Effexor XR and Serotonin Syndrome

[jmg72]

This is the first time I’ve posted, although I’ve read many of the discussion threads hoping to come across someone who has experienced something like what I am.  I’ve been on Effexor XR for at least a year and a half, maybe more.  For pretty much the entire time, I’ve been on 150mg (75mg in the morning, 75mg at night).  About 6 weeks ago, I started noticing that in the late afternoon, about 2 hours before the night dose, I’d get very mild “electric-shock” type feelings in the back of my head (I’ve experienced the severe version before when trying to go off of the drug).  They don’t interfere with my daily routines, but I couldn’t help thinking that it probably wasn’t a good sign.  When I’d take the evening dose of Effexor, the feeling would subside.  I finally saw my FNP last week and (as I feared), she suggested that we try increasing my dose and she gave me several “starter packs” (which include the 37.5mg capsules) so we could give that a try.

Last night, on a whim, I started reading through the info enclosed with the Effexor, hoping there might be something about long-term effects of Effexor XR (i.e., whether you can experience symptoms from being on it too long).  I came across a reference to serotonin syndrome, and after doing some research on the web, I figured I’d better ask someone how likely it is that I could have it, because I’ve been experiencing many of the symptoms described (the “electric shock” feelings, which could be described as lightheadedness, headaches that don’t respond to Advil, IBS (about 2 weeks now), occasional nausea, and, although I haven’t seen this anywhere, a stiff neck and pressure in my cheeks and behind the eyes, which could, of course, be a sinus thing and not at all related).  I’ve read that serotonin syndrome can range from mild to severe, so if I do have it, it would obviously still be a mild case.  My fear here is that if it is being caused by the Effexor, then increasing the dose is the last thing I should do.

Finally, if it is seriously unlikely that I do have serotonin syndrome, I’m still wondering whether there are negative effects caused by being on Effexor XR for too long.  Thank you very much for any information you can provide.

[Roger Gould, M.D.]

These symptoms are so hard to diagnose like this. yes it may be a serotonin effect or it may be not enough. Both could cause the same kind of symptoms.  The only way is to experiment.  In order to be perfectly safe,you might ask your doctor to experiment with lowering the dose first to see what happens.

There are no good data for very long term use, but you are certainly in the safe zone now.

[marie0895]

I have never heard of serotonin syndrome!! Really makes me wonder! i've been taking 150 mg of effexor xr for a year and half, and have had some strange side effects, much like feeling manic for about 4 hours after i take it. I get the shakes, my hands tremble and i feel so hyper sometimes i cant stand it!!! And this drug is supposed to help with depression. I dont get it. Where did you read about  serotonin syndrome? I am interested in reading about this.

[jmg72]

I initially came across serotonin syndrome under "Postmarketing Results" in the Effexor XR product insert (because I was trying to find some reference to long-term effects).  Since I hadn't heard of it either, I looked it up on the internet and found a brief description in Wikipedia and then went on to find some other articles elsewhere.  The info certainly made me nervous, which is why I posted a question -- I don't want to jump to conclusions or cause anyone else to either!  I will say, though, that I once experience symptoms like you're describing when I started Zoloft with too high of a dose...I went off of it not long after and switched to something else (don't remember what) before ending up with Effexor.

[jdtm]

When my friend suffered from Serotonin Syndrome it was because the dose was increased too quickly.  She had to endure withdrawal and then another SSRI was used.  This time the dose was kept low and increased very slowly.

[MISHI]

I WAS TAKING EFFEXOR FOR ALMOST 3 YEARS AND THOUGHT IT WASNT WORKING FOR THE LAST 3 MONTHS I GUESS I AM NOW DIAGNOSED AS BIPOLAR AND WONDER IF EFFEXOR PUT ME HERE I WAS ON 150MG MIND YOU I WAS DIAGNOSED THREE MONTHS AFTER THE BIRTH OF MY THIRD CHILD VERY HIGH STRESS I HACE THREE UNDER FIVE MAYBE YHIS IS NOT THE RIGHT PLACE TO POST THIS BUT EFFEXOR IS KNOWN TO CAUSE ANGER WHEN IT IS NOT WORKING I HAVE ALSO SUFFERED A TERRIBLE SKIN CONDITION AND HAVE NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED BUT AFTER EXTENSIVE RESEARCH I HAVE DIAGNOSED MYSELF AND HORMONES ARE A MAJOR PART IN MY PREDICAMENT GETTING SOMEONE TO BELIEVE YOU IS ANOTHER STORY ALSO HAS ANYONE THOUGHT THEY MAY HAVE A CALLING FROM THIR SPIRITUAL SIDE HEALING YOUR SOUL IS THE ONLY CURE FOR EVERYONE MEDITATION IS A GREAT HELP ANYWAY I PROBABLY SOUND LIKE A CRACKPOT BUT I WONDER HOW MANY PEOPLE GET DIAGNOSED WITH DEPPRSSION AND BIPOLAR WHO ARE REALLY GETTING THEIR CALLING WHICH IF DENIED THEY WILL NEVER GET BETER? WHY ELSE WOULD THE MENTALLY DISTURBED BE AFFECTED BY THE MOON SO MUCH THEY ARE SPIRITUALLY GUIDED THEY JUST DONT KNOW IT.

[Carrie L]

After having been on Welbutrin for a year for depression and having decent results a HMFNP, Mental Health Family Nurse Practioner , and I decided to try some other meds to treat my newly diagnosed ADD. I play the piano each day for about 1 hour and this is the best place for me to see if I am in balance. We 1st tried Zoloft, which worked well for 2 days and then my music notes appeared to stack on top of each other. We also tried a Welbutrin, Adderall (adderrall), Lexapro combo I thought might work. Even though it makes me wide awake late at night, I was now able to get up easily in the morning ( otherwise it is a struggle). After 3 months it dawns on me bruising on my thighs and arms have been appearing since I started these drugs.  My MHFNP informed me I must stop the Lexapro as this sometimes happens.  Then the Welbutrin Adderal combo (now w/o Lexapro) made me so aggitated, my kids were saying mommy your mean.
So I stopped all those meds and my MHFNP suggested I start Effexor XR at 37.5 mg 1st week and 75 mg 2nd week and to return to see how things were going.After 2 weeks I'm back in her office saying I have painful bloating and gas, drowsiness and shortness of breath. She asked me when the shortness of breath started and I advised her that it started when I started the Effexor XR. She checked her palm pilot for side effects and said there was not data showing shortness of breath as a side effect and ended up sending me home with a prescription for Effexor XR 150mg.  I went home and typed in EFFEXOR and shortness of breath and thank God I did because there were many sites addressing this issue. I called my MHFNP back on Friday to try and advise her I saw this on the internet. I was unable to speak with her Friday but based on the information I saw online I did not take the Effexor 150mg. I've been off the Effexor for almost 1 week now and my shortness of breath is not completely gone and I have been having that mild electric-shock feeling others are describing. I describe and compare it to an old TV with static going accross it, like after the stations have signed off. It has also been difficult to drive.  I have to really concentrate when driving as it is still affecting my reaction time and focus. I was so concerned that something might happen to me that I made my 5 !/2 year old memorize our home phone number and taught him how to dial our number on my cell phone. That static feel makes me feel like I might not make it to finish daily errands like grocery shopping. I told my son, now if you see mommy laying on the ground and can't talk to you and looks like she needs help while she's grocery shopping I want you to call daddy.  This is after the starter doses and 2 weeks!!!  I'm glad I didn't increase my dose! Oh to boot, my HMFNP calles her Effexor drug rep about my case and her rep tells her no one has reported shortness of breath and that the are going to report mine and that it will be the first one reported.Hmm what is wrong with this? It's all over the internet. Also, why doesn't the Effexor information paper in the Effexor sample box address shortness of breath as a side effect? They say it's an allergy? Not! It's a side effect, just like the static tv feeling that perpetuates on and off throughout the day now. Has anyone had this feeling and then had it stop after 1 week?

[sandratarium]

I've just stopped taking Effexor XR 7 days ago....and it's been the worst seven days of my life. I started off taking 150mg for about 2 years and have been tapering off the last couple of months, down to 75mg, 37.5mg, then cold turkey.
I am so mad at my shrink for not ever informing me of the horrible side effects I was someday going to face. I have been experiencing nausea, vomiting, uncontrollable crying, body sweats, hot/cold spells, severe headaches, diahrrea, mood swings, body aches and my hands and feet turned bright red and itch like a mother...and that's just what I can name off the top of my head. Which still is not all there. I can barely focus enough to come to work and driving is extremely scary. I don't know whether I'm coming or going. Please, if anybody is going through this or has already gone through this. How long do these withdrawal symptoms last?? I am trying so hard not to go pop another pill just to make all this go away.

[Julia Ann]

I thought I was going to lose my mind and still wonder.  I was on Effexor XR 75 mg. for 18 mo's +.   Effexor's recommendation is 6 -8 months max. (My doc told me after the fact)  I am very sensitive to meds. Maybe that is why even the low dose got me so
hard.  I tapered off then quit.  The day I started tapering off the symptoms began. Horrible, closest thing to death I have experienced.  Head shocks, stomache spasms, inner thigh spasms, severe short term memory loss, confusion, dizziness, (shouldnt have been driving)CRYING, sobbing every hour on the hour, suicide thoughts, screaming at other drivers, MAD!! (not me at all)..and so on...this went on for two weeks steady, then started to taper off BUT....still cry every day...feel like I have lost my mind in a sense.  I am unable to work with my Insurance as I am so confused.  Cant add/subtract right now.  Scared...HOPING IT WILL GET BETTER....  Went to Psychiatrist and she said I have rapid cycling bi polar. Hey, I am 57 years old and never had that ****.  So I just got it after Effexor.  We should sue this company.  My life is poo poo from it.  I wonder how many people are in prison from taking this stuff and getting out of control.  I am a serious christian woman who smiles and is kind to all. Or I was.  The other month a nice policeman tried to give me a ticket.  I said awful things to him and when he was finished told him, "I hope you die." (what scared me is I didnt care what happened to me) Come on, not me in the least way...What I did frightened me very much.  I am over that part of the EVIL EFFEXOR thank God....But something has happened to me from it.  Any hope?  I dont think I am bi polar/rapid cycling.  I think I am still in withdrawal. I am in the fourth week of withdrawal.  Any hope would be appreciated.

[keeponkeepingon]

I have been on Effexor XR 150mg, for a year now. In the beginning I had the electric shock feeling. About six months ago, I forgot to re-fill my prescription, and was off for a couple of days. My daughter was auditioning for a play and didn't get the part she wanted (this has happened before, never has bothered me) I COMPLETELY LOST IT. The director of the play, not only got an earfull, I was screaming at him, at the top of my lungs. The day before this happened, my husband and daughter kept asking if I was o.k., cause I was sweating profusely, snapping at them, not rational at all. As, soon as I went back on, I wa fine again, although for a few days I felt that electric shock thing going on.

So, I broke my neck a few years ago, and have chronic acute pain. On Effexor Xr I do relatively well, that's why I'm on it, it's not only for depression, but they also use it for people like me who have chonic severe acute pain, I guess the electrodes are the same in the brain as depression, they have found. Well, because one of the side affects is also weight gain, I deceided to go off, but this time talked with doc, developed a plan. He instructed me on how to ween myself off of it, so I did exactly what he said, we replaced the Effexor XR with Wellbuterin XL. Anyway, a day or two after I had completely stopped taking the Effexore, I was snapping again, but worse than that, my pain was so bad, I could literally hardly walk, lift my arm, get out of bed. Even with my broken neck and 10.5 hrs of surgery, last year I was walking 6 miles per day...so obviously, this was really over the edge. Went back on the Effexor...I'm fine.

Frankly, I'm scared to death. I too, experience rapid cycling, even painted our retreat off of our bedroom, this bright orange color swirled with yellow and burgundy. My husband came home from business trip, and obviously hated it, but was like "What is going on with you?" I stayed up for 18 hrs straight, slept for a few more, than up again for 18 hrs.
I do not slepp well on it, and have also gained 40 lbs, but "no" pain, and if I have to live in this "new" level of pain when I finally do get off of it. Honestly, I know I will not be able to live that way!

So doc, are you out there???? Any sound advice, doesn't seem like anyone really knows the longterm affects, and that it does these things to the brain!

[Julia Ann]

My goodness girl.....so it sounds to me like you have the bi polar issues.  The anger and the awake too long etc.  
I have lost weight already since off Effexor.  This is the fifth week now and I am much much better.  Not out of the woods totally but I am me again.  I do need something, but will take it slow as to what I let them put me on again.  There are some good natural anti depressants and pain killer plants out there.  I have read about some of these on these type sights. I went to "withdrawal from Effexor" and found tons...(In the Google search bar)   Good luck and dont stay on meds that do that to you and your family.  I was told when people on anti depressants act like they are bi polar....they are.  We react differently to the meds than if we are truly depressed.  I hope you followed that.  
Sorry about the back.  I saw a nurse yesterday with a small back brace on.  ALmost looked like one of those "wrap around the waist bands" or one of those lifting wieght bands.  You might check into it.  Good luck and keep up posted.  

[kittykat3658]

Please help!!
My husband will be going on antidepessants and I would like comments on Lexapro and Lexapro vs Effexor Xr. All comments are heplful.
Thank you!

[PillMan]

To sandratarium, keeponkeepingon, and kittykat3658

I was on Effexor (25mg/day) for 18 months, then successfully weaned myself off of it without pain, and after an 8-month slide back into depression while trying every natural remedy I had researched (none of which worked, contrary to all the glowing studies I had read about), I went back on it and have been using it without incident for the past 16 months.  (I am a 57-year-old man and I take the Effexor--with 450 mg/day of Wellbutrin--to treat my particular form of depression: brain-fog...the inability to think clearly when untreated.)

HOW I STOPPED EFFEXOR: Took the last Effexor pill one day and began 10 mg/day of Lexapro the next.  No brain shocks!  (The doc had told me to add half of an Effexor pill daily for a few days if needed, but I didn't need to.)  Note: the Lexapro did me no good whatsoever...my depression slowly came back full force AND I had the sexual side-effects (numb, like getting a shot of Novocain that blocks all sensation).  The worst of both worlds!  I have read that others have been helped significantly by Lexapro, but that wasn't the case with me.  And while the new drug gave me a pleasant "comfortable-all-over" feeling while on it, quitting it caused the opposite effect--feeling run-down and achy all over like I had the flu.  That was preferable to the brain-zaps of quitting Effexor, though, and it quickly passed.  Another method of Effexor-weaning I've read about is by replacing it with 50-100mg/day of 5-HTP (from any drug store).  And finally, if you can't or don't want to replace Effexor with something else, then S-L-O-W-L-Y taper it off, cutting your dose by 1/3 to 1/2 every few days or each week.  When you're down to one 25mg or 37.5mg pill a day, start cutting the pill in half for a few days, then into quarters for a few days, then take the quarter-pill two days and skip a day, then take it every other day, then every third day.  At that point you should be able to stop completely; if not, do what my friend did: for the last week or so, he literally just LICKED the pill once or twice a day!  The point is, you should NEVER try to quit Effexor cold turkey.

Keep in mind that for most people, the full, devastating force of depression will swoop back down on you unless you get on a new med.

SWITCHING FROM EFFEXOR TO WELLBUTRIN: keeponkeepingon, frankly I am amazed from the posts I read at how little so many of the doctors know about the conditions and meds they deal with!  If an antidepressant like Effexor is working for you, you can't switch to Wellbutrin and expect the same result.  Effexor, an “SNRI,” works on serotonin (as do all of the SSRIs like Prozac, Zoloft, etc.) and also on norepinephrin.  Wellbutrin works on norepinephrine and dopamine, with virtually no action on serotonin.  My guess is that boosting your serotonin is how Effexor alleviated your pain and calmed you down, so Wellbutrin, by itself, would be worthless to you!  On the other hand, Wellbutrin makes a perfect partner with Effexor or an SSRI.  When I tried Wellbutrin alone, it didn't help my brain fog and it added a dark feeling of anxiety and impending doom.  When I added Effexor to it, the combo was GREAT, with the Wellbutrin restoring energy that Effexor and SSRIs drain me of...and it also counteracts their sexual side effects to a fair degree.

LEXAPRO VS. EFFEXOR: kittykat3658, as I said above, Lexapro did nothing for me (except to help me get off of Effexor painlessly), though some people say it works for them.  Despite the problems associated with quitting it (which can be handled as mentioned), Effexor has a much higher rate of success (something like 74%) with depression than Wellbutrin or any of the SSRIs.  But in the end, fighting depression is a trial-and-error process...each of us is different and you just have to experiment for 6-8 weeks with each med until you find the right one--or the right combo--for you.  Good luck to your husband…and to everyone else trying to find their way through The Maze!

[newto this]

Hello I just started taking effexor xr with my adderall (adderrall) and trileptal! After reading the comments here on this site i feel like I want to stop taking the effexor before i get any more of it into my system. I called to see if I could take these meds together and i was told that you shouldn't take any thing like effexor ect.. with adderall (adderrall) cause it will cause problems.
also i don't want to gain any weight. also i have been on the effexor for less then a week and my body has felt numb with some kind of shock feeling but i thought it was just me never thought i could feel any effects this fast

[Jasara]

I have been on Effexor for about 2 years now and love it. However, I have been taking 300 mg for a couple months and now I am suffering from uncontrollable overheating and sweating. I know this side effect doesn't seem like such a big deal after overcoming the initial side effects of the drug but it has gotten so bad that I am considering trying something else. I am reluctant to do this because I have had such success with Effexor but this side effect has become unbearable. I will be at work and for no particular reason I will start feeling really hot and flushed in my face (also a little anxious and feeling out-of-control) and soon my face is dripping sweat (i know, gross).Is this maybe due to the high dosage or this Serotonin Syndrome thing? Anyone else had similar experience? Suggestions?

[bunchy]

I have been on Effexor for several years and I am trying to get off since I want to get pregnant (being a class C drug, NOT good).  I was doing alright until I took my last 37.5 pill a few days ago and I have felt horrible having all the vertigo sensations; etc magnified! I am so mad that my doctor didn't warn me about the complications of coming off the 37.5, and that I might need a smaller dose before getting off completely.  It is absurd that that doctors don't inform us better, and it is outrageously absurd that WE, the patients, have to "play" with granules!  I really wanted to start trying for a baby; I have waited so very long, but there is just no way!  I am so thankful for the internet with forums like this!  It does help.

[Neenu]

I was following this thread closely in May because I wanted to get off Effexor after 8 years of use.  I was taking 3 each 75 mg per day. I had been put on this drug after being diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and declared clinically depressed.  Over those 7 years, I had gained 50 pounds.  I had never had a weight problem prior to being put on Effexor.  I also sweated profusely, even in the winter. Again, prior to this drug, never had a problem. My pain doctor had told me the sweating was from the pain medicines I am taking.  As soon as I stopped the Effexor, the sweating stopped and in the month since quitting I have lost 7 pounds. I also have experienced the inability to find the words I am looking for, struggling to complete a sentence for loss of words.  

I was really scared to attempt to stop using Effexor after reading everyone's comments.  I reduced from 225 mg to 75 in two days.  Then I took one tablet (75 mg) daily for a week, 1/2 a tablet daily for a week, then 1/2 tablet every other day for a week, then every 3rd day, then off totally. It went smoothly without a hitch.  The biggest problem I have experienced is my emotions being very close to the surface.  I will cry at the drop of a hat.  

I have some other things happening, and don't know why and wanted to ask if anyone else has experienced any of these problems when they quit taking Effexor.  I have severe nausea and my taste buds have changed where nothing taste the same and most things taste awful! This has been going on for just over a month with no relief.  Even my mountain dew taste like ****! Has anyone had similar experience?

[Skrupupalu]

about 5 weeks ago I stopped taking effexor cold turkey after several months at 225mg a day. I've never experienced anything like it, (Crying, suicidal thoughts, severe mood swings, frustration, "brain zaps," hot/cold flashes etc.) At times I too was seriously considering taking another pill just to stop the side effects, but im glad i didnt. I just recently stopped experiencing these effects, and the only advice I can offer to anyone else going off of this medication is to stick with it. I have also heard that a small dose of wellbutrin can alleviate the effects, but I cannot speak to that personally. Good luck.

[missymarie2k]

i cannot believe i have stumbled upon this site today. i have been on effexor for over a year the common dosage it seems 150mg a day. 75mg in morning and 75mg at night. due to the fourth of july holiday i did not get my prescription filled, it totally slipped my mind. i went six days without my medicine. i also take 200mg of topamax in the morning. for the past couple of days i have had EXTREME pressure behind my eyes. Everytime i'd move my eyes i would get so dizzy. the only relief i felt was when i was lying down. Nausea and diahrea were horrible as well for four days straight. I was scared all this was happening because of the topamax and the recent risks/side effect of glaucoma. I am twenty three. I having been taking anti-depressants since i was sixteen. i have no life without them. Not a happy one anyway. I've tried. I have never been told by any of the three psychiatrists i have seen in my treatment of this serotonin syndrome. I scheduled an eye examine i was so scared about the pain in my eyes. I still feel so sick. I just got my medicine today. I have been hospitalized a month and a half ago with dehydration  the topamax and or effexor i don't know anymore kills my appetite. But in the long run, it helps me get up in the morning, it helps me have the energy and mood to be the mother to my two year old, these things are priceless to me.

[forscoots]

Hi Everyone,
I've been reading tons of comments on effexor xr today.  In a few days I'm going to start tapering it (one 150 mg effexor xr for just over a year, and previously different doses of prozac), to hopefully wean myself off for good.  It seems I've read alot of horror stories about withdrawal from it.  I was wondering if anyone has suggestions of things to arm myself with to combat the withdrawal?  (i.e., certain herbal supplements, etc.)  Any info would be appreciated!  Thanks!

[OrlandoMan]

I'm glad to have stumbled on this site because I identify with most of what I've read.  While on Effexor...

1. I have noticed more episodes of violent verbal explosions
2. I seem to be more "amped" with a greater level of adrenaline
3. I need to set my thermastat at 69 degrees in order to be comfortable.

I decided to stop cold turkey despite what I have heard some of you say. I am going on day three and have most of the syptoms (symptoms) you speak of - especially the zaps in the brain and tingles throughout my extremities.  But, I getting through it while ingesting Milk Thistle, Ginko Biloba and my daily vitamins.  I think I am going to be ok - so far so good.  Yes, the feeling is uncomfortable and last night my nightmares were intense and caused me restless sleep but I think I can handle that.

I will keep you guys posted but I have a feeling that after this passes, I will feel much more like me again.

[wantmylifeback]

Hello everyone,

I'm a 32 year old women who has been on Effexor for 6years after having my third child.  I've been wanting to stop for awhile but was unable to handle the side effects.  Today is my 4th day off the medication and everything so far is ok, just everything is slow and having trouble jump starting in the morning, sleeping so far has been my problem I think I'm asleep but I can still hear everything going on.  I've decide to start a diet and walk every evening just so I can keep my mind occupied.  Alot of the side effect I've been through,  so now I don't feel alone.  
OrlandoMan, I think we are both in the same boat right now so if its ok with you I would like to sail with you supporting each other on trying to get off.  If anyone can give me any other advise on how to stay off the med I would greatly appreciate it.  

[meeshkitty]

i have been on effexor xr for about three years.. i was first on paxil for two years and was looking for something without the extreme side effects and withdrawals if i forgot to take it.. i didnt want to feel dependent i suppose.. anyways.. i have noticed i have a terrible time getting very close to anyone because i experience terrible mood swings and irritability.  a year ago i had my first overwhelming attack of anxiety and depression while on meds.. it was horrible and after three days i went to the er and was given a shot of something like phenergen which knocked me out.. last night i experienced yet another horrible attack and this time was given xanax .5 mg at the er.. i followed up today with a doctor visit and the woman told me all about billy graham and the power of prayer.. i will try about anything but at this time i just need something to get me to sleep until i can get to a psychiatrist.. i am so sick of feeling this way.. i sabotaged a relationship with someone who was probably my soulmate because i couldnt control my moods.. i am being a crazy person and that is not what i am.. no doctors seem to take me very seriously ( i think because of my appearance as a 21 yr old party girl with piercings and tattoos) and i need help.. yesterday i seriously thought about killing myself and this scares the **** out of me..i have asked multiple times to switch meds and my doctor blows me off.. does anyone have any advice for me?

[wantmylifeback]

meeshkitty,

Don't let this pill take your life, your not alone there are many out there experiencing what your going through, stay strong and think of all that you will be leaving behind because a stupid pill.  Your young and you can beat this.  Keep your head up.  If you have to just ween your self off then do it that way just don't quit cold turkey.  One thing i've noticed is when I'm busy cleaning or playing with my kids it doesn't bother me, but when i'm relaxed thats when all the withdrawl get to me, Ive even though about doing Yoga. These are just suggestions.  

A friend going through what your going through
I'm a 32 yr old women with kids to live for.

[OrlandoMan]

I'm right with you wantmylifeback!  We will work this out together.  I'm still going strong here and it's getting better.  Still a little pressure in the head (headache like) and still got the zaps but it's getting better overall.  I noticed I don't need my A/C on as much as when I was on the med.

I gotta run to work but let's share more later ok?

[wantmylifeback]

I THOUGH I COULD DO IT.   On my fifth day after lunch I notice a big change, my body started aching (flu like symptoms) besides the brain zaps and dizziness I decided to go home, as soon as I walked in the door I went straight to bed that was at 3:30pm waking up at 7:30pm to my children asking me if I was ok asking me were can they kiss my booboo goodbye, after crying for about a hour feeling like ****, I can't put my kids through this right now, its not there fault.  I still need to be a mother, there just use to a active outgoing person willing to always have fun with them.   I've decided to wait until they go back to school which is in about 4 weeks. I will have more time to rest and deal with the side effects,  so until then I'm going to try the weaning off process,   so far I've taken 75mg on Wednesday night and today is Friday so I plan on taking 75mg tonight before I go to bed.   REMEMBER WE ARE NOT ALONE


Sorry Orlandoman, but we still can support each other

[OrlandoMan]

Don't be sorry wantmylifeback!  I completely understand your plight and responsibilities.  I am single and without kids at 36.  I am fortunate in that I don't have other circumstances making my process more difficult.

I will keep sharing my stories here so that you can refer to them as guidance when you finally beginning the process again.  Let me add that I am also taking my multi-vitamins and Ginko Biloba.  Not sure if they are helping with this process but I must say that everyday is better however the zaps are still there.  Can't wait until they're gone!

[wantmylifeback]

all those out there still making a effort to get off this ****, props to you all.

I waited until the third day to take my pill and it wasn't bad,
so now i'm going to take 75mg every third day

[Cosmic Cowgirl]

I have a history of depression, although I have not taken meds for it continually until now.  I took Zoloft for six months while undergoing a divorce, and it worked well.  So when I got depressed again, I wanted to try something different because the zoloft did upset my stomach.  So, the doctor ordered Prosac (or rather Fluoxetine..the generic copy).  I did not like the way I felt on the Prosac, too much dizziness.  So I basically just didn't take it.  Time went on, and one day I really wound up in a black hole, so I went back to the doc.  Friends of mine were all on Effexor, so I asked for it.  The doc laughed and said it was the newest "designer" drug, but he prescribed it for me.  The first six months was wonderful.  I was alive again.  About eight months in, I was depressed again, so he upped the dose from 150mg/day to 300mg/day.  For the first week, I saw flying objects which were not there, but the nurse said I would adjust.  After a week, I was fine again.  I have now been on the Effexor at 300mg/day for about seven to eight months.  For the past three months, I have had sore muscles in my neck and back.  But now, steadily increasing the symptoms, my neck is so stiff, I cannot work.  I am seeing an accupuncturist and it is helping a lot, but I am wondering if the Effexor is causing it.  The little "electric shocks" are a natural part of my day.  There is a knot in my right side of my neck which does not go away.  The accupuncturist says it is a stress spasm in my neck muscle. My job is very high stress; I am a realtor.  However, muscle stress does not continue to get worse and worse.  The muscle in the right side of my neck is like steel cable; even massage will not release it.  Accupuncture is the first thing which has helped.
I really believe it is the effexor side effects.  Oh, I have tremendous sweating attacks.  Sweat dripping off my forehead; I am always hot and sweat 90% of the time.  I also have had itching spells on my arms and legs.
And headaches from hell!!!  I get up feeling as if I have been hit by a train.
My doctor poo poos the idea.  He tells me I don't know what I am talking about, and gives me even more medicine to knock me out for the headaches!  I have had it.  But I know better than to just stop taking the stuff.  I need for him to wean me off gradually.
I think it is safe to say the medical field has no idea what the long term effects of these drugs are.
Has anyone tried a natural alternative yet?

[Ravenswing]

I, too, stumbled onto this site, and I'm glad I did. It encouraged me to go to my doctor and tell him that when I asked him for help 4 years ago, he treated the symptom (depression) not the cause (type II diabetes). I am now cutting back slowly and fully intend to get off this "drug from hell". Don't get me wrong, it made me feel like a million bucks; but for a price...sweating, increased doses to keep me feeling that way...until it finally reached 225 mg. per day. I became so dependant that when I missed a dose last December, I thought I was dying...so he upped the amount. Along with counselling, I really started to feel better. Then the sweating got so bad, it was dripping off me and I have to live in air conditioning along with fans just to keep reasonably cool. When I first started seeing my doctor, I controlled my diabetes with diet alone, and had some nerve damage in my feet. As my glucose levels rose, he prescribed Metformin. It did the trick for a while; but the nerve damage increased to that now I can hardly walk. I had testing done on my feet and hands a couple of weeks ago and a lot of information started coming to me that I wish I had known years ago. My doctor is not supportive of my cutting back on the Effexor and defends his treatment. He maintains that I will be back when I need more.

Yesterday was my first day on a lower dose and it wasn't too bad, just a few shocks in my feet and hand. I will succeed and get away from this monster.

Someone asked for a natural solution that might make it easier to cope with withdrawal. Here's my solution: EXERCISE. The very best is pool aerobics because it's easier on your body and you don't feel the stiff muscles afterward. Swim laps. I started with 2 (when I was coping with my divorce)...and could hardly finish the second. Then kept increasing until I finally lost
count somewhere around 200. Walk...with a friend is best...and keep up a steady pace. Endorphins kick in and a feeling of well being takes over. Then, as a reward, for all you chocolate lovers, try an "85% Swiss dark chocolate bar"; but only in really small amounts. It makes you feel good (if you like chocolate that is)and lowers your blood pressure among other good things.

I hope this helps someone! We all need support, don't we. Wishing you all success.

[themachine]

Hey Everyone,

I'm new to this forum and would like to share my experience with using and tapering off of Effexor. I had been taking 150mg per day of Effexor for the last 2 years. Over the last 10 years I was on (at one time or another) Paxil, Welbutrin, Zoloft and Prozac. You name it-I took it for depression and axiety. The negative side effects from all of these drugs made be sleepy, lazy, gain weight and sexless. Like OrlnadoMan,I noticed more episodes of violent verbal explosions, more "amped" with a greater level of adrenaline and I needed to set my thermastat to at least 69 degrees in order to be comfortable.

By lowering my dosage from 150mg to 75mg per day, I've been tapering rather successfully for the last two weeks and have not had any zaps, dizziness or nausea yet. Tomorrow I will begin the 37.5 mg regimen, however I do expect a challenge and plan to take Dramaine for nausea, headache, dizzieness, etc. in case I need it.    

Please wish me luck because I have been at my job for less than a year and don't have much sick or vacation time to use yet, so I have to be careful and be sure I'm able to get to work.

Does anyone out there have any suggestions or experiences with natural or homeopathic remedies for "Mood Disorder."  According to my new doctor, this is my condition.

The Machine

[klc123]

I am currently weaning myself off Effexor.  My doctor and I decided that I would reduce my dose 75 mg each month.  I've gone from 300 mg per day to 225 per day.  While it's been livable, it has not been pleasant.  My head feels like it is full of water, I am irritable and cannot focus at work or any other time for that matter.  How long will these side effects last?

Also, one reason I am getting off the effexor is that I have gain a considerable amount of weight while on the drug and have had no energy to exercise.  Will the energy come back and if so when?  Also, while I plan on exercising to get the weight off, will I lose any just by getting of the effexor alone?

[kattknipp]

Hi,
I just found this forum and wanted to ask anyone out there a question.  I noticed that one of you did say something about it but only one - and was wondering if anyone else had had this problem.

I have MS and Lupus - and my dr. did have me on Zoloft.  It worked okay for a couple of years but then didn't really seem to do much. Didn't really NOT do anything...just that I had a "heavy" feeling on me that wouldn't go away - if you can understand what I mean.  I told my MS dr. about it so he changed me to Effexor XR about 2 1/2 months ago.  I was on 75mg. a day to start off with (after the initial 37.5, etc.) but it did not seem to be helping.  My mind still raced (which Zoloft did not do.  I had never taken antidepressants before Zoloft and was amazed at HOW much I worried ALL the time and how wonderful it was not to have my brain engaged in some kind of thought constantly!), and I just couldn't quit worrying and was jumpy.  So....he increased the dosage to 150 mg. - which, to me, would only exacerbate the problem - but he said no...not necessarily.  Most times it would help.  Well....for the past 3 weeks, I guess it has slowed my brain down...(been busy with several other things and thought that was it but I really think it DID help in that area) although I have still been depressed over things.  THEN.....about two weeks ago, I started this minor (then) itching.  At the same time (a couple of days AFTER the itching, though) I was having GI tests run and the GI dr. had put me on antibiotics - so I thought perhaps it was them.  Looked them up and nope....they normally don't do that and besides...I stopped them last week.  The itching hasn't stopped, though.  It has gotten horrible!!!  The past few days have been misery for my whole family as I feel like a dog with mange or something...itch, itch, itch.  I didn't have any rash -at first!  I look like I do now, I have scratched so much.  And the itching is everywhere! Arms, legs, torso, hands, fingers, breasts, - you name it, it's there.  

I wouldn't have thought to look up and find a forum on this except my husband went to pick up some Zrtech (?) last night and the pharmacist looked at my records and said he "bet" it was the Vicodin I was taken.  I have taken Vicoden for 30 years for migraines and all the aches and pains that we just found out what was causing all of them two years ago!  I have researched it today and it mainly makes you itch immediately if you are allergic to it - not a build up whereas, from what I have read on Effexor XR, it builds up and is hell!  (By the way, the Zyrtech or whatever has NOT stopped any itching.  Benadryl is much better but I sleep so much anyway, I hated to add more sleeping time!)  After reading some of this in your column, I am almost convinced it is the Effexor as the itching started about a week or so after I doubled the dosage and got really bad once it got all through my system.

Has anyone else had this problem?  Am I really crazy?  I am thinking seriously of going back to Zoloft.  I lost weight on in (not that I have gained any on this one) but it never made me itch or have horrible dreams (which I have also been having).  I may just cut back to the 75mg. and see if this lessens and then switch back.

Someone please give me input!

Thanks so much.  I am so glad for forums where we can share our feelings and see how things REALLY affect the people who use this medicine!

kattknipp

[heatherme]

Hi everyone-

I was on Effexor about 5 years ago for a year 150 (i think) milligrams and did manage to taper off.  It wasn't easy, but can be done.  Don't go too fast...Dont let anyone, including your Doctor, rush you...Im not sure what the smallest dosage pills are, I do seem to remember they were capsules so that does make it harder to divide doses and I dont remember if it comes in a liquid form to help you go down in smaller increments.  But do take as much time as you need.  Other things that can help are to meditate, exercise if you can to help increase your serotonin..Silly as this may sound, go to some arts and crafts store and pick up a silly very easy project to take your mind off things.  When you feel very down it helps to have something else to focus on.  Even if it is as simple as coloring or something like that as I know it can be hard to sleep at night and even noise can be bothersome.
I am tapering off paxil now...not fun either...
feel free to email me any time
***@****

[anxietyking]

I was on effexor xr 150 mg for 2 years.  It was the only drug I found that worked for my chronic anxiety, which began 8 years ago.  I took myself off of the effexor because I was feeling good and the night sweating side effects became such an annoyance, that I took myself off.  Since then my anxiety has returned and my doc has tried a new cocktail of zoloft and buspar, which is not working.  I have used clonopin, xanex, and alprazolam as tranquilizers to help when it gets bad.  I am considering going back to effexor b/c I'm experiencing hair loss/thining that I know is associated with the stress of the anxiety, which is always present.  I have heard about lexapro as a better effexor.  I'm wondering if anyone has had success in using a different medication to combat the night sweat side effects?   Other than that one effect, I experienced no other problems and it was great for my anxiety.  I have tried everything in the book before finding effexor....paxil, prozac, wellbutrin, zoloft, and many others.  I've heard taking effexor in the non controlled realease form (not xr) can help combat the night sweats.  I had one of my primary care docs put me on hytrin, a blood pressure medication to try and counter the effects of the effexor that were causing my night sweats.  

any thoughts or advice would be greatly appreciated.

[jima]

Hi everyone,

I took 30 mg of prozac for about 10 years, then found that it was working with my depression and OCD.  In retrospect, I think that I needed some talk therapy to get me through a rough year, but I insisted that my psychiatrist try me on something else.  We started effexor and gradually weaned off the prozac.  The transition had its problems, but I was able to work and maintain a fairly normal life.  I eventually worked up to 150 mg.  My depression was better, but I wasn't back to where I wanted to be.  So, up I went to 225 mg, and now the side effect are a big pain.  I'm on a three week vacation, and my doctor and I worked out a schedule for reducing to 150 mg.  Basically, I'm going to go down by 37.5 the first week, same the second.  Then we're going to pause at 150 mg to see if the side effects are more tolerable.

My doctor has given me an Rx for 10 mg of Prozac and said that I can add that daily to help with the serotonin problem.  Problem is, after all of the problems with side effects and withdrawal, I'm afraid that the Prozac might trigger something weird like a manic reaction.  I'm wondering whether anyone else has tried Prozac to help even out the serotonin withdrawal.  Could I hear from you if you have?

I'm pretty sensitive to drugs, and today I dropped from 225 to 177.5 - and I can feel the difference!  Fuzzy head, hot and cold, headache, some brain zaps, etc.  I'm drinking a lot of water, taking it easy, loading up on vitamins, and watching my diet.  Does anyone have any other suggestions on how to take care of yourself during this period?  

Thanks to all of you who have posted - every one of you have helped me understand that I'm not crazy and that I'm not alone in this.  Peace.

[jima]

Hi again,

Just wanted to clarify my earlier comment - in the first sentence, I meant to say that I found that Prozac was NOT working.

[shbrehm]

I was recently diagnosed with serotonin syndrome due to a Dr. perscribing 200mg of EFFEXOR XR. How do I get help with the long terms side effets.  If anyone can help, please let me know.

[notgivingup]

Hi everyone.  I was on Celexa for 3 years for depression after third child.  After seeing a psychiatrist, am now on 75 mg of effexor xr for "mood disorder."  He wanted me to be on 150mg and I tried but needed to sleep for 4 hours a day and that is impossible with 3 kids.  I have the sweats, gas and weight gain that everyone talks about.  What happens when you go off the stuff?  Will I be "normal" after the withdrawal symptoms?  I hear you're only supposed to be on this med. for 6-8 months.  Does that mean I'll be better after and able to go back to work without worrying about flying off the handle at someone?  I work with kids and I can't go back until I feel my behaviour will be appropriately patient.

[OrlandoMan]

I apologize for having disappeared for as long as I did.  After I quite Effexor XR "cold turkey" I began a heavy work schedule and trying to stay control and remain focused.  It was hard because those "brain zaps" weren't helping matters.

Today (not sure how long it's been but you can check on my first post), I find that my thermastat doesn't have to be so low, I don't sweat as much, I'm not so easily agitated as I was before and I am FINALLy clear of brain zaps!

Only problem I find (and I'm not yet sure that it's related) is that I am very sluggish in the morning and don't seem to be as motivated as before.  Has anyone experienced this?

Like with the rest, I will fight this through as well.  I am determined to be clean and drug free.  I made it through due to strong will power.  I'm sure it's not even close to what heroin addicts go through when they stop.

Hope to hear from you all.

[bumble]

To: Orlando man and everyone else using/or was using effexor xr........My, oh, my!!! Am I ever in for it!!! I was so pleased and proud to read such heroic stories from you all. AMAZING! I have been taking effexor xr for 2 yrs. I would love to get off. Reading this thread is great. Not sure where to begin, there are alot of different good points. I would love to know exactly what Orlando man did for success,(ie. how many vitimins, mgs etc). And, what did you do after you are weaned for the seretonins? Thanks in advance! Bumble : )

[Talullah]

I stopped taking Effexor 11 days ago. The first day after taking the last & lowest dose, I started feeling nauseous and dizzy. Each day seemed to get worse. Then a couple of days after that, I started having mild panic attacks. I get sweaty, my heart beats faster, my breathing is short, and I want to cry. Now I am so depressed. I feel just like I felt before I took antidepressants. No one can tell me how long it will last. I'm so afraid these symptoms will never go away. I got off the medicine because I felt stronger and happy. I am about to start a new school year & was about to move in with my boyfriend. Now I'm so afraid I won't make it through another school year & I am waiting to move. My suggestion to anyone is stay away from effexor. If you are already taking it and want to get off of it, don't stop cold turkey, pick a time when you have a couple of weeks not to worry about major decisions in your life, go to counseling, and let your family and friends know so they can help & support you. I have to constantly be reminded that I am having withdrawal symptoms and one day they will end.

[iwillgetthere]

Hi, I'm new to this site and have been reducing Effexor for 2 months now due to blood pressure problems.  After a month of flu symptoms, vertigo, mood swings and stabbing pains in my head I did some research and asked my doctor to put me on a low dose of Prozac to ease the side effects.  After much humming and harring he did this and it worked!  I am now on 75mg Effexor and 20mg Prozac and feel almost normal but today stopped taking the Effexor completely on doc's instructions.  I guess it doesn't help that I have a bad cold also but I am dreading the next few weeks.  Most of all whether I will be able to go to work which is very important to me.  Well I guess I will have to wait and see how it goes.  Even though I've been struggling with the withdrawal I have noticed that I no longer have headaches, I don't sweat all day and my heart no longer pounds so I must be benefitting from coming off Effexor.  I just wonder if I should up my dose of Prozac to compensate for the lack of Effexor?  The doc doesn't seem to think so but then, he thought I should give in and increase the Effexor!