Prolong use of Effexor RX

[Greeneyes1409]

I have been taking Effexor RX since 1996. I was started at 600mg/daily and have since been reduced to 450mg. I need to know if what I'm experiencing is due to taking such a high dose for so long.  Everywhere I read that the normal dose is 75mg.  Some of my symptoms include disorientation, memory loss, indecisiveness, confusion.  I forget how to get somewhere I've been to many times(family residence).  My work life is very very much affected since I can't seem to recall proceedures and processes I have been doing for almost 15 years.  I do a lot or staring almost as if my brain/though process has been put on hold.  I am very embarassed about forgetting things at work and at home.  I've gained so much weight.  While I don't think I can blame the actual drug for my weight gain, I do think that my state of mind, lack of energy and drive have contributed.  I've been taking one antidepression medication or another since I've been 14 years old.  I've been diagnosed as a chronicly depressed, anxiety and panic attack affected woman.  My specialist has also added anhedonia.  As you can well imagine, it's getting harder and harder to get out of bed.

[Roger Gould, M.D.]

there is no other way to answer your question other than through experimentation.  I think that there is a real  possibility that this huge dose is adversely effecting you, and if you and your doctor agree, then experiment by lowering the dose safely and see what happens to your ability to function.  do it in cooperation with your doctor.

[Jaquta]

You might want to see Dr Gould's response to a recent post, Weaning off Celexa and it's side-effects.

I was once asked to take Moclobemide at a dose well above the daily recommended amount.  I'm not sure whether that is something we should be excessively concerned about or not.
People are different, metabolize drugs differently, etc.  Even a relatively high dose of some medications may be considered sub-clinical for some patients.

I would definitely advise seeking further investigation for your symptoms (whether they are drug related or not).

J