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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by sly on July 3, 2002, at 8:04:36
In reply to New to Effexor, posted by di_38 on July 2, 2002, at 21:09:03
I can relate to your symptoms, for me the nightsweats are still a problem, but the nausea went away after a few weeks. I was on Effexor XR 37.5 for 2 weeks, and now two months at 75. For a while I was feeling great, depression was lifting, anxiety under control, and sleeping through the night. Now, my insomnia's back, I'm losing more weight, 20 pounds in 3 months and dropping, and my suicidal thoughts are steadily increasing. I wonder if I'm getting used to the dosage and need it increased? I'll have to wait to go back to my Dr. I've missed so much work already, I can't afford to take anymore time off.
Posted by Cary 111 on July 3, 2002, at 8:28:52
In reply to Re: Effexor and chronic pain, posted by Starwatcher on July 2, 2002, at 19:12:19
Starwatcher:
Thanks for your message. What time of day do you take that 37.5mg? Was your tiredness greater when you first began taking the medication. Does it seem to be getting better as you adjust? I hope all continues to go well for you.
Best, Cary 111> > I have had chronic soft tissue pain in my feet for several years. I also have an arthritic hip joint. I was prescribed Effexor, starting at 37,5 and then up in a week to 75mg. Has anyone out there had an experience with effexor for the treatment of anxiety and depression, in connection with chronic pain?
> > As a side note: I met someone a few days ago who recommended I try a wheat, sugar, meat, and dairy free diet for my pain problems. Because I've tried almost everything, I figured I'd give it a shot. Wow!!! do I feel mentally clear and relaxed in comparison to just two days ago. However my pain is no better, although I do seem less overwhelmed because I feel so much better mentally. Now I'm wondering if I should even begin the Effexor.
> > Also, I have tried Serzone, and Nortriptyline, and began with Prozac (made me very anxious) a few years ago.
> > Anyone with suggestions, please respond!
> > Thank you in advance
>
> Hi, cary.
>
> I've been on 37.5 mg. of Effexor for fibromyalgia for about three weeks, and this dose seems to be working continuously! My doctor prescribed 75 mg., and I tried that on a weekend - but it was too much - I couldn't function and basically slept around the clock - so I decreased the dosage myself. I will stay at this dose as long as it works, and I'm experiencing minimal side effects - a little diziness now and then, and a kinda sleepy loaded feeling for awhile when I wake up in the morning.
Posted by jannbeau on July 3, 2002, at 10:18:22
In reply to Re: New to Effexor » Kai, posted by di_38 on July 3, 2002, at 3:22:14
>Hello, Di_38!
Please DON'T be ashamed of your feelings. PLEASE GET THEE TO AN EMERGENCY ROOM ASAP! Suicidal feelings 24/7 combined with the increased energy that some AD's give some Depressives can be a lethal combination. Don't wait to see a psychiatrist on the 8th! Go NOW, Please!
Best of Luck,
Jannbeau
Hi, Kal. I see I'm not the only insomniac. I hope you are right, and the Effexor will begin to help me soon. I follow my doctor's directions precisely. This is the first time in my life I've ever taken medication correctly, but I truly want to get better, and I'm doing everything I can do do that. I'm so concerned, though, that the suicidal thoughts are nearly 24/7 now. I see a psychiatrist on July 8th. Hopefully, I'll be ok until then. I'm afraid of myself, and I'm too ashamed to tell anyone how I really feel.
>
> I also have a very good online friend (Brian) who "listens" to me via e-mail.
>
> Thanks for your response, Kal.
Posted by Christina333 on July 3, 2002, at 19:26:34
In reply to New to Effexor, posted by di_38 on July 2, 2002, at 21:09:03
I've been taking Effexor xr for about a month now. I'm on 150 mgs. I go back to the doctor in 2 weeks. He wants to put me on 225mg. I was aslo told it would increase my energy. It didn't. I still can't sleep during the day. It seems to have lessened my mood swings, but not the depression. This is the first AD I have ever been on. I was having problems for years but never seeked help. I was diagnosed with cyclothymia, bipolar disorder III which is scary to me. The medicine isn't helping. All I can think is what the hell is wrong with me. I'm on depo which I'm going to stop since it contributes to depression. I just always feel so overwhelmed. I work from home sewing to stay with my daughter who is almost a year old. I have carpel tunnel so it is literally a pain. The only people who know I went to the doctor is my husband, sister and a friend. My husband thinks I should stop taking the medicine. We've been having problems, but it seems less severe since I have been on the meds. I know this is a long message but I don't ever really talk about it. My counselor sais I have a lot of reasons to be depressed. I feel guilty of it. How can I be sad when I am blessed with this beautiful baby??
Posted by Kai on July 3, 2002, at 22:30:58
In reply to Re: New to Effexor » di_38, posted by jannbeau on July 3, 2002, at 10:18:22
Di 38-I think that you should call your Dr. You need his help now- waiting 6 days is not a good thing for you in your condition. I know that for me, lack of sleep makes it worse.
Don't be ashamed to ask for help; what you have is a serious illness. Be kind and gentle to yourself (and your Dr. should be too).
I know that everyone is different, but I used ambien for the first month so that I could get some sleep (I was hallucinating from lack of sleep- depression does that to me). I take 300mg, it took until 225mg to feel O.K. (this was such a new feeling for me, I have been learning how to live "not depressed")
Call your Dr. - tell him that you need help now, suicidal thoughts ARE AN EMERGENCY.
I hope that you get results from your medication soon.
Posted by LynnPerley on July 3, 2002, at 22:45:32
In reply to Re: New to Effexor, posted by Christina333 on July 3, 2002, at 19:26:34
Christina, perhaps you have not been on the med long enough for it to help. I was on 150 mg for two months inbetween dr appointments, then I was switched to 225mg and it helped me a lot. 150 was helping the anxiety, but not the depression. Are you seeing a counselor in addition to taking the med? The med helps your brain but you may need someone to talk to, also. Good luck.
Posted by Christina333 on July 3, 2002, at 23:19:59
In reply to Re: New to Effexor » Christina333, posted by LynnPerley on July 3, 2002, at 22:45:32
Hi Lynn. The 150mg has taken care of most anxiety also. I haven't had any anxiety attacks. Like you said, the depression is still there. I do have to see a counselor in order to see the doctor. I go to a clinic that goes by your income. I'm sure it can't hurt. I read that sometimes depression symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, and mood swings can be linked to your thyroid. Have you heard of that?
Posted by LynnPerley on July 3, 2002, at 23:38:47
In reply to Re: New to Effexor, posted by Christina333 on July 3, 2002, at 23:19:59
> Hi Lynn. The 150mg has taken care of most anxiety also. I haven't had any anxiety attacks. Like you said, the depression is still there. I do have to see a counselor in order to see the doctor. I go to a clinic that goes by your income. I'm sure it can't hurt. I read that sometimes depression symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, and mood swings can be linked to your thyroid. Have you heard of that?
It's a good idea to have a complete physical including blood work if you have not had one in a while. There are discussions re thyroid on this board if you do a search.
Posted by Christina333 on July 4, 2002, at 0:26:59
In reply to Re: New to Effexor » Christina333, posted by LynnPerley on July 3, 2002, at 23:38:47
I don't have insurance right now but I think I'll get it checked out as soon as I do. My mother in law has thyroid problems and she barely sleeps. I don't know if she is depressed but she is always wired.
Posted by donna on July 4, 2002, at 6:11:39
In reply to Re: just started, posted by renelso1 on May 28, 2002, at 16:04:52
I started Effexor-rx about 3 weeks ago. I started with 37.5 mg and then went to about 100 mg. That was my undoing. Just yesterday (after about 3 weeks) I noticed red spots (looked like measles) on my lower right stomach and side and back. That prompted me to read the patient circular again. What a wealth of info, and after taking effexor for 3 weeks it really put things in perspective. Rash, yep I definitely had that. Mild headaches, for the past couple of days. Neck pain, that explains it. Increased appetite, two sandwiches instead of my usual one. And here's the odd one, chills. It's been in the 90's almost every day for the past 3 weeks and I would find myself looking for a blanket at night. And last but not least, no energy (not that I'm out there running marathons, but I was worse than usual).
My Dr. gave me samples, thankfully, and I won't be filling that prescription.
It's odd that the first day I increased the dosage, bam, rash.
Fortunately on the anxiety scale I'm fairly low compared to others,so I'm hoping that only 3 weeks of Effexor won't throw me into the withdrawal problems that some have had.
I'm glad I found this thread, it's definitely reassuring.
Posted by spencer on July 4, 2002, at 6:40:23
In reply to Re: just started and getting off fast, posted by donna on July 4, 2002, at 6:11:39
The side effects you are describing are not necessarily a reason to stop taking Effexor. I had what you described (except the rash) and a lot more...insomnia, blurred vision, difficulty urinating, but they all went away as I was told by my doctor. Effexor got me back on level ground and with the help of therapy and exercise I hope I won't have a repeat major depression.
I finally stopped taking Effexor today after slowly tapering for about 2 months. I'm contented and hopefully I can take on the future without major anxiety and depression. I couldn't have done it without Effexor.
So think carefully before you stop taking anti-depressants because of early side effects. The long term effects may be a lot worse.
Posted by johnlund on July 4, 2002, at 22:20:55
In reply to Effexor - Changed my life!, posted by Luann on June 19, 2002, at 17:00:48
> I have had tremendous results from Effexor (150mg). It has literally changed my life for the better! Although I suffer side effects of insomnia at night and fatigue during the day, it is a fair trade off for the quality of life which has improved drastically. I hope others feel the same!
It has changed my life too. It is the best AD that I have been on. I find the side effects of Effexor that people talk about interesting. They are either: (1) tired all the time, or (2) gives people more energy. This is a theory and probably wrong but could it be that if Effexor makes you tired it probably will not work on your kind of depression. But if it gives you kind of an energy boost, it will work on your kind of depression.
Posted by jannbeau on July 5, 2002, at 15:43:21
In reply to Re: New to Effexor, posted by Christina333 on July 3, 2002, at 23:19:59
> Christina, first, let me tell you that I am NOT a physician, so anything that I suggest is just a layman's thoughts. Anxiety, insomnia, and labile emotions (mood swings?) can certainly be linked to hyperthyroidism. However, in addition to the anxiety and depression, people with hyperthyroidism usually display many physical symptoms/signs, including, but not limited to, the following: fine tremor, especially in the hands; fatigue (often described as tired from the neck down) even after a night's sleep; insomnia; increased sweating; weight loss; warm, dry "velvety" soft skin; goiter (swelling of thyroid-in neck-not invariable); sometimes, but not always, a patient will have "bulging" eyes-the eyes become more prominent than usual and sometimes an observer can see "white of the eye" all around the iris, not just at the sides--, gritty eyes, painful eyes; red, injected conjunctiva. The hyperthyroidism with eye signs are due to a condition called Graves" Disease, but you do NOT have to have Graves Disease to be hyperthyroid. A family history of thyroid disorders (not only hyperthyroidism) may be present.
Have you discussed this possibility with your internist or family practice physician? You may wish to do so as hyperthyroidism cam be a serious medical problem.
Hi Lynn. The 150mg has taken care of most anxiety also. I haven't had any anxiety attacks. Like you said, the depression is still there. I do have to see a counselor in order to see the doctor. I go to a clinic that goes by your income. I'm sure it can't hurt. I read that sometimes depression symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, and mood swings can be linked to your thyroid. Have you heard of that?
Posted by cary 111 on July 5, 2002, at 16:43:47
In reply to Off for 2 days, posted by mommy on July 2, 2002, at 19:43:09
I just started taking Effexor 37.5mg 5 days ago. I seem to have quite a bit of nervousness on and off. Has anyone out there experienced this? Is it likely to pass? Also I am having difficulty concentrating.
I had been taking Serzone for about 8 months for anxiety and depression related to a chronic pain problem. It was much easier for me to tolerate, but I was feeling like I didn't care about anything, so I decided to try to come off the Serzone. I liked the feeling of my real self coming back, but unfortunately I felt my pain worsening, and my anxiety coming back in waves quite strongly, so I with my Doc decided to try Effexor. Unfortunately I'm really having trouble getting on this stuff.
Anyone had this kind of experience, and can offer some feedback?
Thanks for your help
Posted by LynnPerley on July 5, 2002, at 17:36:04
In reply to Just started effexor/anxiety, posted by cary 111 on July 5, 2002, at 16:43:47
You are on a very low dose. Give it a week or so and talk to your doc. You may need a higher dose.
Posted by flower on July 7, 2002, at 16:49:52
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by marlene on February 6, 2002, at 8:47:13
I am 24 and have beed perscribed Effexor for anxiety. I was givin Paxil first, took it twice and hated the way I felt, (vomiting, insomnia). I have guilty feelings about taking medicine because I feel that we have to work through our problems, and learn from them to become a stronger person. However, after a month of severe anxiety attacks, I asked to try medication. I am very nervous about taking meds, in fact for days after buying the drugs, I couldn't bring myself to take them, I would just look at the bottle and contimplate. I finally decided to give it a try. This is day two for me. I plan to take them temporarily, them stop(with doctors supervision). My fear is this: I don't want to become dependant on drugs to "fix-it". I don't want to feel drugged up, I just want the anxiety to stop. I fear withdraws. I don't want a false reality. Am I giving up on myself by taking the easy way out? Honestly, I'm sick of the entire issue, everyone seems to be messed up these days, and the solution is, "Here, take these drugs and come back in three weeks." Shouldn't we look inside ourselves and to God for strenth. I would love to have some words of advice.
Posted by spencer on July 8, 2002, at 1:40:52
In reply to nervous about drugs, posted by flower on July 7, 2002, at 16:49:52
Obviously I don't know what is actually causing your anxiety, but if it is a chemical imbalance in the brain then you will find it hard to find "normality" just by trying to think through it. I can understand what you are going through, but antidepressants can help you back to a state of "normality" so you can start dealing with the underlying issues.
From a state of almost suicidal depression and anxiety, Effexor helped me back to where I was able to make the most of cognitive therapy and to undertand the destructive powers of negative and irrational thinking. But you have to be prepared to deal with the side effects as your body adjusts (but they will largely go away) and then you may have a few withdrawal symptoms if you try to go off too quickly. I stopped taking Effexor last week after a year's treatment. I tapered off over about a 2 month period and apart from feeling dizzy for the first two days everything went very well. Strangely enough the feeling of dizziness went away during a strenuous session at gym and it hasn't come back.
You don't have to feel guilty about taking AD's. If you had a bad infection I'm sure you would take antibiotics and if you had a bad heart you would also take medication. Depression and anxiety can in large part be physiological conditions which prevent us from thinking rationally. AD's can put you back on track. In the long term if you have the energy to exercise regularly and fairly vigorously you may be able to naturally generate the chemicals that help keep your brain functioning correctly.
Posted by Starwatcher on July 8, 2002, at 16:38:30
In reply to Re: Effexor and chronic pain, posted by Cary 111 on July 3, 2002, at 8:28:52
Hi, Cary 111. I take my 37.5 mg. about an hour or so or right before I go to bed, along with two other prescribed meds - Etodolac ( an anti-inflammatory) and a Tagamet for my stomach (this can increase Effexor's effects, and cause it to be eliminated from the system more slowly, so maybe that's why I can get by on the smallest dose). Since my condition that it is prescribed for is NOT depression, but chronic fibromyalgia pain - I felt and feel totally safe reducing the dosage down from 75 mg. to 37.5 mg. If a lesser dose will relieve the pain, and I have less side effects, why not? I am still finding that I'm sometimes still a little tired, loaded and fuzzy headed feeling for about an hour in the morning after I wake up, but it goes away - and I've been on it now for almost a month, with no missed doses. The pain stays gone until the evening.
Starwatcher:
> Thanks for your message. What time of day do you take that 37.5mg? Was your tiredness greater when you first began taking the medication. Does it seem to be getting better as you adjust? I hope all continues to go well for you.
> Best, Cary 111
>
> > > I have had chronic soft tissue pain in my feet for several years. I also have an arthritic hip joint. I was prescribed Effexor, starting at 37,5 and then up in a week to 75mg. Has anyone out there had an experience with effexor for the treatment of anxiety and depression, in connection with chronic pain?
> > > As a side note: I met someone a few days ago who recommended I try a wheat, sugar, meat, and dairy free diet for my pain problems. Because I've tried almost everything, I figured I'd give it a shot. Wow!!! do I feel mentally clear and relaxed in comparison to just two days ago. However my pain is no better, although I do seem less overwhelmed because I feel so much better mentally. Now I'm wondering if I should even begin the Effexor.
> > > Also, I have tried Serzone, and Nortriptyline, and began with Prozac (made me very anxious) a few years ago.
> > > Anyone with suggestions, please respond!
> > > Thank you in advance
> >
> > Hi, cary.
> >
> > I've been on 37.5 mg. of Effexor for fibromyalgia for about three weeks, and this dose seems to be working continuously! My doctor prescribed 75 mg., and I tried that on a weekend - but it was too much - I couldn't function and basically slept around the clock - so I decreased the dosage myself. I will stay at this dose as long as it works, and I'm experiencing minimal side effects - a little diziness now and then, and a kinda sleepy loaded feeling for awhile when I wake up in the morning.
Posted by jannbeau on July 8, 2002, at 17:00:17
In reply to Re: Effexor and chronic pain, posted by Starwatcher on July 8, 2002, at 16:38:30
> Starwatcher, I have had the very same experience. I take 37.5 mg at night, no antiinflammatory (I am allergic to aspirin-asthma-and other NSAIDs; no tagamet because no NSAIDs). The medication works very well-in conjunction with very low doses of opiod analgesics-to control my pain (arthritis and fibromyalgia). Similar side effects: fatigue; somnolence for part of the day.
Cheers,
jannbeauHi, Cary 111. I take my 37.5 mg. about an hour or so or right before I go to bed, along with two other prescribed meds - Etodolac ( an anti-inflammatory) and a Tagamet for my stomach (this can increase Effexor's effects, and cause it to be eliminated from the system more slowly, so maybe that's why I can get by on the smallest dose). Since my condition that it is prescribed for is NOT depression, but chronic fibromyalgia pain - I felt and feel totally safe reducing the dosage down from 75 mg. to 37.5 mg. If a lesser dose will relieve the pain, and I have less side effects, why not? I am still finding that I'm sometimes still a little tired, loaded and fuzzy headed feeling for about an hour in the morning after I wake up, but it goes away - and I've been on it now for almost a month, with no missed doses. The pain stays gone until the evening.
>
> Starwatcher:
> > Thanks for your message. What time of day do you take that 37.5mg? Was your tiredness greater when you first began taking the medication. Does it seem to be getting better as you adjust? I hope all continues to go well for you.
> > Best, Cary 111
> >
> > > > I have had chronic soft tissue pain in my feet for several years. I also have an arthritic hip joint. I was prescribed Effexor, starting at 37,5 and then up in a week to 75mg. Has anyone out there had an experience with effexor for the treatment of anxiety and depression, in connection with chronic pain?
> > > > As a side note: I met someone a few days ago who recommended I try a wheat, sugar, meat, and dairy free diet for my pain problems. Because I've tried almost everything, I figured I'd give it a shot. Wow!!! do I feel mentally clear and relaxed in comparison to just two days ago. However my pain is no better, although I do seem less overwhelmed because I feel so much better mentally. Now I'm wondering if I should even begin the Effexor.
> > > > Also, I have tried Serzone, and Nortriptyline, and began with Prozac (made me very anxious) a few years ago.
> > > > Anyone with suggestions, please respond!
> > > > Thank you in advance
> > >
> > > Hi, cary.
> > >
> > > I've been on 37.5 mg. of Effexor for fibromyalgia for about three weeks, and this dose seems to be working continuously! My doctor prescribed 75 mg., and I tried that on a weekend - but it was too much - I couldn't function and basically slept around the clock - so I decreased the dosage myself. I will stay at this dose as long as it works, and I'm experiencing minimal side effects - a little diziness now and then, and a kinda sleepy loaded feeling for awhile when I wake up in the morning.
Posted by oracle on July 8, 2002, at 17:27:22
In reply to nervous about drugs, posted by flower on July 7, 2002, at 16:49:52
Food for thought:
Would you have a different view if you had Diabetes and took insulin ?
Posted by flower on July 8, 2002, at 17:53:10
In reply to Re: nervous about drugs, posted by oracle on July 8, 2002, at 17:27:22
I am still having second thoughts about the medication. I have been experiencing stiffness in my jaw and a difficulty speaking clearly. Is this a normal side effect? Will it go away? Today I feel weak. Yes, I would feel differently about taking medication for a physical problem, beccause the mind is so delicate...
Posted by Starwatcher on July 8, 2002, at 19:14:44
In reply to Re: Effexor and chronic pain » Starwatcher, posted by jannbeau on July 8, 2002, at 17:00:17
Hi, jann. Thanks for your reply. I've really watched what I take in conjunction with Effexor, since it seems to be such a high powered med. I have taken 1 ea. #3 codeine before for relief, but I've never done so at the same time. I've only done it once or twice during the day when the Effexor wore off and it wasn't time to take that again yet, but I made sure and waited at least six hours before taking the Effexor. What very low dose opioids do you take at the same time?
> > Starwatcher, I have had the very same experience. I take 37.5 mg at night, no antiinflammatory (I am allergic to aspirin-asthma-and other NSAIDs; no tagamet because no NSAIDs). The medication works very well-in conjunction with very low doses of opiod analgesics-to control my pain (arthritis and fibromyalgia). Similar side effects: fatigue; somnolence for part of the day.
>
> Cheers,
> jannbeau
>
> Hi, Cary 111. I take my 37.5 mg. about an hour or so or right before I go to bed, along with two other prescribed meds - Etodolac ( an anti-inflammatory) and a Tagamet for my stomach (this can increase Effexor's effects, and cause it to be eliminated from the system more slowly, so maybe that's why I can get by on the smallest dose). Since my condition that it is prescribed for is NOT depression, but chronic fibromyalgia pain - I felt and feel totally safe reducing the dosage down from 75 mg. to 37.5 mg. If a lesser dose will relieve the pain, and I have less side effects, why not? I am still finding that I'm sometimes still a little tired, loaded and fuzzy headed feeling for about an hour in the morning after I wake up, but it goes away - and I've been on it now for almost a month, with no missed doses. The pain stays gone until the evening.
> >
> > Starwatcher:
> > > Thanks for your message. What time of day do you take that 37.5mg? Was your tiredness greater when you first began taking the medication. Does it seem to be getting better as you adjust? I hope all continues to go well for you.
> > > Best, Cary 111
> > >
> > > > > I have had chronic soft tissue pain in my feet for several years. I also have an arthritic hip joint. I was prescribed Effexor, starting at 37,5 and then up in a week to 75mg. Has anyone out there had an experience with effexor for the treatment of anxiety and depression, in connection with chronic pain?
> > > > > As a side note: I met someone a few days ago who recommended I try a wheat, sugar, meat, and dairy free diet for my pain problems. Because I've tried almost everything, I figured I'd give it a shot. Wow!!! do I feel mentally clear and relaxed in comparison to just two days ago. However my pain is no better, although I do seem less overwhelmed because I feel so much better mentally. Now I'm wondering if I should even begin the Effexor.
> > > > > Also, I have tried Serzone, and Nortriptyline, and began with Prozac (made me very anxious) a few years ago.
> > > > > Anyone with suggestions, please respond!
> > > > > Thank you in advance
> > > >
> > > > Hi, cary.
> > > >
> > > > I've been on 37.5 mg. of Effexor for fibromyalgia for about three weeks, and this dose seems to be working continuously! My doctor prescribed 75 mg., and I tried that on a weekend - but it was too much - I couldn't function and basically slept around the clock - so I decreased the dosage myself. I will stay at this dose as long as it works, and I'm experiencing minimal side effects - a little diziness now and then, and a kinda sleepy loaded feeling for awhile when I wake up in the morning.
Posted by LynnPerley on July 8, 2002, at 21:34:19
In reply to Re: nervous about drugs, posted by flower on July 8, 2002, at 17:53:10
Jaw tension (bruxism) is a side effect of many AD meds. I found it to be less so on Effexor compared to generic Prozac, and it did go away to the point it does not happen every day and it is not painful. Do I notice it, sure, sometimes.
If you review the positive experiences with Effexor posted in this forum - and I admit they are in the minority, because I think people who have good experiences often do not choose to seek out forums like this - Effexor's side effects seem to wax and wane over several weeks, perhaps more so than other meds because its half life is very short (it gets out of your system in a matter of hours rather than days). For some individuals, side effects decrease after an increased dosage. For others, they increase.
I can understand your concern about taking meds that affect the brain. I share your concern. It kept me from seeking help for a long time. I was never suicidal or anything, but I had no idea how much depression and anxiety was affecting my quality of life until I had been taking this medication for three months.
Posted by jannbeau on July 9, 2002, at 10:34:56
In reply to Re: Effexor and chronic pain, posted by Starwatcher on July 8, 2002, at 19:14:44
>Star: I take 2 tablets of propoxyphene with acetaminophen at night with the 37.5 mg of Effexor. During the day, I take 1 to 2 5 mg tablets of hydrocodone, as necessary, for pain. There appears to be very little, if any, interaction between the propoxyphene and the Effexor or between Effexor and hydrocodone. This is NOT the case with ULTRAM, however. My pain specialist put me on Ultram, Topamax and Effexor all at the same time. The Ultram, which appears to have significant effects on serotonin receptors or NE or DA receptors, in conjunction with the Effexor caused me much grief. I stay completely away from Ultram as a result.
Hope this information is helpful.
Jannbeau
Hi, jann. Thanks for your reply. I've really watched what I take in conjunction with Effexor, since it seems to be such a high powered med. I have taken 1 ea. #3 codeine before for relief, but I've never done so at the same time. I've only done it once or twice during the day when the Effexor wore off and it wasn't time to take that again yet, but I made sure and waited at least six hours before taking the Effexor. What very low dose opioids do you take at the same time?
>
> > > Starwatcher, I have had the very same experience. I take 37.5 mg at night, no antiinflammatory (I am allergic to aspirin-asthma-and other NSAIDs; no tagamet because no NSAIDs). The medication works very well-in conjunction with very low doses of opiod analgesics-to control my pain (arthritis and fibromyalgia). Similar side effects: fatigue; somnolence for part of the day.
> >
> > Cheers,
> > jannbeau
> >
> > Hi, Cary 111. I take my 37.5 mg. about an hour or so or right before I go to bed, along with two other prescribed meds - Etodolac ( an anti-inflammatory) and a Tagamet for my stomach (this can increase Effexor's effects, and cause it to be eliminated from the system more slowly, so maybe that's why I can get by on the smallest dose). Since my condition that it is prescribed for is NOT depression, but chronic fibromyalgia pain - I felt and feel totally safe reducing the dosage down from 75 mg. to 37.5 mg. If a lesser dose will relieve the pain, and I have less side effects, why not? I am still finding that I'm sometimes still a little tired, loaded and fuzzy headed feeling for about an hour in the morning after I wake up, but it goes away - and I've been on it now for almost a month, with no missed doses. The pain stays gone until the evening.
> > >
> > > Starwatcher:
> > > > Thanks for your message. What time of day do you take that 37.5mg? Was your tiredness greater when you first began taking the medication. Does it seem to be getting better as you adjust? I hope all continues to go well for you.
> > > > Best, Cary 111
> > > >
> > > > > > I have had chronic soft tissue pain in my feet for several years. I also have an arthritic hip joint. I was prescribed Effexor, starting at 37,5 and then up in a week to 75mg. Has anyone out there had an experience with effexor for the treatment of anxiety and depression, in connection with chronic pain?
> > > > > > As a side note: I met someone a few days ago who recommended I try a wheat, sugar, meat, and dairy free diet for my pain problems. Because I've tried almost everything, I figured I'd give it a shot. Wow!!! do I feel mentally clear and relaxed in comparison to just two days ago. However my pain is no better, although I do seem less overwhelmed because I feel so much better mentally. Now I'm wondering if I should even begin the Effexor.
> > > > > > Also, I have tried Serzone, and Nortriptyline, and began with Prozac (made me very anxious) a few years ago.
> > > > > > Anyone with suggestions, please respond!
> > > > > > Thank you in advance
> > > > >
> > > > > Hi, cary.
> > > > >
> > > > > I've been on 37.5 mg. of Effexor for fibromyalgia for about three weeks, and this dose seems to be working continuously! My doctor prescribed 75 mg., and I tried that on a weekend - but it was too much - I couldn't function and basically slept around the clock - so I decreased the dosage myself. I will stay at this dose as long as it works, and I'm experiencing minimal side effects - a little diziness now and then, and a kinda sleepy loaded feeling for awhile when I wake up in the morning.
Posted by Gabbi on July 9, 2002, at 22:02:05
In reply to Re: Effexor XR vs. Paxil and weight gain , posted by newgirl on April 18, 2000, at 10:46:14
> > Just got sample of Effexor XR.
> I've been on Paxil 20mg. for 1 yr.
> I feel great and my panic attacks are gone.
> BUT --- I keep gaining weight. I told my dr.
> to give me something else.
> Did anyone gain weight on this stuff?
> Does anyone use this for panic attacks.
> My dr. told me I could go right from Paxil
> to Effexor XR, stopping one and starting the
> other with no withdrawl symptoms. ANyone try it. Thanks for any input.
> > >
>
> I was on Paxil for one year also, and it worked
> GREAT for me for the severe PMS mood swings and
> depression I was experiencing. At first I had
> no weight gain, then after about 6 months, I
> suddenly gained 35 pounds in 4 months! The web
> info sites on depression and meds say that the
> SSRI's (Paxil, Prozac, Zoloft) are more apt to
> cause weight loss than weight gain, but I know
> a LOT of people who take them or have taken
> them, and they had the same thing I experienced --
> about 6 months with no problem, then BAM -- a
> big weight gain in 4-6 months without changing
> their eating habits or decreasing their activity
> levels.
>
> I switched to Wellbutrin SR a few weeks ago.
> We'll see how it goes.I originally was on 80mgs of Prozac, and had also tried Paxil, and I did gain weight on both of them, these were prescribed by my family Dr.
They did help with the depression but my anxiety level skyrocketed.
I was admitted to hospital (I am getting to the point here) and luckily was treated by a brilliant Psychopharmacologist, it was a fluke, he was "on tour" but it made me realize just how much of a difference a specialist can make. Anyways the point... He reduced my Prozac to 20mgs and supplemented it with a t4 thyroid hormone. I don't have low thyroid but what it does is increase the antidepressent affects of the SSRI without the side effects of a larger dose, and additionally I ended up losing weight! Surprisingly it did not increase my anxiety. Apparently this works with most SSRI drugs obviously everyones chemistry is different but If you can find a knowledgeble Doctor willing to try it I would definately suggest it.
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