![[dr. bob]](/dr-bob-sm.gif)
Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 6451 to 6475 of 10407. Go back in thread:
Posted by PoohBear on March 5, 2004, at 9:51:17
In reply to Re: hypomania, posted by Spinxxie on March 4, 2004, at 22:22:12
> I have GAD - and thankfully my Dr. figured that out, I was diagnosed as BP when I was 16 - and placed on lithium - which made me have seizures. I went to a Neurologist, who basically crapped on my shrink at the time. After two diff consults with shrinks, finally figured out that I wasn't BP. After going through luvox then Zoloft burnout, I am gonna give this a go. I am on day 4 of Effexor, and it couldn't be worse then the Zoloft burnout, they all have side effects, just that folks dont talk about the spins,shakes, sweats and cravings. Figures it couldn't get worse, I have gained 20lbs, but I don't care I just want to be happy. Anyone else feel the same way?
Spinxxie:
I couldn't agree more. Effexor has been wonderful for me. It's given me my life back, my self-confidence and a better outlook in general.
I did, however, have to put up with the side effects at first when I was ramping up on doseage. For me these included unbelieveably vivid, technicolor dreams, frequent urination, difficulty urinating, erectile disfunction, brain zaps, etc. But, I'm glad I stuck with it. Having never really given any med a fair shake in the past, I was determined to stick with this one 'til things got better and I'm glad I did.
The side effects have subsided, my thoughts are MINE and not some incoherent stream of uncontrollable babble that was unwanted and unproductive. The darkness is gone, the suicidal thoughts are gone and I'm a much better person to be around. Effexor has attenuated my emotions somewhat, in that I don't feel down, don't get all choked up in sad movies, etc., but I am FAR, far HAPPIER.
Effexor is NOT a 'happy' pill, but it certainly has enabled me to feel a real joy of life for the first time in many years. It's unfortunate that it gets such a bad rap on these boards, but the primary people that post are those with withdrawal problems, which although VERY real, do not speak for those who never post because they're not having any problems.
Stick with it,
Tony
Effexor 150mg
Seroquel 100mg
Posted by PoohBear on March 5, 2004, at 10:02:06
In reply to Should I begin the weaning process?, posted by Emma Smith on March 4, 2004, at 21:59:57
Emma:
You should follow your doctor's advice and stick with it.
Though there are many people who feel that life should be lived "drug free", medications are nothing more than chemicals, in this case a chemical that your brain needs to function normally.
If you had a heart condition that required that you take a med for the rest of your life, you wouldn't hesitate to take it, would you? Why should a disease of the brain be any different?
Just as it is unfair to tell depressed people to "just snap out of it, it's all in your attitude" or what ever other mean, unthoughtful things people say, depressiona nd other diseases of the brain cannot always be controlled by counseling alone.
I told my pDoc the other day that if I have to take meds for the rest of my life I will, if they improve the QUALITY of that life. If I were to live a few years less because of some unforeseen complications of the meds down the road, I'd still take the QUALITY of life over the QUANTITY of life.
She said I was very smart to look at it that way, as untreated depression shortens the lifespan by 9 years on average...
Good luck and God bless,
Tony
> I'm very new to taking antidepressants, as Effexor XR is the only one I have taken. I take it for anxiety and mild depression. I believe the depression stemmed from a lot of stressors and life changes. I had thoughts of suicide and overall irratibility as well as "anxiety attacks". My doctor started me on Effexor XR (I'm now taking 75mg) back in July 2003.
>
> In the beginning, I felt wonderful. It was as if I finally had my life back. With such a supportive husband and two wonderful young children, I really wanted to be myself again. Of course I want to be "drug-free", so I wonder when I should try life without Effexor. My life has changed a lot in the last 6 months. Great changes. A feel a lot more stable than I ever have been. The doctor said he would like to see me on the drug 9 months and then we would talk.
>
> However.....I feel this drug has contributed to a weight gain that I DO NOT want!! I'm looking for opinions as to what would be a good way to taper off of this drug. Honestly, some of the stories terrify me. I was thinking of starting to take the dose every other day for awhile. Is this a good place to start?
>
> Thanks so much for any advice you have!
Posted by Spinxxie on March 5, 2004, at 10:18:12
In reply to Re: hypomania » Spinxxie, posted by PoohBear on March 5, 2004, at 9:51:17
I guess people don't realize what ssri's are, they all affect brain chemistry.. so ya will get weird withdrawals.. but.. yeah.. I am trying to be patient, there are no miracles cures... just taking it one day at a time.. thanks so much for your support.. Spinxxie
Posted by Spinxxie on March 5, 2004, at 10:20:54
In reply to Re: Should I begin the weaning process? » Emma Smith, posted by PoohBear on March 5, 2004, at 10:02:06
Like Poohbear said, it is chem. imbalance, no worse then epilepsy.. and you shouldnt be ashamed of being on meds.. if they make your life better.. more functional, I wouldn't worry about it...tc Spinxxie
Posted by PoohBear on March 5, 2004, at 10:21:06
In reply to Re: hypomania » PoohBear, posted by Spinxxie on March 5, 2004, at 10:18:12
> I guess people don't realize what ssri's are, they all affect brain chemistry.. so ya will get weird withdrawals.. but.. yeah.. I am trying to be patient, there are no miracles cures... just taking it one day at a time.. thanks so much for your support.. Spinxxie
No problem, and by the way, Effexor is NOT an SSRI; it's more of a modified tricyclic, working on BOTH seritonin and neopinephrine (as well as dopamine...)
Tony
Posted by newgirl on March 5, 2004, at 13:15:52
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by newgirl on March 4, 2004, at 14:26:36
Has anyone had success losing weight AFTER going off of Effexor XR? As a whole, Effexor XR worked for me. My depression is gone. I've gained weight, and lost my desire for sex, along with other side effects. This made me decide it was time to quit. I'm on day 2 with no Effexor - and I'm doing OK I guess. Aside from the dizziness, occassional nausea, hot/cold chills, it hasn't been nearly as bad as I feared. I'm just looking for hope that this weight will go away as quickly as it came.
Posted by Emma Smith on March 5, 2004, at 13:56:30
In reply to Re: Should I begin the weaning process? » PoohBear, posted by Spinxxie on March 5, 2004, at 10:20:54
Thanks so much for the advice. My doc told me that same thing and completely agree with you all.
I was just hoping that someday I could be off...but if I couldn't make it than I would definitely take meds! I'm loving my quality of life right now!
To be superficial: I just really don't like this weight gain. I'm honestly not doing anything differently. I guess I'll just have to work hard at getting it off. It's just that sometimes, the WEIGHT is what is depressing......
Posted by trevor26 on March 5, 2004, at 17:37:47
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by newgirl on March 5, 2004, at 13:15:52
> Has anyone had success losing weight AFTER going off of Effexor XR? As a whole, Effexor XR worked for me. My depression is gone. I've gained weight, and lost my desire for sex, along with other side effects. This made me decide it was time to quit. I'm on day 2 with no Effexor - and I'm doing OK I guess. Aside from the dizziness, occassional nausea, hot/cold chills, it hasn't been nearly as bad as I feared. I'm just looking for hope that this weight will go away as quickly as it came.
I WISH YOU BETTER LUCK ON GETTING OFF EFFEXOR THAN WHAT I'M HAVING. I HAVE NEVER BEEN SO SICK IN MY LIFE.I,VE BEEN WEANING MYSELF OFF NOW FOR TWO WEEKS AND HAVENT TAKEN ANY FOR THE LAST THREE DAYS. I HAVE MISSED THE LAST 2 DAYS OF WORK BECAUSE I AM UNABLE TO DRIVE AND ALMOST UNABLE TO DO ANYTHING.I WISH I KNEW ABOUT THESE EFFECTS BACK WHEN I STARTED TAKING IT ABOUT 4 YEARS AGO,MY DOCTOR DID NOT TELL ME ANYTHING.I WOULD LIKE TO FORCE FEED HIM THIS MEDICINE FOR 4 YEARS AND THEN QUIT, SO HE COULD FEEL THE EFFECTS. I BET HE WOULD NEVER PRESCRIBE IT TO ANYONE AGAIN
Posted by Doctor Feel Good on March 5, 2004, at 17:56:59
In reply to Should I begin the weaning process?, posted by Emma Smith on March 4, 2004, at 21:59:57
Exercise. Alot of gyms with give you a free trainer for signing up, who can discuss better eating. Working out, and eating good food every 2-3 hours is proven to make someone more lean. i.e. piece of chicken, scoop of rice, generous portion of veggies.
> I'm very new to taking antidepressants, as Effexor XR is the only one I have taken. I take it for anxiety and mild depression. I believe the depression stemmed from a lot of stressors and life changes. I had thoughts of suicide and overall irratibility as well as "anxiety attacks". My doctor started me on Effexor XR (I'm now taking 75mg) back in July 2003.
>
> In the beginning, I felt wonderful. It was as if I finally had my life back. With such a supportive husband and two wonderful young children, I really wanted to be myself again. Of course I want to be "drug-free", so I wonder when I should try life without Effexor. My life has changed a lot in the last 6 months. Great changes. A feel a lot more stable than I ever have been. The doctor said he would like to see me on the drug 9 months and then we would talk.
>
> However.....I feel this drug has contributed to a weight gain that I DO NOT want!! I'm looking for opinions as to what would be a good way to taper off of this drug. Honestly, some of the stories terrify me. I was thinking of starting to take the dose every other day for awhile. Is this a good place to start?
>
> Thanks so much for any advice you have!
Posted by Doctor Feel Good on March 5, 2004, at 18:02:16
In reply to Re: hypomania, posted by Spinxxie on March 4, 2004, at 22:22:12
I wish you the best of luck. Antidepressants are a good choice when the upside is better than the downside. So, like you have stated, I'd rather be happy than gain some weight. I can't imagine anyone sacrificing happiness which is healthy and guarantees a better and easier world to live in, versus less weight, miserable. Less weight and depression will kill ya quicker :) You hit the nail on the head. Plus anyone (unless physically injured) can exercise to lose, or keep off additional pounds. Getting a nutionist/trainer at a gym is the best. Sooo many people don't realize that even a quick walk combined with eating delicious good food at 3 hour intervals, will make you increase your metabolism, you just need to find out your BMI and have a nutitionist give you samples of scheduled eating, and a trainer to show you the best way to shed fat.
Posted by Dr. Bob on March 6, 2004, at 0:05:03
In reply to Re: Doctor Feel Good, posted by Thankful on March 3, 2004, at 1:03:02
> Where did you go to medical school?
I think this is a good question. Are you really a doctor? If you'd rather reply by email, that's fine. Thanks,
Bob
Posted by Spinxxie on March 6, 2004, at 1:49:51
In reply to Re: hypomania » Spinxxie, posted by Doctor Feel Good on March 5, 2004, at 18:02:16
I agree.. if you can do some excercise GO for it! I have chronic back pain.. but I want to work on that as well... I am having one of those days where I had a hard time getting out of bed.. oy.. it can only get better, right?
Posted by Doctor Feel Good on March 6, 2004, at 3:56:45
In reply to Re: medical school » Doctor Feel Good, posted by Dr. Bob on March 6, 2004, at 0:05:03
It's funny you ask that. I have not gone to medical school, I am working on my masters in clin. psych, and cinched my psychopharm class, and all my other classes. I am plannning to attend school in spring 2005 for my PhD in the same field and applying for the licensure exam. I find it funny doc because I've been thinking of changing my name to avoid misunderstandings. In the past on this board I have mentioned I was not a doctor, and usually recommend people check with their doc first. I've also been thinking of having an automatic disclaimer or explanation of what level of school I am at, like APA Code of Ethics. I am wondering what you would suggest? I am glad you asked. I was quite surprised the administrator of this board (you)contacted me.
> > Where did you go to medical school?
>
> I think this is a good question. Are you really a doctor? If you'd rather reply by email, that's fine. Thanks,
>
> Bob
Posted by Doctor Feel Good on March 6, 2004, at 3:59:33
In reply to Re: hypomania » Doctor Feel Good, posted by Spinxxie on March 6, 2004, at 1:49:51
Well I couldn't tell ya , but you have the right attitude. Have a specialist look at your back. Perhaps they can give you some specific stretches or exercises to gradually build your back up. Good luck
> I agree.. if you can do some excercise GO for it! I have chronic back pain.. but I want to work on that as well... I am having one of those days where I had a hard time getting out of bed.. oy.. it can only get better, right?
Posted by TomNC on March 6, 2004, at 9:30:20
In reply to Re: hypomania » Spinxxie, posted by Doctor Feel Good on March 6, 2004, at 3:59:33
I started taking Effexor XR two weeks ago. First week 35mg, now almost a week at 75. Taking it once a day. I am feeling beginning to feel better. Had a few crazy dreams a couple of nights.
What I would like to know is if anyone else is having issues with constent slight shaking or trembling of your hands? I host alot of business meetings and others are noticing the papers I hold shaking. Anyone else have this happen? Does it go away in time?
Posted by Spinxxie on March 6, 2004, at 15:44:34
In reply to Re: hypomania / SHAKING?, posted by TomNC on March 6, 2004, at 9:30:20
I haven't had any shakes yet, I started at 75mgs, because I was going through Zoloft withdrawals and some nasty depression. I will let you know though. I am on buspar as well, and damn my memory has really been shot.. but that is another thread.. lol
Posted by effexed on March 6, 2004, at 17:51:15
In reply to Re: hypomania / SHAKING?, posted by TomNC on March 6, 2004, at 9:30:20
I had a lot of shaking when I first got on this med I looked like I was feening or something I got a lot of stares to so if you have to just let your coworkers know you are on something you dont have to go in to details if your not wanting any one to know about your personal stuff or ask questions just say your on something for sinus that gives me the shakes to so moast people woant think twice anyway you will probably have dry mouth and a hard time sleeping for the first few weeks but yes this will pass and you will hopefully start feeling good again I have been on 75s for 9wks now and feel great my DR wanted to up me to 150 but I will stay at 75 for now hope
this helpsCINDY in TX
Posted by Spinxxie on March 6, 2004, at 18:32:28
In reply to Re: hypomania / SHAKING?, posted by effexed on March 6, 2004, at 17:51:15
yikes! I haven't had the shakes.. but I have noticed headaches and spins.. I know they will go away.. anyone get really tired when they were first on it?
Posted by Malka on March 7, 2004, at 0:45:52
In reply to Re: hypomania / SHAKING?, posted by effexed on March 6, 2004, at 17:51:15
Can anyone tell me how long the side effects last for? I have been taking it for 5 days and whilst I haven't felt any positive effects yet I am feeling nauseous, light-headed and tired all the time and am constantly hungry although can't eat some foods coz of the nausea. I am considering stopping taking it coz am fed up of being this zombie!!
Posted by Spinxxie on March 7, 2004, at 1:39:19
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by Malka on March 7, 2004, at 0:45:52
I am on day 6 - don't give up ! Like most of thses drugs, it takes time! OMG I have wanted to graze..I have my stomach stapled so I can't thankfully, but I can't stop eating those crispy mini rice cakes. As far as I know it is a couple of weeks before things settle down.. give it a chance.. hugs Spinxxie
Posted by jacques on March 7, 2004, at 12:19:01
In reply to Re: Sudden descent into Efexor hell, posted by shadows721 on January 19, 2004, at 19:48:54
Has anyone experienced constant scratching on Efexor? My back is torn apart from scratching since I started it.
Posted by Spinxxie on March 7, 2004, at 16:39:15
In reply to constant scratching, posted by jacques on March 7, 2004, at 12:19:01
IMHO I think you have an allergy, consult your pharmacist and Dr regarding this - yikes.. have you tried benedryl or anything like that to ease it? Sorry to hear of your woes.. tc Spinzzie
Posted by Sad Panda on March 8, 2004, at 5:11:54
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR? » Malka, posted by Spinxxie on March 7, 2004, at 1:39:19
Hi All,
I am still doing OK on Effexor. It has done a great deal for me, I can talk to people about my problems, I feel more sociable, I feel I am moving up & best of all is I don't feel so worthless anymore. :) I am going to the docs tomorrow to ask for increase from 225mg to 300mg to help with drive & motivation.
Cheers,
Panda.
Posted by Skorpius60 on March 8, 2004, at 8:12:38
In reply to bizarre dreams, posted by bluestar on March 21, 2003, at 13:01:40
Yes, I too, have had very weird and vivid dreams (I take 75 mg. Effexor XR a day) The weirdest one was about a curly haired (prehistoric type) baby elephant walking through my house opening the doors with his nose! lol Also, I have come to the realization that I don't think I can drink on Effexor. Once I start drinking I seem to lose all sense of moderation, end up drinking way too much, immediately start vomiting (not the next day, same night) and then I pass out, with very vague recollections of the previous night. And then I feel like I want to die for 2 or 3 days afterwards. And another weird thing is that my whole body feels like it's been run over by a semitruck -- even my skin seems to hurt -- never had that as part of a hangover before Effexor. But as far as my depression, the Effexor has helped tremendously (before I started on it I wouldn't leave the house, wouldn't come my hair for days on end, didn't clean, didn't cook, I was just a mess, so I guess if I have to quit drinking so be it. Or if I can manage to just have one or two glasses of wine or a mixed drink without going bananas that would be great, too. But that's where the biggest problem seems to be -- I have a glass or two and then it's like I'm a teenager again -- no sense whatsoever. Oh, and I read a thread about hot flashes/night sweats -- I've been getting that, too, but I also had it (although not as bad) before the Effexor. I can't remember if the post was written by a man or woman, but if it was a woman it could just be perimenopause or menopause starting to kick in and maybe Effexor exacerbates those symptoms. I think that's what's going on with me. So, anyhow, I am so glad I found this website. And I would love to hear from anybody else about drinking and Effexor. Thanks!
> Since I started taking effexor, I've been haved a series of incredibly vivid and strange dreams. Is anyone else experiencing this too? It seems like I'm in a constant dream state when asleep. I guess that's due to not sleeping deeply. The weirdest one yet was about talking to cheetahs and eating live eels.
Posted by Dr. Bob on March 8, 2004, at 8:57:53
In reply to Re: medical school » Dr. Bob, posted by Doctor Feel Good on March 6, 2004, at 3:56:45
> I've been thinking of changing my name to avoid misunderstandings.
I think that would be best. Here are the steps involved:
http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/faq.html#names
Thanks for being flexible,
Bob
Go forward in thread:
Psycho-Babble Medication | Extras | FAQ
Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.org
Script revised: February 4, 2008
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/cgi-bin/pb/mget.pl
Copyright 2006-17 Robert Hsiung.
Owned and operated by Dr. Bob LLC and not the University of Chicago.