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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 575 to 599 of 10407. Go back in thread:
Posted by Lilian on March 22, 2001, at 11:17:48
In reply to beginning to wean hopefully losing weight, posted by vanroni on March 21, 2001, at 20:37:32
> >I am just now starting to wean from 75mg effexor xr per day. the dr is giving me 37.5 xr per day for 2 wks then going to every other day and so on....
> i want to know if anyone else has done it this way & if so how was it... AND will i lose the 25lbs i've gained!!! i've never eaten better or exercised more & yet i seem to gain weight by the day!! that is really the main reason that i'm stopping.... i've been on the med for about 11
> months... any input/feedback is appreciated/...
> Thanks, V-I'm in the same boat!
I was taking 225mgs for 6mths gained 24lbs!
Now I am taking 37.5mgs a day and the odd 75mgs when I feel I really need it. I eat very little (although well balanced)and I excersise to..I have not even lost an ozs let alone a lb! I am doing quite well on the effexor xr for my major depression and I really do not want to give it up completely. I have been off work for the last 6mths and I am only now thinking about returning in the near future..BUT THIS WEIGHT IS MAKING ME DEPRESSED AGAIN...HELP!
LILIAN
Posted by goofy on March 22, 2001, at 12:33:28
In reply to beginning to wean hopefully losing weight, posted by vanroni on March 21, 2001, at 20:37:32
> >I am just now starting to wean from 75mg effexor xr per day. the dr is giving me 37.5 xr per day for 2 wks then going to every other day and so on....
> i want to know if anyone else has done it this way & if so how was it... AND will i lose the 25lbs i've gained!!! i've never eaten better or exercised more & yet i seem to gain weight by the day!! that is really the main reason that i'm stopping.... i've been on the med for about 11
> months... any input/feedback is appreciated/...
> Thanks, V-Hi, I have been reading these post for a couple of months now. I want to thank all of you for the info. I have been effexor free now for 12 days with no bad side effects. I TRIED TO GO COLD TURKEY. IT DID NOT WORK. My doctor told me I should have no problems just stopping. OF COURSE HE WAS WRONG. The way I was able to do it was as follows: I was on 75.mg for 1 yr. when I decided to quit because of the side effects. I went to 37.5 for 10 days. 18.75 for 5 days, 9.375 for 5 days. 4.68 for 5 days, then i went off the drug. It has been 12 days and I feel great. I opened the capsules and divided the contents as previously suggested by some of these posts. I want to thank you all because IAM NOW EFFEXOR FREE and I did not have to go to another drug to help withdrawl from this horrible drug.
goofy
Posted by Janie on March 22, 2001, at 14:04:25
In reply to Real or Mindset » Janie, posted by Leo on March 22, 2001, at 8:29:37
> Janie,
>
> I'm glad to hear that you are doing better. Keep the positive comments coming. I'm sure that we can all benefit from what you have to offer. I took a moment and read through all your previous posts and thought I'd attach them so everyone could read what your experinces have been. I'm curious though, did the experiences you wrote about really occur or were they just defined by your mindset? I suppose that the hundreds of us that have been writing about our bad experinces with effexor would like to know if what we have been going through is a manifestation of the mind or have they actually occured? Or are these experiences just merely a difinition of our mindset?
>
> Regards,
> Leo
>
>Leo,
It was NOT my intention to imply that all the side effects experienced with taking or withdrawing from Effexor are a figment of ones imagination. The only side effects I incurred with the drug had to do with drowsiness and lethargy. I'm still not convinced that Effexor had anything to do with the exacerbation of my joint pain. As for weaning off the drug, I undertook what I considered to be a reasonable approach to withdrawal. My physician was willing to work closely with me during this time; I would expect all MDs involved with posters to this site would feel the same.I believe the number of individuals who attend this site represent a small percentage of Effexor users, No? Actually, after reading many of the posts here, I ANTICIPATED the need to quit my job and withdraw also from the world for a year. Fortunately, that didn't happen. I also find it difficult to believe that ONE DOSE of Effexor can cause lifelong, debilitating physical conditions. One might wonder why anyone would continue to take this medication month after month if the side effects were soooo debilitating and crippling. As for me, personally, I was willing to take "the good with the bad" for 9 months...so now I'm off completely.
Regards,
Janie
>
> >
Posted by Janie on March 22, 2001, at 14:48:13
In reply to 7 WEEKS--EFFEXOR FREE, posted by Leo on March 19, 2001, at 18:06:54
> Here's my update. Now entering my seventh week of no effexor. My mental state has improved remarkably sense discontinuing the drug. No depression, no anxiety, no agitation. All of which were dominating my daily life while on the drug.
Leo,
With all due respect, am I missing something here?
I thought the purpose of taking Effexor was to ELIMINATE all of the symptoms you experienced while on the drug. How long did it take you to get the CLUE?Janie
Posted by Leo on March 22, 2001, at 15:52:49
In reply to Re: 7 WEEKS--EFFEXOR FREE » Leo, posted by Janie on March 22, 2001, at 14:48:13
>
> Leo,
> With all due respect, am I missing something here?
> I thought the purpose of taking Effexor was to ELIMINATE all of the symptoms you experienced while on the drug. How long did it take you to get the CLUE?
>
> Janie
I'm the straw that stirs the drink aren't I? And yes, you have MISSED QUITE A BIT.....not only in what I've been writing about as well as the others on this site, but All of the other sites on the net, besides this one, talking about what a "wonderful" drug effexor is. Take care.Regards,
Leo
Posted by Marlane on March 22, 2001, at 18:19:01
In reply to Real or Mindset » Janie, posted by Leo on March 22, 2001, at 8:29:37
You know, I had a wonderful post but wasn't registered and apparently lost it in that process. I am very upset by that because it was good and took a very long time for all the process. Suffice it to say that I have many side effects of this EffexorXR, and it has only been the last 2 days that I have figured out those side effects are from this drug! It is not a mindset. I thought there were other reasons, but the skin rash finally made me look for other answers. I am a mess because of this drug, I am weaning myself off of it! I don't deny that it got me out of my deep depression last Dec., but I had to raise the dose to 300mg.to have it work. Now the myoclonus, weight gain,sleep disturbances, joint and muscle pain, including TOS,plus more have been answered for me, for many here have had these and more problems. I will use other means for serotonin support, I know of a couple things that will work. Write me if you wish!
Posted by cjf on March 22, 2001, at 20:47:24
In reply to Re: beginning to wean hopefully losing weight » vanroni, posted by goofy on March 22, 2001, at 12:33:28
> > >I am just now starting to wean from 75mg effexor xr per day. the dr is giving me 37.5 xr per day for 2 wks then going to every other day and so on....
> > i want to know if anyone else has done it this way & if so how was it... AND will i lose the 25lbs i've gained!!! i've never eaten better or exercised more & yet i seem to gain weight by the day!! that is really the main reason that i'm stopping.... i've been on the med for about 11
> > months... any input/feedback is appreciated/...
> > Thanks, V-
>
>
>
> Hi, I have been reading these post for a couple of months now. I want to thank all of you for the info. I have been effexor free now for 12 days with no bad side effects. I TRIED TO GO COLD TURKEY. IT DID NOT WORK. My doctor told me I should have no problems just stopping. OF COURSE HE WAS WRONG. The way I was able to do it was as follows: I was on 75.mg for 1 yr. when I decided to quit because of the side effects. I went to 37.5 for 10 days. 18.75 for 5 days, 9.375 for 5 days. 4.68 for 5 days, then i went off the drug. It has been 12 days and I feel great. I opened the capsules and divided the contents as previously suggested by some of these posts. I want to thank you all because IAM NOW EFFEXOR FREE and I did not have to go to another drug to help withdrawl from this horrible drug.
> goofy>goofy
I am so very, very happy for you! It is such a relief to hear some good news. There is a light at the end of the tunnel.
cjf
Posted by McGuyver on March 23, 2001, at 4:39:40
In reply to Re: Real or Mindset, posted by Marlane on March 22, 2001, at 18:19:01
As we wrote in other post's... read them. Try some MDMA, that will really get the seritonine going... In my opinion, anybody can go to any doctor, and be "diagnosed" with almost any illness. I know for a fact I'm depressed, but the crap is working for me. Check the other posts, every-one is different. Anyone with intellegence, other than spelling, can pretty musch research and fake anything. My one guy that helped me years ago get off illegal drugs, faked appendicitus, to get morphie. It worked, but after the doctor knew. He's got his organ in a jar as the last reminderr. Point being, anyone can fake it. My sisters father/sister in law, whom ar pharmisists, one with PHd, both say nothing but positives of the drug. That's cause it works for a LOT of people. Sorry, I wasn't going to write again. Good-Bye all, and I do wish you luck.
> You know, I had a wonderful post but wasn't registered and apparently lost it in that process. I am very upset by that because it was good and took a very long time for all the process. Suffice it to say that I have many side effects of this EffexorXR, and it has only been the last 2 days that I have figured out those side effects are from this drug! It is not a mindset. I thought there were other reasons, but the skin rash finally made me look for other answers. I am a mess because of this drug, I am weaning myself off of it! I don't deny that it got me out of my deep depression last Dec., but I had to raise the dose to 300mg.to have it work. Now the myoclonus, weight gain,sleep disturbances, joint and muscle pain, including TOS,plus more have been answered for me, for many here have had these and more problems. I will use other means for serotonin support, I know of a couple things that will work. Write me if you wish!
Posted by blazer on March 23, 2001, at 8:08:20
In reply to Re: Real or Mindset » Marlane, posted by McGuyver on March 23, 2001, at 4:39:40
> As we wrote in other post's... read them. Try some MDMA, that will really get the seritonine going... In my opinion, anybody can go to any doctor, and be "diagnosed" with almost any illness. I know for a fact I'm depressed, but the crap is working for me. Check the other posts, every-one is different. Anyone with intellegence, other than spelling, can pretty musch research and fake anything. My one guy that helped me years ago get off illegal drugs, faked appendicitus, to get morphie. It worked, but after the doctor knew. He's got his organ in a jar as the last reminderr. Point being, anyone can fake it. My sisters father/sister in law, whom ar pharmisists, one with PHd, both say nothing but positives of the drug. That's cause it works for a LOT of people. Sorry, I wasn't going to write again. Good-Bye all, and I do wish you luck.
>
>
>
> > You know, I had a wonderful post but wasn't registered and apparently lost it in that process. I am very upset by that because it was good and took a very long time for all the process. Suffice it to say that I have many side effects of this EffexorXR, and it has only been the last 2 days that I have figured out those side effects are from this drug! It is not a mindset. I thought there were other reasons, but the skin rash finally made me look for other answers. I am a mess because of this drug, I am weaning myself off of it! I don't deny that it got me out of my deep depression last Dec., but I had to raise the dose to 300mg.to have it work. Now the myoclonus, weight gain,sleep disturbances, joint and muscle pain, including TOS,plus more have been answered for me, for many here have had these and more problems. I will use other means for serotonin support, I know of a couple things that will work. Write me if you wish!What other alternatives do you have in mind once you get off this??
Posted by Cam W. on March 23, 2001, at 8:45:15
In reply to Re: Real or Mindset » Marlane, posted by McGuyver on March 23, 2001, at 4:39:40
McGuyver - Thank you for your balanced posts. Pretty tough swimming upstream against the minority isn't it.
I was basically run off of this board by the same mindset you are dealing with in this thread. I haven't been reading posts regularly for the past little while, but yours have given me hope again. I am thinking of posting more often again, but my mood has been extremely low of late and don't have the energy to explain over and over again the pharmacology of Effexor and it's physiological differences in different people.
Effexor is a fantastic drug if used properly. I see my pdoc next week. We were playing it by ear to see if I really needed an antidepressant and lately I think I do. We had planned at last visit that it would be Effexor. I'll keep you informed of my progress (start-up side effects and all). I'll try to give as objective view as I can and I will follow my own advice as how to minimize any side effects, if they should occur.
Don't go Mc, we need some balance on this board. I would like to see some of the medication discussions that used to happen in the good old days (about a year ago), before the fecal material hit the rotating air mover.
Sincerely - Cam
Posted by McGuyver on March 23, 2001, at 12:17:34
In reply to McGuyver - A Breath of Fresh Air, posted by Cam W. on March 23, 2001, at 8:45:15
Thanks Cam,
I don't have much time today, nor will I for the weekend. (moving) I will however turn my bad attitude off for now. I know one thing, I did over sleep today, and took my 37.5 IR on a pretty much empty stomache, ouch. NO WITHDRAWL EFFECTS, but I have one nasty stomache ache. Can't wait till later when I take the 75 er.
Off to eat, and move.
Again Cam thanks.
McGuyver - Thank you for your balanced posts. Pretty tough swimming upstream against the minority isn't it.
>
> I was basically run off of this board by the same mindset you are dealing with in this thread. I haven't been reading posts regularly for the past little while, but yours have given me hope again. I am thinking of posting more often again, but my mood has been extremely low of late and don't have the energy to explain over and over again the pharmacology of Effexor and it's physiological differences in different people.
>
> Effexor is a fantastic drug if used properly. I see my pdoc next week. We were playing it by ear to see if I really needed an antidepressant and lately I think I do. We had planned at last visit that it would be Effexor. I'll keep you informed of my progress (start-up side effects and all). I'll try to give as objective view as I can and I will follow my own advice as how to minimize any side effects, if they should occur.
>
> Don't go Mc, we need some balance on this board. I would like to see some of the medication discussions that used to happen in the good old days (about a year ago), before the fecal material hit the rotating air mover.
>
> Sincerely - Cam
Posted by Diane J. on March 23, 2001, at 12:26:35
In reply to McGuyver - A Breath of Fresh Air, posted by Cam W. on March 23, 2001, at 8:45:15
Posted by Cam W. on March 23, 2001, at 13:33:55
In reply to Re: McGuyver - A Breath of Fresh Air, posted by Diane J. on March 23, 2001, at 12:26:35
Diane - Don't be in any hurry to stop the Effexor. The slower you are weaned from it the better. Also, it is a good idea to have someone follow your progress as you come off the drug (to objectively watch for signs of both withdrawl and relapse, that may not be noticeable to you). Your therapist &/or your doc can do this. Most people can drop their dose by 75mg every 2 weeks with little problem. Some people need 3 or 4 weeks between each drop in dosage. Monitor yourself and how you feel in the days after a drop in dosage. You can always increase the dose and try to drop it again in another week.
If you do get the intractable withdrawl symptoms at low doses, there are several ways to be eased off of the drug. I have found most success by adding Prozac (fluoxetine) 10mg to 20mg for a week; then stopping the Effexor (usually at a 37.5mg dose at this point); then taking the Prozac for another week, then stopping it. Prozac's long halflife protects most people from withdrawl symptoms because it leaves the body slowly.
Good luck and hope this helps - Cam
> For me, the situation in my life has changed and I have a good therapist, and I don't feel as sad as I once did. I think the Effexor helped me get over the hard stuff.
>
> So, I will take the 150 mg for a while longer and then drop to 75mg. I just want to try. But if I need to keep taking Effexor, I will.
>
> Diane J.
Posted by Seraphim on March 23, 2001, at 14:07:39
In reply to Anyone had success on Effexor XR? , posted by jp on October 24, 1999, at 14:59:14
Leo,
Please, PLEASE, keep updating on your progress. I have experienced almost all of the bad side effects and the worst of the withdrawal symptoms. I need encouragement to continue cutting back my dosage. I didn't realize I was going through withdrawals from effexor when I either took my medicine late or forgot all together,until I had truly terrifying experiences halfway through the second day without effexor. Looking back, these same symptoms would start within three hours of a missed dose, though. My doctor never told me how important it was not to miss a dose or take it late. I thought I still had a refill of my prescription left; I was wrong, and it was the weekend. I'll spare the details, but it was so awful. I got so sick, shaky, feelings like I was moving when I wasn't, etc...Two days later I found these postings. Now two weeks later, I'm down to 150mg from 300mg a day. The withdrawal symptoms have been horrid, but I can't wait to get it out of my system. I have lost 12 pounds. The only high point. Please keep in touch. Should Janie happen to read this:
IT IS NOT JUST A MINDSET! I thank God I found these postings when I did.
Posted by willow on March 23, 2001, at 14:22:41
In reply to Re: McGuyver - A Breath of Fresh Air, posted by Diane J. on March 23, 2001, at 12:26:35
As I've posted before, I'm doing really well with the help of this medication. This week when I had my prescriptions refilled I enquired how long I would be taking and how long it is safe to take it. My doctor replied for life. Am I upset by this? No, I'm actually relieved and jubilant to be doing so well and to know that the future can be the same.
As it is now, there are no CURES for chronic conditions. Presently I'm content with being able to manage.
Whistling Willow
Posted by Seraphim on March 23, 2001, at 14:26:53
In reply to Anyone had success on Effexor XR? , posted by jp on October 24, 1999, at 14:59:14
These postings may have saved my life; literally. I had no idea that the symptoms - side effects and withdrawal - were shared by others. I am an intelligent person (albeit inexperienced with prescription medication): I read the information given to me on Effexor; by my doctor, by my pharmacist, and on-line from Wyeth. It took a few days of not having any Effexor (prescription ran out on a weekend, thought I had a refill; was wrong) to associate the horrid symptoms to lack of the drug. All this was experienced BEFORE I ever found this site. I am now weaning off of this drug and still experiencing withdrawal, but refuse to be chained to a medication that has so adversely effected me. I do think we should all try to go into life experiences with a positive mindset - but - EFFEXOR WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS ARE NOT PSYCHOSOMATIC!
Posted by Seraphim on March 23, 2001, at 14:42:30
In reply to Anyone had success on Effexor XR? , posted by jp on October 24, 1999, at 14:59:14
Willow,
It is good to know that Effexor is working for you. I would be wary of a doctor that wants to chain you to any drug for life. My doctor has told me that after a year of stability and treatment, it is possible to go drug free and try to lead a happy life. I know it's not possible for everyone, and I'm not there yet, although I am weaning off Effexor because of adverse side effects and withdrawal symptoms. Everyone is different. Just stay informed, don't miss a dose or take one late, and be very careful. I do wish you the best. Everyone deserves to be happy and optimistic again.
Posted by Janie on March 23, 2001, at 15:59:03
In reply to Re: Real or Mindset - Janie, posted by Seraphim on March 23, 2001, at 14:26:53
> These postings may have saved my life; literally. I had no idea that the symptoms - side effects and withdrawal - were shared by others. I am an intelligent person (albeit inexperienced with prescription medication): I read the information given to me on Effexor; by my doctor, by my pharmacist, and on-line from Wyeth. It took a few days of not having any Effexor (prescription ran out on a weekend, thought I had a refill; was wrong) to associate the horrid symptoms to lack of the drug. All this was experienced BEFORE I ever found this site. I am now weaning off of this drug and still experiencing withdrawal, but refuse to be chained to a medication that has so adversely effected me. I do think we should all try to go into life experiences with a positive mindset - but - EFFEXOR WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS ARE NOT PSYCHOSOMATIC!
____________Dear ALL,
I believe the definitions of "Mind-set" and "Psychosomatic" are VERY different. I CLEARLY stated that it was NOT my intention to imply that symptoms associated with taking Effexor or withdrawing from the drug were "figments of the imagination." My point, missed by most, was that by reading many of these posts, one MIGHT associate a number of physiological conditions with Effexor, when in fact, there is NO correlation. OR...to go one step further, the mere "anticipation" of an experience can lead the mind to play dirty tricks...oh, the power of suggestion.I was simply baffled by the number of posters who continued to take the drug following the onset of crippling, debilitating, life-threatening symptomatology...and then engage in Effexor bashing, as if being FORCED to swallow the "lethal" drug by some strange habit or compulsion.
While the drug, no doubt, has some nasty withdrawal side effects, these CAN be controlled and minimalized with a sensible approach to weaning over whatever amount of time is required. No need to be a hero...right, folks? This is not natural childbirth!!!
Having never taken any medication similar to Effexor, with the exception of Buspar, I am hesitant to say whether I would recommend it to a friend. Certainly, a forewarning seems appropriate in this case.
If Leo is representative of the majority of Effexor users, then we may all look forward to basking on the beaches of the French Riviera, enjoying our award from the class action suit.
A New Straw in the Drink
Janie
BSN, M.ED, M.A.
ER Nurse Specialist (and much, much more)P.S. I am quite accustomed to feisty debate on classical music discussion sites, so my flame-proof suit is always pressed and starched. :-)
Posted by Seraphim on March 23, 2001, at 16:54:29
In reply to Re: Real or Mindset - Janie » Seraphim, posted by Janie on March 23, 2001, at 15:59:03
Janie,
1."OR...to go one step further, the mere "anticipation" of an experience can lead the mind to play dirty tricks...oh, the power of suggestion." - Isn't that statement not very close to the definition of psychosomatic?
2."engage in Effexor bashing, as if being FORCED to swallow the "lethal" drug by some strange habit or compulsion." - Maybe I'm wrong here too,(although I doubt it) but I do believe that people taking Effexor become physically addicted to the medication, ergo... the hateful withdrawal symptoms.
3. "If Leo is representative of the majority of Effexor users, then we may all look forward to basking on the beaches of the French Riviera, enjoying our award from the class action suit."
- I don't even know Leo and I feel the need to defend. Whether it is Effexor or any other prescription medication, we all have the right to full disclosure of ALL of the potential complications, long-term effects, and WARNINGS of the fast on-set of withdrawal and ensuing danger signs. To imply that the motivation is monetary, self-serving and rewarding in some way ... I believe is offensive, largely inaccurate and very cynical of you. This isn't like suing McDonald's because some idiot spilled coffee in his lap and thought there should have been a warning. (and no I have no intention to sue, but will try to get this information out in any way possible) People NEED TO KNOW what may happen to their body, mind and spirit on this medication. I was taking 300mg a day. Just maybe there is a difference between the severity of withdrawal symptoms at different dosages. Point being - I should have been told to always take the medication on time and to never, ever miss a dose. I wasn't! And yes I am resentful of the fact. It was a nightmare after missing two doses. It was very hard for my husband to witness, and I am very thankful to have someone there for me.4.Just to reiterate - "I do think we should all try to go into life experiences with a positive mind-set" - I do agree with you on at least one point.
P.S. - I'm sorry, but I fail to see what your debating skills have to do with a serious issue involving informing as many people as possible of information that they have the right to know, and should have already been aware of (whether everyone will experience it or not).
It sounds as if you find this an amusing past-time. How very, very sad your life must be.
> > These postings may have saved my life; literally. I had no idea that the symptoms - side effects and withdrawal - were shared by others. I am an intelligent person (albeit inexperienced with prescription medication): I read the information given to me on Effexor; by my doctor, by my pharmacist, and on-line from Wyeth. It took a few days of not having any Effexor (prescription ran out on a weekend, thought I had a refill; was wrong) to associate the horrid symptoms to lack of the drug. All this was experienced BEFORE I ever found this site. I am now weaning off of this drug and still experiencing withdrawal, but refuse to be chained to a medication that has so adversely effected me. I do think we should all try to go into life experiences with a positive mindset - but - EFFEXOR WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS ARE NOT PSYCHOSOMATIC!
> ____________
>
> Dear ALL,
> I believe the definitions of "Mind-set" and "Psychosomatic" are VERY different. I CLEARLY stated that it was NOT my intention to imply that symptoms associated with taking Effexor or withdrawing from the drug were "figments of the imagination." My point, missed by most, was that by reading many of these posts, one MIGHT associate a number of physiological conditions with Effexor, when in fact, there is NO correlation. OR...to go one step further, the mere "anticipation" of an experience can lead the mind to play dirty tricks...oh, the power of suggestion.
>
> I was simply baffled by the number of posters who continued to take the drug following the onset of crippling, debilitating, life-threatening symptomatology...and then engage in Effexor bashing, as if being FORCED to swallow the "lethal" drug by some strange habit or compulsion.
>
> While the drug, no doubt, has some nasty withdrawal side effects, these CAN be controlled and minimalized with a sensible approach to weaning over whatever amount of time is required. No need to be a hero...right, folks? This is not natural childbirth!!!
>
> Having never taken any medication similar to Effexor, with the exception of Buspar, I am hesitant to say whether I would recommend it to a friend. Certainly, a forewarning seems appropriate in this case.
>
> If Leo is representative of the majority of Effexor users, then we may all look forward to basking on the beaches of the French Riviera, enjoying our award from the class action suit.
>
> A New Straw in the Drink
> Janie
> BSN, M.ED, M.A.
> ER Nurse Specialist (and much, much more)
>
> P.S. I am quite accustomed to feisty debate on classical music discussion sites, so my flame-proof suit is always pressed and starched. :-)
Posted by Cam W. on March 23, 2001, at 18:16:06
In reply to Re: Real or Mindset - Janie » Janie, posted by Seraphim on March 23, 2001, at 16:54:29
Janie - One of the major problems of developing a drug for marketing is the way the FDA or Health Canada (or other regulatory agency) has to conduct clinical trials for approval (ie the randomized placebo controlled clinical trial). These trials use groups of people who are not indicative of the general population. These people are closely watched for any problems that may arise, unlike "real world" treatments. People in these trials are monitored for compliance and the trials are usually only short term (eg 6 to 8 weeks). While withdrawl was noticed in some of these participants, the true extent of the problem was not realized until after the drug was approved for use.
The problem of Effexor withdrawl has been known for years, it is just that it really reared it's ugly head after the drug was marketed (ie in uncontrolled, naturalistic circumstances). Wyeth-Ayerst should have been more diligent in informing doctors of the extent to which it could occur. I truly believe that they did not know how bad withdrawl could be for some people. Still a vast majority have few, if any withdrawl symptoms and many that do shrug off the effects as a cold or mailaise from stopping the drug.
Still, if handled correctly by a physician, almost all cases of Effexor withdrawl can be minimized. There was a very good article written in 1997 (I believe; perhaps 1996) which showed that intractable Effexor withdrawl could be alleviated using Prozac for a couple of weeks. It is a shame that more doctors are not aware of the extent to which some people get withdrawl symptoms. Much of this is probably because a majority of people do not get severe withdrawl. Hopefully, as time goes on, many more docs will become aware of the extent of the withdrawl syndrome in some people and will monitor withdrawl more closely.
I hope this is of some help in describing the state of affairs in regard to Effexor withdrawl. - Cam
Posted by Cam W. on March 23, 2001, at 18:19:01
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawl » Seraphim, posted by Cam W. on March 23, 2001, at 18:16:06
Seraphim- One of the major problems of developing a drug for marketing is the way the FDA or Health Canada (or other regulatory agency) has to conduct clinical trials for approval (ie the randomized placebo controlled clinical trial). These trials use groups of people who are not indicative of the general population. These people are closely watched for any problems that may arise, unlike "real world" treatments. People in these trials are monitored for compliance and the trials are usually only short term (eg 6 to 8 weeks). While withdrawl was noticed in some of these participants, the true extent of the problem was not realized until after the drug was approved for use.
>
> The problem of Effexor withdrawl has been known for years, it is just that it really reared it's ugly head after the drug was marketed (ie in uncontrolled, naturalistic circumstances). Wyeth-Ayerst should have been more diligent in informing doctors of the extent to which it could occur. I truly believe that they did not know how bad withdrawl could be for some people. Still a vast majority have few, if any withdrawl symptoms and many that do shrug off the effects as a cold or mailaise from stopping the drug.
>
> Still, if handled correctly by a physician, almost all cases of Effexor withdrawl can be minimized. There was a very good article written in 1997 (I believe; perhaps 1996) which showed that intractable Effexor withdrawl could be alleviated using Prozac for a couple of weeks. It is a shame that more doctors are not aware of the extent to which some people get withdrawl symptoms. Much of this is probably because a majority of people do not get severe withdrawl. Hopefully, as time goes on, many more docs will become aware of the extent of the withdrawl syndrome in some people and will monitor withdrawl more closely.
>
> I hope this is of some help in describing the state of affairs in regard to Effexor withdrawl. - Cam
Posted by Janie on March 23, 2001, at 18:44:15
In reply to Re: Real or Mindset - Janie » Janie, posted by Seraphim on March 23, 2001, at 16:54:29
> Janie,
>
> 1."OR...to go one step further, the mere "anticipation" of an experience can lead the mind to play dirty tricks...oh, the power of suggestion." - Isn't that statement not very close to the definition of psychosomatic?
>
> 2."engage in Effexor bashing, as if being FORCED to swallow the "lethal" drug by some strange habit or compulsion." - Maybe I'm wrong here too,(although I doubt it) but I do believe that people taking Effexor become physically addicted to the medication, ergo... the hateful withdrawal symptoms.
>
> 3. "If Leo is representative of the majority of Effexor users, then we may all look forward to basking on the beaches of the French Riviera, enjoying our award from the class action suit."
> - I don't even know Leo and I feel the need to defend. Whether it is Effexor or any other prescription medication, we all have the right to full disclosure of ALL of the potential complications, long-term effects, and WARNINGS of the fast on-set of withdrawal and ensuing danger signs. To imply that the motivation is monetary, self-serving and rewarding in some way ... I believe is offensive, largely inaccurate and very cynical of you. This isn't like suing McDonald's because some idiot spilled coffee in his lap and thought there should have been a warning. (and no I have no intention to sue, but will try to get this information out in any way possible) People NEED TO KNOW what may happen to their body, mind and spirit on this medication. I was taking 300mg a day. Just maybe there is a difference between the severity of withdrawal symptoms at different dosages. Point being - I should have been told to always take the medication on time and to never, ever miss a dose. I wasn't! And yes I am resentful of the fact. It was a nightmare after missing two doses. It was very hard for my husband to witness, and I am very thankful to have someone there for me.
>
> 4.Just to reiterate - "I do think we should all try to go into life experiences with a positive mind-set" - I do agree with you on at least one point.
>
> P.S. - I'm sorry, but I fail to see what your debating skills have to do with a serious issue involving informing as many people as possible of information that they have the right to know, and should have already been aware of (whether everyone will experience it or not).
> It sounds as if you find this an amusing past-time. How very, very sad your life must be.
___________Seraphim
Whether an individual's side effect/effects on Effexor are clinically based, psychosomatic or unrelated is not my decision to make. I prefer to leave that up to the drug trials, hopefully carried out under the most stringent protocols. I believe we do a disservice to anyone reading these posts to imply otherwise.
You conveniently failed to address the major issue here which is we all approached our health care provider in search of medication to alleviate some problem. We all took the medication voluntarily, not knowing in advance how we might react to the drug either psychologically or physiologically. No? If at some point over time, be it day one or 5 years later, we begin to experience adverse side effects, we have choices. We can continue to take the drug and ignore our inner self, or we can call the doc and discuss alternatives. This, of course, assumes that one is not a masochist, bent on self destructive behavior. To continue on ANY elective medication to the point of debilitation, excessive weight gain, crippling disease, etc. falls into this category IMHO.
For me, personally, I made the CHOICE that the benefits of Effexor outweighed the side effects for a 9 month period. I was free to discontinue the drug at any point, so I take the responsibility for enduring the lethargy and drowsiness which I experienced.
As for the addictive potential of Effexor, I have no experience with other SRIs; therefore, I cannot address similarities of withdrawal. Yes, coming off the drug is quite inconvenient, but as I have stated several times here, manageable if done carefully and over time. Your choice.
My life is NOT very, very sad as you suggest. It's very, very rich actually...mainly because I live my life under the philosophy that, "I am cause to my own experience."
>
>
Posted by LD on March 24, 2001, at 10:05:45
In reply to Re: Real or Mindset - Janie » Seraphim, posted by Janie on March 23, 2001, at 18:44:15
To anyone who is want to get off Effexor or is in the process:
It can be done with minimal side effects! I am now 4 1/2 weeks effexor xr free and i'm finally out of the fog! I weaned VERY slowly from 225mg over the course of 3 months, then took Prozac when I reached 37.5, and am still taking the Prozac. I had w/drawel symptoms for about 3 weeks or dizziness, headaches, body aches, tired. But the past week, I feel like a new person! I feel like Effexor really put me in an unmotivational fog the past year, and i'm finally coming out of it. The w/drawel was not that horrible, I feel like I did it right with going slow and adding the Prozac.So you CAN come off this drug, just be determined to, and go slow. I am so happy to be through this!
Posted by Pamela on March 24, 2001, at 12:23:07
In reply to Re: 7 WEEKS--EFFEXOR FREE, posted by kid47 on March 20, 2001, at 11:45:39
> > Here's my update. Now entering my seventh week of no effexor. My mental state has improved remarkably sense discontinuing the drug. No depression, no anxiety, no agitation. All of which were dominating my daily life while on the drug. I still experience moderate to severe headaches and moderate fatigue. I am still experiencing what I call the "flashback syndrome" every few days or so. The joint and muscle pain is consistent, and at times, extremely painful. I have never experienced joint pain until getting off the effexor. Taking my doctors advice, I am now working with a physical therapist and nutritionists to rehab my physical body. I have absolutely no doubt that the effexor caused my severely degraded physical state. Only until getting off the drug, did I come to realize how bad off I was physically and emotionally. I have undertaken some in depth investigation about effexor. I am taking the posts on this site as well as several others and am compiling all the commonalities that are discussed. So far, what I have come up with is that between 80-90 percent of effexor users are all suffering from a wide variety of long term and permanent side effects. There are certain people on this site that try to neutralize what people are saying about this drug. However, there is absolutely no way these people can dispute, justify or explain why there are so many people complaining about the drug. I have interviewed several doctors, who have become aware of the severe problems directly related to effexor, especially the addiction aspect accompanied by the withdrawal, and no longer prescribe the drug to their patients. There is also action being taken against the drugs manufacturer. I have also notified two of the major TV network investigative reporting programs as to what is going on with effexor. They have been supplied with an abundance of information, both good and bad, about the drug and have been supplied with internet resources to see for themselves what the patients taking the drug are experiencing. Now, I know that there are Weryth-Ayerst employees that monitor and contribute posts to this site so I’m sure that what you are reading here is most likely old news to you but there are people who are suffering because of this drug. It is my goal to see that anybody who is taking this drug be made completely aware of what this drug is doing to their minds and bodies. Depression and anxiety are terrible, terrible diseases to have to live with day-in and day-out. I don’t think that those of us who have had to live through this and are having to continue to live with it now need a drug on the market whose side effects have not been fully disclosed by the company that makes it. Especially when, the condition of the majority of people who take it, seems to be inflamed by the effexor, not to mention the debilitating physical side effects of the drug.
>
>
> Hi Leo. Sorry you have had such a bad experience with FXR. I have been taking FXR XR @225 mg for about a year. I have tried alot of AD's. FXR is the first to offer any relief from my depression & anxiety. For me it has truly been a life saver. But as we all know your mileage may vary. No I do not work for any drug companies. I am an electrical engineer. There have been many drugs throughout history that have done a great deal of good for some & have harmed others. I agree that everyone should be made aware of potential risks of any med & I also believe it is a consumers responsibility to diligently check available info. My concern is that someone who potentially might be helped from FXR won't even consider the drug after reading your post. I know you are posting with the best intentions. I do believe you had a terrible experience involving FXR & you feel compelled to warn others. Maybe FXR should not be a first line AD. I don't know. What I do know is there are people like myself that were helped by FXR when all other meds failed. If I had seen your post before being offered FXR I might never have tried it. Please remeber as committed as you are to discouraging FXR's use, this also carries the responsibility of potentially depriving someone who is in a vulnerable frame of mind from exactly the right medication. Thanx for your attention.Hi "Electrical Engineer" upset about Leo's comments,
I am sorry you're so naive that you think just because a drug is helping you that is should not be discouraged due to the horrendous side effects. It too helped me a great deal, but when coming off of it, I would rather be depressed (and yes..my depression was severe). You talk about discouraging a potential user in a fragile state, Wow.... guess who also was one of those "FRAGILE" people who wasn't told about the withdrawals. You talk about the consumer's responsiblity to check it out before consuming, you obviously didn't! "Fragile state" usually does not coinside with doing alot of research. It you are that okay you probably aren't that depressed.
I hope everyone who doesn't have "COMPLETE" knowledge and disclosure regarding the side effects from this drug to definitely "NOT" take it.
I have been off of it for 5 days (after weaning down below 37.5 for 2 months). Slow enough for you? I have been in bed every since. I am so scared that I pulled myself up out of bed this morning do that research I couldn't do before and here I am hearing the same exact thing from 100's.
I am so dizzy that I cannot stand up or sit up for more than a few minutes before the world starts spinning. My nausea is so bad that I cannot eat, yet I have gained 8 lbs in the last 5 days. Explain that one. Joint pain, (healthy as a horse prior to this med) headaches (had maybe 5 headaches in my whole life prior to Effexor), flu symptoms, sleeplessness, I can't speak well, my words come out jumbled, (and I am a speaker in a 6 figure position myself, or was) it is crazy.
My opinion is exactly the same as Leo's, only customized for me. Can you spend the rest of your life in bed or on the couch should you attempt to stop taking Effexor? I strongly suggest you stay on it forever....or... if you don't believe us try going off for a few days.
Who knows how long it will last? Do you? Who is going to pay my bills, my mortgage, who will be a wife to my husband. Better yet who will give me back my life? I have many years left to live and I want to be healthy.
What more do you want to hear? You are the type of person who allows this kind of thing to go on in this society, a little selfish maybe? Open your eyes before it's too late.
Leo, let me know where you go with this media wise or even class action. I am there. I am angry.
PG
Posted by Pamela on March 24, 2001, at 12:45:36
In reply to Re: lots of success - gaining weight, posted by Frank on March 5, 2001, at 11:45:24
> I saw many posts said taking Effexor can gain weight.
> Has anyone lost weight while taking effexor? I have
> been on effexor 75mg for about one month and I
> lost about 6 lb since I took effexor. Thanks! Frank
>
> > Has anyone solved/reduced the problem of gaining weight from EFFEXOR?
> >
> > Thanks for any input! MaxYes Max, I too lost 7 lbs the first months of Effexor and I have since gained 28. i am off for 5 days and it is the worst nightmare I could have ever encountered. Good luck and God Bless
PG
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