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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by cary 111 on June 29, 2002, at 21:32:59
In reply to Re: starting effexor... keep posting.. success/dosage?, posted by Petezz on February 11, 2002, at 1:01:30
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
Posted by zbdrums on June 29, 2002, at 21:52:39
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawal Lorraine » Lorraine, posted by Leo on March 1, 2001, at 13:01:09
I'm on my 3rd day without Effexor. I switched to Wellbutrin, but the symptoms are so bad (I don't know if it's the effexor w/d, the wellbutrin, or some other thing all together) that I have decided to get off head meds all together. This is really scary stuff. Every time I turn my head I hear a vacuum of sound. It's like a bad hang over, and I haven't had a drink in 2 years. I have nausea most of the time. I'm sleeping upwards of 16 hours a day, very poorly- lots of half-sleep, dreams and nightmares. TV and computer screens seem to trigger migraines. I don't know what I can and can't do- like drive to the store to pick up groceries or get up from a lying down position. I'm scaring my friends- they don't know what to do with me. I know these forums are to be taken with a grain of salt, but enough people are experiencing the same problems that I just don't want any part of the current anti-depressant experimentation. I don't believe that psychiatrists have enough information to work with regarding side-effects, long term problems, withdrawl symptoms, who can be helped in what ways by which drugs, what needs to be addressed in addition to the meds, etc. I've had some success with the Effexor. I tried Paxil and wound up in an emergency room in the middle of the night. I tried Celexa and had all kinds of bothersome sexual side effects, and I thought I found something pretty good with Effexor. When I began to experience significant joint pain that was hindering my ability to practice and perform(I'm a professional musician and music student studying with the most renowned living teacher of my instrument)I began to check out some of these forums. I explored many articles, one of which was an FDA report listing common(1/100 patients)side effects, of which arthralgia is one. I found that many of the problems I was experiencing were on that list: migraines, prostatitis, sleep problems, significant weight gain, . It is important to state that I had pain that was probably prostatitis as far back as 10 years ago. I have a history of sleep problems. I had a concussion about 6 months ago. And, I have had some joint pain (though always much less pain with much more strain). So, I can't discount my side-effects on Effexor. I did see doctors about all of these symptoms. Eventually the joint pain caused me to decide to taper off and stop taking Effexor. Particularly in the mornings I would wake up with intense pain in my wrists from clenching my fists and grabbing sheets tightly. This withdrawl has been so difficult and scary that I do not want anything to do with any drug that can do this to me (especially without warning before I take the drug). There is fear that without the anti-depressant I will return to a state of depression that renders me semi-dysfunctional. I have removed all illegal drugs and alcohol from the equation (2 years and 1 month with the help of NA and AA). Now I am going to remove the head meds. Because I can not afford periods of depression leading to the inability to perform the necessary work in my daily life, I intend to begin psycho-dynamic therapy. I can not afford an experienced and reputable psychiatrist. I have found a program through Southwestern medical center in Dallas, TX that offers medical students in training under supervision for $10-$40 per session, 2 sessions per week. I am applying for this program.
The scary thing that I'm dealing with now is that I'm experiencing these withdrawl symptoms and I have a trip that I am taking in 5 days. I will be traveling for 27 days. Much of the trip is business related, and much of the trip is through old running grounds from my pot-smoking days. I will go to meetings, and don't fear as much for my sobriety as for my mental health. These past few nights have found me crawling to the bed, or lying on the floor unable to make it to the bathroom. My journal entries look like this: "feel awful; nausea; faith week; head hurts so bad...", and these are the statements that sumarize many thoughts and are only consicely stated due to the difficulty of writing at these times. Honestly, this week has not been better than the worst of my drug days, depression and all. Last night I was balled up on the floor crying as hard as I ever have (which is a strong statement- I've cried a lot), with head pain that simply made me unable to move. Anyhow... that's my testimony. -Zach
Posted by cary 111 on July 1, 2002, at 11:41:44
In reply to Effexor Withdrawal - Zach's testimony, posted by zbdrums on June 29, 2002, at 21:52:39
Zach: I'm sorry to hear that you are going through this very difficult time. Much of what you describe I also experienced a few years ago, when I tried Prozac. Probabably the withdrawl from Effexor is causing your current anxiety. I would talk to your Doc about tapering off, and starting a new med simultaneously? Also you might look into Serzone, no sexual problems and very good for anxiety. I'm also a big believer in the connection between joint and soft tissue pain and chronic anxiety. If you could get yourself on track and find peace, the pain might go way down, if not entirely away. Stay positive, and have faith. And try not to worry too much about being the best, even if you are the best, being simply who you are, and not letting the hierarchical views of others be too important, will be helpful. I speak from personal experience.
Best of luck,
Cary
Posted by Jannbeau on July 1, 2002, at 17:51:10
In reply to Effexor and chronic pain, posted by cary 111 on June 29, 2002, at 21:32:59
>Hi, I AM NOT A DOCTOR NOR AM I AN EXPERT on any of the subjects upon which I expound below, but it sounds as if you could use a gastrointestinal specialist (gastroenterologist, GI specialist) before you do anything else. Some research seems to support a reduction in some types of pain with changes in diet. Example 1: gouty arthritis is relieved when one stops eating red meat. However, gouty arthritis is a genetic problem in which the body builds up uric acid in the blood from an amino acid that isn't metabolized properly. Uric acid deposited in the joints causes pain in those joints. The classic joint is that of the big toe, but others are probably affected, also.
Example 2. Some people are intolerant of lactose due to a deficiency of lactase, again a genetic problem. You can use "Lactaid" or some other source of the enzyme to replace the lactase that your body doesn't make.
Example 3: Some people are intolerant of gluten, a protein found in most, if not all wheat, products. ONE of the symptoms of gluten intolerance may be cognitive and memory dysfunction. To my knowledge, the only way to absolutely eliminate the effects of gluten intolerance is to avoid gluten. Some people have reduced their symptoms with the help of a med called "Gastrocrom" a form of cromyln sodium (I think), the same medication used to treat nasal allergies.
A gastroenterologist can tell you if you have any of these disorders. However, you should not stop your intake of wheat-containing products before seeing the GI specialist, as the effects of gluten intolerance are on the lining of the small intestine and the doctor needs to look at the intestine, check some enzymes, etc to diagnose the illness, if I am up to date (I probably am not, however).
But, with changes to diet, your pain hasn't diminished. Thoughts: (1) time- you may need to give the diet changes more time (2) you have cut out too many different foods at once. You won't know which is the culprit unless you cut out one at a time (3)Symptoms (e.g., pain)of each food-related illness may manifest at different times after eating the food and may disappear at different rates.
Finally, I had great success with Effexor-XR for pain, in conjunction with minimal doses of opiod pain relievers (I am allergic to aspirin, ibuprofen, Celebrex, etc). This effect is not, I don't believe, an antidepressant effect because it started sooner than the antidepressant effects are supposed to occur. When I stopped the Effexor, my pain meds no longer worked as well--the pain returned with a vengeance within days of stopping the medication and I am not depressed, but am fast going that way from the return of the pain.
BUT, Effexor is a really strange drug, not one to play about with. Some people have had problems discontinuing Effexor. I had no such difficulty, tapering over about 1 month. I did not like the insomnia followed by somnolence that I experienced with Effexor. Also, Effexor seems to have reduced my ability to control my emotions and my big mouth. Also lost all interest in sex and most in interacting with other people. Finally, I quit taking it. During discontinuation, I experienced dizziness and "brain shivers" but they weren't too bad.
Cheers,
jannbeauI 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
Posted by cary 111 on July 1, 2002, at 18:49:21
In reply to Re: Effexor and chronic pain, posted by Jannbeau on July 1, 2002, at 17:51:10
Jannbeau;
Thank you for your caring, thoughtful, and lengthy response to my post.
I started taking Effexor 37.5 mg yesterday, and my pain seems to be somewhatimproved after only 2 doses. I have also continued to avoid completely the wheat, and dairy, so I'm not sure how much that has to do with my improvement. I do suspect that the Effexor is involved. My pain generally seems to be heightened beyond a resonable degree, and it makes me wonder how the anxiety I've been living with effects my pain level. I've also been taking Flax seed oil for the last month or so, and I think it has been helping loosen up my very tight muscles and tendons in my legs, as I can much more easily get into certain Yoga postures, which for a long time were almost impossible.
I'm curious about how much Effexor you took, for how long, when did the insomnia start, and how long after beginning did it take for you to loose interest in sex?.
I understand about the of the issue of not caring what you say to others while on an antidepressant. That is one of the reasons that I decided to stop taking Serzone, I was feeling like I didn't care very much anymore, about much. And I thought I'd be better off being more anxious, and more connected to my real feelings. However my pain kept getting worse as I went down in dose. My hope is that there is a chemical imbalance issue at the bottom of this, and eventually the balance will clear up, and I won't need drugs.
Thanks again for you concern.
Cary 111
Posted by jannbeau on July 1, 2002, at 23:30:54
In reply to Re: Effexor and chronic pain, posted by cary 111 on July 1, 2002, at 18:49:21
>Hi,Cary, I don't think all of my message even got there. I was attempting to edit it when I hit the wrong button. I, too have horrible chronic pain. I am managing mine right now with opiod analgesics and tylenol, only. This works as long as I remember to take the meds regularly.
The insomnia started almost immediately, but I had a confounding factor. My doctor changed three meds at one time and one of them, Ultram, interacts with Effexor-XR to result in some slight ''serotonin syndrome." My pain was decreased within a day or two, also, but again I was taking two new drugs. I dropped the Ultram and I've been ok since then. The loss of libido started within a couple of weeks of starting the Effexor, probably associated with serotonin receptors or something. I think the pain relief is through a different system, perhaps. Worked for me. I just didn't want the side effects. Good Luck to you in your trial of this medicine.
Jannbeau
Jannbeau;
> Thank you for your caring, thoughtful, and lengthy response to my post.
> I started taking Effexor 37.5 mg yesterday, and my pain seems to be somewhatimproved after only 2 doses. I have also continued to avoid completely the wheat, and dairy, so I'm not sure how much that has to do with my improvement. I do suspect that the Effexor is involved. My pain generally seems to be heightened beyond a resonable degree, and it makes me wonder how the anxiety I've been living with effects my pain level. I've also been taking Flax seed oil for the last month or so, and I think it has been helping loosen up my very tight muscles and tendons in my legs, as I can much more easily get into certain Yoga postures, which for a long time were almost impossible.
> I'm curious about how much Effexor you took, for how long, when did the insomnia start, and how long after beginning did it take for you to loose interest in sex?.
> I understand about the of the issue of not caring what you say to others while on an antidepressant. That is one of the reasons that I decided to stop taking Serzone, I was feeling like I didn't care very much anymore, about much. And I thought I'd be better off being more anxious, and more connected to my real feelings. However my pain kept getting worse as I went down in dose. My hope is that there is a chemical imbalance issue at the bottom of this, and eventually the balance will clear up, and I won't need drugs.
> Thanks again for you concern.
> Cary 111
Posted by Starwatcher on July 2, 2002, at 19:12:19
In reply to Effexor and chronic pain, posted by cary 111 on June 29, 2002, at 21:32:59
> 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 advanceHi, 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 mommy on July 2, 2002, at 19:43:09
In reply to Re: effexor scares me » beezie, posted by AnneL on December 1, 2001, at 16:23:18
I have been on Effexor XR 37.5 mg for 9 months and it helped me tremendously. I stopped taking it yesterday and spent today feeling like I was going to fall down every time I turned around. I have never been on an AD before and was not told of any withdrawal problems (seems like I'm not the only one). I'm glad I found you all before I freaked out. I was wondering if anyone else has only been on a low dose and come off of it? Just interested in finding out what it was like, or if all the withdrawal feelings are the same. I appreciate all your posts and my thoughts are with all of you.
Posted by di_38 on July 2, 2002, at 21:09:03
In reply to Re: Some good news for a change... » Collier, posted by LynnPerley on June 12, 2002, at 19:23:50
I just began taking Effexor. I'm nearing the end of my second week. I began at 37.5 mg, and this week am taking 75 mg per day. In a couple of days, I increase dosage to 150 mgs. per day. My side effects haven't been any different from the Paxil I was taking before. I was nauseated for the first couple of days, and I had night sweats for the first week or so. I'd wake up at night drenched! Those have passed, but this drug (as well as the Paxil) has helped with sweating and anxiety. My doctor switched me to Effexor because she was worried about my weight loss (24 pounds in 3 months), and my suicidal thoughts are increasing instead of diminishing. Unfortunately, the Effexor hasn't helped with the depression and suicidal tendencies. Thoughts of suicide persist regardless. I'm also worried about the possibility of seizures. I weigh only 93 pounds, and I am a little apprehensive about doubling my dosage again.
Posted by Kai on July 3, 2002, at 3:08:26
In reply to New to Effexor, posted by di_38 on July 2, 2002, at 21:09:03
Hi, I live in Hawaii; posted on my effexor prescription bottles are four warning stickers.
1) May cause drowsiness. Alcohol could intensify this effect. Use caution when operating a car or dangerous machinery.
2)Take medication with food.
3)IMPORTANT TAKE OR USE EXACTLY AS DIRECTED. DO NOT DISCONTINUE OR SKIP DOSES UNLESS DIRECTED BY YOUR DOCTOR.
4)Swallow Whole, do not crush or chew.I have been taking effexor for almost two years now. It has helped me very much. I feel like I am actually living; not just alive and almost dead.
This is a serious medication, and I take it as my psychiatrist instructs- we work together to getthe dossage right.
I am amazed at the number of people at this site who decide on their own dosage. I am amazed at the people who are not told that it takes up to two months for an antidepressant to START WORKING.
This is not a medication to be abruptly stopped.I don't believe that it should be irresponsibly prescribed either. I need it very much; it is very important to me. To anyone new to effexor, give it enough time- you might have side effects (and it might not work for you).I am fortunate that effexor has worked for me.
Posted by di_38 on July 3, 2002, at 3:22:14
In reply to Re: New to Effexor, posted by Kai on July 3, 2002, at 3:08:26
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 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
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