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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by Katia on February 10, 2003, at 14:29:03
In reply to Re: getting a little worried here...., posted by supersleepy on February 7, 2003, at 8:24:52
Anybody's sharing of their experience with withdrawing from Effexor would be greatly appreciated. More specificly, POSITIVE news, on YES, the withdrawals do end, but HOW LONG? I did all the right tapering from 150mg dropping 37.5mgs per week til now my third day off completely and I can barely make any movements without feeling like I'll have a heart attack and without the electrical impluses shooting through my body, mainly my hands. I would appreciate some input as to how long this takes. I took 37.5 today and will do every two days now. Maybe that'll help. I really prefer depression over this hell.
thanks.
Katia
Posted by John Doe on February 10, 2003, at 14:34:43
In reply to Thanks John Doe...Re Effexor Withdrawl, posted by jennygump on February 10, 2003, at 14:14:54
> am going to go home at lunch and take 37.5 and then do the every other day think for at least a week, then every third day...blah blah blah.
>
> This stuff is evil.It sounds like you are doing this on your own. I told my M.D. how I was skipping days to get off of it and she highly advised against it. By doing that she said that I was just intensifying the side effects without getting any benefit of the drug. I would highly recommend that you get medical advice on the best way for you to get off of the drug.
Posted by Lynnads on February 10, 2003, at 15:02:54
In reply to Re: Going off, have some questions........ Please Help, posted by jennygump on February 10, 2003, at 13:41:07
> anyone have any DEFINATE timeframe about how long the HELL of withdrawl from Effexor last?
Give it about a week after you are completely off. I just finished my "week" and I feel about 95% better now. I didn't think it would ever end! I found the first 3-4 days after completely being off of it were the worst. So hang in there!!!
Posted by jennygump on February 10, 2003, at 17:00:40
In reply to Re: Going off, have some questions........ Please Help » jennygump, posted by Lynnads on February 10, 2003, at 15:02:54
Finally, an answer.
i think i can last a week.
it's been 3 days now...
thanks for the hope.jenny
Posted by keroppi on February 10, 2003, at 20:43:06
In reply to Re: Effexor vs Prozac/constipation, posted by supersleepy on February 10, 2003, at 8:03:47
> Re: Keroppi's post about constipation on Effexor--I, too, was plagued by this problem for about three months. I dealth with it the best I could with lots of prunes and other high fiber delights. But, here I am at about the 7 month mark, and those symptoms have subsided, without any particular diet. I'm finding that as my body is exposed to this drug over time, the side-effects do not remain constant. Terrible constipation for a few months, now not a problem. Pretty alert at first, and recently very sleepy. I also wonder how much I'm inclined to attribute every physical symptom to the drug--and I'm definitely more hyper-aware of what my body is up to. Anyway, don't assume that constipation--or any other symptoms, for that matter--is a permanent side-effect of the drug.
I tried eating tons of fiber, with no results. But eventually when I was able to go to the bathroom, it was like giving birth!!!! So I am going to wean off effexor and go back on prozac. I had no side effects on prozac except sleepiness, and I'd much rather have that than all the different side effects I've had while on effexor. This is my 4th day coming off of effexor, and no withdrawel so far...I'm crossing my fingers!
Posted by lostsailor on February 10, 2003, at 22:39:01
In reply to Re: Effexor vs Prozac/constipation, posted by keroppi on February 10, 2003, at 20:43:06
i see so much about this stuff. Do I have the only doc that does things totally gradually. there are doses as low as 37.5 mg of this pill and when "it is time" you can half that in a solution and than again....its like anything do you really talk and ween and talk to about all this to doc. if mine heard he would just keep min a dose...you're not 'hooked"...sorry maybe 'mad" message....~tony
Posted by geoff on February 12, 2003, at 12:13:37
In reply to Effexor Withdrawal Highly Overrated, posted by juanantoniod on February 8, 2003, at 22:11:31
I recently switched from Effexor to Welbutrin. Had no problems with withdrawal. The Dr. Had me ramp down. I switched due to sexual side effects. That was the only side effect I had, otherwise the Effexor was working great. Wish I could say the same for the Welbutrin.
Posted by KayC on February 13, 2003, at 12:47:10
In reply to Anyone had success on Effexor XR? , posted by jp on October 24, 1999, at 14:59:14
All,
I started weaning myself off Effexor (75mg) on Jan 29th. I began by taking a capsule every other day instead of everyday. Then I began removing the pellets from inside the capsule (following the advice from Maisy who posts on this site), a few at first and then more and more (still taking it every other day). I am on my 3rd Effexor-free day. Zero fatigue, no headaches. The only adverse effects: My eyes aren't catching up with my head or vice versa, and I'm still dreaming crazy dreams. Otherwise I feel fine. I was only on Effexor for about 2 months so this might help when weaning. But for all of you trying to get off it, I did it real slow and I didn't need to go to the 37.5mg dosage. Good luck!
Posted by keroppi on February 13, 2003, at 17:20:10
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawal Highly Overrated, posted by geoff on February 12, 2003, at 12:13:37
this is my 7th day weaning off...i was at 225 at my highest, then went to 150 for 4 days, now this is my 3rd day at 75. no withdrawal so far. I will go one more day at 75, then take it every other day, and then mix in prozac with it. I'll let y'all know how it turns out!
Posted by gabbix2 on February 13, 2003, at 21:19:36
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawal Highly Overrated, posted by geoff on February 12, 2003, at 12:13:37
Its great that you had no problem Geoff, but brain chemistry is highly individual, the same reason some medications work for some and not for others. I had a hellish time with Effexor withdrawl, and have had no trouble with other medications people have had an awful time with.
It certainly doesn't mean I'm going to deny the awful experience of others on those same medications. People are different,its that simple and generalizations never get you very far.
Posted by keroppi on February 13, 2003, at 21:31:42
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawal Highly Overrated, posted by gabbix2 on February 13, 2003, at 21:19:36
> Its great that you had no problem Geoff, but brain chemistry is highly individual, the same reason some medications work for some and not for others. I had a hellish time with Effexor withdrawl, and have had no trouble with other medications people have had an awful time with.
> It certainly doesn't mean I'm going to deny the awful experience of others on those same medications. People are different,its that simple and generalizations never get you very far.
wow, why so defensive? i don't think geoff was denying others' experiences OR generalizing. he was just relating his experience, which is what we're all doing. no reason to get so upset.
Posted by daizy on February 14, 2003, at 6:39:49
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawal Highly Overrated, posted by gabbix2 on February 13, 2003, at 21:19:36
Posted by japonica on February 14, 2003, at 10:41:54
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawal Highly Overrated, posted by gabbix2 on February 13, 2003, at 21:19:36
> Its great that you had no problem Geoff, but brain chemistry is highly individual, the same reason some medications work for some and not for others...
>... People are different,its that simple and generalizations never get you very far.Did I miss something in geoff's post indicating generalizations or questioning of another's sincerity regarding withdrawal effects? It sounded to me like nothing more than the relating of a personal experience.
I'm confused as to why gabbix2's post conveys such hostility. Any enlightenment would be helpful.
japonica
Posted by glenn on February 14, 2003, at 11:44:53
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawal Highly Overrated, posted by keroppi on February 13, 2003, at 17:20:10
Hold on here folks! I detected neither hostility in gabbix's post nor devaluation of others in the original post, now is that just me? or are there some free floating hostile feelings going around?
Glenn
Posted by Dr. Bob on February 14, 2003, at 14:07:57
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawal Highly Overrated, posted by glenn on February 14, 2003, at 11:44:53
Posted by Tina P on February 14, 2003, at 21:31:39
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawal Highly Overrated, posted by glenn on February 14, 2003, at 11:44:53
seems to me like you should all be on medication or something.....
Posted by tlang on February 15, 2003, at 9:15:30
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawal Highly Overrated, posted by glenn on February 14, 2003, at 11:44:53
well folks...I decided not to go on the Effexor. I am very fortunate only have to treat the ADD and no depression. Thank you all for taking the time to post your comments. They were truly helpful in my decision. I plan to seek additional help with the ADD and see if I can get something prescribed that is not quite as harsh with the side effects and withdrawals. I wish you all the best of luck!
Thanks again.
Posted by Dr. Bob on February 15, 2003, at 15:43:34
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawal Highly Overrated, posted by Tina P on February 14, 2003, at 21:31:39
> seems to me like you should all be on medication or something.....
Please be sensitive to the feelings of others and don't post anything that could lead them to feel accused or put down, thanks.
Bob
PS: Follow-ups regarding posting policies, and complaints about posts, should be redirected to Psycho-Babble Administration.
Posted by Tina P on February 15, 2003, at 19:19:42
In reply to Re: please be civil » Tina P, posted by Dr. Bob on February 15, 2003, at 15:43:34
So sorry everyone! I was attempting to add a little humor to our posts. I too am on medication, which is why I'm here with all of you, so please, no offense meant by the comment.
Posted by Daffy on February 15, 2003, at 21:23:16
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawal Highly Overrated, posted by geoff on February 12, 2003, at 12:13:37
> I recently switched from Effexor to Welbutrin. Had no problems with withdrawal. The Dr. Had me ramp down. I switched due to sexual side effects. That was the only side effect I had, otherwise the Effexor was working great. Wish I could say the same for the Welbutrin.
I tried Wellbutrin with no luck. I had lost my Pharmacare without notice and ended up quiting the Wellbutrin abruptly - talk about withdrawal...I got these "cluster headaches", which felt like a sledgehammer was being used to bash it's way out of my head. I would be woken up in the middle of the night with these headaches...talk of pain - OUCH !!
Posted by keroppi on February 15, 2003, at 23:30:29
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawal Geoff , Keroppi » japonica, posted by gabbix2 on February 15, 2003, at 20:14:03
ok, we forgive you, gabbix.....I should speak for myself. I bet Geoff doesn't even care. But thanks for clarifying. Well, as far as my tapering, today was the first day I didn't take a pill (I took a 75 mg yesterday), and nothing still, except easier pooping!!! :) which is very welcomed! Hopefully this will last.
Posted by gabbix2 on February 16, 2003, at 9:20:40
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawal Geoff , Keroppi, posted by keroppi on February 15, 2003, at 23:30:29
Posted by Tina P on February 16, 2003, at 9:26:06
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawal Geoff , Keroppi, posted by keroppi on February 15, 2003, at 23:30:29
People tell me please...
I am a sufferer of clinical depression, and I have found that anti-depressant drugs relieve my misery miraculously. I would never, EVER want to stop taking my Effexor and go back to the sadness I was living with. So, why are so many of you doing this, and struggling with these awful side affects? I guess I have no concept of why anyone would want to stop taking this drug when it is so helpful to me and has improved my quality of life so much. Would some of you please share your scenarios with me so I have a better understanding, and perhaps I can be better prepared for the possibilty of having to give up this drug in my future? So far, the only withdawl I've had to deal with was switching from Paxil to Effexor XL, and that was because the Paxil was causing weight gain. (I would have avoided the Paxil altogether, but it's the only drug my doc could offer me during my pregnancy). After the baby was born, I made the switch, and it wasn't too difficult. But to give up my medication completely and go through withdrawls like those I'm reading about in your posts, I would never attempt it!!!!! I hated the way I felt before taking my meds anyway! Any input for me?
Posted by daizy on February 16, 2003, at 11:43:58
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawal Geoff , Keroppi, posted by Tina P on February 16, 2003, at 9:26:06
> People tell me please...
> I am a sufferer of clinical depression, and I have found that anti-depressant drugs relieve my misery miraculously. I would never, EVER want to stop taking my Effexor and go back to the sadness I was living with. So, why are so many of you doing this, and struggling with these awful side affects? I guess I have no concept of why anyone would want to stop taking this drug when it is so helpful to me and has improved my quality of life so much. Would some of you please share your scenarios with me so I have a better understanding, and perhaps I can be better prepared for the possibilty of having to give up this drug in my future? So far, the only withdawl I've had to deal with was switching from Paxil to Effexor XL, and that was because the Paxil was causing weight gain. (I would have avoided the Paxil altogether, but it's the only drug my doc could offer me during my pregnancy). After the baby was born, I made the switch, and it wasn't too difficult. But to give up my medication completely and go through withdrawls like those I'm reading about in your posts, I would never attempt it!!!!! I hated the way I felt before taking my meds anyway! Any input for me?Hi Tina P
I had to come off Effexor because it was causing Heart Palputations, which if you've had them will know they are really scary. Im glad because it wasnt working for me anyway, although like you, I know people with clinical depression who it has worked for. The withdrawal in my experience, was really bad, I had constant headache and shocks, it made me feel sick and dizzy, horrible really for about two weeks.When my doctor started me on AD's he said that when I feel better, and have been for a constant of six months/year it would be ok for me to come off them. However I havnt yet found a med that works for me, and I havnt been properly diagnosed yet. Has your doctor told you that you will need them permanently? Its great that you have found a med that works for you, hope that it stays that way and you dont need to stop. In the future if you do have to come off them for whatever reason, you might not experience withdrawal symptoms, it varies from person to person(as you can see!)
Posted by keroppi on February 16, 2003, at 14:34:04
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawal Geoff , Keroppi, posted by daizy on February 16, 2003, at 11:43:58
> > People tell me please...
> > I am a sufferer of clinical depression, and I have found that anti-depressant drugs relieve my misery miraculously. I would never, EVER want to stop taking my Effexor and go back to the sadness I was living with. So, why are so many of you doing this, and struggling with these awful side affects? I guess I have no concept of why anyone would want to stop taking this drug when it is so helpful to me and has improved my quality of life so much. Would some of you please share your scenarios with me so I have a better understanding, and perhaps I can be better prepared for the possibilty of having to give up this drug in my future? So far, the only withdawl I've had to deal with was switching from Paxil to Effexor XL, and that was because the Paxil was causing weight gain. (I would have avoided the Paxil altogether, but it's the only drug my doc could offer me during my pregnancy). After the baby was born, I made the switch, and it wasn't too difficult. But to give up my medication completely and go through withdrawls like those I'm reading about in your posts, I would never attempt it!!!!! I hated the way I felt before taking my meds anyway! Any input for me?
>
> Hi Tina P
> I had to come off Effexor because it was causing Heart Palputations, which if you've had them will know they are really scary. Im glad because it wasnt working for me anyway, although like you, I know people with clinical depression who it has worked for. The withdrawal in my experience, was really bad, I had constant headache and shocks, it made me feel sick and dizzy, horrible really for about two weeks.
>
> When my doctor started me on AD's he said that when I feel better, and have been for a constant of six months/year it would be ok for me to come off them. However I havnt yet found a med that works for me, and I havnt been properly diagnosed yet. Has your doctor told you that you will need them permanently? Its great that you have found a med that works for you, hope that it stays that way and you dont need to stop. In the future if you do have to come off them for whatever reason, you might not experience withdrawal symptoms, it varies from person to person(as you can see!)
Hi Tina,Like Daizy, I was having very strong, irregular, scary heart palpitations. I suspected that it might have been from Effexor, but now that Daizy's confirmed it (and I've seen 2 other posts on a different message board that confirms it), I KNOW it was definitely caused by Effexor. However, the main side effect that caused me to want to go off was REALLY bad constipation....I don't know if you read my first post, but I said that from the very first day (3 months ago) I took Effexor, I was constipated. Would only be able to poop every 3-4 days, and I felt SOOOO bloated all the time. When I did poop, it was 3-4 days worth in one hard, thick, long poop, so it was like giving birth. Which caused the toilet to get clogged. And I live w/ my sister......she got so sick of having a clogged toilet all the time. So after 3 months of that, I decided it wasn't worth it. The E did help with my anxiety, though, but I just never felt right on it. So I made the decision to taper off and go back on Prozac. I started tapering last week from 225, to 150 for 4 days, then 75 for 4 days, then 75 every other day. Up until the 75 every other day, I had no withdrawal, except easier pooping. However, now that I'm doing one day on and one day off, I'm having those electrical brain shocks that everyone's been talking about. And diarrhea. But....I'd already experienced the brain shocks WHILE I was on Paxil a couple years ago. That was a side effect of Paxil. Didn't bother me too much though. And I'd much rather have diarrhea than constipation.
I'm glad that Effexor is relieving you of your depression.....it's been a godsend for friends of mine, too. So just because it didn't work for us, you should continue on it, because it works for you. Hope you continue to do well!
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