Posted by Cam W. on April 20, 2001, at 23:55:28
In reply to how long for effexor relief, posted by wtm on April 20, 2001, at 21:48:49
wtm - Effexor can take up to 8 weeks to notice an improvement and up to another four to six weeks for full effect after a dose increase, especially in panic disorder, with depression. Hang in there, I am on day 22 at 187.5mg and have not had significant relief (although I am beginning to function again - eg shaving and showering daily, getting dressed in the morning, etc).
I too, have never been this low, but with help (our doc following us and some sort of psychotherapy) we can beat this monster into submission (ie. remission). Myself, I no longer look for a cure for my depression, as I now realize that in most, if not all repeat cases, depression is a chronic disorder. What I can look forward to is trying to work on making my remissions longer and my relapses shorter.
Effexor, or any serotonergic antidepressant (eg SSRI) can and probably will cause you to have more panic attacks when you first start taking it. This is due to the body's serotonin and other neurotransmitter levels, and possibly serotonin receptor levels, adjusting to the drug. Usually after 3 to 5 weeks the panic attacks abate sharply and you will begin to notice an improvement in mood, as well.
Hang in there and don't give up on the drug too soon. Your partner in limbo - Cam
poster:Cam W.
thread:60638
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010417/msgs/60647.html