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.