I’ve been on Effexor XR 150mg for a little over 4 weeks. I’ve lost a lot of weight and everyday I wake up anxious. Doc prescribed it for anxiety/depression/ocd/panic attacks. I also take Ativan a couple of times a day. After 4 weeks I still have anxiety most of the day and some crying spells every few days.
How long does Effexor XR take to work?
Question posted by Samhouse on 3 Sep 2021
Last updated on 3 September 2021
Answers
WildcatVet
3 Sep 2021
Hi, Samhouse!
"How Long Does It Take For Venlafaxine To Work?
Sleep, energy, or appetite may show some improvement within the first 1-2 weeks. Improvement in these physical symptoms can be an important early signal that the medication is working. Depressed mood, anxiety, and lack of interest in activities may need up to 6-8 weeks to fully improve."
Have you talked to your doctor? It may be just a matter of a little more time for the medication to become full effective but you are on a sort of middle of the road dose that might be increased. The maximum recommended dose is 225g/day for more resistant cases and anxiety disorders are slower to respond to the drug than is depression.
I'd recommend giving your doctor a call and get their professional advice.
Best regards and I hope you'll be feeling better very soon now.
Samhouse
3 Sep 2021
Thank you for the response! Yes we are waiting 6 weeks but I figured I’d see an improvement by now. Crossing my fingers.
Related topics
ativan, effexor, effexor xr, depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, weight, prescription
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