Venlafaxine User Reviews & Ratings (Page 2)

• sle...
• January 28, 2008

Venlafaxine for Depression "I have been on Effexor XR for about 8 years now. I am currently taking 300 mg per day. I tried to commit suicide several times before starting Effexor. I had been on so many different antidepressants. I thought this was how my life was always going to be - my children slowly watching me sleep and then eventually die. The doctor put me on Effexor, and it was the best thing ever."

• Hap...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• March 10, 2014

Venlafaxine for Anxiety "I have been on Effexor for the past 10 years. I started having panic attacks as a child, although I didn't know at the time what was going on. When I was 17, the doctor prescribed Valium that I took periodically when my anxiety got really bad. Finally, when I was 40, the doctor suggested I go on a very low dosage of Effexor (37.5mg) because he was sure I had generalized anxiety disorder. What a difference this has made in my life. I felt 'weird' the first few weeks, but now I have very little anxiety and really no side effects except maybe lower libido. I had no idea how much anxiety I had been living with all my life."

• Taw...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 18, 2020

Venlafaxine for Depression "I take 150mg time-released Effexor. I am dealing with a head injury for 6 months now. I have been on Effexor since. I have no side effects, and it has really helped me with my anxiety, nervousness, and depression. This medicine is such a lifesaver. I can go to work and be around people. I don’t know where I would be without this medication."

• Pan...
• March 22, 2021

Venlafaxine for Anxiety "Since my Middle East deployment, I've dealt with panic attacks. It got to the point where I was severely agoraphobic, not even able to leave my home to drive to the gas station a mile away. VA SSRIs never worked. After being brought to the local ER due to severe brain fogginess, the ER physician suggested norepinephrine might be the issue, not the serotonin. The doctor also took it and said to give Effexor XR a go. Three weeks later, I believe he may be right. I no longer focus on every little beat my heart makes. I can drive again. I can go places. I'm not perfect yet but major improvements have happened. The fogginess is still there a tad bit but not nearly as horrible as it was three weeks ago. It's not even fully in my system yet. If you have taken all the SSRIs there are with no results, try this. It works. I've heard withdrawals are really bad but I'm not worried about that right now. It just feels good to feel a bit more normal again. Praise God. P.S. I'm still able to 'perform' with the wife. Another huge relief."

• sad...
• January 17, 2013

Venlafaxine for Generalized Anxiety Disorder "Effexor XR changed my life. With Effexor, the anxiety is gone, and I am able to stay calm in any situation and sleep well every night. My doctor has told me I can NEVER get off this medication because it changes something in the brain having to do with serotonin. No hope of functioning without this in my system. Well, I can live with that. I've got my life back."

• Cor...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 23, 2021

For Anxiety and Stress "I have been on venlafaxine for 10 weeks after a cancer diagnosis. I was about to give up on it when I got to eight weeks & asked the doctor if I could try something else, but he told me to stick with it. I'm so glad I did! I had to go up to 300mg, so that's quite high for anxiety, but now I'm feeling so much better. The worst part was the side effects, but that's soon forgotten when you start to feel yourself again. So anyone just starting, don't give up. I have operations, chemo still to face but feel so much stronger than I did."

• ind...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• July 5, 2017

Venlafaxine for Generalized Anxiety Disorder "Before I was to start this medication I searched and thought I better not take this medication because of all the people who said it was very bad. I have been on Celexa since 2000 with Ativan 3 mg per day if needed. I had to get off of Celexa because I started having panic attacks and it wasn't working for me. It didn't really work that great for the past six years. I was terrified to take Effexor XR. Well, I couldn't live with panic and anxiety anymore so I took it. I focus better, I don't dwell on things. I can sit and watch a movie without my mind wandering or worrying. I have lost 15 lbs. My husband notices a difference, being more outgoing. Don't listen to what has been written. I wish I started this a long time ago. Best of Luck"

• Roo...
• April 29, 2014

Venlafaxine for Depression "I had severe hellish, unrelenting depression and did not want to live. I started taking Effexor, and it worked the same day. I never thought something could work so well. I have few side effects. My life changed 100%. I am so happy now that the doctor put me on this. People should not be afraid to try antidepressants."

• THI...
• July 27, 2017

Venlafaxine for Anxiety "First off, I want to say I never take the time to write reviews, however, I do end up myself reading everyone else's, so I hope this helps someone! I'm a 22-year-old female, and for about 4 years, I suffered from anxiety. First, it started off as panic anxiety, then with the failure of trying medications like Prozac, Zoloft, and Lexapro, my head was just so much worse. I could feel the chemical imbalance, I began getting daily depression and anxiety to the point I'd worry 24/7. It ruined relationships and made me seem crazy. I finally got on Effexor last month. It CHANGED MY LIFE. I feel NORMAL again. Happy, no anxiety, and energetic. The only side effects were yawning, vivid dreams, and at first, jaw pain. I highly suggest this for those with panic/daily anxiety/depression mix! My fears are gone."

• New...
• March 27, 2012

Venlafaxine for Hot Flashes "After having my ovaries removed, the hot flashes were so bad - one every hour or so - that I could not get a decent night's sleep. The doctor had said if the flashes got bad that I could try this antidepressant. I did not need that or so I thought. After a month, I said okay I'll try it. I have been on the lowest dose for about 8 years now. Am I done with the hot flashes - I don't know and don't want to find out. And the side benefit for me is that it also took the edge off of stress and worrying. I recommend every woman who can't take hormones and has hot flashes to try this. I have had no side effects, but I did have a loss of appetite. Just make sure your doctor checks your liver functions yearly."

• NLD...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• May 2, 2014

Venlafaxine for Depression "I've tried many different SSRIs for depression (Zoloft, Wellbutrin, Prozac) and nothing worked. I was apprehensive to take Effexor because of online reviews, but I'm so glad I did! The only side effect I've had is tiredness the first few weeks, but that has since subsided. I not only feel more energy, but I actually can feel happiness. On the other medicines, I just felt numbness and a lack of emotion, but Effexor has made me feel like me again! This has been my miracle after years of mild to severe depression."

• bea...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 13, 2018

For Anxiety and Stress "Venlafaxine has allowed me to live an almost 'normal' life. 8 weeks ago, I was honestly on the verge of suicide. It has now enabled me to be a mum to my kids and be 'present' with them, rather than in my spiralling hell. It has helped me with major anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD. I can now think more clearly during the day and have the energy to go to the gym... several months ago I could barely walk upstairs. It has, therefore, also helped me become motivated to be healthier, and I've lost 12 lbs in 8 weeks. I hated the first few days as I felt very sick and drowsy, but I persevered. I had a few night sweats in the beginning and dilated pupils, but began to notice an improvement about a week into it. This is the only antidepressant that has ever worked for me... citalopram had no effect. If this is recommended to you, I would definitely consider it. It has changed my life and my family's life because my kids have their mama back xx"

• Gem...
• February 22, 2012

Venlafaxine for Generalized Anxiety Disorder "Effexor gave me my life back. I was so overwhelmed with anxiety for months to the point I would not come out of my room, all I was doing was crying. I thought I was having a breakdown. I'm taking 75mg at night. At first, I felt sick and dizzy, but after about 4 weeks, I started to feel better. I've been taking them now for 8 weeks, and I feel back to normal. I'm back at work full-time. I still get the odd bad day, but that's to be expected. I don't know what I would have done without this medicine. Please be patient with this medication, I know it's hard, but after 4-6 weeks, you will feel better. Good luck with it all. I know it's really hard, but you will get better."

• And...
• January 23, 2020

Venlafaxine for Social Anxiety Disorder "This drug has been amazing for me. My NP first started me on Zoloft 50mg and I felt no difference, and then bumped me up to 100 mg. My anxiety got super bad, which I didn’t even know was possible because I have severe social anxiety. I got prescribed 75 mg of Effexor, and the side effects were really bad the first 2 weeks. I was ready to tell my NP that this wasn’t the drug for me, but I gave it about 2 more weeks and noticed a HUGE difference. Before taking this, when I would walk into class, my heart would be beating so fast that I thought I would have a heart attack. I would be shaking so much and would feel like I can’t even walk or function at all. But with this drug, I was able to walk into class calmly, no shaking, and didn’t even mind asking a question in front of the class. I never in a million years thought I would have the courage to do that. I know everybody is different, but this drug really has saved my life!"

• Anonymous
• February 16, 2014

Venlafaxine for Depression "I am a 49-year-old female who was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. I am taking Risperidone 2 mg a day with 75 mg of Effexor. I was severely depressed and suicidal every day. Lexapro made me extremely anxious and nervous. I think 75 mg of Effexor is helping a lot. I am now not as depressed or suicidal. I am now regaining my energy and interest back. For everyone who struggles with depression/bipolar out there: don't give up hope. Things will get better and you will recover. I believe that. Hang in there, seek help, and know that I am rooting for your quick recovery."

• Mom...
• July 27, 2014

For Hot Flashes "I went to my OB-GYN after experiencing a very emotional year with family and work, then started hot flashes! Thankfully, my OB-GYN was wonderful and didn't think I was crazy. She prescribed 75 mg Effexor (generic venlafaxine), much cheaper too. I saw improvement in hot flashes and mood within 2 days. I am on week 2 and feel more like my old self, minor hot flash symptoms, lost 4 pounds, and I don't feel the need to eat everything in sight! First week I did experience sleepiness and yawning, but that has gone away and I am alert and feeling good!"

• Anonymous
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• September 16, 2019

For Anxiety and Stress "Was on a downward spiral with anxiety and stress for years. Tried everything: counseling, acupuncture, hypnotherapy. Nothing worked with my anxiety. Then 37.5mg of venlafaxine. For 6 years, I haven't looked back. Saved my life."

• Son...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 1, 2015

Venlafaxine for Anxiety "I have had anxiety and depression for years. I was on all different types of medicines. I even got so badly depressed and anxious that I was bedridden for almost 1 year. I got switched to Effexor, and in a few days, I felt great! I cannot believe I spent all these years in darkness! This is the best medicine ever for me! I am not depressed and zero anxiety! I just wish I would have been on it earlier."

• Cat...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• July 18, 2020

Venlafaxine for Generalized Anxiety Disorder "Just a friendly PSA: I understand everyone reacts differently to medications, but I feel that Effexor XR is getting an undeserved bad rap. I took 75 mg for 6 months, then down to 37.5 for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). I stayed on the lowest dose for over 10 years. I never looked back. I felt great every day. Tamping down all the anxiety is a HUGE game changer. Anyhow, when I tapered off, I did it EXTREMELY slowly under my doc's supervision. It took almost 10 months, but I NEVER had any withdrawal symptoms... ever. The key here is to not be in a hurry. And honestly... I had some pretty uncomfortable side effects for about 6 weeks when I first started, but nothing compared to the crippling anxiety. Don’t be afraid of it, at least trying this drug if your doctor prescribes it for you. Just give yourself 6-12 full weeks for any relief, and if it's not a good fit, don’t fear tapering off SLOWLY..."

• Luc...
• January 6, 2021

For Anxiety and Stress "Venlafaxine changed my life, after only taking it for 2 months. The side effects were horrible at first. I had headaches and would shake or tremble when anxious, and I got extremely itchy. When you suffer from depression, GAD, PTSD, and OCD, it's a small price to pay because I started to see a change in my mood and my anxiety. For the first time in my life, my anxiety was almost gone, I could go out in public and engage in conversation for the first time in my life. I started on 75mg and I am still on it 6 months after. Lexapro made me a slow zombie and did nothing for my anxiety, it only helps for depression. A lot of reviews have negative feedback, but if you are in a bad place, push through the side effects because it's worth it, they do go away. This is the only antidepressant that doesn't make me a zombie during the day, I feel more awake. Stay strong."

• Pis...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 19, 2013

Venlafaxine for Anxiety "Effexor Saved Me After Many Failed Medicines. Current Med Combo - Effexor 75 mg, Lamictal 200 mg, Abilify 5 mg. It saved me from wasting any more time locked up in my house 24/7 and avoiding conversations, knocks at the door, people, telephone calls, and anything else involving socializing. I FINALLY LEAVE MY HOUSE. WILLINGLY and REGULARLY. Daily. I NO LONGER FEAR APPLYING FOR JOBS. I NO LONGER FEAR THE POSSIBILITY OF HAVING A JOB because I would have to deal with people. I am willing and eager to go out with friends, family, acquaintances, meet new people. SIDE EFFECTS - Only Nightmares, which eventually become less and less and then go away after 2 months. Maybe a little unpleasant at first. Definitely bearable. It's not bad for everyone."

• Dow...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• August 8, 2014

Venlafaxine for Anxiety "I have suffered with major depression my whole adult life. Have been on several types of antidepressants, all of which left me feeling like a zombie. The first time I took Effexor, I noticed a major swing in my moods. It has been a total savior for me. Two weeks ago I was in bad shape, today, after a week of Effexor, I feel on top of the world. This medication, with the help of family, friends, and counselor, has without a doubt totally turned my life around. Now, everything in my life is happy and positive. Without this medication, my future would have been bleak, to say the least."

• SSK...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 13, 2014

Venlafaxine for Anxiety "I have been on Effexor XR 75mg for two months now, after previously being on Zoloft and Celexa. The two other medications were not effective for my anxiety and depression, and they tended to make me either tired or foggy regardless of the time of day that I took them. I expected the tiredness to wear off, but the foggy feeling never did. My doctor prescribed Effexor XR, and it has been very effective for both my depression and anxiety symptoms. I am not 100% perfect, and I still have anxiety, but in the appropriate moments. The moments of unreasonable anxiety attacks are fewer and far between since starting the medicine. I had no negative side effects, and I take it every morning at 9am."

• 052...
• January 26, 2015

Venlafaxine for Anxiety "I have been on Effexor XR for about a year, after switching from Paxil. It is a scary thing to read all these reviews and question whether you should or should not take it. I personally started for anxiety, and it has helped tremendously. To me, having panic attacks is not a fun task. Yes, there are side effects, but everything you put into your body does. Please try what your doctor recommends before you read all the reviews."

• Rya...
• January 23, 2020

Venlafaxine for Depression "This drug is by far the best antidepressant I've taken, and I've been on it since age 17 (now 34). If you miss a day, you will be very emotional, but other than that, I haven't noticed many bad side effects. My depression is great now and has been for years. The only negative is my lack of sex drive and sleeping a lot. Not sure if that's all due to the medication or just my lazy arse. Heard a lot of bad reviews, but honestly, I've been on it for 7 years and I think it's great."