LCheryl84: If I knew then what I know now…(Effexor)

[LCheryl84]

Hello,

 

I’m currently attempting to wean myself of Effexor for the 3rd time. I’m determined to stick it out this time, come what may. Here’s a bit of my story:

 

I have dealt with anxiety for as long as I can remember (I’m currently in my late 30’s). It was diagnosed with GAD in 2004. I saw a doctor at a walk-in clinic who diagnosed me after talking with me for 10 minutes and prescribed Remeron. It was terrible. I was so tired and began sleeping 20 hours a day. I quit Remeron CT. I went to emergency for panic attacks and was prescribed Paxil and Lorazepam (sweet relief). I eventually stopped the Lorazepam after 4 months. Fast forward to 2010, my DH and I were ready to have kids and my doctor informed me that Paxil was not safe during pregnancy and I was switched to Wellbutrin (didn’t go well). I finally tried Effexor and have been on it now for 13 years. I have attempted to go off Effexor twice in the past 13 years. Both times with the help of my doctor. Both times I have gotten past the initial withdrawals, followed by 4-6 weeks of me thinking I did it, I’m done.  However, I then begin to suffer from an overload of emotions: anger, irritability, anxiety, etc. These feelings, in addition to insomnia made it almost unbearable. I relied heavily on my doctor for support in this time but was just encouraged to go back on Effexor and/or Ativan and Zopiclone. I assumed that I was relapsing into my GAD and depression and so I went back on Effexor. However, I am more and more convinced that it is doing more harm than good. The numbness, apathy and sexual dysfunction have made many aspects of my life a struggle. I also believe that it has made weight extremely difficult for me (a problem I didn’t have until 2010). I’m also wondering if anyone has found that Effexor negatively effects their blood pressure? 
 

I’m looking forward to hearing any advice, encouragement or insight any of you may have.

Edited June 19, 2023 by manymoretodays
name to topic title

[Altostrata]

Welcome, @LCheryl84

 

Why are you taking methylphenidate and metoprolol? Please put ALL your current drugs in the Drug Interactions Checker https://www.drugs.com/drug_interactions.php

and copy and paste the results or a link to them in this topic.

 

For your information, Tips for tapering off venlafaxine (Effexor)

[LCheryl84]

I am currently on methylphenidate for ADHD. At my current dose it has not effected my blood pressure. 
 

https://www.drugs.com/interactions-check.php?drug_list=1606-0,1615-16311,2296-0

[Altostrata]

Why are you taking metoprolol? It is a blood pressure drug.

[Catina7]

Hi @LCheryl84!  I am attempting to wean off Effexor 37.5 mg too. I haven't had it affect my blood pressure, but I know that it can cause elevated BP in some people.  

[LCheryl84]

I am taking metoprolol for my blood pressure. 

[Altostrata]

When did you start metoprolol? When did you start Methylphenidate?

 

On 6/19/2023 at 4:17 PM, LCheryl84 said:

The numbness, apathy and sexual dysfunction have made many aspects of my life a struggle. I also believe that it has made weight extremely difficult for me (a problem I didn’t have until 2010). I’m also wondering if anyone has found that Effexor negatively effects their blood pressure? 

. 

Venlafaxine also can have adverse effects on blood pressure

 

If you wish to taper venlafaxine, see Tips for tapering off venlafaxine (Effexor)

 

Do you have any questions about tapering?