![[dr. bob]](/dr-bob-sm.gif)
Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 6701 to 6725 of 10407. Go back in thread:
Posted by Zarry on April 17, 2004, at 17:49:38
In reply to Scared to Stop Effexor XR--HELP, posted by CaliGirl22 on April 17, 2004, at 13:34:30
CaliGirl, now during your off time would be the best time to be getting off Effexor. I don't know if the effects of going cold turkey vs weaning off are different. I was on 150mg for 6 mo., then the doc noticed my BP was high, I immediately quit the night doseage thinking it would help the withdrawls. After a few days, I told myself I wasn't going to take the time to wean because I don't think it would be any different. I've been free of Effexor (if you want to call it that) for almost 2 wks now. I may not be swallowing the med, but I think it still has a hold on me.
I made the mistake of visiting my family during this volatile time. I thought I would be able to handle my bi-polar sister - BIG MISTAKE.
Good luck to everyone who is in the same boat. We will conquer this venture and make it to the other side safely.
Posted by CaliGirl22 on April 17, 2004, at 18:50:44
In reply to THE GOOD THINGS?????, posted by AngelDoe on April 17, 2004, at 14:55:45
Yes there are good things. I cant yet tell you if its worth the withdrawls I will have to face getting off the drug... but it worked.
I have been on it for a few years and I found my moods, emotions, and overall well being up by 100%. I could handle many situations a lot more while I have been on it. There are very many side effects but the worst of them going onto the medicine subside after a while. I am about to face going off them. I dont know how that will be, but from what I hear it isnt fun.
Posted by Angela Young on April 17, 2004, at 20:38:22
In reply to Re: starting effexor... keep posting.. success/dosage?, posted by lg on November 7, 1999, at 19:11:05
I was on effexor for 1 year. In the 1 year I was on 37.5mg to 75mg, then went back down to 37.5mg. I swear by this medication. I dreaded gettinjg up in the mornings and after I started it I was up and ready to go. Even after the very 1st dose. After I had my son my doctor told me if I was going to feed him I had to switch to Prozac. Ever since I've been on it I've been worse than I was before. I think it all depends on the chemical inbalance of the brain in each individual person.
Posted by sira on April 17, 2004, at 21:53:29
In reply to THE GOOD THINGS?????, posted by AngelDoe on April 17, 2004, at 14:55:45
I have been on Effexor for two months now and I think that the way the chemicals interact with the drugs deffeniatly makes a difference in how the side effects are. I had some twitching when I first started the meds but that went away with in a few weeks. I am feeling better now then I ever have especially since the depression has finally been diagnosed. My depression was masked ever since childhood by a serious illness. I have tried SSRI's and they did not work but the effexor has so I am happy to be on something that works and lets me live my life to my best instead of being tired all the time, and having no motivation at all. Because of the depression I had to quite a good job. Now I am working on getting my self to a point where I can work two jobs and get my self back on my feet.
Sira
Posted by Angela Young on April 17, 2004, at 22:10:22
In reply to Re: THE GOOD THINGS?????, posted by sira on April 17, 2004, at 21:53:29
I have had many bad things happen to me throughout my life and effexor was the only thing that made me feel like I was once again a human being. Not living in a wonderland wondering if I should drive off that bridge or put a gun to my head. It has made me happy to live and more of a strong person for my children. It has also helped me get back into college working towards my own degree in psychology so that I can try to help people just like us.
I have been on Effexor for two months now and I think that the way the chemicals interact with the drugs deffeniatly makes a difference in how the side effects are. I had some twitching when I first started the meds but that went away with in a few weeks. I am feeling better now then I ever have especially since the depression has finally been diagnosed. My depression was masked ever since childhood by a serious illness. I have tried SSRI's and they did not work but the effexor has so I am happy to be on something that works and lets me live my life to my best instead of being tired all the time, and having no motivation at all. Because of the depression I had to quite a good job. Now I am working on getting my self to a point where I can work two jobs and get my self back on my feet.
> Sira
Posted by Angela Young on April 17, 2004, at 22:17:43
In reply to Re: How long for these withdrawals to end??Margo, posted by Emma Smith on April 17, 2004, at 13:15:39
I just wanted to know if you are the Emma Smith I know. My name in High School was Angela Weaver.
Posted by invisiblemanpa on April 18, 2004, at 5:33:19
In reply to Re: sexual side effect- effexor-xr, posted by Shyla on April 16, 2004, at 10:09:49
Hmm Interesting, and I thought just my penis was going numb....this is a very clear connection with effexor and sexual side effects...I used to think about it all the time and get a rise every time an attractive lady walked by....now nothing...the addition of Wellbutrin has done little do help.......good luck....wish I had a suggestion....the TV ads are all BS!
Posted by MsJones1 on April 18, 2004, at 7:31:30
In reply to Re: effexor and drinking, posted by maggie on April 17, 2000, at 19:18:38
> I drink moderately while on 150mg of effexor xr
> and have no problems with it at all.
>
>
>
> I started taking effexor about 4 weeks ago (and still have the side effects of nausea, sleepiness, headaches and loss of appetite). I've tried aropax and zoloft (both which made me really sick) and doxepin for about a year (which didn't make me sick but didn't actually help_
> > Just wondering if anyone knows about the effects of drinking and taking certain drugs when on effexor. Is it too risky?
> > I drank the other weekend and just felt a bit worse than usual.
> > Thanks if anyone can help
>
>I've been on Effexor for about a year. I have heard it is 'not wise' to drink whilst taking effexor but being 22 and having been on effexor for a year I've had more than my far share of binge nights. I did find my tolerance of alcohol decreased greatly and I have personally found I am far less aware of my actions when drinking now than I used to be. I'm a regular social drinker, probably I have 1-4 drinks one or maybe two nights of the week and usually have one big night a week. I find that having more than that really reduces the benifits of effexor, and thats only if you remember to take it the next morning! In no way am I suggesting it is okay to drink while on Effexor, just sharing my personal experiances. I suggest consulting your psych, most of them are pretty cool and honest if you ask them directly what will happen if you do something. i.e. drinking (as well as getting really drunk etc), recreational drugs etc.
Posted by headachegirl on April 18, 2004, at 9:06:14
In reply to Re: THE GOOD THINGS?????-Sira, posted by Angela Young on April 17, 2004, at 22:10:22
I think trial and error is the process for finding the right AD. I experienced the best results from Prozac with the usual number of side effects. I was tired of the non-existent libido and tried the Effexor to see if I had better results. I really didn't, though I was on 75 mg and don't know if increasing the does would've helped.
I did notice, however, the awful consequences of missing a dose. I would be slammed by the brain zaps, headaches, and nausea. I work in the high tech industry and can often do 12-14 hours in front of the computer for days at a time. Things like rembering to refill your prescription would fall between the cracks and the resulting almost immediate withdrawal effects made work miserable.
Plus, I was experiencing the elevated BP and weight gain. So, I'm taking myself off. I think the key to this (as well as with any other AD) is to wean off, not go cold turkey. Reducing my dose over several weeks, while taking extra supplements has almost totally prevented withdrawal symptoms.
So, everyone is different. If Effexor works for you, stay with it. If you decide you need to get off; don't go cold turkey. My advice.
Posted by Emma Smith on April 18, 2004, at 20:39:07
In reply to Re: How long for these withdrawals to end??Emma, posted by Angela Young on April 17, 2004, at 22:17:43
"Smith" is my married name..... Sorry! :)
That really would have been something, huh?? :)
Posted by alanis on April 18, 2004, at 23:27:21
In reply to Re: How long for these withdrawals to end??Emma, posted by Emma Smith on April 18, 2004, at 20:39:07
I am now on a low calorie diet to try to get off the pounds of the weight gain effexor and I am glad to report I have lost 5 pounds. I also stopped taking straterra,. Has anyone gained weight from adhd meds. Is the weight gain from the meds or from the side effect of increased appetite? That is what I want to know.
Posted by Shyla on April 19, 2004, at 8:45:38
In reply to Re: sexual side effect- effexor-xr, posted by invisiblemanpa on April 18, 2004, at 5:33:19
> Hmm Interesting, and I thought just my penis was going numb....this is a very clear connection with effexor and sexual side effects...I used to think about it all the time and get a rise every time an attractive lady walked by....now nothing...the addition of Wellbutrin has done little do help.......good luck....wish I had a suggestion....the TV ads are all BS!
Not very heartening news, I'm afraid. But thanks for your input.
Posted by ku4ns on April 19, 2004, at 12:11:39
In reply to Re: About to go off..... Advice please! » Viva, posted by msdepres on April 17, 2004, at 11:51:55
I am three weeks out from my last dose effexor and this is my second attempt at stopping the drug. My first attempt stopping failed because of improper weaning, this time I used prozac to help. I have not had any of the problems that I experienced previously while trying to stop. I feel as normal as I ever have thanks to prozac. I hope this post will help others that are trying deal with the effects of effexor. I was on the drug for a little over a year. John
Posted by linda-may on April 19, 2004, at 14:41:01
In reply to Anyone had success on Effexor XR? , posted by jp on October 24, 1999, at 14:59:14
have been taking effexor for 1 1/2 years. started on 37.5.. gradually increased to 225. had palpitations and sleeplessness at first.then all good. then positives would start to "wane" and got increased prescriptions. i totally love the dreams. they're amazing. my friends think it's hilarious.. when i say.. "effexor RULES". i've not had any problems with drinking while i take it-lately lack of libido and some mood swings. checking with dr in 2 days.am fully aware to WEAN off, should i choose to stop.
Posted by Zarry on April 19, 2004, at 15:51:07
In reply to STOPPING Effexor made easy, posted by ku4ns on April 19, 2004, at 12:11:39
All of this is fine to counteract the affects of Effexor by adding another AD to it - but what some ppl have a prob with is wanting to not go on anything else - it's like wanting to quit ciggies when you smoke Camels and switch to Marlboros.
I've finished my 2nd week w/o Effexor and I still have my mood swings and "rain stick" in my head. Knowing that it will eventually end is the only thing getting me thru it all.
I'm NOT going to go on anymore ADs and finally, my BP has gone down - not completely to where it should be, but it's progress.
Posted by cobwebs on April 19, 2004, at 16:25:30
In reply to Re: STOPPING Effexor made easy, posted by Zarry on April 19, 2004, at 15:51:07
I gained weight while on Effexor and I am one week off of it. I called my doctor today because I am feeling "hung-over" and "cobwebby". She said this is normal and to hang in there because I have another couple of weeks of feeling this way. I am wondering if anyone has lost weight after they stopped taking Effexor.
Posted by Zarry on April 19, 2004, at 16:28:51
In reply to Re: STOPPING Effexor made easy, posted by cobwebs on April 19, 2004, at 16:25:30
I just finished week 2 and haven't lost weight yet, but then lots of things have happened during those 2 weeks - lost my job, visited my dysfunctional family, going thru the withdrawals, mood swings.
It depends on why you're getting off Effexor as to how to handle the withdrawals. Some ppl just go to another one. I personally am not going to take any other AD.
Posted by cobwebs on April 19, 2004, at 16:38:50
In reply to Re: STOPPING Effexor made easy, posted by Zarry on April 19, 2004, at 16:28:51
> I just finished week 2 and haven't lost weight yet, but then lots of things have happened during those 2 weeks - lost my job, visited my dysfunctional family, going thru the withdrawals, mood swings.
>
> It depends on why you're getting off Effexor as to how to handle the withdrawals. Some ppl just go to another one. I personally am not going to take any other AD.Ooh man...Great. I am getting off Effexor because I think it was just a bandaid for me. Now, I need to really dig deep into what is going on with me. I don't think medication is the answer for me anymore.
You stay strong!!!!
Posted by alanis on April 19, 2004, at 19:23:32
In reply to Re: STOPPING Effexor made easy, posted by Zarry on April 19, 2004, at 16:28:51
> I just finished week 2 and haven't lost weight yet, but then lots of things have happened during those 2 weeks - lost my job, visited my dysfunctional family, going thru the withdrawals, mood swings.
>
> It depends on why you're getting off Effexor as to how to handle the withdrawals. Some ppl just go to another one. I personally am not going to take any other AD.The first time that I got off effexor I did not shed the weight like I wanted to. I did lose some but only thru diet and excersise. Unfortunately mine did not drop off. I am still struggling with the weight issue since I was a size 0 and now I am a 7. I know that still sounds thin but not on a 5'2 person. I am really going to work out and eat right before I try to quit AD.
Posted by calico cat on April 19, 2004, at 19:55:55
In reply to Re: Efferox side effects(In reply to everyone!), posted by Mikeyqld on March 12, 2003, at 19:38:04
I feel much better after reading that I am not alone in effexor withdrawal hell. I am in the process of weaning off 75mg of Effexor (have been on for a year and a half) to go on Wellbutrin. I have been taking both for about a month. These past 5 days I went from 75mg effexor to 50 mg with terrible headaches and malaise. It is truly awful, but I want to feel good again; the effexor just was not working any more. I am going to the doctor on Weds. so if you have any ideas that worked for you, please let me know.
Thanks to all of you for your support.
Posted by Stryker88 on April 20, 2004, at 6:56:54
In reply to Re: Efferox side effects when weaning, posted by calico cat on April 19, 2004, at 19:55:55
recovery from Effexor sounds like it needs a 12 step program and total recovery. Being hooked and craving a drug that is supposed to be safe is tough
Posted by linda-may on April 20, 2004, at 7:27:16
In reply to Re: Efferox side effects when weaning, posted by Stryker88 on April 20, 2004, at 6:56:54
am wondering why people have such a hard time weaning off? it seems to me that in many cases, people try to stop "cold turkey" - and THEN go back on and start weaning..or just don't seem to have the "weaning" method down pat. i know a number of people who have taken effexor and weaned OFF effexor, with good success and minimal negative effects?? hmmm...
Posted by Zarry on April 20, 2004, at 8:21:41
In reply to Re: Efferox side effects when weaning, posted by linda-may on April 20, 2004, at 7:27:16
Most of the people here in the posts have stated they have been weaning, but don't state what happens after 37.5 mg. Maybe the people you know took other ADs along with weaning off w/o many side effects.
If I recall, I'm the only one that has gone cold turkey - from 75mg to 0.
Another possibility of your thoughts is that people have different intolerance levels - my definition of hell could be normal to someone else.
Posted by calico cat on April 20, 2004, at 11:29:33
In reply to Re: Efferox side effects when weaning, posted by Zarry on April 20, 2004, at 8:21:41
> Most of the people here in the posts have stated they have been weaning, but don't state what happens after 37.5 mg. Maybe the people you know took other ADs along with weaning off w/o many side effects.
>
> If I recall, I'm the only one that has gone cold turkey - from 75mg to 0.
>
> Another possibility of your thoughts is that people have different intolerance levels - my definition of hell could be normal to someone else.Response from Calico Cat: I did try going from 75 mg. effexor to 150mg. wellbutrin. Disaster - I felt like I would pass out and outcontrolled sobbing. That's why I am back to square one - 75 mg. effexor (now down to 50mg.) while on 150 mg. wellbutrin. I just have very bad headaches, and the malaise is better - this is day 4 on 50 mg. I just feel like I trusted my doctor when I went on the effexor - "this is what I give all my old lady patients, and they love it." Had I known that this was a life-time commitment, I might have asked for another drug. I never realized how hard the withdrawal was. I think it's great you went from 75mg. to 0. I just couldn't do it. I feel like it is a weakness I have for effexor or is it total dependence? I guess my mind is still in the process of recovering.
Posted by Zarry on April 20, 2004, at 11:45:33
In reply to Re: Efferox side effects when weaning, posted by calico cat on April 20, 2004, at 11:29:33
Calico Cat, I think ADs are being treated like Valium was in the 70s - give 'em something to shut them up and make 'em happy.
I'm not saying we don't have a chemical imbalance, but some could do with just a mild AD instead of something so strong.
With my elevated BP, I really didn't have a choice but go from 75 to 0 - thankfully after 2 wks, it's getting a bit more near the normal range.
Good luck with your battle.
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.