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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by janette44 on November 29, 2006, at 8:31:52
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by gabbie on November 20, 2006, at 17:42:56
Hi all. I have been lurking on this board for years now on & off gathering great information from all your direct experiences. For that I say thank you to all who haved shared here. I'm a 40-somthing mom and have had issues with depression since I was 16. I never sought treatment, just toughed it out until 5 years ago when a depressive episode finally caused me to go to a pdoc. My life is generally good, I have a lovely husband, nice kids, good job, I really felt like it was absolutely absurd that I was anything but happy in that situation.
First, to all those not wanting to seek treatment, I wish I had done it sooner. I didn't realize that I could actually feel really happy, I didn't know how not-happy I was all the time since it was normal for me. I had learned to settle for just enjoying the times that I wasn't *really* down and I wish I had wanted better for myself sooner.
Second, yes, seeking treatment and reading about all the strange and terrible side effects of these drugs can be and often is overwhelming. I was usually overwhelmed with just getting through the day much less making a major decision. I also wanted something to help but didn't want to take the risk that my pdoc would try several drugs and none would work for me and then I'd have no hope of being better. I guess I just didn't want to find that out. Sounds a bit crazy, perhaps, but for me it was real. It was a comfort to come to this board and learn that it is OK for drugs to not be a match and to have to try several to find the right one.
On to my experience. I thought I had seasonal affective disorder but upon examination the pdoc diagnosed major depressive disorder given that I often have trouble in August as well as Feb/March. Right around the solstice is the worst for me. Anyway, I was put on Celexa and did OK. Not great, but OK, my mood improved and life went from just bearable to decent. I got the bright idea after several months to stop taking the meds because I felt better. When I came crashing down a couple of months later I went back to my pdoc and confessed. He put me on Lexapro which is a cousin of Celexa and it totally didn't work at all. Placebo effect for a week and then boom, back down again, in August no less. But, thanks to knowing that not all meds work for all people thanks to research on this board and other places I went back after 3 months and was put on Effexor XR 37.5 mg increasing to 75 by the end of the first few weeks. Boy did that feel great for me. I wasn't instantly happier or anything but each day was a step uphill. Eventially my pdoc raised my dosage and I've been on 150mg for a couple of years now. It has been by far the best years of my life.
Practical matters: I take it at night because I think it makes me a little jittery followed by sleepy if I take it in the morning. I've gained 20 lbs, don't know if I should blame the effexor, my age or my appetite for that. I forget to take it sometimes (yes, I know I shouldn't but this is the real world) and I've noticed a 3-4 day 'boomerang' effect when I miss a dose. For example, if I miss Friday night's dose I'll feel down on the following Tuesday. Don't ask me why, maybe it's all in my head (pun intended ;).
I wish you all the best of health and happiness.
Posted by chickey on November 29, 2006, at 11:53:30
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by janette44 on November 29, 2006, at 8:31:52
Thank you so much for your post. I have now been on Effexor XR for 4 months, that now seem to have flown by. I started with 37.5 and am now taking 75 in the morning and 75 at night and things seem to be going well. After finding out what it is truly is like to be happy, I feel that I have been depressed for many many years without knowing. I had a very tragic childhood and was raised by my Grandparents. Due to the generation gap depression was not something people spoke about. I am so glad that in this day and age it is starting to be accepted and there are places like this that people can go for support and discussion.
My doctor plans on me to be off the drug at the end of one year of treatment. Does anyone feel this is attainable?
He also wants me to go to 150 day and night. Does anyone think this is required? or too much?
Thanks for everyone's comments!
Posted by Sweetie on November 29, 2006, at 21:53:16
In reply to Anyone had success on Effexor XR? , posted by jp on October 24, 1999, at 14:59:14
Thank you, thank you for this board. I am a 58 yr old female and new to antidepressants,just started Effexor XR 3 wks ago. Started with 37.5mg for 1 wk then 75 mg. for depression. 1st week was not bad at all and depression lifted after about the 3rd day. The 2nd wk with the higher dose was almost unbearable with the side effects, lethargy, weird thoughts, background noise in my head. Could barely drag out of bed for a wk, luckily was on vacation or i could not have worked. 3rd week not so bad still have the constant background noise in my head and a few tremors. No energy spurts yet.Now today I'm starting to have intermittant what seems like flashing bright light in my right eye. has anyone ever had anything like this? I am so afraid and would have stopped taking it if not for the postings on this board that says it does get better. Wondering if i would do better on the 37.5? Met with my dr today he says try the higher dose another 3 wks. the noise in my head drives me crazy. is this a common side eff?
Posted by KristiVegas on November 29, 2006, at 23:23:12
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by Sweetie on November 29, 2006, at 21:53:16
What does the noise in your head sound like? R U having any ringing in your ears? Some anti-dep can cause tinnitis - Paxil is a bad one for that.
I'm on 225mg Effexor per day and not much is happening except side effects. I've been on this dose for 6 wks. My mood is still bad, short-tempered and having tremors. My sleep has improved and I'm not as tired. I haven't experienced the flashing light in the eyes. Do you have it mostly in the daytime or at night, too?
Kristi
Posted by KristiVegas on November 29, 2006, at 23:30:50
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by janette44 on November 29, 2006, at 8:31:52
jannette-
The weight gain is pretty normal for Effexor.My appetite has gone berserk since I've been on it.I'm trying desperately to not gain the weight back (I had lost 25lbs before starting it). It's good to hear U R doing better and that the board helped. Sometimes it just helps to vent..... I,too,spent yrs thinking I was nuts because I felt so bad and my FamDoc and OBGYN wouldn't listen when I complained about it all the time. It was finally diagnosed when I went for a Psy. Eval. for Bariatric Sugery. Along with that came a diag. of ADHD. I'm more concerned about that right now than the dep. Hang in there and keep fighting - it's worth it.
Kristi
Posted by Sweetie on November 30, 2006, at 12:16:38
In reply to Anyone had success on Effexor XR? , posted by jp on October 24, 1999, at 14:59:14
Thanks KristiVegas for responding. The background noise sounds like a low rushing water sound, not really like a ringing. Happy to say that pretty much all of the side effects have disappeared with the exception of the noise and I feel better today than any day since I started Effexor XR. Have a dr appt today for the bright flashing light in my right eye. will let you know
Posted by corafree on November 30, 2006, at 15:07:17
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by Sweetie on November 30, 2006, at 12:16:38
Posting 2 explain reason not participating in thread. SO (of 11yrs) left me & I'm grieving. Didn't want 2 worry or suggest disinterest. W/o u, my best friends, here, I'd not have tools 2 tap into capability and way to recovery. But, at this time, I can't 'do my part' here. Pls forgive me.
cf
Posted by gabbie on November 30, 2006, at 16:05:09
In reply to Anyone had success on Effexor XR? , posted by jp on October 24, 1999, at 14:59:14
Hey guys... I called the doctor last week and the lady said he'd call me back. He never called. The weekend showed up and I only had enough to last until sunday and I knew I wasn't going to get a doctors appointment monday so I had to shell out another 30 bucks I don't have to get more effexor. I don't want to just stop taking it, but I am going on my third month and I don't feel anything different. My mom says I seem a lot better, but we were having family trouble and I just started to realize what I need to do in that situation, but as far as everything else I still get the weird feelings like I am nervous and anxious and scared. I hate talking to people I feel like I am a horrible person. I am always mad and irritable. I can't stand this crap.
Posted by KristiVegas on November 30, 2006, at 23:12:47
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by gabbie on November 30, 2006, at 16:05:09
> Hey guys... I called the doctor last week and the lady said he'd call me back. He never called. The weekend showed up and I only had enough to last until sunday and I knew I wasn't going to get a doctors appointment monday so I had to shell out another 30 bucks I don't have to get more effexor. I don't want to just stop taking it, but I am going on my third month and I don't feel anything different. My mom says I seem a lot better, but we were having family trouble and I just started to realize what I need to do in that situation, but as far as everything else I still get the weird feelings like I am nervous and anxious and scared. I hate talking to people I feel like I am a horrible person. I am always mad and irritable. I can't stand this crap.
GABBIE-I know how U feel-I'm in the same boat! Doc doesn't listen and it's not working. I am always mad & irritable, too. I'm getting to the point where I can't stand it either. Docs these days are so arrogant-it makes you wonder why they went into the field they did if they don't want to help people. I'm changing Docs in Jan-I'm tired of being patronized and talked to like I'm an idiot. Is it feasible for you to change Docs?
KristiV
Posted by KristiVegas on November 30, 2006, at 23:20:34
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by corafree on November 30, 2006, at 15:07:17
> Posting 2 explain reason not participating in thread. SO (of 11yrs) left me & I'm grieving. Didn't want 2 worry or suggest disinterest. W/o u, my best friends, here, I'd not have tools 2 tap into capability and way to recovery. But, at this time, I can't 'do my part' here. Pls forgive me.
>
> cf
> Do U have a support system off this message board? There is nothing to forgive & completely understandable that U are not able to participate. I'm sure we'll all still be here when you are back on track. Please be safe and take extra good care of yourself.......Kristi
>
Posted by shocker147 on December 1, 2006, at 9:46:32
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by KristiVegas on November 30, 2006, at 23:20:34
Hello! I've had great success on Effexor XR but before you should take it you should know it has a reputation for being the HARDEST drug to stop taking. The withdrawal symptoms are extremely painful.
If you're having problems paying for Effexor XR then you should ask your doctor about the Patient Assistance Program offered by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals. I read on the web yesterday that Wyeth is already fighting a bid by Teva Pharmaceuticals to begin manufacturing the drug when the patent expires in June of 2008. Wyeth and Teva reached a compromise which says the generic will be launched in 2010. So there is a long time to go yet. Although I'll be chided for this I would suggest going to www.inhousepharmacy.com and ordering the generic Effexor XR made in India (called Venlor XR). Just as good.
Posted by gabbie on December 1, 2006, at 10:28:19
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by KristiVegas on November 30, 2006, at 23:12:47
> > Hey guys... I called the doctor last week and the lady said he'd call me back. He never called. The weekend showed up and I only had enough to last until sunday and I knew I wasn't going to get a doctors appointment monday so I had to shell out another 30 bucks I don't have to get more effexor. I don't want to just stop taking it, but I am going on my third month and I don't feel anything different. My mom says I seem a lot better, but we were having family trouble and I just started to realize what I need to do in that situation, but as far as everything else I still get the weird feelings like I am nervous and anxious and scared. I hate talking to people I feel like I am a horrible person. I am always mad and irritable. I can't stand this crap.
>
> GABBIE-I know how U feel-I'm in the same boat! Doc doesn't listen and it's not working. I am always mad & irritable, too. I'm getting to the point where I can't stand it either. Docs these days are so arrogant-it makes you wonder why they went into the field they did if they don't want to help people. I'm changing Docs in Jan-I'm tired of being patronized and talked to like I'm an idiot. Is it feasible for you to change Docs?
> KristiV
Kristi... I told my mom how I don't like our doctor and I don't know if it would be a good time to switch because we are lucky we could get a good doctor. It just sucks because I don't feel different, I know there's a good change, but I can't feel it completely. I have been less with crying and being mean all the time, but I still feel that nervousness and scared... my mom and boyfriend think he should up the dose, I am not sure... maybe if he'd actually care about his patients, I wouldn't have this problem.
Posted by cristyleigh on December 1, 2006, at 15:52:31
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by gabbie on November 30, 2006, at 16:05:09
Gabbie...the main reason that I stopped taking Effexor was because besides not making me feel better I was having these "episodes" that would last from a few second to 1-2 minutes that I would just feel downright HORRIBLE. It's kind of hard to explain but they just felt like something was missing or that something was REALLY wrong but I couldn't figure out why or what I was feeling. They were so intense that I started to get scared that I was going to stay that way permanently and was feaking out. Main point, get in touch with your Dr. ASAP and figure out an alternative treatment!
Cristy
Posted by KristiVegas on December 1, 2006, at 22:03:18
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by cristyleigh on December 1, 2006, at 15:52:31
> Gabbie...the main reason that I stopped taking Effexor was because besides not making me feel better I was having these "episodes" that would last from a few second to 1-2 minutes that I would just feel downright HORRIBLE. It's kind of hard to explain but they just felt like something was missing or that something was REALLY wrong but I couldn't figure out why or what I was feeling. They were so intense that I started to get scared that I was going to stay that way permanently and was feaking out. Main point, get in touch with your Dr. ASAP and figure out an alternative treatment!
> CristyI completely agree! Sometimes U have to take charge of UR own treatment. My Doc really doesn't like it when I tell him I've been reading up on this or that-I'll be halfway thru the conversation and he'll interrupt or change the subject. When I tell him the ADHD is off the scale, he'll ask the same question: "how's your concentration?" BTW, the Adderall isn't working either. It's just a combination of things that have convinced me that he's a lost cause and I need to move on to someone who will listen. Also,there is NO reason for a Doc not to call back
EVER!!
Kristi
Posted by KristiVegas on December 1, 2006, at 22:09:39
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by shocker147 on December 1, 2006, at 9:46:32
> Hello! I've had great success on Effexor XR but before you should take it you should know it has a reputation for being the HARDEST drug to stop taking. The withdrawal symptoms are extremely painful.
>
> If you're having problems paying for Effexor XR then you should ask your doctor about the Patient Assistance Program offered by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals. I read on the web yesterday that Wyeth is already fighting a bid by Teva Pharmaceuticals to begin manufacturing the drug when the patent expires in June of 2008. Wyeth and Teva reached a compromise which says the generic will be launched in 2010. So there is a long time to go yet. Although I'll be chided for this I would suggest going to www.inhousepharmacy.com and ordering the generic Effexor XR made in India (called Venlor XR). Just as good.I'm a tad scared about what you said about the withdrawal. Can you be specific about the "painful"? I'm on 225mg a day & I'm just as irritable and angry the day I started taking it. I'm going to continue until my ins changes Jan2007 then go see a new Doc for something different. I want to have a smooth transition to the new med but if it's really that bad, I'm not sure I want to go down that road.
KristiV
Posted by dsm3r on December 2, 2006, at 16:01:11
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by KristiVegas on December 1, 2006, at 22:09:39
Hi Kristi -
Just read your post about coming off of Effexor. You can read the medication contra-indications sheet that is provided with your medications. It should tell you what to expect.
As for personal experience, what ever you do - DO NOT STOP COLD TURKEY!!!!!!! What the doctor should do is "titrate" meaning slowly lower your doseage so that you come off the medication without or minimal side effects.
When you stop suddenly, it throws your system into complete chaos. Your body cannot regulate your body temperature, you get hypothermic, then your temperature raises. Your body feels like it's been hit by a semi - it is very painful. You can get excessively tired, irritable, majorily depressed. You can have seizures, loss of motor control (difficulty walking, talking), loss of consciousness and death.
When I was refused my medications by an inept mental health agency, I went through about 90% of the above symptoms. The effect was immediate. Absolutely horrenduous. I am now on 300mg of Effexor. The lower the doseage, the PROBABILITY
of severe side effects are lessened, but there are still side effects.Also note, medications are adjusted higher or lower in an effort to find the maximum theraputic benefit to the patient, while minimizing adverse affects. That is why it's so frustrating. However, only you will know what is working and what is not. Listen to what your body is telling you and relate that to your doctor. If the doctor is not listening or is condescending, kick him/her to the curb and get another. You will be your best adovcate.
Sorry for the long post - I hope this helps. If you have any ?'s let me know.
Blessed journeys -
Posted by KristiVegas on December 9, 2006, at 22:06:35
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR? » KristiVegas, posted by dsm3r on December 2, 2006, at 16:01:11
Thank U so much for all the info. I'm on 225mg and feeling no improvement at all. I have an appt w/my Doc on 12/18 and I'm going to tell him it's not working. I've been on this dosage for 2 months. I can't even imagine what it must have been like for U coming off the med. It sounds horrendous!!! I've read enough to know that you can NEVER come off a med cold turkey. I've found that I have side effects that no one else has had. I had a very bad reaction to Paxil(Tinnitis) and my OBGYN said she'd never heard of that side effect with Paxil. My psychologist is going to test me Monday for Bi-Polar-maybe I'm just not taking the right med. I'd really like to get this straightened out-I really don't like myself right now.
KRISTI
Posted by dsm3r on December 10, 2006, at 21:03:11
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by KristiVegas on December 9, 2006, at 22:06:35
Hi Kristi -
You're welcome. I would think after 2 months you should be feeling better. I'm glad that you are going to your doctor. From what I know, it takes a while to get a bi-polar dx. Usually it's diagnosis of depression treated with anti-depressants. After a while, the anti-depressants bring out the mania. Yee-hah!!!! I started with Prozac and life was retro-hippy beautiful. Then the mania hit. To this day, I still can't figure out how I spent $1,000 in half a day. LOL. I wish the best for you and will keep you in my prayers. Best of the Holidays to you.
Blessed journeys> Thank U so much for all the info. I'm on 225mg and feeling no improvement at all. I have an appt w/my Doc on 12/18 and I'm going to tell him it's not working. I've been on this dosage for 2 months. I can't even imagine what it must have been like for U coming off the med. It sounds horrendous!!! I've read enough to know that you can NEVER come off a med cold turkey. I've found that I have side effects that no one else has had. I had a very bad reaction to Paxil(Tinnitis) and my OBGYN said she'd never heard of that side effect with Paxil. My psychologist is going to test me Monday for Bi-Polar-maybe I'm just not taking the right med. I'd really like to get this straightened out-I really don't like myself right now.
> KRISTI
Posted by gabbie on December 11, 2006, at 17:59:37
In reply to Anyone had success on Effexor XR? , posted by jp on October 24, 1999, at 14:59:14
Okay it's been almost 3 months... I can tell I don't worry as much, but I have my bad moments. Never called the doctor back, he didn't call me and I don't feel like wasting money to hear "well you can up the dose or change"... i'm confused. I might up it because I can tell I changed, but I am still feeling crappy crappy and irritable.
Posted by dsm3r on December 11, 2006, at 21:41:03
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by gabbie on December 11, 2006, at 17:59:37
Hi Gabbie -
I just read your post - I hope I'm not intruding here. But what is the doseage that you are on? What is the doseage the doctor plans to up you to?
It seems that by 3months, you should be feeling better than what you are now. What else has the doctor said? Is he a psychiatrist, psychologist or medical doctor? If you feel like talking, let me know. I hope that you will be feeling better soon
Blessed journeys
Posted by gabbie on December 13, 2006, at 12:58:50
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR? » gabbie, posted by dsm3r on December 11, 2006, at 21:41:03
> Hi Gabbie -
> I just read your post - I hope I'm not intruding here. But what is the doseage that you are on? What is the doseage the doctor plans to up you to?
> It seems that by 3months, you should be feeling better than what you are now. What else has the doctor said? Is he a psychiatrist, psychologist or medical doctor? If you feel like talking, let me know. I hope that you will be feeling better soon
> Blessed journeys- I am on 150. I havn't talked to the doctor because he never called me back. It is a regular medical doctor. I would think that by 3 months I should feel better too. I know I'm better, but I don't feel exactly how I thought I would. I still get nervous and shaky and my head spins occasionally when I think about certain things that shouldn't even bother me.
Posted by dsm3r on December 14, 2006, at 0:08:57
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by gabbie on December 13, 2006, at 12:58:50
Hi Gabbie -
150mg of effexor is really low. If you are feeling a little different, I would think the doctor should up your meds some. (I am not a doctor by any means, but I've been in this business for 20+ years as well as being treated. It's just my opinion.) I have a hard time with medical doctors who prescribe psychotropic medications. They just aren't qualified to understand mental illness' and medications used.
Is there anyway you can see a psychiatrist or get into a mental health program where you are living?
If the doctor hasn't called you back, get on the phone and keep calling until you do get a response.Also let the doctor know that you are experiencing other symptoms. It sounds to me like anxiety. You will need a med to help you with that. The only thing that comes to mind is Paxil. (I am so brain-dead right now I can't think of any medications.)
If there is anyone else that might now of any anxiety meds that have worked for them, ask them on this board.
I know you feel like crap, and I feel for you. But the "bright" side, is, that it's ok. We've all been there and have made it. You will too.
Keeping you in my prayers.
Blessed journeys
> > Hi Gabbie -
> > I just read your post - I hope I'm not intruding here. But what is the doseage that you are on? What is the doseage the doctor plans to up you to?
> > It seems that by 3months, you should be feeling better than what you are now. What else has the doctor said? Is he a psychiatrist, psychologist or medical doctor? If you feel like talking, let me know. I hope that you will be feeling better soon
> > Blessed journeys
>
>
>
>
>
> - I am on 150. I havn't talked to the doctor because he never called me back. It is a regular medical doctor. I would think that by 3 months I should feel better too. I know I'm better, but I don't feel exactly how I thought I would. I still get nervous and shaky and my head spins occasionally when I think about certain things that shouldn't even bother me.
>
Posted by gabbie on December 19, 2006, at 5:44:28
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by dsm3r on December 14, 2006, at 0:08:57
Well that's why I went on something in the first place, to get rid of the anxiety... so that being a side effect is ridiculous.
Posted by MaggieinATL on December 19, 2006, at 17:33:53
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by gabbie on December 19, 2006, at 5:44:28
I was on 300 mg of Effexor. I could NOT stop sleeping. I finally told my doc this wasn't "it". We decided to try a Wellbutrin/Effexor combo. I'm now on 75mg of Effexor and 300 mg of Wellbutrin. I feel 100% better. I'll probably go off Effexor totally in the next month to six weeks. It got me through a very bad time in my life and I am thankful. I am also glad I've moved to something that doesn't make me as sluggish and feel so dizzy.
Good luck to all of you!!
Posted by Phillipa on December 19, 2006, at 19:17:03
In reply to Re: Anyone had success on Effexor XR?, posted by gabbie on December 19, 2006, at 5:44:28
I had to quit it due to the high anxiety it created for me even while on xanax. YMMV. Love Phillipa
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