Posted by MamaB on October 25, 2003, at 8:01:39
In reply to Advice on taking Effexor XR, posted by ktmwife on October 24, 2003, at 17:23:55
Hi KTM,
Welcome and we are glad that you have found this site too! I think that you will find the folks here pretty much supportive. Take the information that pertains to you and don't be bothered by the rest.
As a slightly different voice in all of this, I will tell you that I experienced none of the withdrawal symptoms. I cut back over a duration of fourteen weeks. About seven weeks in to the "taper" I began a very small dose of Celexa 10mgm at bedtime. I cannot be sure if this helped or not. However, I work with people who take pscyotropic meds (antidepressants etc) and although I have not taken an official survey, Effexor XR SEEMS to be one of the most effective. Would I take it again? Yes. It did help. About the only other antidepressant that has worked well for me is Wellbutrin, which I am currently taking.
My depression has a strong genetic component, so I shall probably be on medication of one kind or another for the rest of my life.I do not know how old you are, but if you are anywhere close to 40 and have not begun menopause I hope that your physician has factored this in. If you do fit that catagory, and he/she has not addressed it with you, my advice it to see a GOOD gyencologist, preferably one who specialises in menopause. I did not know until WAY after the fact that my depression was at least influenced by the onset of menopause. ( I was 42 and every physician I saw told me that couldn't possibly be it.) I have never taken hormones and am now sixty two and I am fine. (As long as the depression is under control.) Also, if you fit the profile (menopause or peri-menopause) I suggest that before you allow your psychiatrist to either increase a lot, or change meds, that you have the GYN workup.
Just some suggestions, I shall pray for you. MamaB
poster:MamaB
thread:13781
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20031025/msgs/273060.html