Psycho-Babble Medication Thread 438006

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Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor » dancingstar

Posted by not2late4u on January 9, 2005, at 19:38:30

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor, posted by dancingstar on January 9, 2005, at 19:33:42

Bebe, you mentioned your first experience with anxiety? That is my specialty! (haha, unfortunately!).....I'm open to listening if you wish to share. Renee

 

Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor » not2late4u

Posted by FaithT on January 9, 2005, at 20:02:44

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor » dancingstar, posted by not2late4u on January 9, 2005, at 19:38:30

Dear Renee~
If there is anything at all that I can do to help you through this, just say the word. The most important thing, is to have good communication with your psych. as you get down to the very end. As you said, you can take an Effexor, every other day if you need to, if you start to feel funky.
For me it was like a weird kind of feeling, but as I said, it passed. You know what to expect going in, so that's good. I think I told you that if you have trouble sleeping, Melatonin supps. worked well for me..along with benydryl.
I truly wish you the very best of luck through this.
Many hugs, Faith~

 

Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor » not2late4u

Posted by dancingstar on January 9, 2005, at 20:16:23

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor » dancingstar, posted by not2late4u on January 9, 2005, at 19:38:30

Thanks, Renee. I'm just off for a run in the rain. I've gotten nothing done, and I'm moving in a couple of weeks.

I don't mean to endlessly complain about this, but honestly, since I stopped taking Effexor, my whole nervous system has been a little whacky.

It's happened two times kind of badly, once when I was a Christmas party with old friends and once when the guy that helps run my office wanted to go deliver the gifts that I always bring to clients and secretaries. I'm usually relatively calm, but now anytime that any adrenaline gets going or if I get around too many people, my system seems to malfunction and I can't catch my breath properly.

I own a small business and also was teaching things like spinning and cardio-kickbox at the gym and personal training for fun until I got to be really, really tired and in some strange pain that knocked me down about two and a half years ago -- two years ago I quit teaching completely cause I was too tired. But I never had this "can't catch my breath" kind of feeling until recently. It makes me want to stay home.

I should have known better than to take Effexor. My friend's brother is a family practice doctor, and I saw it in his office when I was there cause of a back injury. When I asked him what it was for, he told me that it gave people energy and made them happy. That sounded good to me. I asked if there were any side effects, and he said that there were some sexual side effects, but that I didn't have to worry about them that they probably didn't apply to me. I mention this to you only to tell you that I wasn't taking it for anxiety or anything...just for "energy." Great, huh?

I appreciate any non-drug help that you have to offer cause I am afraid that my body doesn't do well with drugs, and really don't want to take them. This time I will take full responsibility :-)

Thanks!

 

Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor » not2late4u

Posted by dancingstar on January 9, 2005, at 20:24:01

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor » dancingstar, posted by not2late4u on January 9, 2005, at 19:38:30

If you feel really icky and need suggestions for food and stuff, though I hope you don't need that, you know who to ask ;-)....

-Bebe

 

Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor » FaithT

Posted by not2late4u on January 10, 2005, at 0:45:54

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor » not2late4u, posted by FaithT on January 9, 2005, at 20:02:44

Thank you Faith, I was hoping you'd find this thread. I have an appt with my psych next tuesday for a follow up on my tapering. Sounds like we both have good psychs. He told me about melatonin as well. Cant take benedryl, too sensitive, but I have Klonopin for when I need help sleeping. I feel better today, less emotionally unstable. Less brain shocks or whatever they are :) Even feeling like my sex drive is starting to improve. Thanks for your support! Renee

 

Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor » dancingstar

Posted by not2late4u on January 10, 2005, at 1:00:51

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor » not2late4u, posted by dancingstar on January 9, 2005, at 20:16:23

Hi Bebe,

There are sooo many symptoms of anxiety and like everything else, everyone gets some or all or a combination of those symptoms. Are there any other anxiety symptoms like racing heart or lightheaded?

Supps that I've researched to take for anxiety/nervous system= MAGNESIUM, calcium, b vitamins, potassium and amino acids. These seem to come up everywhere I look for the natural way to help the nervous system. Sounds like you're a fitness gal, you probably know that you still need to be careful of the supplements, too much of a good thing can be bad. And still need to watch out if you take other meds/supps for assimulation and combining. Im about to order a supplement I heard great things about from the pain and stress center, will get contact info posted later. May want to visit bcalmd website for information too. I did read that you dont want to take too much glutamine. Anyways thats not the product I am choosing to supplement with at this time. But its a great informational site for anxiety, depression, add/adhd etc. Hope this helps and thanks for sharing. God bless, Renee

 

Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor » not2late4u

Posted by FaithT on January 10, 2005, at 5:48:01

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor » FaithT, posted by not2late4u on January 10, 2005, at 0:45:54

Dear Renee~
I'm so glad that things seem to be heading in the right direction for you. The Klonopin should definately help with any insomnia...It does sound like you have a really good, supportive Dr.
You'll get through this honey...Let me know if there's any advice I can offer.
Hugs, Faith~

 

Redirect: supps

Posted by Dr. Bob on January 11, 2005, at 0:27:16

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor » dancingstar, posted by not2late4u on January 10, 2005, at 1:00:51

> Supps that I've researched to take for anxiety/nervous system= MAGNESIUM, calcium, b vitamins, potassium and amino acids...

Sorry to interrupt, but I'd like to redirect follow-ups regarding supps to Psycho-Babble Alternative. Here's a link:

http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/alter/20050101/msgs/440472.html

Thanks,

Bob

 

Re: Redirect: supps » Dr. Bob

Posted by not2late4u on January 11, 2005, at 2:11:40

In reply to Redirect: supps, posted by Dr. Bob on January 11, 2005, at 0:27:16

Thanks Bob!

 

Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor

Posted by cathead69 on January 12, 2005, at 23:24:52

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor, posted by not2late4u on January 9, 2005, at 19:22:05

my mom has had similar problrms

 

Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update

Posted by not2late4u on January 13, 2005, at 2:09:37

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor » not2late4u, posted by FaithT on January 10, 2005, at 5:48:01

Day 15 = 37.5 (Saturday 1-8-05)
Day 16 = 37.5
Day 17 = 37.5 – Took 1 Klonopin – I think, cant remember!
Day 18 = 37.5
Day 19 = 37.5 - staying on this dose until end of January due to ski trip. But I am tempted to take it every other day. But I know I need to wait until I can stay home if needed. I am feeling fine. The “brain zaps” are getting less and less intense and less frequent, as is the irritability and short temper. So, my body is adjusting at its own pace. Real test will be when Im off completely! Cant wait!

I will say this: I have been able to exert myself physically without getting a migraine! This is soooo fantastic, because I had a hard time working out or skiing or exerting myself in almost any way and I didn’t know it was the Effexor that was causing them. Also, sweating is much less. Not wanting to get out of bed in the morning and wanting to sleep 10++ hours is slowly improving. Sex drive is slowly improving.

I have to wonder if I was already prone to migraines and sleeping, if the Effexor didn’t augment those tendencies??? Anyone else see that kind of pattern in their experience? If it’s a side effect of medication and I am prone to those things anyways, it must augment them….it makes sense, doesn’t it? Renee.

 

Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update » not2late4u

Posted by corafree on January 13, 2005, at 9:59:57

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update, posted by not2late4u on January 13, 2005, at 2:09:37

Yep, makes a lot of sense. You're doing fantastic. cf

 

Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update » not2late4u

Posted by dancingstar on January 13, 2005, at 23:42:00

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update, posted by not2late4u on January 13, 2005, at 2:09:37

Renee,

I am glad that you are feeling a little better. I am clear about why some, like those with cancer, are willing to accept the side effects of Effexor, but I would like to understand why others without debilitating illnesses or severe depression feel that side effects like fatigue, sweating, weight gain, and difficult withdrawal are acceptable.

If you don't want to, you don't have to answer here. If you begin to feel better, and you are willing to, maybe you can either post it somewhere on this site or send me an email to help me to better understand.

Thanks very much,
Bebe0217@aol.com

 

Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update » dancingstar

Posted by not2late4u on January 14, 2005, at 0:06:03

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update » not2late4u, posted by dancingstar on January 13, 2005, at 23:42:00

HI Bebe,

I had suffered off and on since I was 18 yrs old from anxiety/panic attacks. I am now 37. About 6 years ago I had a major anxiety episode with heart palpitations and heart racing etc. I was able to move through it over time with natural alternatives, vitamins etc. Then about 4 years ago, (I had about 4-5 major stressors happen in about 2 month period of time) I had a SEVERE major anxiety episode that I tried for about 7-8 months to move beyond and wasnt able to with the natural alternative pathways as I was able to previously, but this one was far worse in so many different ways. I was seeing so many doctors for so many symptoms and no relief. (the anxiety was CONSTANT 24/7 then I'd have panic attacks on top of the constant state of anxiety, it was my own personal hell.) I look back and I see that the ONLY way I was able to get up, go to work and come to home to sleep and NOT get fired for falling asleep in my car a few times) is God, He was carrying me and I didnt even know it at the time. Finally gave in to taking Paxil, (which really gave me the same side effects that effexor did). It eliviated the anxiety but then I was left with depression and alot of weight gain. Finally had a doctor listen to me and was switched to Effexor. That addressed the depression for me. The temporary trade off of side effects for me was worth the relief I got physically and mentally so I could function and get myself to a place where I could (hopefully) be anxiety/depression free. Now, I need to "recover" from the weight gain and my sleeping pattern. There really are so much more details in the anxiety episode, but I think I answered your question? I hope this helps, I dont mind answering because I hope this will help someone. :) Renee. p.s not feeling the best today, took a Klonopin.

 

Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update » not2late4u

Posted by dancingstar on January 14, 2005, at 0:11:31

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update » dancingstar, posted by not2late4u on January 14, 2005, at 0:06:03

Thanks for the answer. It does help. I hope you feel better.

I guess it is one of those cases where you went into it with your eyes open, but it still bites!
Hope it's over soon! Wish I knew something to make it better....

 

Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update 1-19-05

Posted by not2late4u on January 20, 2005, at 1:26:04

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update » not2late4u, posted by dancingstar on January 14, 2005, at 0:11:31

Day 20 (Thursday 1-13-05 ) through Day 25 = 37.5mg

The biggest thing I notice is that I am more easily frustrated, irritable and emotional at times (more than my norm) Saw my psych yesterday to check in. All is well.

Day 26 Wednesday 1-19-05 = 0 mg
I forgot to take my 37.5 pill this morning, I figured that out when I started to get more “brain zaps” and frustrated, irritable and emotional in the early evening. We postponed our ski trip (not enough snow!) so, I might as well go with the skipping that dose and go for it. We’ll see how tomorrow goes, my psych said I can take one every other day if needed, which is what I may do, I don’t know yet. I have been eating like there’s no tomorrow, don’t know if that’s a part of this withdraw or not. Could just be me. I am a bit nervous to be at this point, since hearing all the “hell” stories, but Im gonna do it. Others have and survived, I can too! I’ll take all prayers for an easy transition. God bless you all. Renee

 

Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update 1--22-05

Posted by not2late4u on January 22, 2005, at 16:00:57

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update 1-19-05, posted by not2late4u on January 20, 2005, at 1:26:04

Day 27 –Thursday 1-20-05 = Today was day 2 of no Effexor, around 3pm it hit me kinda hard. I became VERY nervous, probably a panic attack like symptom (which is why I was on medication in the first place). I was confused, couldn’t focus well, vision a bit more blurry than normal, brain zaps increased, light headed, stomach slightly nauseated (sp?) loss of appetite, severe feeling of wanting to cry at any second over nothing, very welled up with emotion that was coming from nowhere. Called my doc, said to take a klonopin and an effexor 37.5 mg. I did and felt better within the hour. Guess I need to take one every other day instead of just stopping it at this ending point.

Day 28 – Friday - didn’t take an effexor today, did fine, same symptoms mentioned from day 26. took a klonopin in evening.

Day 29 – Saturday – Took 37.5mg Effexor, went to gym and exercised for 33 mintues. Didn’t push myself hard. Feeling same as day 20-25. husband has been doing pretty good in supporting me with the come & go irritability. Thank God! Renee

 

Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update 1--22-05 » not2late4u

Posted by corafree on January 23, 2005, at 12:47:09

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update 1--22-05, posted by not2late4u on January 22, 2005, at 16:00:57

Hi Renee. I am not yet getting off Eff-XR, but am noticing that I may have built up a tolerance to my dosage, as the bad feelings you describe in post, come close to how I feel, if I miss a dose by two or three hours. It feels awful. I've made commitments for the day, and now I'm too shaky to do anything. Took 150mg hour ago; but usually would have taken that dosage 3-4 hrs. earlier. Boy, the withdrawal comes fast. Hang in there ... it must be awfully hard. cf

 

Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update 1--22-05 » corafree

Posted by not2late4u on January 23, 2005, at 13:23:04

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update 1--22-05 » not2late4u, posted by corafree on January 23, 2005, at 12:47:09

Hi Corafree,
when I missed a dose, I couldnt tell for a few hours, like maybe 5-6 hours. Sounds like it hits you much sooner. The good news is, when/if you are ready to come off, you'll be taking a smaller dose so its not nearly as bad as missing a complete dose. Gosh, I hope you feel better soon, did you post of the other thread about anxiety and anniversary of your dads death? Renee

 

Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update 1--22-05 » not2late4u

Posted by corafree on January 23, 2005, at 14:06:05

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update 1--22-05 » corafree, posted by not2late4u on January 23, 2005, at 13:23:04

Yes, posted about anxiety when missing dose on other site titled Re: Anyone had success on Effexor-XR, but don't know where it went for sure, as Dancing Star had just changed name of thread to something like - maybe we better rethink the Benadryl; as she'd found site linking heart probs to combining Benadryl/antihistamines with Effexor-XR. I asked a pretty stupid '?' ... what is Effexor-XR, an SNRI OR SRNI? Can you tell me what the proper class title is for Eff-XR Renee? cf

 

Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update 1--22-05 » corafree

Posted by not2late4u on January 24, 2005, at 0:50:00

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update 1--22-05 » not2late4u, posted by corafree on January 23, 2005, at 14:06:05

Hi CF, not Im not sure of the technical category of Effexor. Ya know, I was over at my moms house and was looking at a medical pill book she has, published date was 1995, and it lists the kinds of side effects and cautions and withdraw cautions, etc in it. Looks like the info was there maybe not everywhere, but it was out there, 9-10 years ago it was published! You keep your head up, pray & trust God, and you'll be ok. I believe strongly in medication mixed with counseling not just taking medication. I hope you are getting that kind of support too. God Bless, Renee.

 

Effexor Withdraw, Tapering Off - CAN BE DONE

Posted by not2late4u on January 24, 2005, at 1:02:13

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update 1--22-05 » corafree, posted by not2late4u on January 24, 2005, at 0:50:00

Day 30 – didn’t take effexor, felt the same as day 26, but it was later in the day when I felt that way. Also, I was able to laugh like I hadn’t laughed in quite awhile today, it was great! Took 1 klonopin today. I can cry on a dime, had to change the channel watching discovery about BIG CATS and the moma cats baby died and well, told me hubby in tears, I gotta go into the other room, I cant watch it – could hardly get it out because I was ready to BALL big time, I don’t usually cry in front of him with tv shows, he said, its ok to change the channel instead of, it’s a part of nature! Anyways, Im trying to look at this with an attitude of this is temporary and I have to laugh at the fact that I am so emotional right now. That’s how I am choosing to work through this. Brain zaps right now are getting worse, ran out of klonopin so will get more tomorrow. Some times are easier than others, don’t get me wrong, but I do believe whole heartedly that God is helping me through this, because I asked Him to. The biggest test will be when I take the last one! Renee

 

Re: Effexor Withdraw, Tapering Off - CAN BE DONE » not2late4u

Posted by FaithT on January 24, 2005, at 4:01:28

In reply to Effexor Withdraw, Tapering Off - CAN BE DONE, posted by not2late4u on January 24, 2005, at 1:02:13

Renee~
Really great post!!! Good for you honey...Just take it one day at a time. Keep taking it slowly, just as you are and you are going to be just fine.
When you take the last one, let your body be your guide. Let the Klonopin help you, along with your Dr., and let me know if there is anything at all that I can do. You're doing wonderful, and I commend you for journaling this as you are, to others hope.
Many hugs, Faith~

 

Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update 1--22-05 » not2late4u

Posted by corafree on January 24, 2005, at 12:05:04

In reply to Re: Renee Tapering Off Effexor-update 1--22-05 » corafree, posted by not2late4u on January 24, 2005, at 0:50:00

Tks for your well wishes. Dancingstar answered me on that. It is an SNRI. I, like you, looked at quite a few sites to try find the class, and none really said. cf

 

Re: Effexor Withdraw, Tapering Off - update 1-25

Posted by not2late4u on January 26, 2005, at 1:55:37

In reply to Re: Effexor Withdraw, Tapering Off - CAN BE DONE » not2late4u, posted by FaithT on January 24, 2005, at 4:01:28

Day 31 - Monday 1-25-05: Took 37.5 mg effexor. Had a bad day with anger, frustration and being kind argumentative and a bit compulsive. Just a negative attitude, yes it was the withdraw. Took 2 Klonopin. Made it through. Poor husband J

Day 32 – Tuesday – no Effexor today, much better mood. Much more stable. Took 1 Klonopin later in day. Seems like the brain zaps came much, much later in the day like evening time and are less intense than when I didn’t take one. . Kind of weird though, the last 2 days without it my mood was better than when I took it. So, this must mean Im getting closer to moving down again. But will give it a few more days to make sure its time. So far all is going as well as I could have hoped. :)


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