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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 8 of 8. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by Jenneh on August 18, 2003, at 18:39:16
I have heard stories on these chats from some people talking about weight loss and others talking about weight gain on effexor. I unfortunately have gained about 10 lbs and I am currently weaning myself off of the effexor (150 down to 75mg now). If I go off the meds, should my weight return to normal? I didn't permanently tamper with my metabolism did i? Someone get back to me because I am now freaking out!
I don't want to be on diets for the rest of my life! I have NEVER had to diet before! HELP
Posted by Gabbix2 on August 18, 2003, at 20:18:37
In reply to Weight gain, Weight loss - what's the deal?, posted by Jenneh on August 18, 2003, at 18:39:16
The weight gain can be really scary I know, but as scary as the ten pounds is for you I'm sure it will drop off once you stop the effexor, and that no permanent damage has been done to your metabolism.
I don't know the stats on that, but I don't *think* a permanent metabolic change is
a common risk factor with SSSRI's or SSNRI drugs.
I gained about 30 lbs on Effexor,amazingly fast
Most of it came off after I stopped taking it. some stayed, but I think that was because I went from Effexor to Paxil.
After stopping paxil I went back to normal.I really *doubt* you've altered your metabolism
actually I wouldn't be surprised if the ten pounds is water retention.
Retaining water can be another side effect of Effexor.
Gosh 10 lbs is a weekend for me!
Posted by Gabbix2 on August 18, 2003, at 21:50:42
In reply to Re: Weight gain, Weight loss - what's the deal? » Jenneh, posted by Gabbix2 on August 18, 2003, at 20:18:37
I did a little looking but couldn't find any information on whether or not SSRI's or SNRI's
can permanently alter metabolism.
There was plenty of anecdotal evidence that for some people it certainly felt like they had.
I'd still say in your case though that a 10 lb weight gain is not a sign of anything to panic over.
Posted by Jenneh on August 19, 2003, at 11:09:19
In reply to p.s metabolic change » Gabbix2, posted by Gabbix2 on August 18, 2003, at 21:50:42
Thanks so much for doing the research! It's just something that scared me. That and the fact that I know the side effects of stopping effexor are terrible. If I stop taking it, is it common for the anxiety etc. to come right back like before? I don't want to live like that again either. Damn, this is so frustrating!
Posted by Gabbix2 on August 19, 2003, at 16:17:22
In reply to Re: p.s metabolic change, posted by Jenneh on August 19, 2003, at 11:09:19
Oh trust me, I know how terrifying the weight gain issue is, I'm not misusing the word 'terrifying. I hold such resentment against Doctors who brush it off as an acceptable side effect, or something you just need to put up with.
I have a infintely more courage to stand up to my Dr now after reading an article on the web by a psychiatrist who said, (I'm paraphrasing here) Any Dr. who does not take his patients weight concerns (among other side effects) seriously is not doing his job. I can't remember his name off hand but can find a link if you're curious.
As for the return of your Anxiety, I wish I could help you. Effexor was as someone else said "Satans Pill" for me. On top of that while I was going off it, my G.P added another drug to my mix which caused me to go crazy literally, and I ended up in the hospital.
Following that the only way I managed to continue my withdrawal from Effexor was by using Prozac which was miraculous for me in ameliorating the symptoms. I only used it for that purpose and then stopped taking it. It was recommended to me by a fellow 'babbler.
I can tell you however that my sister went off it after being on it for 2 years for anxiety, and didn't have a single problem not one. Its been six months now, and she's still fine. Her anxiety had been situational I think.
Best of luck,
I know how hard this is, and sometimes it seems the more information you get the more confusing it is, or at least thats how I feel.
It does get better though. It does.
Posted by Jenneh on August 20, 2003, at 13:41:29
In reply to Re: p.s metabolic change » Jenneh, posted by Gabbix2 on August 19, 2003, at 16:17:22
Thanks so much for your kind words. Talking about this stuff is not only supportive, but I think it unites us together. It's nice that we can feel strength through one another to stand up for ourselves. Thanks.
Posted by Emmy333 on August 21, 2003, at 9:36:24
In reply to Re: p.s metabolic change, posted by Jenneh on August 20, 2003, at 13:41:29
that is puzzling that some people gain while others lose weight...i have lost atleast 5 pounds in the 2 weeks i've been taking this--my appetite is gone completely and i have to force myself to eat...
Posted by Gabbix2 on August 21, 2003, at 12:38:24
In reply to Re: p.s metabolic change, posted by Jenneh on August 20, 2003, at 13:41:29
This is the end of the thread.
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