Effexor XR and severe constipation

[emurray]

I have been on Effexor XR for about 6 years. I started of on 75 mg and about 4 years ago was bumped up to 150gm.  It works wonders and I feel GREAT. {except when I miss a dose and get those "zappy" feelings and nausea}  I have considered coming of it and even tried a few months ago really slowly.  I made it about 4 weeks in and boom.....ANXIETY ATTACK!!! so I went back up.  I have been battling severe constipation for about 2 years now that came on suddenly and I have gain 20 lbs in that same time frame.  I am wondering if the Effexor is causing the constipation - but why did it take almost 2-3 years for it to show up???

[therese83]

COnstipation is a side effect, try everything natural, drink lots of water and add fibre. Or go to Doc for stool softener, it is worth it to feel well, but you don't have to suffer with the side effects, they also can be treated.

[gofio]

How nice it is to see someone praising the benefits of their medication. Of cours those that are unhappy about them are the most inclined to post about them. I could not cope without the meds I take, no intention of coming off them. Wish you luck. George

[alsky]

ive been on effexor 13 years.....never had this problem except at begining

try something natural for this problem

Please be careful....I tried to get off at the begining of 2010.,....It was ok but then I had a lot of drama towards the end of the year and everything came crashing down.   I am back on it (150 mg) and i thank god it is helping me a great deal once again.

[teacher912]

I have also been on a high dose of this medication for about 4 years. Constipation is an issue, but always has been. My word to you is about cutting back on your dosage. PLEASE do not do this without the help of a doctor. I tried some years back and fell into a four-month-long abyss, that scares me to even remember.

[gofio]

Been on Effexor for several years, no problems with constipation. Maybe you should get a check up from your Doc?