effexor withdrawls

[T81]

I am weaning off effexor and the withdrawls are HORRIBLE! If anyone is about to start taking it, research all of your options first. It is good for depression however if I would have known what it is like  to wean off it. . . I would have not started it.

I read a lot about how people gained weight when they first started it, but I was wondering if anyone has gained weight coming off of it? I did not have any problems when I started it but I am gaining weight fast right now and I have know idea why.

[beautifullychaotic]

I am not sure about the weight...but my mom was on effexor and the doctor took her off of it and she went had a stroke and a seizure. Becareful!  Just wanted to fill you in on what I know!

[lisaburk8]

I have been taking Effexor for 11 years actually lost a lot of weight when I started taking it.  I had a HORRIBLE time getting off of it but finally made the transition using Cymbalta.  I am now off of everything and I'm gaining weight like crazy!  It's horrible and I have no idea what to do about it.  If you get any answers please let me know, I am really struggling with this!

[jodyjean0821]

I agree with T81, please, PLEASE look at all other options before starting Effexor.  I wish I had been informed about the withdrawls BEFORE I began on this med.  Missing a dose or two has incapacitated me for 2-3 days even after resuming the medication.  I had such horrible "brain zaps" that I could not even drive my car.  They leave you unable to hold onto a thought for more than a couple of minutes at best.  Throw in the nausea, fatigue, confusion, weird vision stuff & you realize how screwed you really are.  I have been unable to get off the stuff as the withdrawls are too intense.  I have also experienced a slow, steady weight gain since being place on it almost 2 years ago, and like the other girls said, I carry the weight in my belly.  Not cute.

Please, try to avoid this drug under most circumstances or unless you are fine taking it for the REST OF YOUR LIFE.