![[dr. bob]](/dr-bob-sm.gif)
Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1386 to 1410 of 10407. Go back in thread:
Posted by dreamer on October 26, 2001, at 14:10:10
In reply to Dreamer-Screamer!, posted by Dreamy on October 26, 2001, at 12:35:30
> Cute! You freaked me out as I thought maybe you were going to make fun of something I said.
> I have actually spent more time on the main babble chat line...
> Anyhow...I have always been a VERY LUCID dreamer... and now since starting this drug I have had a different dream each night about
> one of my old boy friends (different one each night)...
> Its weird...I have also had more on order of night-marish dreams...
> Nothing scary enough to make me quit Effexor...but definitely different than usual.
> How about you?
> PS -like your name!!!Dreamy,
Same here with the dreams. Nightmares don't get so many since I increased the dose.
So detailed-real-adventurous.
Used to worry at first (always had a dream ridden sleep before meds) now I enjoy and find them quite inspiring .
Effexor gets better.........Dreamer -trying to wake after a very interesting sleep.
Posted by HeatherBear on October 26, 2001, at 16:49:36
In reply to Anyone need to keep uping dosage every few weeks?, posted by sweet_slider on October 23, 2001, at 20:24:30
Actually, I had that same problem. My advice is to get the heck off that drug!! See my post regarding the bad effects of withdrawal. I strongly believe that this drug should be removed from the market. My dr's office is trying to decide this very moment if I should go into urgent care or if i need to wait it out with a "babysitter", i.e., my mother.
Good luck in whatever treatment you and your dr choose, I just wish that no one had to feel this way.
Posted by Dreamy on October 26, 2001, at 17:25:10
In reply to Dreamy Dreamer about dreams + effexor » Dreamy, posted by dreamer on October 26, 2001, at 14:10:10
> > Cute! You freaked me out as I thought maybe you were going to make fun of something I said.
> > I have actually spent more time on the main babble chat line...
> > Anyhow...I have always been a VERY LUCID dreamer... and now since starting this drug I have had a different dream each night about
> > one of my old boy friends (different one each night)...
> > Its weird...I have also had more on order of night-marish dreams...
> > Nothing scary enough to make me quit Effexor...but definitely different than usual.
> > How about you?
> > PS -like your name!!!
>
> Dreamy,
>
> Same here with the dreams. Nightmares don't get so many since I increased the dose.
> So detailed-real-adventurous.
> Used to worry at first (always had a dream ridden sleep before meds) now I enjoy and find them quite inspiring .
> Effexor gets better.........
>
> Dreamer -trying to wake after a very interesting sleep.Interesting!
Think I'll up my dose!!!
:-)
Posted by sweet_slider on October 26, 2001, at 19:41:56
In reply to Re: Anyone need to keep uping dosage every few weeks?, posted by HeatherBear on October 26, 2001, at 16:49:36
I know, it's shitty feeling like this :(
I talked to my doctor yesterday about how I was going to be while tapering off later and she said I would have no problem, that it is not addictive and while you do have taper off slowly, there shouldn't be any problems. Well from what I have read here it sounds crazy, I don't have a lot of side-effects from taking effexor xr but it just seems that I have a good week or two and then slip back into major depression and I have to increase just to get to a good week and then I go back down. I have been on AD for almost 9 months now and it's still so hard to be optomistic when I keep slipping back further. I too was almost put into emergency care last week after a suicide attempt, so I had to move and be baby-sat as well!What are you taking now?
I am still on 225mg of Effexor XR with 25mg of amitriptyline to help sleep.
~SweetSlider~
Posted by erica a on October 29, 2001, at 9:39:06
In reply to 4 Weeks off Effexor, posted by Leo on March 7, 2001, at 17:23:26
> I'm now four weeks off effexor. Things have changed drastically for the better. I am still experiencing "flashbacks" of the withdrawal. Namely the dysphoric feeling and light headedness. Joints aching pretty bad. Still have occasional severe headaches. Still lack much motivation but I'm forcing myself to get up and get going. With this effort, there is still a great deal of fatigue. I think that this is probably due to the "no desire to do anything" while on the effexor. I am actually starting to look forward to things. I'm excited about future propects. Effexor was a debilitating drug that kept me in a depressed state of mind. It has created a "poor health" syndrome that requires a great deal of effort and stamina to overcome. Now I understand what those of you who have e-mailed me with that "hoping today will be the day" comment are experiencing. I know what I was like before the "hook" of effexor. I also have come to relize that I may never get back to where I was, but at least I know why. With my physical condition now I expect at least 9-12 months of physical rehab. I have been working with several doctors. I have had a complete and thourough physical because I was beginning to think that there was something more wrong. They have done CT's, of the head because of the vertigo and dysphoria to eliminate any other possible problems there. Sinus's and ears are clear however, they want to do more tests on the heart. I gained alot of weight while on the effexor. This, according to the doctor's, is because of a severe lack of activity while on the drug. There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that the effexor has effected my physical well being. The question is, how badly, how much and to what extent. I've been reading the posts about weight gain. It's the effexor that causes that "I don't want to do anything" syndrome. This sneaks up on you slowly and because of the stealthiness of the drug you don't really realize it. I am now taking the steps necessary with an attorney in Philadelphia to go after Weyth-Aeryst. I'll let you know how that goes. It's time for them to come clean.
Please Please let the rest of us know what happens. I have been going through "holy hell" since coming off of effexor. I had been on it for about 2 1/2yrs. Gained about 30lbs, even with exercising and eating right. I have been a walking time bomb, crying, nausea, vomiting, angry outbursts, feeling like I want to die, head rushes, just a lot. Maybe you can be the voice for the rest of us.
Posted by girlie on October 30, 2001, at 8:27:39
In reply to Re: 4 Weeks off Effexor, posted by erica a on October 29, 2001, at 9:39:06
I was on Effexor XR for about 5 years, with 300mg being my highest doseage. Effexor was a life saver for me and I'm distressed to see people trying to sue and get it pulled from the market just because it didn't work for THEM. ALL anti-depressants are different and, just because it's not right for some doesn't mean it's wrong for all!
Yes, I gained weight and it SUCKS! Yes, I had night sweats and vivid dreams and negative sexual side effects, and they SUCKED! BUT, I would have long ago lost my friggin mind to anxitey and fear and depression without Effexor. What anti-depressant out there has NO negative side effects or withdrawl?? (and, if you can answer that question, then you obviously found one that is right for YOU, but not necessarily the next person)
In July I began weaning off of Effexor because I want to get pregnant. The reduction from 300mg to 225mg was difficult, at best. The reduction from 225mg to 150mg went without ONE negative side effect. From 150mg to 75mg there was a day or two of mild brain swoosh. I'm now on 37.5mg and will finish my medication on Friday. I fully expect this to be the most difficult part. At least my appetite has finally decreased dramatically - thank HEAVEN!
SO, after all of that, I would rather go thru the weight gain and the side effects to have saved my mind and the ability to function in society.
I'll repeat, just because it doesn't work for YOU, doesn't mean it's not working for someone!
This is all JMHO
girlie
Posted by Dreamy on October 30, 2001, at 10:22:15
In reply to Re: 4 Weeks off Effexor, posted by girlie on October 30, 2001, at 8:27:39
> I was on Effexor XR for about 5 years, with 300mg being my highest doseage. Effexor was a life saver for me and I'm distressed to see people trying to sue and get it pulled from the market just because it didn't work for THEM. ALL anti-depressants are different and, just because it's not right for some doesn't mean it's wrong for all!
>
> Yes, I gained weight and it SUCKS! Yes, I had night sweats and vivid dreams and negative sexual side effects, and they SUCKED! BUT, I would have long ago lost my friggin mind to anxitey and fear and depression without Effexor. What anti-depressant out there has NO negative side effects or withdrawl?? (and, if you can answer that question, then you obviously found one that is right for YOU, but not necessarily the next person)
>
> In July I began weaning off of Effexor because I want to get pregnant. The reduction from 300mg to 225mg was difficult, at best. The reduction from 225mg to 150mg went without ONE negative side effect. From 150mg to 75mg there was a day or two of mild brain swoosh. I'm now on 37.5mg and will finish my medication on Friday. I fully expect this to be the most difficult part. At least my appetite has finally decreased dramatically - thank HEAVEN!
>
> SO, after all of that, I would rather go thru the weight gain and the side effects to have saved my mind and the ability to function in society.
>
> I'll repeat, just because it doesn't work for YOU, doesn't mean it's not working for someone!
>
> This is all JMHO
> girlie
Boy...it's nice to hear someone who doesn't think gettting off of effexor isn't
that big of a deal... all I hear about is what hell gettin off the stuff it...
whats distressing for me is that at least right now, I am on it and feeling pretty
darn good. And other AD's were making my hair fall out...let me tell you...
an increased appitite is nothing compared to hair loss...you know...you can control
what you stick in your mouth, but you can't control hair loss.
OK?
Thanks for the input!
Hope its as easy for me when I try!
Dreamy
Posted by Cam W. on November 1, 2001, at 1:39:51
In reply to Re: 4 Weeks off Effexor, posted by Dreamy on October 30, 2001, at 10:22:15
Dreamy - Most people do not have a problem with stopping Effexor™ (venlafaxine). Even those who are prone to Effexor withdrawl (eg. those who are rapid metabolizers - ie. those who have polymorphisms of the cytochrome P450-2D6 gene; approx. 5% of those of European heritage) can be weaned from the drug with proper management. Slow weanng [very slow in some instances (eg. decreasing by 37.5mg every 2 to 4 weeks)] and perhaps the addition of a small dose of Prozac™ (fluoxetine: 10mg - 20mg) can ease the discomfort. Occasionally, I have seen Xanax™ (alprazolam) or Rivotril™ (Klonopin™ - clonazepam) used on an "as needed" basis, to help with the anxiety.
In my clinical experience, I personally have not seen a case of serotonergic withdrawl that couldn't be managed with little more than mild, transient short-term discomfort. Any significant discomfort was addressed and managed symptomatically, as it arose.
This is just my clinical experience. - Cam
Posted by BobS. on November 1, 2001, at 18:11:37
In reply to Re: 4 Weeks off Effexor » Dreamy, posted by Cam W. on November 1, 2001, at 1:39:51
Cam,
By implication then, does that mean anyone who experiences major symptoms is having a recurrence (anxiety disorders only)? Many have posted on various boards about Paxil, usually the worst offender. Personally, I am on my fourth attempt to discontinue Paxil, with increasing symptoms. Your post is the first time I have seen withdrawal played down, by someone generally well regarded by board users.
Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Thanks,
BobS.
> Dreamy - Most people do not have a problem with stopping Effexor™ (venlafaxine). Even those who are prone to Effexor withdrawl (eg. those who are rapid metabolizers - ie. those who have polymorphisms of the cytochrome P450-2D6 gene; approx. 5% of those of European heritage) can be weaned from the drug with proper management. Slow weanng [very slow in some instances (eg. decreasing by 37.5mg every 2 to 4 weeks)] and perhaps the addition of a small dose of Prozac™ (fluoxetine: 10mg - 20mg) can ease the discomfort. Occasionally, I have seen Xanax™ (alprazolam) or Rivotril™ (Klonopin™ - clonazepam) used on an "as needed" basis, to help with the anxiety.
>
> In my clinical experience, I personally have not seen a case of serotonergic withdrawl that couldn't be managed with little more than mild, transient short-term discomfort. Any significant discomfort was addressed and managed symptomatically, as it arose.
>
> This is just my clinical experience. - Cam
Posted by Cam W. on November 1, 2001, at 18:46:45
In reply to Re: 4 Weeks off Effexor, posted by BobS. on November 1, 2001, at 18:11:37
Bob - Ask your doctor about giving you 2 to 4 weeks of Prozac™ 10mg (or generic fluoxetine 10mg). Decrease your Paxil to as low a dose as comfortable, then add the Prozac 10mg in the morning. Take the two SSRIs together for a week or two (depending on the severity of the Paxil symptoms you have experienced in the past), then stop the Paxil. Continue the Prozac 10mg for another week or two and then stop. If withdrawl symptoms return after stopping the Paxil, have your doctor raise the Prozac dose to 20mg (2x10mg) for a week, and then decrease to Prozac 10mg for another week.
Because of Prozac's long half-life and active metabolite (desmethylfluoxetine - aka norfluoxetine), this SSRI should leave the body slow enough not to cause any withdrawl symptoms.
Personally, I have seen the most problems with the regular Effexor, with it's 5 hour half-life. I have seen one elderly gentleman go through mini-withdrawls every night, because the pharmacy had given him 37.5mg regular tablets and not the XR capsules.
Paxil's cholinergic rebound can be troublesome in some people withdrawing from it. It can mimic some of the symptoms of serotonin withdrawl (eg sweating and tremor). If this is the case, your doc may have to give you a low dose (0.5mg to 1mg/day) of an anticholinergic like Cogentin™ (benztropine) or some other similar drug and withdraw from one effect at a time.
I hope that this is of some help. - Cam
P.S. Perhaps, print this out and take it to your doctor.
Posted by BobS. on November 1, 2001, at 19:25:41
In reply to Re: 4 Weeks off Effexor » Dreamy, posted by Cam W. on November 1, 2001, at 1:39:51
Cam,
By implication then, does that mean anyone who experiences major symptoms is having a recurrence (anxiety disorders only)? Many have posted on various boards about Paxil, usually the worst offender. Personally, I am on my fourth attempt to discontinue Paxil, with increasing symptoms. Your post is the first time I have seen withdrawal played down, by someone generally well regarded by board users.
Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Thanks,
BobS.> Dreamy - Most people do not have a problem with stopping Effexor™ (venlafaxine). Even those who are prone to Effexor withdrawl (eg. those who are rapid metabolizers - ie. those who have polymorphisms of the cytochrome P450-2D6 gene; approx. 5% of those of European heritage) can be weaned from the drug with proper management. Slow weanng [very slow in some instances (eg. decreasing by 37.5mg every 2 to 4 weeks)] and perhaps the addition of a small dose of Prozac™ (fluoxetine: 10mg - 20mg) can ease the discomfort. Occasionally, I have seen Xanax™ (alprazolam) or Rivotril™ (Klonopin™ - clonazepam) used on an "as needed" basis, to help with the anxiety.
>
> In my clinical experience, I personally have not seen a case of serotonergic withdrawl that couldn't be managed with little more than mild, transient short-term discomfort. Any significant discomfort was addressed and managed symptomatically, as it arose.
>
> This is just my clinical experience. - Cam
Posted by Cam W. on November 1, 2001, at 22:59:46
In reply to Re: 4 Weeks off Effexor, posted by BobS. on November 1, 2001, at 18:11:37
Bob - The original answer that I gave was regarding the weaning from a serotonergic antidepressant, used for depression. I am sorry that I misread your post the first time.
As for weaning from a serotonergic antidepressant being used for an anxiety disorder; in addition to following the steps in my original post to yours, you have to watch for a return of anxiety symptoms. These may be difficult to separate out from the withdrawl symptoms. A shor course of Rivotril™ (Klonopin™ - clonazepam) may be prudent to help quell the anxiety associated with weaning from the Paxil. Ask your doctor about this.
I still think, that because of their shorter half-lives, relative to Paxil, Effexor and Effexor XR are probably the worst offenders for causing serotonergic withdrawl syndrome. The added possiblity of cholinergic rebound with Paxil withdrawl, does throw another factor into the equation; although I have not really seen that many cases of cholinergic rebound with the Paxil (or I missed it, figuring it to be part of the serotonergic withdrawl syndrome, which resolved using the steps outlined in my last post).
I hope that this clears things up a bit more. - Cam
Posted by mary b. on November 2, 2001, at 11:20:49
In reply to Re: Long-term effects, posted by Cindy W on August 31, 2000, at 21:48:33
hi
I just read your note and am curious to know if anyone else out there is suffering from hair loss and brittle nails as a side effect of Effexor. I feel great on the Effexor but my doctor says it can't cause hair loss, I'm not so sure, how common is this? > > > HI
> > >
> > > My dr gave effexor xr to me about 4 weeks ago. I struggled with taking it because I just thought that taking something is a cop out,lol. I am having sever mood swings and I am angry and depressed a lot. I will pick fights with my oldest child..now 18 and my dh is confused because I swing in moods so quilckly. anyways, I took the first pill yesterday.....at 1 pm after another senseless blow out with my son. I felt fine all day maybe a bit nauses and could not fall asleep last night and right now I am feeling a bit edgy.....I have been reading alot of the posts and now I am so scared to takes this stuff!! I don't want the side effects or the withdraws.....I feel like I am having a hard tome breathing something i never had before......could it be this stuff already!!
> > >
> > > HELP,LOL
> >
> >
> > I have been on this stuff since it came out in 1994. The longer I take it, the worse the side effects become. I have developed what they call fibromyalgia, have developed hypertension, have terrible insomnia, nausea, no libido, no orgasm, dry skin and itching, incontinence, trouble starting to urinate, electric shocks through my legs and feet that cause them to move, brittle nails, thinning hair, my hearing is decreasing, mental fog and memory loss (what was I saying?), fatigue, no stamina, no enthusiasm, night sweats, profuse sweating, and weird dreams. I am terribly sensitive to medications, and have only been on the 37.5 dose! And yes, these might be symptoms of other problems, but I am careful about seeing my doctor, and there doesn't appear to be any other source. I am trying to wean myself from this stuff after attempting cold turkey once before. I just hope I haven't incurred some kind of permanent brain damage from this stuff. And since I've been on it so long, it will probably take forever to vacate the premises. Never take a new drug they know little or nothing about!
>
> Naanra, I take Effexor-XR 375 mg/day. A couple of months ago, I started itching terribly. Could you describe your itching? I'm trying to find out if my hives (which occur at night and fade by morning) are due to the Effexor-XR (which I've taken now for 9 months) or some kind of allergy. Thanks!!--Cindy W
Posted by BobS. on November 2, 2001, at 12:41:53
In reply to Re: 4 Weeks off Effexor » Dreamy, posted by Cam W. on November 1, 2001, at 1:39:51
Cam,
By implication then, does that mean anyone who experiences major symptoms is having a recurrence (anxiety disorders only)? Many have posted on various boards about Paxil, usually the worst offender. Personally, I am on my fourth attempt to discontinue Paxil, with increasing symptoms. Your post is the first time I have seen withdrawal played down, by someone generally well regarded by board users.
Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Thanks,
BobS.
> Dreamy - Most people do not have a problem with stopping Effexor™ (venlafaxine). Even those who are prone to Effexor withdrawl (eg. those who are rapid metabolizers - ie. those who have polymorphisms of the cytochrome P450-2D6 gene; approx. 5% of those of European heritage) can be weaned from the drug with proper management. Slow weanng [very slow in some instances (eg. decreasing by 37.5mg every 2 to 4 weeks)] and perhaps the addition of a small dose of Prozac™ (fluoxetine: 10mg - 20mg) can ease the discomfort. Occasionally, I have seen Xanax™ (alprazolam) or Rivotril™ (Klonopin™ - clonazepam) used on an "as needed" basis, to help with the anxiety.
>
> In my clinical experience, I personally have not seen a case of serotonergic withdrawl that couldn't be managed with little more than mild, transient short-term discomfort. Any significant discomfort was addressed and managed symptomatically, as it arose.
>
> This is just my clinical experience. - Cam
Posted by Dreamy on November 2, 2001, at 12:44:14
In reply to Re: 4 Weeks off Effexor » Dreamy, posted by Cam W. on November 1, 2001, at 1:39:51
> Dreamy - Most people do not have a problem with stopping Effexor™ (venlafaxine). Even those who are prone to Effexor withdrawl (eg. those who are rapid metabolizers - ie. those who have polymorphisms of the cytochrome P450-2D6 gene; approx. 5% of those of European heritage) can be weaned from the drug with proper management. Slow weanng [very slow in some instances (eg. decreasing by 37.5mg every 2 to 4 weeks)] and perhaps the addition of a small dose of Prozac™ (fluoxetine: 10mg - 20mg) can ease the discomfort. Occasionally, I have seen Xanax™ (alprazolam) or Rivotril™ (Klonopin™ - clonazepam) used on an "as needed" basis, to help with the anxiety.
>
> In my clinical experience, I personally have not seen a case of serotonergic withdrawl that couldn't be managed with little more than mild, transient short-term discomfort. Any significant discomfort was addressed and managed symptomatically, as it arose.
>
> This is just my clinical experience. - CamCAM,
WOW -Thanks for lightening my fears.
It is so nice to hear that not all people who have
taken and quit Effexor have had unbearable w/drawl
syptoms!
The more I have read about the horror stories the more
I have wanted to quit...so I really appreciate a
positive spin!
Again, Thanks!!!
Dreamy
Posted by Dreamy on November 2, 2001, at 12:55:22
In reply to Re: Long-term effects » Cindy W, posted by mary b. on November 2, 2001, at 11:20:49
> hi
> I just read your note and am curious to know if anyone else out there is suffering from hair loss and brittle nails as a side effect of Effexor. I feel great on the Effexor but my doctor says it can't cause hair loss, I'm not so sure, how common is this? > > > HI
> > > >
> > > > My dr gave effexor xr to me about 4 weeks ago. I struggled with taking it because I just thought that taking something is a cop out,lol. I am having sever mood swings and I am angry and depressed a lot. I will pick fights with my oldest child..now 18 and my dh is confused because I swing in moods so quilckly. anyways, I took the first pill yesterday.....at 1 pm after another senseless blow out with my son. I felt fine all day maybe a bit nauses and could not fall asleep last night and right now I am feeling a bit edgy.....I have been reading alot of the posts and now I am so scared to takes this stuff!! I don't want the side effects or the withdraws.....I feel like I am having a hard tome breathing something i never had before......could it be this stuff already!!
> > > >
> > > > HELP,LOL
> > >
> > >
> > > I have been on this stuff since it came out in 1994. The longer I take it, the worse the side effects become. I have developed what they call fibromyalgia, have developed hypertension, have terrible insomnia, nausea, no libido, no orgasm, dry skin and itching, incontinence, trouble starting to urinate, electric shocks through my legs and feet that cause them to move, brittle nails, thinning hair, my hearing is decreasing, mental fog and memory loss (what was I saying?), fatigue, no stamina, no enthusiasm, night sweats, profuse sweating, and weird dreams. I am terribly sensitive to medications, and have only been on the 37.5 dose! And yes, these might be symptoms of other problems, but I am careful about seeing my doctor, and there doesn't appear to be any other source. I am trying to wean myself from this stuff after attempting cold turkey once before. I just hope I haven't incurred some kind of permanent brain damage from this stuff. And since I've been on it so long, it will probably take forever to vacate the premises. Never take a new drug they know little or nothing about!
> >
> > Naanra, I take Effexor-XR 375 mg/day. A couple of months ago, I started itching terribly. Could you describe your itching? I'm trying to find out if my hives (which occur at night and fade by morning) are due to the Effexor-XR (which I've taken now for 9 months) or some kind of allergy. Thanks!!--Cindy WMaryB
Need to tell you I was loosing gobs of hair on
celexa and I am pretty sure prozac too.
AND I am now on Effexor and I'm tellen ya, my hair
is sticking into my scalp like I was 4 year old
kid!!!
My hair loss has gone from a couple hundred in the morning
to virtually 10 or so...
It's really a miracle my hair has stopped falling out.I think I did see some info from PAX that he found
a rare occurance of hair loss w/Effexor.
I'm not seeing it though!
Look for a section on Hair Loss...I started it.
Virutally I payed the most attention to Celexa and
Prozac, the two drugs I thought were causing me the
problem. Again, my doctor told me that they didn't
make peoples hair fall out -but it was.
Dreamy
Posted by sweet_slider on November 2, 2001, at 15:22:24
In reply to Re: Long-term effects ..MaryB, posted by Dreamy on November 2, 2001, at 12:55:22
I too have had a lot of hair loss since starting Effexor XR 3 months ago. It comes out in big clumps of like 50 at a time, especially in the morning when I shower. But it's all day as well, everytime I run my hand through my hair I can pull tons out. I have been concerned about for awhile and have been told that its not unusual but it is to me since I didn't have the problem before taking effexor, so.....??
Hopefully it isn't permanent. :)
Sweet Slider
Posted by Dreamy on November 2, 2001, at 16:50:47
In reply to Re: Hair loss - MaryB - Dreamy, posted by sweet_slider on November 2, 2001, at 15:22:24
> I too have had a lot of hair loss since starting Effexor XR 3 months ago. It comes out in big clumps of like 50 at a time, especially in the morning when I shower. But it's all day as well, everytime I run my hand through my hair I can pull tons out. I have been concerned about for awhile and have been told that its not unusual but it is to me since I didn't have the problem before taking effexor, so.....??
> Hopefully it isn't permanent. :)
> Sweet SliderTell you what...my hair is growing back nicely...
However, I look funny w/spikes all over the top.
But it is coming back which is the important thing.
And like I said earlier...celexa did it to me, but
Effexor isn't...so you could try a different AD!
Good Luck!
Dreamy
Posted by VMBW on November 2, 2001, at 17:48:17
In reply to Re: 4 Weeks off Effexor » BobS., posted by Cam W. on November 1, 2001, at 18:46:45
Cam,
I too would like to thank you for your positive post on Effexor discontinuation. I've been on the XR for a few years but would like to try to discontinue for a number of reasons. The posts on this board, however, certainly make you wonder if it's a good idea. I have an even greater concern because I experienced "withdrawal from hell"about 6 years ago when I discontinued parnate - hospitatlized and nearly didn't make it. I am truly leary of a similar experience because I don't think I'd survive. That may seem like a good reason not to discontinue but I have a number of reasons why I would like to try. The reason I'm responding to your post is because I'd like to ask you a few questions. Roughly, what percentage of individuals that you have seen in your experience actually have major withdrawal? I'm guessing that a there is a large number of people who successfully discontinue every day but this board probably is visited most frequently by people experiencing difficulties (msyself included). Maybe we just don't get the benefit of hearing about the success stories. Second, how severe are the withdrawal symptoms that you HAVE seen. Are they mostly physical, i.e, nausea, muscle and joint aches, or are they predominantly emotional. I think I could handle most of the physical problems such a flu symptoms, but the emotional side is what scares me. I realize that your experience is just a very small sample and would only be anectodal but any feedback would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
Bob - Ask your doctor about giving you 2 to 4 weeks of Prozac™ 10mg (or generic fluoxetine 10mg). Decrease your Paxil to as low a dose as comfortable, then add the Prozac 10mg in the morning. Take the two SSRIs together for a week or two (depending on the severity of the Paxil symptoms you have experienced in the past), then stop the Paxil. Continue the Prozac 10mg for another week or two and then stop. If withdrawl symptoms return after stopping the Paxil, have your doctor raise the Prozac dose to 20mg (2x10mg) for a week, and then decrease to Prozac 10mg for another week.
>
> Because of Prozac's long half-life and active metabolite (desmethylfluoxetine - aka norfluoxetine), this SSRI should leave the body slow enough not to cause any withdrawl symptoms.
>
> Personally, I have seen the most problems with the regular Effexor, with it's 5 hour half-life. I have seen one elderly gentleman go through mini-withdrawls every night, because the pharmacy had given him 37.5mg regular tablets and not the XR capsules.
>
> Paxil's cholinergic rebound can be troublesome in some people withdrawing from it. It can mimic some of the symptoms of serotonin withdrawl (eg sweating and tremor). If this is the case, your doc may have to give you a low dose (0.5mg to 1mg/day) of an anticholinergic like Cogentin™ (benztropine) or some other similar drug and withdraw from one effect at a time.
>
> I hope that this is of some help. - Cam
>
> P.S. Perhaps, print this out and take it to your doctor.
Posted by Cam W. on November 2, 2001, at 21:47:33
In reply to Re: 4 Weeks off Effexor » Cam W., posted by VMBW on November 2, 2001, at 17:48:17
VMBW - To tell you the truth, I haven't seen many Effexor withdrawl cases since the XR version was introduced. This probably isn't indicative of the number that truly occur, because I generally only get called in to a situation when the doc can't be reached or their are multiple drug changes going on. I have trained our mental health nurses and therapists to recognize withdrawl symptoms. Still, I do not hear about it occuring very often.
When I am lecturing to doctors (both GPs and psychiatrists) I always have a number that are shocked that serotonin withdrawl syndrome really happens.
For the large number of people that we have taking Effexor, I was only seeing (or hearing about) one case every month or two. This may not reflect the true incidence, because severe cases would be referred to hospitals, and mild cases may not even be noticed.
I am sure that at work I mentioned serotonin withdrawl syndrome more than it actually happened. Also, many potential cases are probably masked. Usually, I was dealing with patients who would be taking an antidepressant for life. If they were not responding to Effexor XR, they were often switched to another serotonergic antidepressant, without a washout peiod. Therefore, there was no chance of serotonin syndrome developing. Also, we have a lot of people who are staying on Effexor, so they do not go through withdrawl, umless they quit taking it.
I guess to answer your question of percentages; I would have to say that overall, the incidence of a significant withdrawl effect is approximately 5%. Again, I warn that this is an unscientific guess; more of a feeling. I know that I don't hear about 1 in 20 having problems, but that would be my guess.
- Cam
Posted by Kristi on November 3, 2001, at 11:06:15
In reply to Re: 4 Weeks off Effexor » VMBW, posted by Cam W. on November 2, 2001, at 21:47:33
What percentage of the people on this board experience effexor withdrawal from hell?
> VMBW - To tell you the truth, I haven't seen many Effexor withdrawl cases since the XR version was introduced. This probably isn't indicative of the number that truly occur, because I generally only get called in to a situation when the doc can't be reached or their are multiple drug changes going on. I have trained our mental health nurses and therapists to recognize withdrawl symptoms. Still, I do not hear about it occuring very often.
>
> When I am lecturing to doctors (both GPs and psychiatrists) I always have a number that are shocked that serotonin withdrawl syndrome really happens.
>
> For the large number of people that we have taking Effexor, I was only seeing (or hearing about) one case every month or two. This may not reflect the true incidence, because severe cases would be referred to hospitals, and mild cases may not even be noticed.
>
> I am sure that at work I mentioned serotonin withdrawl syndrome more than it actually happened. Also, many potential cases are probably masked. Usually, I was dealing with patients who would be taking an antidepressant for life. If they were not responding to Effexor XR, they were often switched to another serotonergic antidepressant, without a washout peiod. Therefore, there was no chance of serotonin syndrome developing. Also, we have a lot of people who are staying on Effexor, so they do not go through withdrawl, umless they quit taking it.
>
> I guess to answer your question of percentages; I would have to say that overall, the incidence of a significant withdrawl effect is approximately 5%. Again, I warn that this is an unscientific guess; more of a feeling. I know that I don't hear about 1 in 20 having problems, but that would be my guess.
>
> - Cam
Posted by Cam W. on November 3, 2001, at 13:50:29
In reply to Re: 4 Weeks off Effexor » Cam W., posted by Kristi on November 3, 2001, at 11:06:15
Kristi - That would be impossible to say. Many with withdrawl symptoms find their way here through search engines, while looking for Effexor withdrawl boards. Most of these people have not been weaned from the Effexor or had any of the other methods of relieving the symptoms.
Many on this board have stated that they stopped Effexor cold turkey, with little to no problems. Much of the Effexor hype is the squeaky wheel being heard. I am sorry that so many had to suffer when stopping Effexor, but in a vast majority of these cases the suffereing was needless. - Cam
Posted by Mary-Teresa on November 3, 2001, at 16:41:49
In reply to Re: 4 Weeks off Effexor » Kristi, posted by Cam W. on November 3, 2001, at 13:50:29
My doc has suggested I try effexor. I had terrible tinnitus develope on zoloft. I am still having severe panic attacks when the ringing elevates. Right now I am on 3 mg lorazepam daily.
I'm scared to try anything new, but need to.
Mary
Posted by VMBW on November 3, 2001, at 18:20:16
In reply to Re: 4 Weeks off Effexor » VMBW, posted by Cam W. on November 2, 2001, at 21:47:33
>Thanks Cam - I know that it is an unscientific guess but it's reassuring to know that there are many cases where patients do not have problems and it is important that readers of this BB realize this. I really appreciate your time. Take Care
Vince
VMBW - To tell you the truth, I haven't seen many Effexor withdrawl cases since the XR version was introduced. This probably isn't indicative of the number that truly occur, because I generally only get called in to a situation when the doc can't be reached or their are multiple drug changes going on. I have trained our mental health nurses and therapists to recognize withdrawl symptoms. Still, I do not hear about it occuring very often.
>
> When I am lecturing to doctors (both GPs and psychiatrists) I always have a number that are shocked that serotonin withdrawl syndrome really happens.
>
> For the large number of people that we have taking Effexor, I was only seeing (or hearing about) one case every month or two. This may not reflect the true incidence, because severe cases would be referred to hospitals, and mild cases may not even be noticed.
>
> I am sure that at work I mentioned serotonin withdrawl syndrome more than it actually happened. Also, many potential cases are probably masked. Usually, I was dealing with patients who would be taking an antidepressant for life. If they were not responding to Effexor XR, they were often switched to another serotonergic antidepressant, without a washout peiod. Therefore, there was no chance of serotonin syndrome developing. Also, we have a lot of people who are staying on Effexor, so they do not go through withdrawl, umless they quit taking it.
>
> I guess to answer your question of percentages; I would have to say that overall, the incidence of a significant withdrawl effect is approximately 5%. Again, I warn that this is an unscientific guess; more of a feeling. I know that I don't hear about 1 in 20 having problems, but that would be my guess.
>
> - Cam
Posted by Liberty Belle on November 4, 2001, at 1:12:20
In reply to Re: Hair loss - MaryB - Dreamy, posted by sweet_slider on November 2, 2001, at 15:22:24
I want to sincerely and enthusiastically thank the people who have shared their struggles with Effexor on this message board. I am indebted in the highest degree to all who have honestly and courageously shared their stories and grief and know that by reading your comments I have been saved a world of potential heartache worse than depression itself. I am hopeful and confident that I represent countless others who have been and will be encouraged, empowered, and educated by this powerful site. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
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