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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by Happy3 on January 30, 2005, at 16:56:41
In reply to Re: my Effexor experience, posted by dancingstar on December 24, 2004, at 15:36:27
I've been sitting here for a few hours reading these posts and now I am scared of taking the effexor. I've been on it now for almost three months and before this I tried lexapro,paxal,zoloft and whelbutrin all of which either didn't work or had side effects that were too great. Effexor has made me feel so much better. My anxiety is lower and my depression has lifted. One side effect that I am experiencing is being easily bruised but not the high blood presure and other problems from the other drugs. I am afraid that if I continue this drug I may never get off and that's not what I want either. This is so confusing!
Now Unhappy3
Posted by not2late4u on January 30, 2005, at 17:35:56
In reply to Re: my Effexor experience, posted by Happy3 on January 30, 2005, at 16:56:41
happy3, please go to my thread regarding withdraw, when.if you are ready to come off the med, it doesnt have to be hell. I can't say much for the long term affects, I was on it for about 2-2 1/2 years. My biggest side effects, which was the same as paxil, was no motivation, slept all the time and no sex drive. My thread about withdraw starts at" renee tapering off effexor". There is hope and everyone is different. Renee
Posted by not2late4u on January 30, 2005, at 19:15:29
In reply to RE: NEW THREAD - POSITIVE EFFEXOR EXPERIENCE, posted by good2go on January 29, 2005, at 9:21:53
ggod2go, thanks for sharing your story. let us know if you will, how it continues to work for you. Renee
Posted by Steven1975 on January 30, 2005, at 20:26:41
In reply to RE: NEW THREAD - POSITIVE EFFEXOR EXPERIENCE » good2go, posted by not2late4u on January 30, 2005, at 19:15:29
Hi,
Regarding Effexor withdrawal- I was on the drug for 5 months and it didn't help me. However, when I came off it (went from 150mg down to zero over about 7 days) it actually had a beneficial effect. Depression and anxiety gone- I felt like my old self for a good couple of weeks before I went downhill again. Unusual- Seems like withdrawal actually helped me instead of causing me problems. Has this ever happened to anyone else?
Posted by S. Bartel on January 30, 2005, at 22:36:50
In reply to RE: I'm really sorry Sammi~ » S. Bartel, posted by FaithT on January 29, 2005, at 10:30:54
Faith,
I also had my liver function tests regulary and then all of a sudden after being on the drug for 6 years they came back high. I believe it's from the "long term" effects of effexor. It's like an alcholic that quits dringing and their liver may still seem fine at the time, but the damage shows up later even though they never drink again. I just don't believe it's worth the risk for anyone to take this drug no matter how much they think it's helping them, when down the road their health and life can be at stake. I would not have felt this way for the first five years of taking it because I thought it was really helping me too. Little did I know how effexor blurred my thinking about everything. For the first year or two I was happy and smiling all the time because the drug made me not care or worry about anything. After that all I wanted to do was sleep. I could'nt stay awake, could'nt get up in the morning and when I did I would have to go back to bed after being up only a couple of hours. I did'nt know the medicine was causing all the physical problems I was having. Wyeth did'nt warn me. The doctors did'nt know, no one told them. Their new warnings did'nt come out until I was on it for 6 years and they still deny a lot of the side effects that it causes. It's no coincidense that so many people on effexor have the same symptoms. It's a dangerous drug and I only asked to hear from people with negative side effects.
Sammi
Posted by not2late4u on January 31, 2005, at 0:43:22
In reply to RE: NEW THREAD - NEGATIVE EFFEXOR EXPERIENCE! » not2late4u, posted by S. Bartel on January 29, 2005, at 9:39:43
Sammi, I think I meant to reply that to another poster, winddancer. Sorry about that. But thats good to know that there werent any other possible drug related reasons for your liver problems. I've heard the liver is one organ that can rejuvenate itself or heal itself in alot of cases, will this be possible for your case? Or is the damage permanent and getting worse as time goes on? Just curious, if you dont mind sharing. As I have posted previously, I am now off effexor for 6 days. I just had my blood work up done a few days ago, wonder if my liver count will be included in that. But anyways, glad your energy is back and I dont advocate the use of or discourage the use of Effexor, personally. I try empathsize with those who are doing well and with those who havent or aren't. My biggest action on the board has been to help those who want to or are ready to withdraw. But also to encourage those who are doing well and choose to stay on it but to keep themselves educated with both pros and cons. Is it common for most drugs to potentially cause problems with the liver and who do you blame most, the prescribing doctors or the maker of the drug? I found a book that had effexor listed in it in 1995, I've got to get to my moms to get the name of it and see if it listed anything about possible liver damage. Curious. Renee
Posted by not2late4u on January 31, 2005, at 0:49:44
In reply to RE: NEW THREAD - POSITIVE EFFEXOR EXPERIENCE, posted by Steven1975 on January 30, 2005, at 20:26:41
steven 1975, hmmmm. my first thought was you didnt need the drug, thats why you felt better off it than on it. I havent personally read this happening to anyone. I hope someone else will be able to answer your question, maybe sbartel who posts on NEW THREAD- NEGATIVE Effexor experience. Maybe get your liver checked?? I dont know, sorry! Renee
Posted by FaithT on January 31, 2005, at 3:17:17
In reply to RE:** NEGATIVE EFFEXOR EXPERIENCE** » FaithT, posted by S. Bartel on January 30, 2005, at 22:36:50
Sorry Sammi~
I didn't realize that you had been tested all along. I didn't mean to jump in on your post...Just wanted to say that I hope in time you get better.
Faith~
Posted by FaithT on January 31, 2005, at 3:23:55
In reply to Re: my Effexor experience, posted by Happy3 on January 30, 2005, at 16:56:41
Hi...Not all Exxexor experiences are bad ones,and the withdrawl doesn't have to be horrible,as Renee said. She's doing a great ob keeping a journal of her withdrawl.
If you want to, you can read my post "A Positive Effexor XR Experience", from a week or so ago. Hopefully, if will make you feel a little bit better. :-)
Hugs, Faith~
Posted by S. Bartel on January 31, 2005, at 10:46:50
In reply to RE: NEW THREAD - NEGATIVE EFFEXOR EXPERIENCE! » S. Bartel, posted by not2late4u on January 31, 2005, at 0:43:22
No, I'm sorry to say it will not reverse itself. It is permanent and will continue to get worse. It is liver disease and incurable. The only cure is a transplant. I have found others on other boards that have the same problem from effexor.
I thank you for your concern.
Bless you,
Sammi
Posted by S. Bartel on January 31, 2005, at 11:42:19
In reply to RE:** NEGATIVE EFFEXOR EXPERIENCE** » S. Bartel, posted by FaithT on January 31, 2005, at 3:17:17
"RE:Effexor Withdrawl-going through it."
Posted by not2late4u on February 1, 2005, at 0:48:43
In reply to RE: NEW THREAD - NEGATIVE EFFEXOR EXPERIENCE! » not2late4u, posted by S. Bartel on January 31, 2005, at 10:46:50
sammi, I am sorry to hear that. If you dont mind I will say a prayer for your healing and comfort. , oops, really hope you didnt mind because I just did. God bless you, Renee
Posted by S. Bartel on February 1, 2005, at 12:21:56
In reply to RE: NEW THREAD - NEGATIVE EFFEXOR EXPERIENCE! » S. Bartel, posted by not2late4u on February 1, 2005, at 0:48:43
Thank you Renee
Posted by Troubled1 on February 2, 2005, at 0:51:14
In reply to Anyone had success on Effexor XR? , posted by jp on October 24, 1999, at 14:59:14
Hi everyone. I just joined after stumbling on the site while seeking info on Effexor side effects. I have been on 225mg of Effexor (not XR)for almost 2 years now. I specifically requested it as I had heard good things about it and had taken Zoloft, Prozac, Welbutrin in past with only minimal success. At first, I was excited as my mood began to lift but wasn't sure if it was the meds or the fact I was off work, hence, away from major stressor in my life. I continued on it but about 1.5 years into it, I began to notice chronic fatique symptoms, increase in leg spasms, daily severe headaches (I have a history of migraines but not this frequently), brain fog, memory impairment, dizziness, vertigo, nausea, etc. I had the dry mouth, sweating, bizarre dreams and sleep talking from the beginning. I even had difficulty distinguishing between what had really happened and what had only happened in my dreams. My fatigue has continued to worsen over past few months. I sleep 10-12 hrs per night, awaken in a drugged-like condition, drag my butt around just to do the bare minimum like personal hygiene and a bit of housework, then feel exhausted, eyes get very heavy, and I must go rest in bed for several hours before I can think about doing something else. I have now decided to wean myself off of the Effexor in the hopes of feeling like myself again. It is important to note that, despite a diagnosis of major depression with anxiety, I did not feel this way prior to the Effexor or on any other anti-depressant in past. It is a Godsend to find that others are experiencing similar things. Will keep you posted during my weaning off Effexor and what happens thereafter. Hang in there everyone. I look forward to reading your postings.
Posted by not2late4u on February 2, 2005, at 1:17:35
In reply to Re: Negative Effexor Experience, posted by Troubled1 on February 2, 2005, at 0:51:14
I can relate to some of those symptoms myself. If you need help tapering off, today is I think day 8 that I have been without after tapering for about 35 days. Renee
Posted by jaimek on February 2, 2005, at 3:32:01
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR? » not2late4u, posted by jen2 on January 30, 2005, at 14:33:27
Hi guys, I have been on effexor for about 8 years. No I'm not kidding, I've been on it since it first came out and have had success with it. I take about 75-100 mg a day
Prior to taking it I used to "hyper focus" on things to a some what extreme point, and suffer from anxienty and depression. I went to one of the leading psychiatrists at the time and it definately made a difference for me. I could shift thoughts more normally.
However, I have night sweats, sometimes I end up soaked and have crazy life like dreams especially if it's low in my blood stream.
I would appreciate any comments or questions. I've been on it longer than I think anyone I know.
jaime
Posted by CK1 on February 2, 2005, at 7:32:09
In reply to Re: Negative Effexor Experience » Troubled1, posted by not2late4u on February 2, 2005, at 1:17:35
Hi,
I was put on Effexor 37.5mg 13 days ago. It had made me EXTREMELY anxious and agitated and I need to get off. Has anyone experienced horrible withdrawels from getting off only 37.5mg while taking it for less than one month?
Posted by FaithT on February 2, 2005, at 8:52:28
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by jaimek on February 2, 2005, at 3:32:01
Hi Jaime~
I'm happy with Effexor as well. I will have been on it for 3 years, this coming summer, minus a period that I had successfully withdrawn, of about 4 months or so. I made the decision to go back on it, due to a recurrence of depression. Effexor just works very well for me.
I do sometimes have those dreams that you referred to. I take 187.5,and I have found that if I take it a little later in the morning, like around 10am, it stops the dreams. I think it's exactly what you said..If it gets too low in your bloodstream over night...the funky dreams happen.
Thanks for your post...It's encouraging to hear from someone who's been on Effexor, successfully for 8 years!
Best wishes,
Faith~
Posted by ladyseraphim on February 2, 2005, at 12:22:59
In reply to RE: NEW THREAD - NEGATIVE EFFEXOR EXPERIENCE! » S. Bartel, posted by not2late4u on January 31, 2005, at 0:43:22
Hi there,
I have been on effexor previously and had great success with it. I was being treated for generalized anxiety disorder/depression and took it for about a year, weaned my self off over 2 weeks and for a full year did not experience any re-lapse of the anxiety. I did start to see symptoms again last year, but I was taking Wellbutrin (which apparently should not be given to people with anxiey!!!) for concentration, and I believe that that really messed up my chemistry - along with some other outside stressors. Because my anxiety seems to be triggered by certain events, I've discovered that once that anxiety begins again - it starts a vicious downward spiral of self doubt, depression, and fear.
So I got back on Effexor a week ago and am begining to feel better. I do have trouble sleeping past 5:30 am, so I take it with my lunch. I have no idea what the long term effects may be - but short term it has been a life (and marriage) saver. It is important to note that I am also taking Strattera for ADD (which has worked miracles!) - the two have not interacted other than to slightly raise my otherwise low blood pressure.
I live a healthy lifestyle, eat well, and practice Yoga regularly. I also have been through nearly a year of counseling to help deal with the triggers of my anxiety. As each issue is understood, my life and mental health are improved, and the Effexor has been the single biggest help in stopping the downward spiral of awful thoughts and fearful doubt that cloud my mind when I become anxious. I am able to make clear decisions and avoid irrational thoughts that have no physical basis. Mood swings - if any - are few and far between, and my energy level is increased. The sexual side effects are minimal, seemingly increasing sensitivity to each touch - as opposed to the 'big bang' at the end. My husband has been very understanding about this, and would rather have a happy wife than an orgasmic one. LOL
So all in all, I am happy with this drug, and plan to take for the remainder of this year and wean off it again to see if I can sustain normal thoughts without it. I would encourage anyone who experiences moderate to severe anxiety to ask their doctor about this drug, and give it a good three weeks to take effect. I, personally, have much to thank it for.
-lady S
Posted by Racing Heart on February 2, 2005, at 12:23:42
In reply to Re: Negative Effexor Experience » Troubled1, posted by not2late4u on February 2, 2005, at 1:17:35
help me with Effeor XR
Sleep disorder, sexual problems from a once normal sex life, dreams dreams dreams and I have gained 15 pounds in 2 1/2 months- I eat everything. I tkae 37.5 mg HELP ME TO STOP THIS MEDICINE OR DRUG. IT WAS PRESCRIBED FOR PMS
Posted by GP3205 on February 2, 2005, at 13:10:11
In reply to RE: NEW THREAD - POSITIVE EFFEXOR EXPERIENCE, posted by good2go on January 29, 2005, at 9:21:53
I just started on Effexor XR 37.5mg one month ago and I feel great! Initially my psychiatrist had prescribed 75 mg, which made me feel super drowsey and unproductive. So then I was switched to Zoloft that did nothing for me in regards to my panic attacks and anxiety. About a month ago I requested to get back on Effoxor because I DID feel calm on the 75 mg but it was just too strong so that is why I’m on 37.5 now. Anyway the point is doctors don’t know everything and sometimes we are the best judge of what works for us. Now I feel more focused and I'm not having anxiety and or panic attacks. I still feel somewhat depressed but I feel great because I can focus now without the threat of panic or anxiety. Along with therapy I’m trying to cope with getting my life back on track without the threat of freaking out. I’m only supposed to be on Effexor for one year no more. I don’t believe that pills are the answer to my problems, but my panic attacks were getting more frequent and more severe. I don’t get headaches or random pains anymore. I am having fun being sober at parties and clubs with friends and family. I was starting to drink to “relax” and I was building a high tolerance for alcohol. I am happy and glad that Effexor is helping me but at the same time I can’t wait to get off the medication so that I can live my life without depending on pills—Especially as we all don’t really know the long term affects from taking this medication other than like all pills and alcohol they will take a toll on either our liver or kidneys as they need to filter through somehow in our system,,,
Thanks
Posted by Troubled1 on February 2, 2005, at 17:41:20
In reply to Re: Negative Effexor Experience » Troubled1, posted by not2late4u on February 2, 2005, at 1:17:35
Thanks Renee. I appreciate it. I was taking Effexor 150 mg + 75 mg for a once daily total of 225 mg. This morning I decided to only take the 75 mg. It's probably too soon to tell but so far I feel fine. I'll stay at that dose for a few days, then reduce a bit if I still feel fine. Will definitely let you know if I start having problems and need your help.
Karen
Posted by not2late4u on February 2, 2005, at 23:46:37
In reply to Re: Negative Effexor Experience, posted by Troubled1 on February 2, 2005, at 17:41:20
karen, you are welcome, please remember that slowly is the best way, at least for myself and what I've read from others. going from 225 down to 75, might be a bit of a jump, but your body may be able to handle it. please let us know if we can help. Renee
Posted by DNINA on February 3, 2005, at 11:55:02
In reply to RE: NEW THREAD - POSITIVE EFFEXOR EXPERIENCE, posted by GP3205 on February 2, 2005, at 13:10:11
I HAVE BEEN TAKING EFFEXOR FOR ALMOST A MONTH FOR S.A.D. I AM ON 75MG, AND SO FAR I CANT TELL ANY DIFFERENCE. ANXIETY STRIKES WHEN I HAVE TO BE IN A CROWD OF PEOPLE, ESPECIALLY IF I THINK I MAY HAVE TO SPEAK ALOUD FOR EVERYONE TO HEAR. MY HEART STARTS RACING, I GET DIZZY AND FEEL AS IF I AM GOING TO PASS OUT. IF ANYONE HAS TAKEN EFFEXOR FOR THIS, PLEASE LET ME KNOW HOW IT WORKED.
Posted by not2late4u on February 3, 2005, at 15:12:41
In reply to HAS ANYONE TAKEN EFFEXOR FOR SOCIAL ANXIETY?, posted by DNINA on February 3, 2005, at 11:55:02
sorry dnina, I cant help you with this one. I didnt experience anxiety while taking effexor (or paxil) which were why I took them. I hope someone else can help here. Reneee
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