I've been on venlafaxine for 10 years and it's been great for me. I was on 225mg for the last 3 years.
I tried twice to come off it but my depression returned with a vengeance and my pdoc advised that I stay on it.
I'm in the middle of a episode unfortunately so they increased it to 300mg. This is the first time that I've been on a high dose and gotten depressed. Even if I pick up at 300mg, what happens if it eventually loses its effect? Are there equally effective ads?
Also the side effects of going up a dose are hellish. Insomnia, head ache, nausea, night sweats , aching muscles.
My doc advised me not to focus on the meds and that counselling and lifestyle changes can really help.
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Yes, there are lots of other effective ADs.
Sorry you're having a hard time at the moment - your doctor's advice is good, although difficult to follow when you're feeling rough.
Hope things perk up for you soon.....Love Tess
I've been taking 20mg fluoxetine daily for 12 years. Tried to reduce the doze to zero about 6 years ago and it was a depressive nightmare. GP agreed I should stay on it indefinitely. Side effects are minimal and my mood only rarely sinks to a low level. I'm not a fan of counseling - didn't work for me. But lifestyle changes are key. In my experience, developing new interests that help generate greater sense of inclusion made all the difference in the world. Good luck!
I have taken ventlafaxine for 4 years and I have tried to come off of it, it was a disaster. My Dr said it is one of the hardest anti depressants to come off of. I piggy back with lamictal and adderall.
I am sorry you are having a rough time. Don't worry about the dose increase just feel better.
I am on Zoloft 25mgs and lorazepam 1 mg 3 times a day, lamotrigine 25mg for moods and trazedone for sleep.
Yes these meds are hard to get off of
Elizabeth
Its good that you found something that helps, im not bashing your way of recovering. But aren't you a little worried that pills are your fix for depression and that you may have to go up more? And the fact that someone on here is coming off one pill with two pills? I mean don't fix what's not broke, but it honestly sounds like an addiction. Reading about people on ADs. Im not trying to offend anyone but just sit back and read what you typed. It makes me worry even more about taking pills for my issues. But then again it could be my answer.
The "pills are not the answer" argument is often used in relation to depressive illness. But it would never be used in respect of long term physical conditions such as asthma or diabetes for example. Nobody wants to have to take any medication long term but if it keeps you well be thankful for it.
Thank you tess.
I'm terrified that it'll get to the point that nothing helps.
When I'm well I have a great life. A wife I love dearly, two great kids, 2 great grandkids and great friends.
Thank you syracuse.
Funnily enough when I'm well I don't get down. However my anxiety when I start to go down feeds the depression.
I don't drink much however I'm stopping it altogether as it prevents me going to the gym, keeping in contact with people for a few days as I recover.
It is tough nikkster. Good luck
Hi Elizabeth, I'd take anything to feel better!
My fear is when the venlafaxine stops working. My anxiety and depression goes off the scale. Very frightened right now.
I literally didn't have a choice rich. I wouldn't be here without meds.
Totally agree with that, Syracuse.