Posted by KaraS on December 24, 2004, at 15:16:17
In reply to Re: my Effexor experience, posted by dancingstar on December 24, 2004, at 14:42:11
> Hi Kara,
>
> Actually, I wish that we had a more diverse population from which to draw our conclusions. I think that what happens is that when we are having a dramatic reaction to withdrawal with or without a tapered withdrawal and with or without the addition of Prozac as is indicated in one of the links that I posted (but was previously posted by someone before me - to whom I am very grateful) we do an internet search and end up here.
>
> Admittedly, this is not an unbiased group, yet the fact so many people are predisposed to experiencing a negative reaction leads me to believe that the reported rate of 2 percent is underestimated by Wyeth and the fact that Effexor is prescribed by so many general as opposed to P doctors should perhaps be something that needs to be seriously reviewed. As it stands, there is no cure for those of us with serious reactions to Effexor. That alone is to me unacceptable, and there is no way to tell whether or not any of us will be one of those people as far as I can tell.
>
> As far as modifying the level of depression that you have, I am not in the least being condescending when I ask whether you have added exercise into your daily regimen, only because it has in many cases proven to be as effective as drugs.
>
> In any event, thanks for your perspective, and I hope you are feeling better soon.
>
> BebeBebe,
That's all true and, again, I am not downplaying the negative experiences that others have had. I agree that there is no way to tell who will have a really bad experience on it. OTOH, can't the same be said about all other psychotropic medications? They're all somewhat risky. I think that with all of them we have to do a personal cost/benefit analysis. Perhaps Effexor is more risky than many others. I don't know. If I were one of the people who had a horrible reaction, then I'm sure I'd feel the same way you do about it.
I have tried exercise and natural supplements. Exercise has helped me some in the past but it did not take care of the whole problem - not by a longshot. I think it should be a part of everyone's daily routine for many health reasons but it's not enough of an antidepressant for me to allow me to function well in the world.
I prefer and continue to try natural supplements. I'm a regular on the Alternative Board. I'm definitely not biased against nonmedication methods. (I'm currently using niacinamide (Vit. B3) for anxiety control. It works like a natural benzo.) But, I'm also serously depressed and feel that I need more at this time. If that means medication, then I'll take it and assume some risk.
Take care,
Kara
poster:KaraS
thread:13781
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20041223/msgs/433816.html