I have been taking Effexor for one week and since taking it feel extremely tired, so physically tired I can’t function or do anything. I also have some chest pains and slight headaches. Is this normal? My doctor suggested I take it every other day for a week. Will this help? I appreciate your feedback.
Effexor 37.5mg (venlafaxine HCL tablet)?
Question posted by Ekamisakis on 18 Jan 2022
Last updated on 31 January 2022 by Earth2missy
Answers
Earth2missy
31 Jan 2022
I take it at bedtime. Is that an option? Because it makes me nauseous the doctor told me to just take it at night and it does great for me I’ve been on it for about 15 years. Also on XL now. Extended release I think. I do fluctuate dosages when I’m feeling better. Definitely do not miss a dose as you will experience side effects.
WildcatVet
18 Jan 2022
Hi, Ekamisakis!
Yes, what you describe are common side effects for some folks from antidepressants when you first start treatment. They generally resolve within a week or two for most people.
These side effects are caused by your metabolism adjusting to the medication so a slower increase such as every other day for a short while may make things go more smoothly.
Best regards,
Wildcat
PS, I took Effexor for over 7 years and loved it. I hope it works well for you too.
Ekamisakis
19 Jan 2022
Thank you so much for your very helpful response. I have GAD/OCD tendencies and I feel like I’m less obsessive with my thoughts and “less in my head” I just still feel so tired and have a nagging headache all day and slight tummy issues today. I’m hoping this passes on week#2 these side effects are too much
Angiesuggs
19 Jan 2022
Hi
I think patience is the key with this medication. Things will pass. I do still have some tummy issues. I have not been on this long and Wildcat gave me some good advice too. I started on 37.5 then 75 for 9 weeks. Right now I am on 112.5 but only 5 weeks on this and still settling on it. I believe 150mg is the therapeutic dose? I know quite a few people on this dose and they love it xx
Ekamisakis
19 Jan 2022
Thank you. I also notice some chest pain at night, and can’t get to sleep. Hoping Ativan helps.
Angiesuggs
19 Jan 2022
Hi
Are you in the UK? I read some truly terrible reviews of this medication. But people do tend to leave the bad reviews after a bad experience. It’s the same when you buy a product that you don’t like I suppose? I have only every been on citalopram which worked like a dream for me for many years but stopped working for some reason. My doctor upped it but it made me worse and I had a bad reaction. I was switched to this med. I can’t say that I am 100% yet. It seems like a long process? The trouble is I can’t remember what it was like going on citalopram many years ago and how long it took? I am hoping I don’t have to go any higher and it will all settle soon. Happy to keep in touch if you wish x
Related topics
effexor, headache, anxiety, pain, hairy cell leukemia, generalized anxiety disorder, venlafaxine, major depressive disorder, anxiety and stress, chest pain, tablet, chest
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