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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by djsarah on February 20, 2004, at 10:15:03
In reply to Re: MANY THANKS God Bless us, everyone, posted by djsarah on February 20, 2004, at 9:41:09
Thanks so much to everyone who's posted here, I've learned a ton about this withdrawal process. I'd be interested in any advice you guys might have for me. I've been on EffexorXR for about two and a half years, 225mg for the past year. Before that I was on Paxil for a little less than a year. I was first dx when I was 16 and put on paxil immediately; I'm 19 now. (by the way, those studies on increased suicide tendencies for paxil use under age 18 are no joke!!)(stupid doctors) Anyway, I've been on ADs for over 3 years. I decided to start decreasing Effexor because it didn't seem to be doing much any more -- I know many of you comment that that just means try something else, but I decided that I'd like to see what it's like to be without it. It seems that the way I was feeling on 225mg lately was not that different from how I was before I was diagnosed at all, so I'd like to figure out what is different, and going on other meds isn't going to help. I'd appreciate your feedback on this decision.
I've already decreased from 225mg to 150mg, about three weeks ago. I did have some w/d symptoms just from that, but am feeling better now besides headaches and dreams. After reading your posts I'm still determined to go off, but over a long period of time. The slow process recommended by Dr...Not seems like the most sensible thing to me. I haven't talked to my doctor yet, but he basically just asks me what I want to do anyways, so I decided to at least make the 225 to 150 jump for now. Anyways, I'm glad this forum is here, and I've got a lot of notes written down for things to help w/d symptoms! Hopefully I can minimize them since I'm a university student and I'd like to get my work done as well. (My mom was concerned about this, but really -- is there ever going to be a really good time to go off?!!)
Thanks for all your posts guys -- my prayers go out to those of you who are suffering.cheers
sarah
Posted by jiggitykid on February 20, 2004, at 13:34:01
In reply to effexor withdrawal, posted by djsarah on February 20, 2004, at 10:15:03
Hi Sarah,
I decided to do the same thing you are doing, even though my doc begged me to take lexapro. Nope - I needed to see how I was doing without anything. If I needed something, I was willing to try it. I've been off and on them for years. I know the symptoms. My family was watching me, too. I've been effexor free since before Thanksgiving, and I'm better than ever. Now, your results may vary :-). I cold-turkeyed it, which was very hard, but it ended the symptoms quicker. Do what you have to do for you. Hang in there, and give yourself time to get this mess out of your system before you re-evaluate the need for a new drug. If you feel suicidal, get help. Take care!!
Posted by Ieva on February 20, 2004, at 14:03:31
In reply to Re: Effexor W/D's, Wellbutrin problems, NO SEX DRIVE! » Ieva, posted by Clayton on February 17, 2004, at 20:17:59
Hey, after posting my last I just wanted to let you all know that I decided to give in, after having gone cold turkey off of 225mg Eff XR, and go back on a 75mg dose to start my "tapering off" process. I just could not bear the WD's which were getting pretty severe. I was nauseous 24/7 and couldn't eat; had very bad vertigo and "zaps"; dizziness, etc.. the list goes on. I, too, was like a few of you that are so anti-putting-this-horrible-substance-back-in-your-body, and the idea mortified me. I called my doctor, whom I had not told that I stopped taking it, and he immediately recommended going back on and tapering off, for relief of symptoms. I took one 75mg pill yesterday and within the hour noticed that the vertigo was less intense and more bearable. Today I took another and again, my WD's are less intense-nausea near gone and I can eat again without getting too sick. I can't tell you what a difference it has made! Don't get me wrong, it was a huge decision and one that came with it's fair share of guilt for having "betrayed my body" twice. But in the end, I know I will be tapered off of Effexor completely, and if that means having to go on for a couple weeks to a month longer, that is a means to an end.
For those with severe symptoms and are ADAMANT about not restarting this underestimated drug, PLEASE RECONSIDER YOUR DECISION! The relief you feel from the horror you've been experiencing will be worth it! Thanks everyone for the info and support!!
Posted by Dr...Not! on February 20, 2004, at 21:57:43
In reply to Re: effexor withdrawal, posted by jiggitykid on February 20, 2004, at 13:34:01
You tell someone to stop drugs "cold turkey" and then post your little CYA suicide message and that's supposed to make everything OK?????
DO NOT STOP ANY DRUG COLD-TURKEY. PERIOD.
Call your doctor and tell him/her your problems and follow their directions. Please.
Posted by Dr. Bob on February 21, 2004, at 1:23:22
In reply to If you're suicidal, get help! Great advice! » jiggitykid, posted by Dr...Not! on February 20, 2004, at 21:57:43
> You tell someone to stop drugs "cold turkey" and then post your little CYA suicide message and that's supposed to make everything OK?????
Please don't be sarcastic or post anything that could lead others to feel accused or put down.
If you have any questions about this or comments about posting policies in general, or are interested in alternative ways to express yourself, please see the FAQ:
http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/faq.html#civil
or redirect a follow-up to Psycho-Babble Administration. Thanks,
Bob
Posted by StaceyB on February 22, 2004, at 4:17:09
In reply to Re: Effexor Withdrawl - I did it, so can you, posted by foodie on November 1, 2003, at 23:25:24
Well, it's 4 am and I can't sleep, I am crying over nothing, I am feeling sick to my stomach and the headaches are unbelievable! This is the whole reason why I got on Effexor in the first place!
I would love to hear from someone who has been off of Effexor for a while? Approximately how long until the withdrawal symptoms totally stop? I am very scared that I will want to go back. I never realized how this little pill had such a hold on my life.
Day 3 of withdrawal...and going.
Thank you,
StaceyB.
Posted by jiggitykid on February 22, 2004, at 9:22:53
In reply to Any long term Effexor-free survivors?, posted by StaceyB on February 22, 2004, at 4:17:09
Bless your heart!!!! You are right on track, according to my experience. FOR ME (so that there is no misunderstanding by anyone who might be reading this that this is anything other than sharing my story), the first week was the absolute worst. By the second week, the *severity* of the symptoms had declined. They were still present. By the third week, the light began to shine and I could tell that I was going to be okay. By the fourth week, I was feeling so much better. Are you tapering or cold-turkeying? *Make sure you do what you feel is best for you.* FOR ME, cold-turkey was the way; that way I knew that after the rough patch, it was gone, and I didn't have to keep stepping it down. FOR OTHERS, the best way is to taper.
Do you have a support system of any kind, i.e., a spouse, friend, sibling, etc.? Someone who is totally aware of what is going on and can help you see that the withdrawal symptoms are *temporary* when you are having doubts is invaluable right now. When I was going through this, I sent my husband and family members a list of the withdrawal symptoms with links to this site, as well as cut-and-paste testimonies from others who had been where I was, so that they could see that what I was going through was REAL and that I needed their support. If you don't have anyone you trust to help you through this, then please keep posting to the board - we are here, listening and understanding. Keep in close contact with your doctor. BE PATIENT WITH YOURSELF right now. Love yourself, take care of yourself, and hang in there. Know that you are in my prayers.
Posted by StaceyB on February 22, 2004, at 10:05:16
In reply to Re: Any long term Effexor-free survivors?, posted by jiggitykid on February 22, 2004, at 9:22:53
Thank you so much for your kind words. I was trying to go cold turkey, but I have a family to take care of and me being "sick" isn't working out. I can't even imagine me feeling like this for 4 weeks. I wish I knew this before I took the first pill. At the time, I was mourning the loss of my mother, and I needed something to help cope.
My husband is being, as always, very supportive. Thank you again, you made my day a lot easier.
StaceyB
Posted by metro8268 on February 22, 2004, at 13:58:38
In reply to Re: Any long term Effexor-free survivors?, posted by StaceyB on February 22, 2004, at 10:05:16
This board has been a big help for me. After tapering down to half a 27mg of Effexor a day, I stopped on Saturday and woke up this morning desperate for help dealing with the physical pain. I feel some relief in knowing that I'm not alone in my pain, and that people have successfully gotten through this. I also feel very angry (in between the crying for no reason!). I really wish my Dr. would have informed me of the side effects. The notes on the Effexor site just don't do it justice.
StaceyB: I'm on day 2 of being Effexor-free, we can do it!
-Wendy
Posted by MADMAN3070 on February 22, 2004, at 18:02:39
In reply to Re: Effexor w/d.....ack! Help!, posted by cpallen79 on February 18, 2004, at 13:42:37
> I understand what you are going through. Be strong, understand its a lengthy process, and don't allow yourself to be discouraged. You can do it, we all have absolute faith in you.
Not sure if I can make it. Its been a month and Im still having dizziness and nausea every day. Tingling in different parts of the body and headaches. I didnt think it would take this long. Ive thought about going to a neurologist. Any help I would appreciate. MADMAN
Posted by MADMAN3070 on February 22, 2004, at 18:03:13
In reply to Re: Effexor w/d.....ack! Help!, posted by cpallen79 on February 18, 2004, at 13:42:37
> I understand what you are going through. Be strong, understand its a lengthy process, and don't allow yourself to be discouraged. You can do it, we all have absolute faith in you.
Not sure if I can make it. Its been a month and Im still having dizziness and nausea every day. Tingling in different parts of the body and headaches. I didnt think it would take this long. Ive thought about going to a neurologist. Any help I would appreciate. MADMAN
Posted by MADMAN3070 on February 22, 2004, at 18:12:09
In reply to Re: effexor withdrawal, posted by jiggitykid on February 20, 2004, at 13:34:01
How long did it take you Jiggity? Ive been off cold turkey for a month. I still feel dizzy nausea, tingling, headache. Im thinking of going to a neurologist. Any suggestions? Thanks Madman
Posted by jiggitykid on February 22, 2004, at 19:14:40
In reply to Re: Any long term Effexor-free survivors?, posted by StaceyB on February 22, 2004, at 10:05:16
You are welcome. I know this place has been a HUGE comfort for me. It's awfully nice to know that I'm not alone.
<<< I wish I knew this before I took the first pill.>>>
You and me both!! But, apparently the doctors don't know this, either.
Take care of yourself. It WILL get better.
Posted by jiggitykid on February 22, 2004, at 19:20:37
In reply to Re: Any long term Effexor-free survivors?, posted by metro8268 on February 22, 2004, at 13:58:38
>>>I really wish my Dr. would have informed me of the side effects. The notes on the Effexor site just don't do it justice.<<<
Either they don't know, don't understand, or don't care. That's all I can figure.
The physical pain is bad. If you can get some pain meds for temporary relief, that helps. Otherwise, keep *warm*. That helps.
Posted by jiggitykid on February 22, 2004, at 19:24:15
In reply to Re: Effexor w/d.....ack! Help!, posted by MADMAN3070 on February 22, 2004, at 18:02:39
>>>Its been a month and Im still having dizziness and nausea every day. Tingling in different parts of the body and headaches.<<<
I remember thinking that if I could only have something to calm my system down, then I might be okay. I wish I knew what to tell you that helps. Pain medication helped me with some of it. What I can tell you is that it did finally let go of me. Perhaps a neurologist, as you said, would at least have an idea of how to get your nerve system off of "overdrive," and help settle you down. Take care of yourself. You are respected. You are in my prayers.
Posted by jiggitykid on February 22, 2004, at 19:31:29
In reply to Re: effexor withdrawal, posted by MADMAN3070 on February 22, 2004, at 18:12:09
See my response to your other post, Madman. After the first month, I was a lot better, but still having "mild" symptoms. It sounds as if your nervous system (I'm guessing here, but this is how it felt to me) is stuck running on high, and as if your sense receptors are wide open. Does this sound right to you? It felt to me that the world was too loud, too bright, things moved too much, etc., and that contributed to my nausea and pain. This is why I think perhaps you are right - maybe a neurologist would at least be able to point you in the right direction as far as what might help settle your system down. Some here might suggest taking another SSRI to help calm the symptoms down. You would need to talk with a doctor you trust about this. I know that I was much more emotionally volitile for several months, until it finally settled down. Let me know what you decide and how it works. Take care!!!
Posted by KimberlyDi on February 23, 2004, at 16:39:43
In reply to Any long term Effexor-free survivors?, posted by StaceyB on February 22, 2004, at 4:17:09
Stacy,
I don't know if you quit cold turkey or tapered off carefully. I tapered, and it took me several months. Towards the end I started taking low dosages of Imipramine to help with my sleep. When finally off completely, I had a problem with rebound depression and MAJOR mood swings. PDoc had mercy and tried me on generic Tegretol as a mood stabilizer. After sleeping non-stop the first two days, I can now take it without excessive sleepiness and it keeps me level. I hate the quesy side effects but prefer not to feel like I am loosing my mind. There is hope. You will get better. If you aren't tapering, then the worst is being brought on by choice. You can do something about it. :)
Good Luck!!!!
KDi in TX> Well, it's 4 am and I can't sleep, I am crying over nothing, I am feeling sick to my stomach and the headaches are unbelievable! This is the whole reason why I got on Effexor in the first place!
>
> I would love to hear from someone who has been off of Effexor for a while? Approximately how long until the withdrawal symptoms totally stop? I am very scared that I will want to go back. I never realized how this little pill had such a hold on my life.
>
> Day 3 of withdrawal...and going.
>
> Thank you,
> StaceyB.
Posted by MADMAN3070 on February 24, 2004, at 9:34:20
In reply to Re: effexor withdrawal, posted by jiggitykid on February 22, 2004, at 19:31:29
> See my response to your other post, Madman. After the first month, I was a lot better, but still having "mild" symptoms. It sounds as if your nervous system (I'm guessing here, but this is how it felt to me) is stuck running on high, and as if your sense receptors are wide open. Does this sound right to you? It felt to me that the world was too loud, too bright, things moved too much, etc., and that contributed to my nausea and pain. This is why I think perhaps you are right - maybe a neurologist would at least be able to point you in the right direction as far as what might help settle your system down. Some here might suggest taking another SSRI to help calm the symptoms down. You would need to talk with a doctor you trust about this. I know that I was much more emotionally volitile for several months, until it finally settled down. Let me know what you decide and how it works. Take care!!!
Thanks Jiggity. I appreciate the help. I have heard that some people have had success with the all natural suppliment called Becalm'd. I will ask the group here if anyone has had success with that product. Madman
Posted by katia on February 25, 2004, at 14:26:05
In reply to Any long term Effexor-free survivors?, posted by StaceyB on February 22, 2004, at 4:17:09
Hi Stacey,
Yes it does end even though it doesn't feel like it at the time. It's a horrendous experience. When I came off of Effexor, I went onto Zoloft for 3mos. to no avail (come to find out I'm bipolar) and then had to go through a worse w/drawal withZoloft! It does end. Taper slowly.....
katia> Well, it's 4 am and I can't sleep, I am crying over nothing, I am feeling sick to my stomach and the headaches are unbelievable! This is the whole reason why I got on Effexor in the first place!
>
> I would love to hear from someone who has been off of Effexor for a while? Approximately how long until the withdrawal symptoms totally stop? I am very scared that I will want to go back. I never realized how this little pill had such a hold on my life.
>
> Day 3 of withdrawal...and going.
>
> Thank you,
> StaceyB.
Posted by katia on February 25, 2004, at 14:27:01
In reply to Re: Any long term Effexor-free survivors? » StaceyB, posted by KimberlyDi on February 23, 2004, at 16:39:43
Kim,
Are you still on Tegretol? Are you BP? How's it going? I just started Trileptal.
KAtia
Posted by meaux on March 7, 2004, at 0:16:22
In reply to Effexor withdrawal symptoms!, posted by Becky on October 2, 1999, at 22:03:30
Wyeth is a disgrace. To know that they were and are fully aware of the physiological addiction of Effexor XR and have not made such information publically available is sickening. When starting Effexor a year ago, I was brought up to a dose of 300mg/day. I was not told of any withdrawal syndromes or addictive potentials of this drug - I checked WebMD and of course that site says nothing because who sponsors it but the pharmecutial companies themselves. My pharmacist knew nothing of its addictive potential and had not heard of the effects of Effexor on simple things like circulation (blood pressure and 'tingling' extremeties). The fact simply remains : Effexor IS PHYSIOLOGICALLY ADDICTIVE. It may be 'non habit forming' because it does not provide the user with a feeling of euphoria - but studies have proven Effexor's addictive qualities. Mothers who took Effexor for brief periods of time during the pregnancy had neo-natal fetuses suffering from Withdrawal Syndrome. Who was on Effexor withdrawal but Andrea Yates herself when she drowned her children (supposedly, anyways). I have tried three times unsuccessfully to taper Effexor. The last time I tapered to 265 mg/day for a week and it was miserable - I know what it feels like now to be an addict going through rehab. I was crippled with nausea, vomiting, headaches, spinning head, vertigo, the 'electrical' impulse feeling (like I could sense my nervous system conducting action potentials when my eyes would move). Several lawsuits exist currently to fight this evil - some that involve sufferers who experience seizures and neuropathy because of this shit. SIGN THE PETITION, GET YOUR VOICE ACROSS. SOMETHING MUST BE DONE. We can not let the pharmeceutical companies reap the benefit of getting addicts to their medications. Is there no justice? I am 19 years old. In college and graduate school concurrently; I must take off my fall semester and find a way of support to get myself off this medication starting immediately this summer... after 3 days cold turkey one time I was about to physically die from the withdrawl effects - I could not get out of bed, kept hearing buzzing in my head, had a fever of over 102 and hot/cold spells. My breathing was depressed, and I was at my wit's end. THIS CAN NOT CONTINUE TO PLAGUE INNOCENT PEOPLE WHO WANT TO FIGHT DEPRESSION, NOT ADD A DRUG ADDICTION TO THEIR LIST OF WORRIES.
Posted by jiggitykid on March 7, 2004, at 12:25:34
In reply to Re: Effexor withdrawal symptoms!, posted by meaux on March 7, 2004, at 0:16:22
Meaux, where is the petition and how do I join a lawsuit? I've asked here before about how to get involved in a CALS because of the misery this has caused me and my family. My heart breaks for you. Would it be possible to be in a hospital for withdrawal? I imagine insurance would fight that one, but maybe something could be done. Let me know if you know of where to go for the petition and for the lawsuit.
Posted by Ieva on March 7, 2004, at 15:39:04
In reply to Re: Effexor withdrawal symptoms! Meaux, posted by jiggitykid on March 7, 2004, at 12:25:34
> Meaux, where is the petition and how do I join a lawsuit? I've asked here before about how to get involved in a CALS because of the misery this has caused me and my family. My heart breaks for you. Would it be possible to be in a hospital for withdrawal? I imagine insurance would fight that one, but maybe something could be done. Let me know if you know of where to go for the petition and for the lawsuit.
***** go to www.petitiononline.com/effexor ****
Posted by flyingdreams on March 8, 2004, at 20:38:42
In reply to Re: Effexor withdrawal symptoms!, posted by meaux on March 7, 2004, at 0:16:22
Hi Everyone!
Wow, I thought I'd be over this withdrawal crap, but nope! The last 2 PMS times have lasted 12-14 days involving incredible painful breasts, haven't had this pain since I was a teen! I'm in my mid 30's. Plus I've had tingling feelings in my hand and feet - the feeling you get right before they fall asleep, but it last for hours and isn't because I was sitting on it wrong of something to cause it! Plus I'm still getting the sleepy feeling from time to time and still serious insomnia that no sleeping pill can put me to sleep! And still can't lose any weight, still exercising my butt off for nothing.
How much longer is this crap going to last???????Wendy
Posted by metro8268 on March 8, 2004, at 20:47:40
In reply to Day 55 of Effexor withdrawal symptoms-my experienc, posted by flyingdreams on March 8, 2004, at 20:38:42
Wow - I'm on day 17 and am finally able to go an hour with out having a "brain shiver". I feel you on the insomia. I either am up to 3 AM or I sleep for 12 hours at a time. It's so frustrating. I wish I could get my body on a regular sleep schedule.
Has anyone else noticed that the symptoms seem to come back when you get tired? I'll be feeling great, having a good day, and then all of the sudden feel depressed, achy and the brain shivers come back.
You know there's a problem with this medication when everyone counts the days they've been off of the drug. I feel like a drug addict who's at AA:
Hi my name is Wendy and I've been clean of Effexor for 17 days....
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