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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by Angelnmikey on June 11, 2003, at 21:06:51
In reply to Re: Alternative Ways of dealing with Depression, posted by kalypsa on June 11, 2003, at 17:06:29
I am curious about this as well. Anyone tried 5-HTP? It's supposed to increase serotonin lvl in your brain right? Does it really work? Can anyone tell me? Thks!
Angel
> I have had depression/anxiety most of my life. I've been in traditional therapy for many years and was even hospitalized once. I've tried hypnosis (relaxing, but that's about it), acupuncture (also relaxing and makes you feel really good, but effects seem temporary), mood elevating herbs (also temporary) and relaxation techniques like yoga, deep breathing, etc.
>
> After trying Prosac about five years ago and hating it (made me a total insomniac and gave me night terrors), I was hesitant for many years to try any other meds. But basically, I feel like I am at the end of my rope. So, when my therapist recommended Effexor, I decided to do it.
>
> I've only been on it for 2 1/2 weeks and so far I can tell I'm much less anxious, but I still feel depressed. So, I'm hoping that gets better the longer I'm on it. I am worried about gaining weight (since I used to be anorexic) and I'm also worried about it causing bruxism becauase I already have a major problem with that (my teeth are grinded down to little stubs). So, if anyone knows anything about these things, please post me back. Thanks!
>
> > Has anyone here tried (consistently) any other methods for alleviating depression/ocd/other related before you started taking the Effexor? If so, what have you tried?
> > It makes me wonder, too, how many psychiatrists, upon meeting a patient for the first time, ask them what methods (if any) they've tried first.
> >
> > This whole dialogue really makes it crystal clear how INCOMPETENT many psychiatrists are and that we, as consumers, need to look at other means to help ourselves, before we start putting stuff in our bodies.
> > It is painfully obvious too many psychiatrists don't even both to tell us the withdrawal effects.
> > If they did, would we still take the drug, and if not, then they are out of a job basically?
> >
> > These are real questions we need to be asking ourselves before we submit to any drug. Especially one that has not had long-term studies to determine any lasting negative affects. If you read the July 97 article in the Washingtonian, you will see what I mean. It's on-line at:
> > www.washingtonian.com -- check it out.
> >
> > KNOWLEDGE IS POWER
>
>
Posted by Capri on June 11, 2003, at 21:13:56
In reply to Effexor-Day 13 (Night-time is the worst), posted by KimberlyDi on June 11, 2003, at 11:41:18
> Days are OK. I'm functioning, I've dropped a few pounds because my appetite decreased, and I don't want to die anymore. That's all good. But I hate the nights. I can't sleep. Well, I can sleep briefly, then I wake up, WIDE AWAKE, and totally restless. First it was 4:00 am, now 3:00 am. I move to the couch when i wake up in an effort to avoid freaking out my husband. I toss & turn. I was rubbing my feet together once without being aware of it until hubby pointed it out. I guess the rythmic motion was soothing to me. I am finally having those vivid dreams. They are very long, detailed, and strange. So, I'm less suicidal, but apparently more weird now. Rocking is very soothing to me. I'm also starting to crave salty foods. Go Figure. I'm seeing my new PDoc next week. I think I'm going to ask her about Lexapro. If she wants me to stay on Effexor, I'll try it longer. P.S. I routinely take Benedryl, without it, I can't even briefly get to sleep.
I know exactly how you feel!! I have the same problem. Fall asleep and every night up at 2:00 a.m. to the minute it seems wide awake!!! I've been taking Effexor for 5 weeks. I am so tired when I wake up because I never get a good night sleep. My doc wanted to add another med but I didn't feel comfortable with that. I will see him on Fri. I have very little appetite also. Plus I'm getting depression from this med which I'm taking because of anxiety. Go figure. Good luck to you!
Posted by CherC68 on June 11, 2003, at 21:34:23
In reply to Re: Effexor-Day 13 (Night-time is the worst), posted by Capri on June 11, 2003, at 21:13:56
A post by Paul Mokeski on April 25, 2002. Its in the section "Long Term Side Effects of Effexor XR - it descrbes exactly the feelings I'm having and I was only on it for 6 days - and been off for 3/4 days - I cannot remember. He talked about the vertigo, electricity in the head, etc. but the most important thing is the heavy feeling in the forehead and behind my eyes. Its very uncomfortable, but to me, being sensitive nowadays is that its almost painful. It makes me sick to my stomach. Like something inside the forehead or brain pushing out. Its horrid. I cannot think and now I'm staring a lot too! Anyone experience this feeling? Thanks, Cher
Posted by kalypsa on June 12, 2003, at 12:53:50
In reply to Re: Effexor-Day 13 (Night-time is the worst), posted by Capri on June 11, 2003, at 21:13:56
Have your dr. prescribe Trazedone to help you sleep. My dr. gave it to me when I started Effexor at a very low dose and I love it. I've had horrible insomnia for years and now I sleep like a baby and wake up feeling great (no hangover like traditional sleeping pills because it's actually just a low dose of an antidepressant that has a sleepiness side effect.
By the way, I've been on Effexor XR for almost 3 weeks and have virtually no side effects so far. Feel a little less anxious, but i'm hoping I feel more benefits the longer I'm on it.
Try the Trazedone. Good luck!
> > Days are OK. I'm functioning, I've dropped a few pounds because my appetite decreased, and I don't want to die anymore. That's all good. But I hate the nights. I can't sleep. Well, I can sleep briefly, then I wake up, WIDE AWAKE, and totally restless. First it was 4:00 am, now 3:00 am. I move to the couch when i wake up in an effort to avoid freaking out my husband. I toss & turn. I was rubbing my feet together once without being aware of it until hubby pointed it out. I guess the rythmic motion was soothing to me. I am finally having those vivid dreams. They are very long, detailed, and strange. So, I'm less suicidal, but apparently more weird now. Rocking is very soothing to me. I'm also starting to crave salty foods. Go Figure. I'm seeing my new PDoc next week. I think I'm going to ask her about Lexapro. If she wants me to stay on Effexor, I'll try it longer. P.S. I routinely take Benedryl, without it, I can't even briefly get to sleep.
>
> I know exactly how you feel!! I have the same problem. Fall asleep and every night up at 2:00 a.m. to the minute it seems wide awake!!! I've been taking Effexor for 5 weeks. I am so tired when I wake up because I never get a good night sleep. My doc wanted to add another med but I didn't feel comfortable with that. I will see him on Fri. I have very little appetite also. Plus I'm getting depression from this med which I'm taking because of anxiety. Go figure. Good luck to you!
>
>
Posted by kalypsa on June 12, 2003, at 13:04:10
In reply to Re: Effexor XR vs. Paxil and weight gain , posted by Capri on June 10, 2003, at 19:03:48
I've just been reading all the posts about weight gain and am freaking out now. I've been on Effexor XR for almost 3 weeks and haven't gained any weight, but I'm worried that it's only because I haven't been on it very long.
One poster said it slows down your metabolism - does it do this for everyone or does it depend on the person? Help!
Posted by kalypsa on June 12, 2003, at 13:26:33
In reply to Everyone's different, but..., posted by Racer on October 24, 1999, at 22:14:55
Posted by Sabina on June 12, 2003, at 15:05:49
In reply to Re: Alternative Ways of dealing with Depression, posted by kalypsa on June 11, 2003, at 17:06:29
I have used 5-HTP and SAM-e. I believe they were beneficial, but not enough for my individual needs.
Posted by kalyb on June 12, 2003, at 15:17:55
In reply to Does everyone on Effexor gain weight?, posted by kalypsa on June 12, 2003, at 13:04:10
> I've just been reading all the posts about weight gain and am freaking out now. I've been on Effexor XR for almost 3 weeks and haven't gained any weight, but I'm worried that it's only because I haven't been on it very long.
>
> One poster said it slows down your metabolism - does it do this for everyone or does it depend on the person? Help!Not everyone, no. I've been on it 5 weeks and have lost about 6 pounds.
Please do not take everything on this board about Effexor as gospel. This is not to undermine or demean any of the other posters, but Effexor has highly individual effects and I believe the only truth about it is how it works with and affects YOU.
Kalyb xx
Posted by Rickey on June 13, 2003, at 5:12:58
In reply to Anyone had success on Effexor XR? , posted by jp on October 24, 1999, at 14:59:14
Started out with 37.5 for 6 days, then to 75mg. So far so good. The only side effect was sweating the first few days, Ok now. The first day on 75mg was rough as I was very tired and sleepy(maybe it was because it was Monday). Feeling MUCH better. Able to handle stress at work better. Do not go to sleep as soon as I come home like I used to. Seem to have a deeper sleep and don't wake up every two hours. Sunday I actually put on a CD and danced around the apartment(first time in 4 years I felt like listening to music, never mind dancing!!! Have to admit I was kinda scared after reading some of the post here, but for me it seems to be working. I realize however it is early in the game. What really worries me also is weight gain(as I don't need that) however it seems to be steady.
Some of the post have really helped me to get started. enjoyed reading all the good and bad. Hope it continues to help. One day at a time like they say.
Posted by KimberlyDi on June 13, 2003, at 11:34:56
In reply to My Story Day 13, posted by Rickey on June 13, 2003, at 5:12:58
Rickey,
Your post made me smile. If I lived alone, I might be dancing too! As for weight gain, the dancing should help. You can't solve everything at once. Throw away the scales, eat healthy, and keep dancing.Good luck, Kim :)
> Started out with 37.5 for 6 days, then to 75mg. So far so good. The only side effect was sweating the first few days, Ok now. The first day on 75mg was rough as I was very tired and sleepy(maybe it was because it was Monday). Feeling MUCH better. Able to handle stress at work better. Do not go to sleep as soon as I come home like I used to. Seem to have a deeper sleep and don't wake up every two hours. Sunday I actually put on a CD and danced around the apartment(first time in 4 years I felt like listening to music, never mind dancing!!! Have to admit I was kinda scared after reading some of the post here, but for me it seems to be working. I realize however it is early in the game. What really worries me also is weight gain(as I don't need that) however it seems to be steady.
> Some of the post have really helped me to get started. enjoyed reading all the good and bad. Hope it continues to help. One day at a time like they say.
Posted by sierra1 on June 13, 2003, at 19:07:38
In reply to My Story Day 13, posted by Rickey on June 13, 2003, at 5:12:58
it's seems we all have different reactions to this med. to get a better idea lets post whether it has a positive or negative on us.
for me so far, its positive....
Posted by bgbham on June 13, 2003, at 19:21:29
In reply to Re: lets have a role call, posted by sierra1 on June 13, 2003, at 19:07:38
Posted by sierra1 on June 13, 2003, at 19:51:38
In reply to Re: lets have a role call (nm), posted by bgbham on June 13, 2003, at 19:21:29
sorry brian what does (nm) mean?
how are you today? hope you are feeling better..
if you need to talk or anything i'm here.
lynn
Posted by sierra1 on June 13, 2003, at 20:05:50
In reply to Re: lets have a role call, posted by sierra1 on June 13, 2003, at 19:51:38
Brian, do you have ICQ? if so and if you do want to talk my ICQ # is 198031924
or i have msn messenger too but i have to see how i'm listed.....
let me know how you are ok?
Posted by bgbham on June 13, 2003, at 20:28:47
In reply to Re: lets have a role call, posted by sierra1 on June 13, 2003, at 19:07:38
Lynn, I think I checked that no message box by accident. tells you how good I am doing, huh? To answer your question, I have had mostly good days, but a few rough ones. (depression-wise) I have had to see the doctor a couple of times since I have been out of the hosp. and he has raised my dosage, yesterday adding wellbutrin in the mornings. he told me that it was really to be expected to still feel not completely well (this is my 4th week) , and reassured me of how long it does take some people to feel better. This afternoon I feel a lot better than the previous 3 days, all in all, I am going to say "positive". My best friend Anna a few yrs ago had a lot of success on Effexor as well. Neither of us have had any of the adverse side effects I have seen posted. No withdrawal, weight gain, brain shocks (that one really gets me!) I do want to talk more, my email is bgreenbham@bham.rr.com.
Posted by Paco on June 13, 2003, at 20:30:49
In reply to Does everyone on Effexor gain weight?, posted by kalypsa on June 12, 2003, at 13:04:10
Depends on the person. My weight has not changed a bit.
> I've just been reading all the posts about weight gain and am freaking out now. I've been on Effexor XR for almost 3 weeks and haven't gained any weight, but I'm worried that it's only because I haven't been on it very long.
>
> One poster said it slows down your metabolism - does it do this for everyone or does it depend on the person? Help!
Posted by NThompson on June 13, 2003, at 20:51:55
In reply to Re: Does everyone on Effexor gain weight? » kalypsa, posted by Paco on June 13, 2003, at 20:30:49
I went to a psychiatrist yesterday for the first time ever. Eleven days ago I tried to commit suicide. Obviously, I failed. But now I am glad I did. Just a tip for those of you who are so depressed that you try to overdose on pills... Charcoal is NOT the taste you want in your mouth as the last thing you will ever taste! It is very disgusting! So I started the Effexor today, I really hope it works. I can't put myself or my family through this again. Does anyone know about how long it will take before this kicks in and I'll start feeling better? I hope soon. I want to start LIVING my life again.
Posted by CherC68 on June 13, 2003, at 20:58:36
In reply to Re: lets have a role call, posted by bgbham on June 13, 2003, at 20:28:47
I'm glad you are doing better Brian, and I'm equally glad that your side-effects and the other's side effects are not so bad.
I've been off Effexor for a few days, and the brain twitches and the forehead feeling and the nausea have passed. I'm very glad that Effexor is working for a lot of you. I wish it did for me. Today, I'm crabby and I guess a bit depressed. I've tried Zoloft (24/7 nausea) and you all have heard my complaining about the Effexor. I've always stated that just because it didn't work for me doesn't mean it won't work for you.
As far as weight gain, I did gain weight immediately on it, yet, Delta Burke, I believe lost weight with it, as did my cousin who is now on it and swears by Effexor XR.
My best friend is on Paxil and has lost 20 pounds (too much I think) but again, she swears by it.
To me, all AD's work on everyone's individual chemistry differently. I'm hoping that someday there will be something out there that will not effect me so much, so I can get the help I need, with my anxiety, stress and depression. Good Luck to all. Cher
p.s. Zinya, if you are reading this, i'm keeping up with the posts, and you are m.i.a. right now. I'm a little saddened, and hope to see you on here, and if not, please write me CherC68@aol.com to let me know you are doing well.
Posted by bgbham on June 13, 2003, at 22:19:57
In reply to This is my first day on Effexor XR 37.5MG, posted by NThompson on June 13, 2003, at 20:51:55
i am glad you are still here also. why a charcoal taste?
I believe in Effexor, and I think you must have a pretty good pdoc to have prescribed it. It has helped me, but everyone is different you understand. It may or may not be the one for you, and there could be a lot of trial and error. I recommend that if you are not feeling better, not great, but better in a week or so to let the pdoc know. I have had to do that a couple of times already, I am at 4 weeks. There have been a couple of days I have felt almost as bad as in the beginning. The pdoc will likely up your dose if you tell him that. It is not likely that she/he will change to another so soon, since the drug is in most peoples eyes an excellent med, as it treats anx and dep. I have become discouraged a couple of times lately because I want it NOW. It is simply not that way. Plus, in truth, your brain ain't working right at present, and that can lead to thoughts that are conterproductive, ie, suicide, change meds, I feel bad, etc. I am very sure of another thing - severe depression can be very dibilitating, and a lot of people are not going to understand how you are feeling. I described it to my mom as best I could today. Broken hearted, heavy, sickening feeling in your soul. It is very awful, and you think it is not going away. The good news is that it is, and you will be better. I would say in less than 8 weeks. Be patient, it is a very bad illness, you can't just snap out of it like a lot of people think. I am thinking about you!
Brian
Posted by Susy on June 13, 2003, at 22:46:07
In reply to Re: I am scared of this medicine, HELP ME!, posted by Cindy W on July 8, 2000, at 11:41:37
Hi, I been taking Xanax for years also and lately I've been feeling like I don't have energy to do anything but still, I feel agitated inside.
My pdoc gave me Paxil and recommend that I take it along with Xanax to overcome Paxil's side effects. I am scared...whenever I read the instructions it says not to take an AD with a Tranquilizer, have anyone of you do it before?
By the way...I took Paxil alone and I experienced the strongest panic attack I ever had!
Please help me with your experiences.Susy
Posted by zinya on June 14, 2003, at 3:13:05
In reply to Re: Role Call - » bgbham, posted by CherC68 on June 13, 2003, at 20:58:36
Hi Cher! (and all)
i'm here! i actually sent you an e-mail the other day, cher, and again just now because it seems you didn't get the first one...
I'm doing okay. The main thing is that all side effects have essentially disappeared for now, and this just now was my 7th dose at the new 2nd level ... and I think i'm noticing some real change in terms of depression, though a new situation made me realize i'm not so sure my anxiety level is much altered yet... Most importantly, there's still no more energy for anything beyond the most minimal of tasks. I have resumed a daily walk this week, which was something i just hadn't managed for a couple of months, minimal as that is...
I have jury duty starting this Monday morning and the idea of rallying the energy for this is going to be a real test...
I wrote something to a friend earlier today which might (or might not) resonate with some here, so i'll share it as my perspective-of-the-day on this still a tad weird idea and reality of perhaps entering into the a-d 'zone' for a truly extended, indefinite period:
... it makes me reflect on how odd it is, in a way, to think that one's body could be "off" in a way where, upon taking something to "correct it," the body's first reaction is to seem to protest or even try to reject it -- by means of the various side effects. One would think that such side effects are the body's way of saying "Hey! This is bad for us in here!" Yet on the other hand, there's the realization that bodies seek equilibrium, even in dysfunctionality, and adapt to the familiar whether it's "off" or "on" target and so to realize that strong side effects are not necessarily a sign of something "wrong" for the body... Well, it's just a bit odd. With previous efforts with other drugs, i did have stronger side effects that made me go off, but maybe that was cuz i didn't divide the initial doses in half like i did this time and taking it twice as slowly as prescribed.
Well, i'm not sure if anybody else here thinks about such paradoxes (?) but maybe...
zoning out here, with hugs,
zinya
Posted by NThompson on June 14, 2003, at 10:13:11
In reply to Re: This is my first day on Effexor XR 37.5MG » NThompson, posted by bgbham on June 13, 2003, at 22:19:57
Thanks for responding. The charcoal well, when I had taken the pills, in the ambulance and hospital they make you drink charcoal to neutralize the pills in your system. And to make you vomit. Very bad taste. Yes I am still here and I am glad. I have two very wonderful children ages 6 and 2. And a husband who is awsomely standing by me, helping me. I almost lost everything, even our house (which we are keeping) and he loves me so much that he's staying with me. Unfortunately, he didn't know how bad I screw things up until I tried to commit suicide. I was hiding, I couldn't face anyone, wasn't paying any bills and when he asked if I did I told him yes. I would turn the phones off and close all the doors so I wouldn't talk to anyone. I would sit and cry all day long. The weird part about it is that no one noticed it. My friends and family had no clue. I hid it from everyone. So, I am now getting help and with the help of a few family members (not everyone knows still) I will make it through this!!!! I want to feel better, great would be nice, but better will work for me. Thank you for your advice and support. My family doesn't know what I'm going through because they haven't been through it. I will stick with the effexor and see what happens. Good luck with you, we will make it through this!
Posted by notquitethereyet on June 14, 2003, at 10:35:46
In reply to Re: I am scared of this medicine, HELP ME!, posted by Susy on June 13, 2003, at 22:46:07
> Hi, I been taking Xanax for years also and lately I've been feeling like I don't have energy to do anything but still, I feel agitated inside.
> My pdoc gave me Paxil and recommend that I take it along with Xanax to overcome Paxil's side effects. I am scared...whenever I read the instructions it says not to take an AD with a Tranquilizer, have anyone of you do it before?
> By the way...I took Paxil alone and I experienced the strongest panic attack I ever had!
> Please help me with your experiences.
>
> Susy
I took paxil for years, all nasty side effects
wore off after a while and it was a very helpful
medicine, so maybe you may improve also
Posted by racergurl74 on June 14, 2003, at 11:05:21
In reply to Re: My Story Day 13, posted by KimberlyDi on June 13, 2003, at 11:34:56
Thank you for your post. I am only 2 days into effexor and I was really discouraged from all the bad results from others posters. But yours gives me hope.
Posted by racergurl74 on June 14, 2003, at 11:21:34
In reply to Re: lets have a role call, posted by sierra1 on June 13, 2003, at 19:07:38
> it's seems we all have different reactions to this med. to get a better idea lets post whether it has a positive or negative on us.
>
> for me so far, its positive....I am new to effexor and new to posting. I have only taken it for 2 days and was looking for info on the med. when I found this website. I think it's great to read all of everyone's experiences. So far, I haven't noticed any side effects. I will keep up with everyone and let you know if anything changes.
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