Posted by Vbugg on July 7, 2005, at 16:21:33
Hi All, I've been trying to get off Effexor for about 3 months. I am still on other meds, including wellbutrin XL. The reason for the switch is that after bouncing through multiple dr's I finally found one who could adequately diagnose and monitor me. The Effexor just wasn't working as well as desired and combined with the multiple side effects if seemed prudent to try something else. I started taking 75mg/day and with in three months I was back at the dr's for a full metabolic panel. I was gaining upwards of 10lb/month while I was working out with a personal trainer 3x/week and with a decreased appetite. My energy level is now much better, as is my sex drive and my weight. However, the side effects are horrible. Although it is not addictive you do suffer horrible withdrawel symptoms. I've experience micro-black outs, loss of balance, tingling in my mouth and extremities, headaches, change in sleep patterns and extreme gastrointestinal distress. It has been 4.5 weeks since I took my last dose (I had been tapering off under dr. supervision) but the symptoms have yet to let up. Be aware that this might not be the most effective drug for you. If I had known more about this med (I only found out all the facts after talking to a kid shrink friend of mine) I would have asked to try some of the other choices out there first.
However, if it is working for you...don't stop taking it unless you have spoken to your dr.
Vness
poster:Vbugg
thread:524671
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20050702/msgs/524671.html