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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by Lizzy7711 on March 9, 2004, at 18:48:29
In reply to Re: bizarre dreams, drinking on effexor, sweats, posted by Shyla on March 9, 2004, at 10:05:18
> I take 75 mgs of Effexor daily. Because I would consistantly awaken after 2 hours of sleep, I now have to take 6 mls of Gabatril, and 5 mgs of Ambien. >>
Have you tried taking it at different times in the day? If I take it after about 2-3pm I have the same problem you're talking about. But if I take it around noon i'm fine. I also have to stay up till 11 to sleep through to 6:30.
I like it too so far...calmer, more peaceful, and less depressed. Good luck!
Liz
Posted by Malka on March 9, 2004, at 23:27:48
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR? » Malka, posted by GradPsychStudent on March 9, 2004, at 2:36:17
> I don't know why Effexor was prescribed to you. It is possible to start with an SSRI like Celexa, Zoloft, Prozac, Lexapro, etc., and if you are having no luck, or are way to sleepy and drowsy for awhile, your doctor may prescribe Wellbutrin as an adjunt(combination) to it (for more motivation, less sleepiness). Definitely talk to your Doctor to see what he/she says. If anxiety was a major issue, it could be the reason you were given effexor, so your Doc may think of Buspar.
>
> .-=GradPsychStudent=-. Formerly known as Doctor Feel Good/DFG
>
> > I decided to stop taking Effexor as I couldn't cope with the side effects. Does anyone know of another drug that's in the same group i.e SSNRI or whatever it is, that doesn't have such extreme side effects? I've heard Celexa mentioned, any input would be welcome please!!
>
>I have taken Prozac and Seroxat in the past and they didn't work which is why I wanted to try this class of drugs. is Effexor the only SSNRI then?
Posted by E-Lee on March 10, 2004, at 2:41:47
In reply to Re: bizarre dreams, drinking on effexor, sweats » Skorpius60, posted by KimberlyDi on March 9, 2004, at 15:12:36
> I had wonderful vivid dreams mostly while on Effexor. A few pretty intense *fantasy* dreams also, which I'm glad I got to experience a dream orgasm since I wasn't having any in real life! Bewarned... when coming off of Effexor, the dreams turn to nightmares and are frighteningly real. I physcially fought in those dreams, kicking and punching.
>
> As to menopause, I seem to recall some women being prescribed Effexor to lessen menopause symptoms. There's a hormonal connection somewhere.
>
> And drinking on Effexor? Effexor seemed to kill the buzz, a real kill-joy. Goes from nothing to numb to pass-out with nothing pleasant inbetween. Plus having a sick hangover is dangerous when it comes to not being able to keep anything down, INCLUDING YOUR NEXT EFFEXOR DOSAGE. Then you have Effexor withdrawal, plus hangover sick, and possible suicidal thoughts. Don't do it. Finally, DO NOT DRINK while weaning off Effexor. From one who did, and had her first and only suicide attempt... I'm alive by the grace of God and my own high tolerance to sedatives.
>
> Good luck to you & everyone
> KDi in TX
>
>
> > 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.
> >
> >
>
> I have been on antidepressants for the last 10 yrs. I am now on Effexor and have been for about 6 months now. I noticed that many people have questions and/or concerns about the side effects. When I first started taking effexor I had major anxiety. I was happy - the depression was gone, but I couldn't sleep nights. Anyhow, for those days that I felt too anxious to function or for those nights I couldn't sleep, my doctor gave me xanax which seemed to at least lessen the anxiety. You can also try tylonel PM's when absolutely necessary. The good news is - those symptons usually disappear with time. I also noticed that when I missed a dose that I would have terrible night sweats (wake up drenched and cold from sweat) to the point where I would have to sometimes shower in the middle of the night, change my clothes and at times my sheets as well. I also have very weird dreams alot - good dreams most of the time, but terribe, frightening nightmares when I miss a dose and it only takes missing one dose. I know its not menopause because I am only 30. As far as drinking on effexor. I was told that it is ok, (NOT RECOMENDED) in moderation, however I have been known to overdo it from time to time and have had blackouts due to it. Scary and not worth the consequences. Anyway, for those of you who are on effexor and can't tolerate the side effects - have you tried prozac. I was on it for 9 yrs and it did wonders for me with no side effects whatsoever. Unfortunately, after 9 yrs it pooped out on me which my doctor says it has been known to do. Anyway, for me, the effexor seems to be working for now as far as the depression goes so I am willing to deal with the side effects. Small price I have to pay to be happy. Good Luck to all of you!!!!!!!E-Lee
Posted by Spinxxie on March 10, 2004, at 3:40:34
In reply to Re: bizarre dreams, drinking on effexor, sweats, posted by E-Lee on March 10, 2004, at 2:41:47
I am willing to live with the side effects, if I know it will remove the depression - except I am most annoyed with forgetfulness that the Buspar has caused. It has been 8 days since I started, which was at 75 mgs, and I see my Dr in the morning, and hopefully the dose will get upped. Thankfully in Canada, they don't charge outrageous amounts for life sustaining medications.. Has anyone been diagnosed with Dysthesia? I guess it is a more of a mood disorder then just depression.. anyone have thoughts? thanks Spinxxie
Posted by Shyla on March 10, 2004, at 8:43:25
In reply to Re: bizarre dreams, drinking on effexor, sweats, posted by Lizzy7711 on March 9, 2004, at 18:48:29
> > I take 75 mgs of Effexor daily. Because I would consistantly awaken after 2 hours of sleep, I now have to take 6 mls of Gabatril, and 5 mgs of Ambien. >>
>
> Have you tried taking it at different times in the day? If I take it after about 2-3pm I have the same problem you're talking about. But if I take it around noon i'm fine. I also have to stay up till 11 to sleep through to 6:30.
>
> I like it too so far...calmer, more peaceful, and less depressed. Good luck!
> LizHi Liz, I used to take my Effexor at noon, but now take it in the morning, so I'm not so wired at night when it's time to go to sleep. I had talked to my doc about it and she recommended the time switch. It's amazing stuff isn't it.
Shyla
Posted by E-Lee on March 10, 2004, at 13:04:39
In reply to Re: bizarre dreams, drinking on effexor, sweats, posted by Shyla on March 10, 2004, at 8:43:25
> > > I take 75 mgs of Effexor daily. Because I would consistantly awaken after 2 hours of sleep, I now have to take 6 mls of Gabatril, and 5 mgs of Ambien. >>
> >
> > Have you tried taking it at different times in the day? If I take it after about 2-3pm I have the same problem you're talking about. But if I take it around noon i'm fine. I also have to stay up till 11 to sleep through to 6:30.
> >
> > I like it too so far...calmer, more peaceful, and less depressed. Good luck!
> > Liz
>
> Hi Liz, I used to take my Effexor at noon, but now take it in the morning, so I'm not so wired at night when it's time to go to sleep. I had talked to my doc about it and she recommended the time switch. It's amazing stuff isn't it.
> Shyla
Definately try taking it in the morning - it makes a big difference. I take 150mg and if I forget to take it in the morning and have to take it late afternoon or early evening - I am up all night. Good LuckE-Lee
Posted by Shyla on March 10, 2004, at 14:28:59
In reply to Re: bizarre dreams, drinking on effexor, sweats, posted by E-Lee on March 10, 2004, at 13:04:39
> > > > I take 75 mgs of Effexor daily. Because I would consistantly awaken after 2 hours of sleep, I now have to take 6 mls of Gabatril, and 5 mgs of Ambien. >>
> > >
> > > Have you tried taking it at different times in the day? If I take it after about 2-3pm I have the same problem you're talking about. But if I take it around noon i'm fine. I also have to stay up till 11 to sleep through to 6:30.
> > >
> > > I like it too so far...calmer, more peaceful, and less depressed. Good luck!
> > > Liz
> >
> > Hi Liz, I used to take my Effexor at noon, but now take it in the morning, so I'm not so wired at night when it's time to go to sleep. I had talked to my doc about it and she recommended the time switch. It's amazing stuff isn't it.
> > Shyla
>
>
> Definately try taking it in the morning - it makes a big difference. I take 150mg and if I forget to take it in the morning and have to take it late afternoon or early evening - I am up all night. Good Luck
>
> E-Lee
>Another question for you: Do you sometimes suffer from a feeling of over heating during the daytime? On some days, this goes on for hours with no breaks.
Posted by gooses_2 on March 10, 2004, at 17:04:56
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by Malka on March 9, 2004, at 23:27:48
I dont know about anyone else, but the scratching i do have, i also get the brain fizzys and the dreams suck. after a few years of titration and med switching i have found a great combination of four different meds and they have changed my life. i was on the effexor and trying to get off, but the withdrawals were too bad. i now take abilify 10 mg, effexor 150mg , lithium 900 mg, and ativan 3 mg. i think that the minor annoyances that i get if i take the effexor *on the dot* daily are minimal. thanks to the meds that i take i can leave my house again, mail letters and answer the phone. the sad thing is that there is so much that i am on, i dont know what does what. if anyone has any insight, let me know! :)
Posted by Spinxxie on March 10, 2004, at 18:26:09
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by gooses_2 on March 10, 2004, at 17:04:56
Well.. as long as you can cope.. but as many know.. and this sucks.. you have to do your own share of the work.. meds arent a quick fix.. but an aid for overall health, dont you think?
My own fog is just lifting, I had a seriously rough day on monday, and I was seriously considering hospitalization, I was having a serious "fail to cope" day. as my partner calls em. After 8 days on Effexor, the fog is finally not so thick! I went to see my Dr today, and am now on 150mg, and we are going to see how that goes... the side effects compared to Luvox are nada.. no room spins, nausea, trots and trembles.!! Hope everyone is doing alright,
tc Spinxxie
Posted by Lizzy7711 on March 10, 2004, at 22:24:17
In reply to Re: bizarre dreams, drinking on effexor, sweats, posted by Shyla on March 10, 2004, at 14:28:59
>
> Another question for you: Do you sometimes suffer from a feeling of over heating during the daytime? On some days, this goes on for hours with no breaks.
>I think I've had that happen a couple times...a weird kind of hot...not the normal like it's hot outside hot. But it does'nt happen often enough for me to get a handle on what's causing it.
Regarding alcohol...the last time I tried to just have a drink, the next day I felt like I was coming down with an illness...hot, headache etc., but not like a hangover. Now I think it was just a reaction from the effexor. I don't drink often at all...and never get drunk, but I would like to at least be able to have the occasional drink! I'll try it one more time to make sure it was the drug.
I definitely feel that my current improvement in mental health is worth these side effects. My psychologist took effexor for 3 years at 150mg, and she said when she tapered off she had absolutely no problems. SO, I know if i ever go off, there's that risk of withdrawal, but I'm on it now and from what i've heard, it doesn't make a difference how long you take it, some people who only took it for a month have had terrible withdrawal. I've been on for 3 months, so i'll stick it out till it isn't working anymore.
Anyway, good luck to everyone here!
Liz
Posted by lacey2001 on March 11, 2004, at 12:03:22
In reply to Anyone had success on Effexor XR? , posted by jp on October 24, 1999, at 14:59:14
I am taking just 18 mg every three days now so I am doing extremely well. I do not have any withdrawls in those three days except just before my body knows that I need to take it again. But the feeling isn't as bad as before.
So I am happy! I will wait a month before I start to get pregnant again. I cannot wait.
As for coming back on Effexor XR after my pregnancy, I think I may try Wellbutrin because my low sex drive is a bad problem. How has that med? Anyone try it? And most importantly, did it help your sex drive? Mine is non existent and it isn't fair for my husband or myself.Tanya
Posted by Shyla on March 11, 2004, at 12:10:46
In reply to My tapering off update!!, posted by lacey2001 on March 11, 2004, at 12:03:22
Both my partner and I tried Wellbutrin. It did have a negative effect on our libido so we got off of that. I'm convinced after trying a few SSRIs that none are perfect, and they all have negative sexual side effects. I can only speak for myself and my partner as we have gone down the same paths together. I'm sorry I couldn't respond with more heartening news. I wish you a lot of luck on getting pregnant!
Posted by realblonde48 on March 11, 2004, at 12:10:54
In reply to My tapering off update!!, posted by lacey2001 on March 11, 2004, at 12:03:22
How long did it take you to taper off to the 18mg? Is there an 18mg pill? I am on 37 1/2 for the start of the second week from 300mg. So far this whole experience has been a nightmare. I am looking for hope that this will soon be over and I can go on with my life.
Posted by lacey2001 on March 11, 2004, at 12:26:58
In reply to Re: My tapering off update!!, posted by realblonde48 on March 11, 2004, at 12:10:54
I just opened my capule up and poured half out and did it back up again. Now I know this wasn't a good idea. I couldn't get a hold of my Dr (weekend) and was feeling very sick as I tried to cut cold turkey under the advice from a crummy Dr here. But I took 37.5 again (to quit a different way my Dr told me) because I didn't like to open the capules but felt very sick so I had to go back to pouring half out again. Basically what I am trying to say is that my body is used to 18.75mg now b/c anything more makes me quite sick. I do not recommend opening caps but to talk to Dr. My advice from a another Dr was as follows:
to take 37.5 every second day for a week
then every third day if symtpoms are still bothering you. Then after a week to stop.Again, please don't listen to this advice but talk to a Dr. Everyone will be different.
Tanya
How long did it take you to taper off to the 18mg? Is there an 18mg pill? I am on 37 1/2 for the start of the second week from 300mg. So far this whole experience has been a nightmare. I am looking for hope that this will soon be over and I can go on with my life.
Posted by realblonde48 on March 11, 2004, at 13:02:16
In reply to Re: My tapering off update!!, posted by lacey2001 on March 11, 2004, at 12:26:58
That's what I was supposed to do. Take the 37 for 1 week, then every other day, then every 2 days. Like I said, I'm just ready to be off of the ride. I have gained twenty pounds in the last month and a half and the weight gain just adds insult to injury. A couple of weeks ago, after going cold turkey altogether, I thought I was absoutly losing my mind. I then started over and began the process of cutting back. I have a new perspective on the withdrawal process.
Thank you for taking the time to share.
Posted by kgirl on March 12, 2004, at 10:56:12
In reply to Re: My tapering off update!!, posted by realblonde48 on March 11, 2004, at 13:02:16
I'm reading everyone's threads for the first time with interest....I took 75 mg for almost a year then started feeling very anxious so I moved up to 150 mg a day. It has been three months on 150 mg and all of a sudden, I am feeling so nervous/anxious. Has anyone experienced this? I'm wondering if I should discuss with my doctor the possibility of increasing yet again. I should say that other than my weight gain (!), this pill has made such a great difference in my life. However, after reading all the posts about coming off them, I must admit to being a little nervous.
Posted by PoohBear on March 12, 2004, at 11:12:02
In reply to Re: My tapering off update!!, posted by kgirl on March 12, 2004, at 10:56:12
Kgirl:
Don't let the posts make you nervous. The vast majority of people that teake Effexor do so with great results and don't post here :)
I titrated up to 225mg with significant side effects, so we came back down to 75mg and held the doseage there for severasl months. I noticed a poop-out several weeks ago after having a recurrent severe depressive episode one day. Since increasing the dose to 150mg, I have had no side effects and am having control over depression and my thoughts as before. I now believe that if I had stayed at the higher doseage for awhile longer, the side effect would have moderated.
I personally hope that I can hold at 150mg, because the way this stuff is priced, all doseages cost the same, and going to 225mg or 300mg means taking two capsules, hence doubling the cost... In my case, insurance pays 90%, but that would still mean going from $25 per month for Effexor XR to $50. This on top of about $25 per month for Seroquel and and $25 or so for Adderall...
Ain't medications fun?
Good luck and look for the positive!
Tony
> I'm reading everyone's threads for the first time with interest....I took 75 mg for almost a year then started feeling very anxious so I moved up to 150 mg a day. It has been three months on 150 mg and all of a sudden, I am feeling so nervous/anxious. Has anyone experienced this? I'm wondering if I should discuss with my doctor the possibility of increasing yet again. I should say that other than my weight gain (!), this pill has made such a great difference in my life. However, after reading all the posts about coming off them, I must admit to being a little nervous.
Posted by JeremyNY on March 12, 2004, at 19:20:45
In reply to Re: My tapering off update!! » kgirl, posted by PoohBear on March 12, 2004, at 11:12:02
Hi guys/gals. this is my first post here, I've been browsing the site for a while. This is an excellent resource to have on the Internet. Thanks to Dr. Bob for making this available to us.
Tony - My pharmacist told me that if I need to go to 225 mg of Effexor XR (I'm on 150mg right now), I should ask my doctor to write the new prescription as 3x75mg capsules per day. That will still be considered a single prescription (since all pills are the same strength) and only a single co-pay. Ask your pharmacist if this how your insurance operates as well. They should know since they are the ones submitting to your insurance. I really hate to see people spending so much on drugs in this country. It's such a catch-22 in that the companies need the money to do research and create new drugs but it's ashame people have to pay so much money just to stay alive.
Jeremy
Posted by jbird on March 13, 2004, at 13:36:34
In reply to Re: bizarre dreams, drinking on effexor, sweats, posted by Lizzy7711 on March 10, 2004, at 22:24:17
Hi out there.
I've never posted before, but was looking for a site about effexor. I can't tolerate alcohol on effexor and I miss getting a slight buzz on every now and then. I've been taking 150 mg daily for almost a year now. A clueless "diet doctor" recommended I switch from prozac to effexor XR because he said prozac would keep me from losing the extra 25 pounds I wanted to lose. Well, I feel about the same as I did on the prozac but now I've gained ten more pounds, say stupid things after just two glasses of wine and have the occasional hot flash. I didn't dream about the effex causing my weight gain! I'm going to try to get off everything, but don't know how to go about tapering. Thoughts, suggestions anyone....
Posted by Spinxxie on March 13, 2004, at 15:05:47
In reply to Re: drinking and weight gain on effexor, posted by jbird on March 13, 2004, at 13:36:34
Unfortunately, most ani-depressants will cause some weight fluctuation.. as well.. as cravings, so you have to be careful what you eat. It also depends if you have any other medical issues, medications and activity level. I have been on enough of them to say they all are about the same that way.. just my two cents.. good luck Spinxxie
Posted by jbird on March 13, 2004, at 15:30:59
In reply to Re: drinking and weight gain on effexor » jbird, posted by Spinxxie on March 13, 2004, at 15:05:47
thanks spinxxie for your reply. I started on prozac at the end of a long and unhappy marriage and feel that my life is on the upswing now. good luck to you .
Posted by Malka on March 14, 2004, at 3:25:47
In reply to Re: My tapering off update!! » kgirl, posted by PoohBear on March 12, 2004, at 11:12:02
Do anyone know of another drug that works on both serotonin and norepinephrine (SSNRI) like Effexor? I have searched the net but can't seem to find anything. Effexor doesn't seem to agree with me but I've tried SSRIs like Prozac and Seroxat and they stop working very quickly. I need something!!!! Help!!
Posted by E-Lee on March 14, 2004, at 16:10:56
In reply to Re: Alternatives to Effexor XR?, posted by Malka on March 14, 2004, at 3:25:47
> Do anyone know of another drug that works on both serotonin and norepinephrine (SSNRI) like Effexor? I have searched the net but can't seem to find anything. Effexor doesn't seem to agree with me but I've tried SSRIs like Prozac and Seroxat and they stop working very quickly. I need something!!!! Help!!
What about Welbutrin? Have you spoken to your doctor?
Posted by Spinxxie on March 14, 2004, at 18:40:14
In reply to Re: Alternatives to Effexor XR?, posted by E-Lee on March 14, 2004, at 16:10:56
> > Do anyone know of another drug that works on both serotonin and norepinephrine (SSNRI) like Effexor? I have searched the net but can't seem to find anything. Effexor doesn't seem to agree with me but I've tried SSRIs like Prozac and Seroxat and they stop working very quickly. I need something!!!! Help!!
>
> What about Welbutrin? Have you spoken to your doctor?If you have a Dr. who is knowledgeable in psychopharmaceuticals, s/he should be able to help you. If not, find out if you can be referred to a psychiatrist, since that is their speciality. Wellbutrin can react badly with some people, I was on it for a about 2 months - I had anxiety attacks and was a bit bitchy... just keep a look out. best wishes, and be safe,
sincerely,
OO btw, there are other drugs like luvox, zoloft...which usually have a lifespan of 3-4 years.. just a fyi
Spinxxie
Spinxxie
Posted by E-Lee on March 15, 2004, at 6:11:42
In reply to Re: Alternatives to Effexor XR? » E-Lee, posted by Spinxxie on March 14, 2004, at 18:40:14
> > > Do anyone know of another drug that works on both serotonin and norepinephrine (SSNRI) like Effexor? I have searched the net but can't seem to find anything. Effexor doesn't seem to agree with me but I've tried SSRIs like Prozac and Seroxat and they stop working very quickly. I need something!!!! Help!!
> >
> > What about Welbutrin? Have you spoken to your doctor?
>
> If you have a Dr. who is knowledgeable in psychopharmaceuticals, s/he should be able to help you. If not, find out if you can be referred to a psychiatrist, since that is their speciality. Wellbutrin can react badly with some people, I was on it for a about 2 months - I had anxiety attacks and was a bit bitchy... just keep a look out. best wishes, and be safe,
> sincerely,
> OO btw, there are other drugs like luvox, zoloft...which usually have a lifespan of 3-4 years.. just a fyi
> Spinxxie
> Spinxxie
> Unfortunatley, everybody is different and what works with some may not work with others. When I first began treatment I was on Zoloft and I was having major anxiety attacks. I actually thought at times that I was having a heart attack. And where others have said they have gained weight from being on Zoloft - I was losing, which wasn't good considering I was only about 110 lbs as it was. Anyway, the point is that like I said everybody is different and therefore will react differently to different drugs. What were you on before Effexor?
>
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