:-D Well, I feel like I have been reading this board forever!! My mm died a couple of years ago so my darling doc put me on effexor. I have been taking 150mgfor 2 yrs and wanted off. So I have tried 5 times and all five times I have tried tapering, each time I get to day 7 and the dizziness, brain zaps, nausea, its just too much!
So, after wayyyyy too much research and hours of reading I found post wheresomeone said that he took a single dose of 20 mg of prozac, omega 3 fish oil and b-6 vit. Ithought yeah right!!! Im a nurse...it wll never work!
I have been doing this for 2 weeks and have been completely symptom free! I take 2 omega 3 fish oil right when I open my eyes, th 1 b-6 vit. ten at lunch 2 more omega 3, then at dinne, 2 more omega 3. Mind over matter I keep telling myself!
The ide effects before were absolutely debilitating! I truly cied all day, I thought I was dying. I hope this helps someone else, whoever posted this for me before truly helped me.....thanks so much!
So, after wayyyyy too much research and hours of reading I found post wheresomeone said that he took a single dose of 20 mg of prozac, omega 3 fish oil and b-6 vit. Ithought yeah right!!! Im a nurse...it wll never work!
I have been doing this for 2 weeks and have been completely symptom free! I take 2 omega 3 fish oil right when I open my eyes, th 1 b-6 vit. ten at lunch 2 more omega 3, then at dinne, 2 more omega 3. Mind over matter I keep telling myself!
The ide effects before were absolutely debilitating! I truly cied all day, I thought I was dying. I hope this helps someone else, whoever posted this for me before truly helped me.....thanks so much!
I was having major brain zaps and vertigo...had to stay home from work. I heard of Meclizine (12.5mg, 3x a day) and took that. It reduced the vertigo and greatly reduced the zaps all down to a much much more tollerable slight dizziness. Used it on a Friday night and I am back to work on Monday with no complaints. Ask your Dr.
I am so glad to find this post. I too have been on Effexor XR 150mg for at least 7 years. I originally started at the lowest dose and increased over the years. I do believe it has helped with the mild depression over the years but boy are the side effects just to much to take. The worst being the weight gain. Over 100lbs since I have been on it. A slight gain at the beginning and substantial increases with each higher dose. I finally decided it was time to get off this awful medice. The doctor has lowered me to 75mg for two weeks and then 1 every other day for two weeks. So far my symptoms have been nausea, nervousness, profuse night sweats and lack of energy. If this is what happens when I take it every day, I dread every other day. Thanks to all of you who have made sugestions to help with the symptoms. It is nice to know you are not alone in this awful time.
I took Meclizine (12.5mg, 3x day) on a Friday night and I am back to work on Monday. Really started to work within 18 hours. Last week was horrible...couldn't go to work, nor drive. Horrible horrible horrible.
Omega-3 didn't do anything to help with the constant brain zaps or vertigo.
The Meclizine Rx was about $10 and made the zaps almost unnoticable and vertigo went away. It did leave some mild dizziness, BUT if you went throught the type of zapping and vertigo I had (came off 150 mg XR to 75Mg) this slight dizziness was a miracle compared to that hell.
Ironically a possible side effect of this anti-dizzing med is possible dizziness. If you have Horroble Brain Zaps and Horroble Vertigo and your Doc says OK, go this route.
Yeah! it is going away!!! Thank goodness I found this forum.
Tim
Omega-3 didn't do anything to help with the constant brain zaps or vertigo.
The Meclizine Rx was about $10 and made the zaps almost unnoticable and vertigo went away. It did leave some mild dizziness, BUT if you went throught the type of zapping and vertigo I had (came off 150 mg XR to 75Mg) this slight dizziness was a miracle compared to that hell.
Ironically a possible side effect of this anti-dizzing med is possible dizziness. If you have Horroble Brain Zaps and Horroble Vertigo and your Doc says OK, go this route.
Yeah! it is going away!!! Thank goodness I found this forum.
Tim
I took Meclizine (12.5mg, 3x day) on a Friday night and I am back to work on Monday. Really started to work within 18 hours. Last week was horrible...couldn't go to work, nor drive. Horrible horrible horrible.
Omega-3 didn't do anything to help with the constant brain zaps or vertigo.
The Meclizine Rx was about $10 and made the zaps almost unnoticable and vertigo went away. It did leave some mild dizziness, BUT if you went throught the type of zapping and vertigo I had (came off 150 mg XR to 75Mg) this slight dizziness was a miracle compared to that hell.
Ironically a possible side :O :-D effect of this anti-dizzing med is possible dizziness. If you have Horroble Brain Zaps and Horroble Vertigo and your Doc says OK, go this route.
Yeah! it is going away!!! Thank goodness I found this forum.
Tim
Omega-3 didn't do anything to help with the constant brain zaps or vertigo.
The Meclizine Rx was about $10 and made the zaps almost unnoticable and vertigo went away. It did leave some mild dizziness, BUT if you went throught the type of zapping and vertigo I had (came off 150 mg XR to 75Mg) this slight dizziness was a miracle compared to that hell.
Ironically a possible side :O :-D effect of this anti-dizzing med is possible dizziness. If you have Horroble Brain Zaps and Horroble Vertigo and your Doc says OK, go this route.
Yeah! it is going away!!! Thank goodness I found this forum.
Tim
I have been on Effexor 75 mg for about 16 months (32 yr old female). When I missed a dose on accident, I would notice the withdrawal symptoms so I knew what I was in for when I quit. I lost my insurance and could not afford the prescription. I stopped taking my daily dose and would then take a pill when the symptoms got too bad. This went on for about a month taking one pill approximately every 3 days. I am now off the medication for 15 days. The first 4 days were ok, and then I hit a brick wall.
I have experienced:
- brain shivers
- electric shocks
- nausea
- diarrhea
- flu-like symptoms (in the mist of 3 schools in my town being closed for confirmed swine flu cases - talk about making someone paranoid)
- loss of concentration/short-term memory issues
- extreme agitation
- sleep issues (too much and not being able to)
I wish I had found this forum BEFORE I stopped the medication. After 2 weeks Effexor-free it is slowly getting better, and after reading 20+ pages of posts I know every day will be better. I wish I had been able to taper off more slowly and try some of the things that have worked for others to ease symptoms. I will never go on another anti-depressant again.
THANK YOU to all who came back afterwards and posted an update. That was EXACTLY what I was looking for. I just needed to know it’s going to get better and that I wasn't the only one out there going through this.
Have hope! Each day gets a little better.
I have experienced:
- brain shivers
- electric shocks
- nausea
- diarrhea
- flu-like symptoms (in the mist of 3 schools in my town being closed for confirmed swine flu cases - talk about making someone paranoid)
- loss of concentration/short-term memory issues
- extreme agitation
- sleep issues (too much and not being able to)
I wish I had found this forum BEFORE I stopped the medication. After 2 weeks Effexor-free it is slowly getting better, and after reading 20+ pages of posts I know every day will be better. I wish I had been able to taper off more slowly and try some of the things that have worked for others to ease symptoms. I will never go on another anti-depressant again.
THANK YOU to all who came back afterwards and posted an update. That was EXACTLY what I was looking for. I just needed to know it’s going to get better and that I wasn't the only one out there going through this.
Have hope! Each day gets a little better.
Like many others, I'm happy to have found this thread. I have been on Effexor XR 150mg/daily for almost 6 years now to threat my Dysthymic Disorder. I tried tapering off once but went back on it because of the "dark" moments that were coming back. But I now have more tools and I more knowledge (by reading this thread for example) on what to do to lower the effects of discontinuing this beast...
Today my doctor lowered me to 112.5mg for 2 weeks then to 75mg for 2 weeks and finally to 37.5mg for 2 weeks...
I will go on the multivitamins, B-Complex 100mg, Protein shakes and bars, Omega 3, lot of exercise and if necessary something like the Meclizine for the brain zap...
It's unreal what these kind of drugs can do to one's body. Of course some really need it, as I sure did...But I think, when one gets better, it's probably a good thing to get off it and I'm sure going to try real hard this time!
I'll keep you guys posted, as it may helps others just like your stories helped me by giving me confidence and knowledge : )
They should change the name of that drugs to "EFFECTS HOR-rible" (Effexor) LOL
Hang in there! : )
G
Today my doctor lowered me to 112.5mg for 2 weeks then to 75mg for 2 weeks and finally to 37.5mg for 2 weeks...
I will go on the multivitamins, B-Complex 100mg, Protein shakes and bars, Omega 3, lot of exercise and if necessary something like the Meclizine for the brain zap...
It's unreal what these kind of drugs can do to one's body. Of course some really need it, as I sure did...But I think, when one gets better, it's probably a good thing to get off it and I'm sure going to try real hard this time!
I'll keep you guys posted, as it may helps others just like your stories helped me by giving me confidence and knowledge : )
They should change the name of that drugs to "EFFECTS HOR-rible" (Effexor) LOL
Hang in there! : )
G
Hi, All!
Like many of you, I am also struggling with Effexor withdrawal. I had been put on it by my family doc for extreme fatigue. She insisted I was depressed, but I've struggled with depression all my life and knew that wasn't the problem. But for my family's sake, I took the poison--I mean Rx. After only 3 months I had gained almost 25 pounds...unbelievable! After 1 year, my fatigue was worse than ever, along with a few other problems. I asked my doctor to take me off the drug. She "weaned" me off, but detoxing is still murder! I am on day 5 of no Effexor..
I won't list all my symptoms in detail since they are identical to most of yours. I will say though that day 3 of detox was horrendous. I thought I was losing my mind: uncontrollable crying, hyperventilating, shaking, inability to think coherently. My husband made me take 1/2 a Xanax and I was able to calm down within an hour.
As for treatment of the symptoms, I tried benadryl, which did nothing for me, and Xanax, which only kept me from having another breakdown but did nothing to ease the symptoms. Yesterday I took a whole Xanax at 11:00am, then another at 5:00pm. No better.
Later that day, I had my daughter drive me to Wal-Mart (not safe to drive while dizzy!). I bought Omega 3 Fish Oil and a B vitamin complex. I took two fish oils and one B complex at about 7:00pm. Within 30 minutes, my symptoms had almost disappeared. All I had was mild brain zaps...mild enough that I could actually get some work done. I am working on my teaching degree. I only have 4 weeks of class left and have been falling behind because of this nightmare. I am finally able to catch up, which is why I am up so late. Well, that and the B complex.
I did learn a lesson about taking B complex so late in the evening. It is now just past 2:00am, and I am only beginning to feel tired. I will definitely take it in the morning from now on!
Anyway, I hope this helps some of you find some hope in the middle of your own nightmare. Try the Omega 3 and B complex!
Best of luck and many prayers!!
Wendylu :-D
Like many of you, I am also struggling with Effexor withdrawal. I had been put on it by my family doc for extreme fatigue. She insisted I was depressed, but I've struggled with depression all my life and knew that wasn't the problem. But for my family's sake, I took the poison--I mean Rx. After only 3 months I had gained almost 25 pounds...unbelievable! After 1 year, my fatigue was worse than ever, along with a few other problems. I asked my doctor to take me off the drug. She "weaned" me off, but detoxing is still murder! I am on day 5 of no Effexor..
I won't list all my symptoms in detail since they are identical to most of yours. I will say though that day 3 of detox was horrendous. I thought I was losing my mind: uncontrollable crying, hyperventilating, shaking, inability to think coherently. My husband made me take 1/2 a Xanax and I was able to calm down within an hour.
As for treatment of the symptoms, I tried benadryl, which did nothing for me, and Xanax, which only kept me from having another breakdown but did nothing to ease the symptoms. Yesterday I took a whole Xanax at 11:00am, then another at 5:00pm. No better.
Later that day, I had my daughter drive me to Wal-Mart (not safe to drive while dizzy!). I bought Omega 3 Fish Oil and a B vitamin complex. I took two fish oils and one B complex at about 7:00pm. Within 30 minutes, my symptoms had almost disappeared. All I had was mild brain zaps...mild enough that I could actually get some work done. I am working on my teaching degree. I only have 4 weeks of class left and have been falling behind because of this nightmare. I am finally able to catch up, which is why I am up so late. Well, that and the B complex.
I did learn a lesson about taking B complex so late in the evening. It is now just past 2:00am, and I am only beginning to feel tired. I will definitely take it in the morning from now on!
Anyway, I hope this helps some of you find some hope in the middle of your own nightmare. Try the Omega 3 and B complex!
Best of luck and many prayers!!
Wendylu :-D
I am so glad I found this site!!! It's been a week since I've stepped down to 75mg (from 150mg) and I was getting so frustrated. I'm stepping down now because my husband and I want to start trying to get pregnant and I'm not working so I new I could be fortunate enough to be at home during this process. I could not describe to anyone what I was feeling, but you all have nailed it! The brain fogginess (or whatever the hell it is) is the most frustrating for me. I can't focus or think.....not a good thing when you're trying to get job applications done. There was a night I lost about 30 minutes....complete blackout. Then there was the dizzy spell where I thought I would literally die (then again, I don't do well with dizziness and nausea). As soon as I read some of the posts last night I dragged my husband (to drive of course) to Walgreens to buy a B Complex vitamin (do not get liquid.....my god the taste......) and dramamine. I'm not sure but I think the dramamine kicked some ass. I'm taking it again today, so I'll let you know if it's working. I'm also taking the Omega 3's. Thank you all for your posts and your support. I'm not looking forward to anymore of this, but apparantly it can be done.
If anyone from prior posts checks this, thank you SO much. I can't tell you how much help you have been. I've been on Effexor for approximately 6 years (described for menopause hot flashes and IBS). The medicine worked but had I known what kind of withdrawal I would have, NEVER EVER would have taken it. 75 mgs I was one but took 1/2 of that for some time. This past week has been horrible! I can only imagine what those who have taken large amounts have gone through.
Anyway, 7 days effexor free. Still emotional, still dizzy with some nausea but getting better every day. No longer too much a zombie and I can now drive. Taking Benedryl, Omega Fish, Vitamin B and multi vitamin packs. The purpose of this post is to let anybody coming on this site know that it does get better. 3 days ago I would not have thought so. I believe I saw the "light at the end of the tunnel" about day 5. Don't get me wrong, I still have symptoms but to a much lessor degree. I just wish I knew how they can still prescribe this poison.
Hang in there.
Anyway, 7 days effexor free. Still emotional, still dizzy with some nausea but getting better every day. No longer too much a zombie and I can now drive. Taking Benedryl, Omega Fish, Vitamin B and multi vitamin packs. The purpose of this post is to let anybody coming on this site know that it does get better. 3 days ago I would not have thought so. I believe I saw the "light at the end of the tunnel" about day 5. Don't get me wrong, I still have symptoms but to a much lessor degree. I just wish I knew how they can still prescribe this poison.
Hang in there.
Well, after 6 years of taking Effexor XR 150mg/day, to threat Dysthymia (Chronic Depression) I'm now free of it and to getting off it wasn't all that bad at all!
I don't want to say that everybody can get off it easily and without going through any withdrawal effects, I know this stuff pretty good and know it can be nasty on your mind.
I did try 2 time in the past to get off it, I did experience bad withdrawal effects. Like the first time I tried to stop it cold turkey after 4 years of being on it. After 2 days, I started to vomit without any control! And the headache were intense.
I also tried one year later, by tapping off gradually but without any supplements. For some reason, the depression seem to be creeping back and some anxiety.
This time, I told myself that I would try to do and take everything good for my "mind and body" for me to succeed.
As for the Effexor itself, I was on 150mg/day for 6 years. When I decided to stop them, my doc lower the dosage to 112.5mg/day for 2 weeks then to 75mg/day for 2 weeks and finally to 37.5mg/day for 2 weeks. But, I didn't need to wait that long. I went to 112.mg for a week then to 75mg for a week then to 37.5mg for a week. Then I opened my 37.5mg and cut the total beads in 2 and made myself 18mg (approximately) for 3 or 4 days and after that I did the same thing, I cut the 18mg in half and made myself a couple of 9mg (approximately) for 3 or 4 days and after that nothing...The symptoms I had when I stopped completely wasn't worse then when cutting down. The only symptoms I felt during the whole process was a sensation of my body being "numb" and nausea...No brain shiver, no brain zaps, no anxiety, no sweating, no vomiting, no blackout moments or no other symptoms described on many forums and blogs.
Now, was it just me or maybe the fact that I was well prepare since I had started the supplements and exercise one month prior to tapering off, I don't know but I can't say how happy I am that it went this good.
By reading so many people on the internet, I was expecting the Armageddon coming towards me! And it was really far from that! It went really well and I'm really please with the result!
That's the thing when reading so many people, we tend to come to a point where we "expect" to feel a certain way when getting off this medication. I would say, do whatever you can to be in good "mind & body" condition and just be positive! Listen to your body and believe in yourself, positivism, even if not always easy to acquire when dealing with depression, does help!
Now, before I continue, I want to be clear that I'm not endorsing any companies or brands, I'm just letting you guys know what I took and it worked for me. I'm sure if you search for the equivalent of what I took on other brands, you should be able to get it.
Here's what I've been taking on a daily basis :
Morning when I wake up :
3 X Omega-3 Capsules 1000mg (containing 300mg of EPA / 200mg of DHA)
1 X Caplet Multivitamins & Minerals from GNC's Mega Men MEN'S which are Timed-Release
1 X B-Vitamin B-100 From Walmart B-100 which are Timed-Release
1 X Whey Protein Shake Of 35mg Of Protein (containing 25mg of protein + 10mg from skim milk)
Afternoon :
1 X Whey Protein Shake Of 35mg Of Protein (containing 25mg of protein + 10mg from skim milk)
Evening :
2 X Omega-3 Capsules 1000mg (containing 300mg of EPA / 200mg of DHA)
1 X Whey Protein Shake Of 35mg Of Protein (containing 25mg of protein + 10mg from skim milk)
The importance of Protein is that it's directly related to the cause of Depression, Anxiety and other mental conditions is directly related with it (Protein). If we take Depression for example, it is associated with a low levels of neurotransmitters, like Serotonin, Norepinephrine, Dopamine etc...Now, the fabrication of these neurotransmitter come from Amino Acid which themselves comes from Protein. So Protein is the precursor of many neurotransmitters.
Of course, now we fall into many debate as to which ratio should Protein intake per person should be taken each day and what other nutrients should be eaten to help this process. I have found that by doing research on the internet you can get a good idea on this matter. BUT, like any other subject on the internet, you have to search, search and search some more so you can come to your own logical conclusion since you will come upon many articles which many differ from one another. Try to find article by medical departments from Universities who have done research etc...
As for Omega-3, they help nerve cells communicate with each other, which is an essential step in maintaining good mental health. In particular, DHA is involved in a variety of nerve cell processes.
And as for Vitamins and Minerals, well, I guess you already know that we need them to stay alive.
One other VERY IMPORTANt thing that I've been doing is exercise. Any exercise is good, cardio, weight training or doing your favourite sport! Exercise have long been proven to help attacking depression and anxiety. Evidence show that exercise raises the levels of certain mood-enhancing neurotransmitters in the brain. Exercise also boost feel-good endorphins, release muscle tension, help you sleep better, and reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol. It also increases body temperature, which may have calming effects. All of these changes in your mind and body can improve such symptoms as sadness, anxiety, irritability, stress, fatigue, anger, self-doubt and hopelessness.
Of course, when one is in depression or in an anxiety episode, the last thing that person will probably do is exercise. But give yourself a kick in the butt and try to get yourself in a little routine every morning and you'll see the result fast enough!!
If sluggish like me in the morning, get yourself some caffeine! That is of course if you don't have any intolerance effects with it. But if caffeine is no issue with you, get a good strong cup of coffee in the morning (or some other caffeine source if you don't drink coffee like me) and it'll give you that little boost to start your exercise routine. Not only Caffeine wakes you up by it's mechanism (effect of Caffeine on Adenosine, which cause drowsiness) it also increase the levels of Dopamine, which is neurotransmitter that activates pleasure centers in certain parts of the brain.
I am not, like many people, saying that anti-depressants are bad and evil. You even sometime wonder if some people you read on the internet just have an agenda to do some lobbying against anti-depressant. BUT anti-depressant will mess with your mind and body and before taking them I think that one should try to cope with his or her condition naturally. Of course, in some case, medication is required. And the same thing goes for people who are on anti-depressant, I think that they should try to get off it by helping themselves naturally. But once again, it might not work for everyone.
Finally, something that might get some people laughing, music can help you!
When I woke up and getting ready to do my exercise routine, I listen to music. Music that is aggressive but in a good way! By that I mean this might not be the best time to listen to the Titanic soundtrack lol...Find some music that gets you moving, whatever it is, rock, dance, rap, country, any songs that gets you feeling like you want to move!
Well, that's my story, the story of someone who was diagnosed with Dysthymia (Chronic Depression) and who was on Effexor XR 150mg/day and someone who have felt depressed 2/3 of his life. Today, I feel great! And I sincerely wish anyone who's reading this and want to kick out depression out of their system, will succeed!
Just believe in yourself and take the good and necessary actions.
Believe me, if I was able to, anyone can!
I know it's sound cliche but it's the truth!
Now go on and fight for yourself! :-D
0N!9
I don't want to say that everybody can get off it easily and without going through any withdrawal effects, I know this stuff pretty good and know it can be nasty on your mind.
I did try 2 time in the past to get off it, I did experience bad withdrawal effects. Like the first time I tried to stop it cold turkey after 4 years of being on it. After 2 days, I started to vomit without any control! And the headache were intense.
I also tried one year later, by tapping off gradually but without any supplements. For some reason, the depression seem to be creeping back and some anxiety.
This time, I told myself that I would try to do and take everything good for my "mind and body" for me to succeed.
As for the Effexor itself, I was on 150mg/day for 6 years. When I decided to stop them, my doc lower the dosage to 112.5mg/day for 2 weeks then to 75mg/day for 2 weeks and finally to 37.5mg/day for 2 weeks. But, I didn't need to wait that long. I went to 112.mg for a week then to 75mg for a week then to 37.5mg for a week. Then I opened my 37.5mg and cut the total beads in 2 and made myself 18mg (approximately) for 3 or 4 days and after that I did the same thing, I cut the 18mg in half and made myself a couple of 9mg (approximately) for 3 or 4 days and after that nothing...The symptoms I had when I stopped completely wasn't worse then when cutting down. The only symptoms I felt during the whole process was a sensation of my body being "numb" and nausea...No brain shiver, no brain zaps, no anxiety, no sweating, no vomiting, no blackout moments or no other symptoms described on many forums and blogs.
Now, was it just me or maybe the fact that I was well prepare since I had started the supplements and exercise one month prior to tapering off, I don't know but I can't say how happy I am that it went this good.
By reading so many people on the internet, I was expecting the Armageddon coming towards me! And it was really far from that! It went really well and I'm really please with the result!
That's the thing when reading so many people, we tend to come to a point where we "expect" to feel a certain way when getting off this medication. I would say, do whatever you can to be in good "mind & body" condition and just be positive! Listen to your body and believe in yourself, positivism, even if not always easy to acquire when dealing with depression, does help!
Now, before I continue, I want to be clear that I'm not endorsing any companies or brands, I'm just letting you guys know what I took and it worked for me. I'm sure if you search for the equivalent of what I took on other brands, you should be able to get it.
Here's what I've been taking on a daily basis :
Morning when I wake up :
3 X Omega-3 Capsules 1000mg (containing 300mg of EPA / 200mg of DHA)
1 X Caplet Multivitamins & Minerals from GNC's Mega Men MEN'S which are Timed-Release
1 X B-Vitamin B-100 From Walmart B-100 which are Timed-Release
1 X Whey Protein Shake Of 35mg Of Protein (containing 25mg of protein + 10mg from skim milk)
Afternoon :
1 X Whey Protein Shake Of 35mg Of Protein (containing 25mg of protein + 10mg from skim milk)
Evening :
2 X Omega-3 Capsules 1000mg (containing 300mg of EPA / 200mg of DHA)
1 X Whey Protein Shake Of 35mg Of Protein (containing 25mg of protein + 10mg from skim milk)
The importance of Protein is that it's directly related to the cause of Depression, Anxiety and other mental conditions is directly related with it (Protein). If we take Depression for example, it is associated with a low levels of neurotransmitters, like Serotonin, Norepinephrine, Dopamine etc...Now, the fabrication of these neurotransmitter come from Amino Acid which themselves comes from Protein. So Protein is the precursor of many neurotransmitters.
Of course, now we fall into many debate as to which ratio should Protein intake per person should be taken each day and what other nutrients should be eaten to help this process. I have found that by doing research on the internet you can get a good idea on this matter. BUT, like any other subject on the internet, you have to search, search and search some more so you can come to your own logical conclusion since you will come upon many articles which many differ from one another. Try to find article by medical departments from Universities who have done research etc...
As for Omega-3, they help nerve cells communicate with each other, which is an essential step in maintaining good mental health. In particular, DHA is involved in a variety of nerve cell processes.
And as for Vitamins and Minerals, well, I guess you already know that we need them to stay alive.
One other VERY IMPORTANt thing that I've been doing is exercise. Any exercise is good, cardio, weight training or doing your favourite sport! Exercise have long been proven to help attacking depression and anxiety. Evidence show that exercise raises the levels of certain mood-enhancing neurotransmitters in the brain. Exercise also boost feel-good endorphins, release muscle tension, help you sleep better, and reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol. It also increases body temperature, which may have calming effects. All of these changes in your mind and body can improve such symptoms as sadness, anxiety, irritability, stress, fatigue, anger, self-doubt and hopelessness.
Of course, when one is in depression or in an anxiety episode, the last thing that person will probably do is exercise. But give yourself a kick in the butt and try to get yourself in a little routine every morning and you'll see the result fast enough!!
If sluggish like me in the morning, get yourself some caffeine! That is of course if you don't have any intolerance effects with it. But if caffeine is no issue with you, get a good strong cup of coffee in the morning (or some other caffeine source if you don't drink coffee like me) and it'll give you that little boost to start your exercise routine. Not only Caffeine wakes you up by it's mechanism (effect of Caffeine on Adenosine, which cause drowsiness) it also increase the levels of Dopamine, which is neurotransmitter that activates pleasure centers in certain parts of the brain.
I am not, like many people, saying that anti-depressants are bad and evil. You even sometime wonder if some people you read on the internet just have an agenda to do some lobbying against anti-depressant. BUT anti-depressant will mess with your mind and body and before taking them I think that one should try to cope with his or her condition naturally. Of course, in some case, medication is required. And the same thing goes for people who are on anti-depressant, I think that they should try to get off it by helping themselves naturally. But once again, it might not work for everyone.
Finally, something that might get some people laughing, music can help you!
When I woke up and getting ready to do my exercise routine, I listen to music. Music that is aggressive but in a good way! By that I mean this might not be the best time to listen to the Titanic soundtrack lol...Find some music that gets you moving, whatever it is, rock, dance, rap, country, any songs that gets you feeling like you want to move!
Well, that's my story, the story of someone who was diagnosed with Dysthymia (Chronic Depression) and who was on Effexor XR 150mg/day and someone who have felt depressed 2/3 of his life. Today, I feel great! And I sincerely wish anyone who's reading this and want to kick out depression out of their system, will succeed!
Just believe in yourself and take the good and necessary actions.
Believe me, if I was able to, anyone can!
I know it's sound cliche but it's the truth!
Now go on and fight for yourself! :-D
0N!9
I just cut back on the Omega 3, I'm now taking 3 g per day, I read that more than this can raise your LDL (bad Cholesterol)
0N!9
0N!9
Thanks so much for a positive informative post! I have only been taking Effexor XR for 8 months. I take only 37.5 mg a day. I am taking it for anxiety. It just takes the edge off of everything...I'm usually a worrier and don't sleep well at night. I now sleep well every night and do not worry much. After reading so many terrible experiences of withdrawal, I am scared to death to go off of Effexor but now am better prepared to take the plunge with the help of vitamin supplements.
Another thing that I want to comment on is the fact that I'm sure there are more negative posts than positive ones because if people are coming off of Effexor with mile symptoms, they probably have no reason to search it on the internet, thus not posting anything to this site. So, we don't hear too many positive things for this reason.
Finally, I want to express my thoughts on just feeling good in general. I think we all have taken Effexor so that we can feel better than what we are at the present time. I don't know how much longer I will stay on Effexor but honestly I have not been frightened after reading all of these posts (no, I have't read all of them but a few dozen anyway). It's made my life go along so much smoother and I don't get uptight or worry about things like I used to. And since I'm on the lowest dose possible I don't anticipate that much of the horrible things I've read. I'm sure if I do, I'll be back to read more posts to reassure myself that I will live and things will get better.
One bad thing...I have gained 10 pounds in the past 8 months and have not changed my eating habits. That's depressing!!
Another thing that I want to comment on is the fact that I'm sure there are more negative posts than positive ones because if people are coming off of Effexor with mile symptoms, they probably have no reason to search it on the internet, thus not posting anything to this site. So, we don't hear too many positive things for this reason.
Finally, I want to express my thoughts on just feeling good in general. I think we all have taken Effexor so that we can feel better than what we are at the present time. I don't know how much longer I will stay on Effexor but honestly I have not been frightened after reading all of these posts (no, I have't read all of them but a few dozen anyway). It's made my life go along so much smoother and I don't get uptight or worry about things like I used to. And since I'm on the lowest dose possible I don't anticipate that much of the horrible things I've read. I'm sure if I do, I'll be back to read more posts to reassure myself that I will live and things will get better.
One bad thing...I have gained 10 pounds in the past 8 months and have not changed my eating habits. That's depressing!!
Figured I would share my experience swaying away from this drug. Today is my 5th day of being effexor-less. Day 1, 2 was fine, no real noticeable withdrawal symptoms. On the 3rd day I began to feel a wee bit of vertigo but nothing intolerable to the degree that it was deabilitating. Day number 4 sh1t hit the fan. Early afternoon, the vertigo became more and more severe. Heavy pressure on my eyes and disorientation. I just became ill, nauseous, unable to focus and lost my sense of reality. Luckily I had thrown the capsule into the garbage or else I would've taken it for sure. To help combat the agony, I have a regimine of taking a benadryll and dramamine every 4 hours to combat the vertigo and nausea, an Omega 3, B Complex and a vitamin E in the morning, afternoon and evening. Finally, when it becomes too much, I'll take a 37.5mg of Xanax to combat the sickness. The best remedy for me that I've found is sleep, sleep, sleep. Take a benadryll and a glavo/Dramamine, close your eyes and relax. Put some relaxing music on or whatever helps soothes you(I use stand up comedy). Stay strong folks, it'll pass.
Hi guys
I am like you, another unfortunate efexor user from Australia who had NO idea of the wicked withdrawal symptoms that this drug puts us through.I actually sometimes wish Id stayed depressed and drug free fair dinkum. I was once a funny, fun loving active person who loved life!
MY current situation is I am in my 4th day off a 150mg a day 5 year stretch after changing from Zoloft after a severe work place accident and subsequent legal battle. (I also have a permanent morphine pump implant for pain relief)I have on dozens of occasions forgotten to take the tablets for a day or 2 and always got the dizziness, emotional state of mind and brain zaps etc.Its great to read about others and the way you all describe the indescribable to others who just "Don't get it(including doctors etc). I get my wife to come close to my head and ask her to hear it...lol Like a shutter blind quickly being opened and shut. Of course she cant hear it, but we can, cant we? Shocking actually (pun intended)
But right now I feel like im dying a slow death getting off this stuff and my wife is picking up some fish oil, benadryl and gatorade powder(someone mentions getting electrolytes up) on the way home today for me. To ease the symptoms hopefully because I am NOT going to take one mili mili gram of this drug ever again. One other thing is being a guy, gee how emotional can one get? I feel like crying over every little thing and Im a big ex footballer type if you know what I mean.
My wife rang and I was watching the Michael Jackson memorial and was crying when the phone rang she went into a panic, I thought it was the sad occasion but then put 2 and 2 together and realised every time I am off this drug I get all weepy for some reason.
So I will post here at least once a day over the next bit to let you know how I go and pass on any thing I feel might benefit a fellow sufferer. One last thing, if you are from Australia like me, message me and we can have a chat. Thanks for reading, Im off to get a tissue, Judge Judy just told someone off.So sad... :-( 8-| ;-) Oh yeah trying to keep sane with some humour, do what you can!
I am like you, another unfortunate efexor user from Australia who had NO idea of the wicked withdrawal symptoms that this drug puts us through.I actually sometimes wish Id stayed depressed and drug free fair dinkum. I was once a funny, fun loving active person who loved life!
MY current situation is I am in my 4th day off a 150mg a day 5 year stretch after changing from Zoloft after a severe work place accident and subsequent legal battle. (I also have a permanent morphine pump implant for pain relief)I have on dozens of occasions forgotten to take the tablets for a day or 2 and always got the dizziness, emotional state of mind and brain zaps etc.Its great to read about others and the way you all describe the indescribable to others who just "Don't get it(including doctors etc). I get my wife to come close to my head and ask her to hear it...lol Like a shutter blind quickly being opened and shut. Of course she cant hear it, but we can, cant we? Shocking actually (pun intended)
But right now I feel like im dying a slow death getting off this stuff and my wife is picking up some fish oil, benadryl and gatorade powder(someone mentions getting electrolytes up) on the way home today for me. To ease the symptoms hopefully because I am NOT going to take one mili mili gram of this drug ever again. One other thing is being a guy, gee how emotional can one get? I feel like crying over every little thing and Im a big ex footballer type if you know what I mean.
My wife rang and I was watching the Michael Jackson memorial and was crying when the phone rang she went into a panic, I thought it was the sad occasion but then put 2 and 2 together and realised every time I am off this drug I get all weepy for some reason.
So I will post here at least once a day over the next bit to let you know how I go and pass on any thing I feel might benefit a fellow sufferer. One last thing, if you are from Australia like me, message me and we can have a chat. Thanks for reading, Im off to get a tissue, Judge Judy just told someone off.So sad... :-( 8-| ;-) Oh yeah trying to keep sane with some humour, do what you can!