or more. Those two transmittor substans, NE + DA is importend for ADD and the attention + focus.
>
> Another possibility is Wellbutrin. Ask your doc about this options. If you have anxiety or OCD Effexor will help, not Wellbutrin.
>
> Good Luck
>
> /PettersThanks for the info. It is really helpful. I am still kinda absorbing all the advice and info as I was just told about the ADD. Sure could have used the diagnosis alot earlier, anytime before my 28th birthday and 1st child would have been appreciated. Then again, things didn't really fall apart until then. I am trying to figure out exactly what my symptoms are (sounds stupid) other than being surrounded by complete chaos and what I think I may need medication for.
Thanks again.
Take Care.
Harmony
Posted by Harmony on May 7, 2002, at 23:41:51
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor for ADD? » Harmony, posted by azurebay on May 5, 2002, at 22:02:14
> Woops, sorry about the double posts (call me Mr. ADD-off-meds-for-the-weekend lol). Sorry about that.
>
> To the original post, I gotta say that I think your doc (unless he/she is experienced with both ADD/ADHD and co-existing depression) is going the typical conservative route with JUST Effexor alone. As of yet, there's not conclusive evidence as to its effectiveness, despite what my personal experience has been.
>
> Of course it's worth a shot, just Effexor alone, but if you definitely have ADD/ADHD symptoms, tell the doc he's psycho babbling in his own fear of prescribing Schedule II drugs, such as Ritalin, Adderall, etc. No reasonable psychiatrist who has confirmed an ADD diagnosis would hesitate for a MOMENT to use neuro-stimulants! In fact, for most ADD/ADHD folks they have an almost eerie (sp) calming effect, enhanced focus, and little if any risk for addiction.
>
> Anyways, bottom line: Listen to your own body and what you feel. If Effexor works, cool; if not... demand to be heard regarding the additional ADD/ADHD symptoms.
>
> <smiles always>
>
> VonThank you for all of your advice. I am 28 and I was just "not" diagnosed. My therapist and I believe that ADD is my problem. We just have to convince the Doc. The Doc unfortunately doesn't think I have ADD, just depression. I have read tons and just ordered 3 new books on ADD for adults and women. He said I can't have ADD because I am not hyper!??!--I guess he might not have much experience with ADD. Anyway, I just want to be treated correctly. My primary doc put me on Celexa because he thought I might be depressed. It made me feel better, more relaxed but it didn't make my prolems go away (amazingly). It didn't help me focus or get motivated. The withdrawal was dreadful. I read the same about the effexor and if it doesn't work I really don't want to deal with that again.
You said you have been on and off the effexor, have you experienced any withdrawal?
Do you think it would be worth it to try it or better to fight for the right diagnosis and be treated for what I truly believe to be my problem?
Thank you for writing back I really appreciate the advice from you and Petters.
Take Care.
Harmony
Posted by Spencer on May 8, 2002, at 9:57:28
In reply to Getting rid of sexual side-effects of Effexor ? , posted by Butterfly on May 7, 2002, at 12:37:21
I've been on Effexor XR since August/September last year and had numerous side effects including blurred vision, difficulty in urinating, increased appetite, insomnia and poor labido. These all disappeared within about two to three months. I have felt absolutely fine for several months, although I believe largely with the help of cognitive therapy as well as the Effexor. I quite often forget to take my capsule in the morning but am reminded when I start feeling "strange" later in the day.
Anyway, the one side effect that lingers is the "difficulty" in reaching orgasm ie ejaculating. However, I do not see this as a bad side effect. For one thing I can keep going for ages and secondly the orgasms build up over a while and are incredibly intense. To be honest, sex is absolutely brilliant and my wife wonders (jokingly) whether I am also taking viagra. However, I see from this site, that most writers do not share this enjoyment and I only wish they could.
Posted by jannbeau on May 8, 2002, at 10:57:16
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor for ADD? » azurebay, posted by Harmony on May 7, 2002, at 23:41:51
>Hi, Harmony.
My son was ADHD as a child and still is ADD--seems to have sort of grown out of the hyperactivity, although he still doesn't sleep a lot and has lots of energy. He continues to have difficulty focusing and directing that energy, however.
Then, you can be ADD without ever experiencing hyperactivity!! Your doc needs to read the literature. Better still, try to find yourself a doctor who specializes in ADHD and ADD. I think that you should FOREGO Effexor, which many people have difficulty stopping, until you have a firm diagnosis. Then, get treated for what's wrong with you!!
Cheers,
Jannbeau
> >
> > To the original post, I gotta say that I think your doc (unless he/she is experienced with both ADD/ADHD and co-existing depression) is going the typical conservative route with JUST Effexor alone. As of yet, there's not conclusive evidence as to its effectiveness, despite what my personal experience has been.
> >
> > Of course it's worth a shot, just Effexor alone, but if you definitely have ADD/ADHD symptoms, tell the doc he's psycho babbling in his own fear of prescribing Schedule II drugs, such as Ritalin, Adderall, etc. No reasonable psychiatrist who has confirmed an ADD diagnosis would hesitate for a MOMENT to use neuro-stimulants! In fact, for most ADD/ADHD folks they have an almost eerie (sp) calming effect, enhanced focus, and little if any risk for addiction.
> >
> > Anyways, bottom line: Listen to your own body and what you feel. If Effexor works, cool; if not... demand to be heard regarding the additional ADD/ADHD symptoms.
> >
> > <smiles always>
> >
> > Von
>
> Thank you for all of your advice. I am 28 and I was just "not" diagnosed. My therapist and I believe that ADD is my problem. We just have to convince the Doc. The Doc unfortunately doesn't think I have ADD, just depression. I have read tons and just ordered 3 new books on ADD for adults and women. He said I can't have ADD because I am not hyper!??!--I guess he might not have much experience with ADD. Anyway, I just want to be treated correctly. My primary doc put me on Celexa because he thought I might be depressed. It made me feel better, more relaxed but it didn't make my prolems go away (amazingly). It didn't help me focus or get motivated. The withdrawal was dreadful. I read the same about the effexor and if it doesn't work I really don't want to deal with that again.
>
> You said you have been on and off the effexor, have you experienced any withdrawal?
>
> Do you think it would be worth it to try it or better to fight for the right diagnosis and be treated for what I truly believe to be my problem?
>
> Thank you for writing back I really appreciate the advice from you and Petters.
>
> Take Care.
>
> Harmony
Posted by Butterfly on May 8, 2002, at 12:02:20
In reply to Re: Getting rid of sexual side-effects of Effexor ? » Butterfly, posted by Spencer on May 8, 2002, at 9:57:28
> I've been on Effexor XR since August/September last year and had numerous side effects including blurred vision, difficulty in urinating, increased appetite, insomnia and poor labido. These all disappeared within about two to three months. I have felt absolutely fine for several months, although I believe largely with the help of cognitive therapy as well as the Effexor. I quite often forget to take my capsule in the morning but am reminded when I start feeling "strange" later in the day.
>
> Anyway, the one side effect that lingers is the "difficulty" in reaching orgasm ie ejaculating. However, I do not see this as a bad side effect. For one thing I can keep going for ages and secondly the orgasms build up over a while and are incredibly intense. To be honest, sex is absolutely brilliant and my wife wonders (jokingly) whether I am also taking viagra. However, I see from this site, that most writers do not share this enjoyment and I only wish they could.Spencer
regarding this particular aspect of delayed ejaculation, have you seen some improvement over time, or has this condition remained similar as in the beginning of treatment ?Thx
Butterfly
Posted by ST on May 8, 2002, at 16:48:59
In reply to Getting rid of sexual side-effects of Effexor ? , posted by Butterfly on May 7, 2002, at 12:37:21
Effexor has a nasty rep for wiping out sexual libido. While on it for the past five months, I've had almost no sexual appetite; also delayed orgasm or anorgasmia. These side effects, from what I've researched, do not go away.
I'm weaning myself off of Effexor moslty because of the sexual side effects as well as a complete exhaustion that sometimes sets in.
I hope all works well for you on Effexor - sometimes people do benefit greatly from this drug.
Good luck!
sarah
Posted by Shaunnasez on May 8, 2002, at 22:28:01
In reply to Anyone had success on Effexor XR? , posted by jp on October 24, 1999, at 14:59:14
Hi, I've read through some of the posts here, and I plan on reading through all of them as soon as I get more time. I've gone through depression and panic attacks for several years now. At first I tried to "fix" myself with herbal supplements. But in the past year I've been in the ER too many times with horrid panic attacks. So my doc and I decided that I need to find a medicine that works for me to feel like myself again.
The last medicine I was on was Zoloft and I had bad side effects that sent me back to the doctor again today and he's gonna start me on Effexor XR now. From what I've read I do like that this medicine doesn't have as many sexual side effects. But one thing is troubling me. I have always had "movie" like dreams that play out what seems like forever and I always remeber them in great detail. The bad part is most of them are nightmare like movie dreams which I wake up shaking and sweating. I usualy don't go back to sleep when those happens because I'm afraid they will start over or pick up where they left off.
Some of the posts I've read others have had the side effect of more vivid dreams. Now I can't imagine mine getting anymore vivid than they already are. I guess my main question is how have some of you dealt with the vivid dreams? And second do they go away over the course of treatment?
My doc is a real fixer guy, and he won't give up until I feel better, which is a good trait. But he also said that there are around 20 diffrent types medicine and that we'll find one eventually that will work. His dedication and support has really motivated me to keep on trying and I really do hope this Effexor XR works for me.
I'm very happy to have found this forum. Congrats to everyone who has found themselves again with Effexor XR.
-Shaunnasez
Posted by Spencer on May 9, 2002, at 1:07:16
In reply to Re: Getting rid of sexual side-effects of Effexor ?, posted by Butterfly on May 8, 2002, at 12:02:20
> > I've been on Effexor XR since August/September last year and had numerous side effects including blurred vision, difficulty in urinating, increased appetite, insomnia and poor labido. These all disappeared within about two to three months. I have felt absolutely fine for several months, although I believe largely with the help of cognitive therapy as well as the Effexor. I quite often forget to take my capsule in the morning but am reminded when I start feeling "strange" later in the day.
> >
> > Anyway, the one side effect that lingers is the "difficulty" in reaching orgasm ie ejaculating. However, I do not see this as a bad side effect. For one thing I can keep going for ages and secondly the orgasms build up over a while and are incredibly intense. To be honest, sex is absolutely brilliant and my wife wonders (jokingly) whether I am also taking viagra. However, I see from this site, that most writers do not share this enjoyment and I only wish they could.
>
> Spencer
> regarding this particular aspect of delayed ejaculation, have you seen some improvement over time, or has this condition remained similar as in the beginning of treatment ?
>
> Thx
> Butterfly
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
ButterflySince all the other side effects went away and the delayed ejaculation set in I would say there has been no change with time. It does vary though, sometimes it is very difficult and sometimes it is a bit easier but there has not been a trend either way. I don't really expect it to go away. I'm only too thankful that my libido returned to normal after a few months of no sex drive, which in my case I believe was a symptom of the depression and not a side effect of Effexor simply because as soon as my depression slowly lifted my libido slowly returned.
I hope this issue does not cause you too much concern and unhappiness. Like many sexual issues, the more you try the harder it is to achieve.....my only advice is to work with your partner to find the best way possible to reach orgasm even if it is not necessarily the way you were normally used to doing it.
Spencer
Posted by sly on May 9, 2002, at 12:05:53
In reply to Anyone had success on Effexor XR? , posted by jp on October 24, 1999, at 14:59:14
I started Effexor XR 37.5 mg/day about 10 days ago, so far I've been ok, nausea and headaches went away after 3 days, but the one thing that's really bothering me is I'm cold all the time.
My feet, legs, and hands are freezing cold, it's almost summer and I'm wrapped up in blankets and fleece at work and home.
Anyone else have this problem?
Posted by Butterfly on May 9, 2002, at 12:33:47
In reply to Anyone Cold on Effexor XR?, posted by sly on May 9, 2002, at 12:05:53
> I started Effexor XR 37.5 mg/day about 10 days ago, so far I've been ok, nausea and headaches went away after 3 days, but the one thing that's really bothering me is I'm cold all the time.
>
> My feet, legs, and hands are freezing cold, it's almost summer and I'm wrapped up in blankets and fleece at work and home.
>
> Anyone else have this problem?
Sly
As I have posted before I started this medication 6 days ago now, 37.5mg like you to begin with, but no I haven't had this side-effect at all. Instead, I've been sweating quite a lot during the first few days, but now everything seems back to normal on this side.At first, it was also really disturbing my sleep, feeling like I had drunk 10 cups of coffee or so just before going to bed, and in spite of the fact that I'm taking the medication in the morning. I must say that I've been having a hard time sleeping for quite some time. But the last 2 nights, I've slept like a baby, 10 hours of deep sleep each night, - which is good as I feel I had a lot of tireness to get rid of, and which I think might be a result of being a bit less anxious/stressed out already.
And as I also wrote before, the only thing that still bothers me is the sexual side-effects. Not sure yet whether or not I'll be able to get used or put up with that.
Butterfly
Posted by axslinger on May 9, 2002, at 14:08:35
In reply to Re: withdrawal, posted by maggie on April 13, 2000, at 14:32:34
I ran out of my Rx for Effexor XR 150mg yesterday. I thought it was my imagination when I was suddenly dizzy, disoriented and having 'electrical shocks' to my face.
I have also been an emotional disaster today. I don't have a problem with being on this stuff indefinately if thats whats necessary. However they have caused complete lack of sex drive. Has anybody else noticed this? Is there anything to counter-act it?
Thanks.
Posted by Inanna on May 9, 2002, at 14:09:55
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR? , posted by sharonews on May 1, 2002, at 8:54:00
I have been taking Effexor XR for about 7 months now. It has been wonderful for me. No doctor ever really diagnosed my problems, just kept throwing drugs at me. First was Paxil, which I HATED...made me more psychotic! After that experience I didn't want to try anything else, so for 2 years I cried all the time and felt like crap, didn't want to do anything. Then out of nowhere I started having severe anxiety with heart palpitations, shaking, sleeplessness...the whole bit. So I went back to the doctor, who gave me Ativan...I loved that, but he said I couldn't take it long term and suggested I try Effexor. So I did. The first 2 weeks I felt really strange, dizzy, headaches, like I was in the Twilight Zone, but then after 2 weeks I started feeling much better. Cured the anxiety almost instantly, and to my surprise my mood improved dramatically. I think since being on it I have maybe cried 5 times, quite an improvement from daily. I have been reading alot about the withdrawl symptoms, which kind of makes me nervous for when I want to quit taking this, but I think the benefits of it were worth it for me. Hope this helps some of you. Good Luck.
Posted by renelso1 on May 9, 2002, at 14:42:19
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR? , posted by Inanna on May 9, 2002, at 14:09:55
I have been on Effexor for a little over two weeks. Not XR though, I was taking 75mg twice a day. The first week i felt like i had the flu and couldn't even go to work. I was also pretty numb emotionally. However, those side effects seem to be gone and my doc gave me a new script today for Effexor XR since i didn't like taking the pills twice a day. This website gave me the idea of starting effexor (was on celexa a year) but i am scared i'm screwing with my body. the withdrawal sounds horrid. but i cry every day and my mind races with irrational destructive thoughts i can't seem to chase away. so i'm going for it. the chance of success seems worth it. so now my question is when to take it. i feel like a zombie as it is. so is at night better. i want to be able to sleep. sorry for rambling, my mind seems to be garbled...
Posted by lyuba on May 9, 2002, at 16:03:19
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by troys on May 2, 2002, at 19:04:29
I'm on day two, starting at 37.5mg. Due to increase on day four. This is my second walk down this road. Took Zoloft for several months about six years ago, but stopped after it occured to me that not only didn't I feel bad, I didn't feel anything. I've been battling increasing depression and anxiety during menopause. Can't do the HRT trip, so this is was my docs next thought. Its only been 2 pills, but I feel much better, although I'm not working, which I feel is a major contributor to my problem. So I'll give my self a couple of weeks, and see what happens.
Posted by supergirl on May 9, 2002, at 16:30:33
In reply to Re: withdrawal, posted by axslinger on May 9, 2002, at 14:08:35
> I ran out of my Rx for Effexor XR 150mg yesterday. I thought it was my imagination when I was suddenly dizzy, disoriented and having 'electrical shocks' to my face.
>
> I have also been an emotional disaster today. I don't have a problem with being on this stuff indefinately if thats whats necessary. However they have caused complete lack of sex drive. Has anybody else noticed this? Is there anything to counter-act it?
>
> Thanks.
my advice is to get back on it asap. it will only get worse. the last time i ran out, i dont even remember day two and day three i almost went to the hospital. the symptoms stopped after a good long sleep once i got back on the pill.supergirl
Posted by tessy on May 10, 2002, at 0:19:02
In reply to Re: withdrawal, posted by supergirl on May 9, 2002, at 16:30:33
I recently stopped taking effexor. I had problems losing weight; due to new circumstances, I had gained some. I started on Prozac...my sex drive is back, but I don't know if I'll have a problem because I'm currently single. I'm getting back to my origonal size, though. Unfortunately, Prozac doesn't take care of anxiety, and I have had several panic attacks. As long as I can deal with them, It's ok.
Let me know how you're doing. I hope you get back on some med, though, because the come-down off effexor was rough. I had to miss a day of work (I'm kinda a workaholic)....
Tessy
Posted by supergirl on May 10, 2002, at 0:31:34
In reply to Re: withdrawal » supergirl, posted by tessy on May 10, 2002, at 0:19:02
I don't know if today was a fluke, but maybe i just needed a good rest... 17 hours last night, but I feel a lot better today. Taking the dose down to 75 mg for one day really showed me how exhausted I was! I am alternating between 150 and 75 mg right now and so far, the lightning flashes have been controlled just as long as I am not jostled and I can lay down if I feel one coming on. I'm going BACK to the doctor in the morning to fill out paperwork so I can have a leave from work while this is going on. I am feeling better today, but I am still emotionally fragile and pretty sickly. I got myself in between a rock and a hard place. To straighten myself out I can't work, but I need the money so I need to work. Anyone know of any funds that might be available?
supergirl
Posted by Spencer on May 10, 2002, at 0:33:51
In reply to Anyone Cold on Effexor XR?, posted by sly on May 9, 2002, at 12:05:53
> I started Effexor XR 37.5 mg/day about 10 days ago, so far I've been ok, nausea and headaches went away after 3 days, but the one thing that's really bothering me is I'm cold all the time.
>
> My feet, legs, and hands are freezing cold, it's almost summer and I'm wrapped up in blankets and fleece at work and home.
>
> Anyone else have this problem?=========================================================
I suffered the same thing for about a month when I first started taking Effexor last year. It was in winter (southern hemisphere)and our houses here are not built for the cold.....I felt like a block of ice and couldn't get warm. But it went away, so don't worry, the feeling should go away with time.
My experience of all the side effects was that they went away after a month or two. I have had great success with Effexor but like everyone else I want to get off it but am not looking forward to the withdrawal.
Posted by Timmy4 on May 10, 2002, at 10:43:43
In reply to Anyone had success on Effexor XR? , posted by jp on October 24, 1999, at 14:59:14
Hi!
I am a 21 year old college student who was just prescribed Effexor XR. I am wondering how this med most likely will affect my symptoms. I have been diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety, and am very self conscious and anxious. How will the Effexor do with becoming more outward focused, less self conscious, and more motivated? Also, how does it affect mental clarity??
Thank you so much for any and all help!Talk to you soon,
Chris
Posted by SandraDee on May 10, 2002, at 17:14:04
In reply to Effexor and Anxiety, posted by Timmy4 on May 10, 2002, at 10:43:43
I am 30, an at home mom who was just prescribed Effexor XR. I am only on day 2 but seem to be feeling better. I'm not snapping at my 2 1/2 yr old as much. I haven't had ANY side effects from it at all yet. The starting dose for me was 37.5 and I up to 75mg at the end of this week. I have two kids under age 3, and we just bought a home and are still not sure when we are going to be able to move into it. Life is stressful now, but I haven't cried in two days - so that is nice. Cheerios on the floor no longer look like boulders. I was feeling like a bad mom two days ago, now I just feel like a mom under a lot of stresses, but nothing I can't handle. Thanks for listening.
-Me
ddandjc@hotmail.com> Hi!
>
> I am a 21 year old college student who was just prescribed Effexor XR. I am wondering how this med most likely will affect my symptoms. I have been diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety, and am very self conscious and anxious. How will the Effexor do with becoming more outward focused, less self conscious, and more motivated? Also, how does it affect mental clarity??
> Thank you so much for any and all help!
>
> Talk to you soon,
> Chris
Posted by GwenDee on May 10, 2002, at 19:33:16
In reply to Re: withdrawal, posted by supergirl on May 9, 2002, at 16:30:33
Just found this site tonite... and now I know I'm not completely crazy. The "electric shock" thing in the face is awful! With it comes clicking noises in my head and a lightheadedness. I've reduced my dosage from 150 to 75 mg. and then 37.5, but I WANT OFF!!! Does anyone have an answer?? Does Benydryl work?? Love to hear from anyone with positive experience getting off Effexor XR. Thank you.
Posted by Sherrie on May 10, 2002, at 22:44:41
In reply to Re: Long-term effects, posted by stjames on July 8, 2000, at 23:15:07
I thank God I found this website tonight! I don't think I could've stood another day alone. Please bear with me. I started Effexor XR 37.5 mg. on 3/3/02 while still taking Paxil, which I took for years (?). The plan was to taper me off the Paxil that I thought was no longer working because I was so depressed and my thinking was so fuzzy. For 6 weeks, I took 15 mg. of Paxil and after the first 2 weeks of Effexor XR, I was up to 75 mg. It was the most wonderful feeling in the world. I was so euphoric! But that got old and wore me out. So my doc said take 10 mg. for 4 days, then 5 mg. for 6 days (of Paxil). It was awful! I had the electric shock sensations, dizziness, cried over everything, and all I wanted to do was sleep. I was in the deepest, darkest depression I've been in for years. I called the doc, who was about to go on vacation, and he told me it was just my dissociative disorder acting up! Said if I wasn't better in a week to get back on the Paxil. No way was I ever going back on that. My mind has cleared up so much, even with all the symptoms. In a few days, I was walking into walls, falling, having enormous, sudden bouts of rage, over-reacting to everything, paranoid, and just wanted to die. I called and saw one of doc's associates, who increased the Effexor - 37.5 more for 2 weeks, then 75 more for 150 mg. In just a few hours, my symptoms went away. It was unreal! I'm still taking the 75 + 37.5 mg. dose, but now I'm having migraine headaches, which I haven't had in a long time, my stomach is bloated and cramping/aching, my neck is stiff, I feel like everyone is against me, sick of me and yet, I feel like everyone is stupid and irresponsible. I'm aware that my feelings are not rational but can't change them. I don't have the energy to get dressed. I don't know what to do. If I get off the Effexor, I'll go into total darkness (that's the way it feels). I want my mind to feel clean or free, without all the anxiety and confusion these drugs cause, but I don't want that total despair. I certainly don't want to go through more withdrawals. Could this happen from taking it only 9-10 weeks? I'm sure I still have remnants of the Paxil, or maybe not. I know that I can't continue like this. I'm so tired of my doctor blaming everything on my D.I.D. I've worked HARD the past 35 years in therapy. I think I'm more aware of my feelings than this doctor! Would appreciate any help. I'm so distrustful right now but desparate! Thanks and God bless.
Posted by axslinger on May 11, 2002, at 8:37:13
In reply to Side effects/withdrawals, posted by Sherrie on May 10, 2002, at 22:44:41
> I thank God I found this website tonight! I don't think I could've stood another day alone. Please bear with me. I started Effexor XR 37.5 mg. on 3/3/02 while still taking Paxil, which I took for years (?). The plan was to taper me off the Paxil that I thought was no longer working because I was so depressed and my thinking was so fuzzy. For 6 weeks, I took 15 mg. of Paxil and after the first 2 weeks of Effexor XR, I was up to 75 mg. It was the most wonderful feeling in the world. I was so euphoric! But that got old and wore me out. So my doc said take 10 mg. for 4 days, then 5 mg. for 6 days (of Paxil). It was awful! I had the electric shock sensations, dizziness, cried over everything, and all I wanted to do was sleep. I was in the deepest, darkest depression I've been in for years. I called the doc, who was about to go on vacation, and he told me it was just my dissociative disorder acting up! Said if I wasn't better in a week to get back on the Paxil. No way was I ever going back on that. My mind has cleared up so much, even with all the symptoms. In a few days, I was walking into walls, falling, having enormous, sudden bouts of rage, over-reacting to everything, paranoid, and just wanted to die. I called and saw one of doc's associates, who increased the Effexor - 37.5 more for 2 weeks, then 75 more for 150 mg. In just a few hours, my symptoms went away. It was unreal! I'm still taking the 75 + 37.5 mg. dose, but now I'm having migraine headaches, which I haven't had in a long time, my stomach is bloated and cramping/aching, my neck is stiff, I feel like everyone is against me, sick of me and yet, I feel like everyone is stupid and irresponsible. I'm aware that my feelings are not rational but can't change them. I don't have the energy to get dressed. I don't know what to do. If I get off the Effexor, I'll go into total darkness (that's the way it feels). I want my mind to feel clean or free, without all the anxiety and confusion these drugs cause, but I don't want that total despair. I certainly don't want to go through more withdrawals. Could this happen from taking it only 9-10 weeks? I'm sure I still have remnants of the Paxil, or maybe not. I know that I can't continue like this. I'm so tired of my doctor blaming everything on my D.I.D. I've worked HARD the past 35 years in therapy. I think I'm more aware of my feelings than this doctor! Would appreciate any help. I'm so distrustful right now but desparate! Thanks and God bless.
I can't say anything regarding the Paxil but I can say that most of the Effexor symptoms went away for me. At first I had jaw tension. Always biting down. Which didnt really bother me since I wasnt grinding my teeth. And I did get dry mouth easily when in somewhat stressful situations. But all in all, I was very balanced and could deal with anything. The reason I am now trying Prozac is because I had total lack of interest in sex on Effexor.
Good Luck
Brian
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