REPORTING IN 6 WEEKS AFTER WATCHING THIS: OMG! You guys are life savers. I've reduced my SNRI (Effexor) by 75% over the past 4 weeks, with my GPs guidance. Still on 50mg but the reduction in symptoms as you described have been amazing. SUCH A RELIEF. It's been 8 1/2 years on Effexor and I had no idea it could be adding to my symptoms. Going to stay on 50mg for a few weeks then drop it and probably introduce a SSRI as suggested (think I will need that at least for a while). Thank you so much. I've put my GP onto your channel so she can get herself up to spead for client's like myself. So grateful. 💖🐨💖🐨💖🐨💖🌞
hi there is it safe to take antidepressant especially SNRI for 8 years..... will it really reshape my brain??? i want to be more socially graceful especially when talking.... and my SNRI DULOXETIN MAKES ME ELOQUENT
@@barrymichaels2663 if you don't think they are working for you as well as they should, or causing some of the nasty side-effects in this video, it's definitely worth it. Please do it under the guidance of a well qualified professional, who know what they are talking about. My GP did not. Also... I took getting off the SNRI I was on VERY SLOWLY... it took nearly three months. Only the last week was hard to cope with. This is just from my experience... 💖🐨💖
Nursing student here and i have an exam tomorrow for my mental health class. This video has been excellent in my understanding of SSRI and SNRI effects qnd medicines. Appreciate you and your team so much!
I wish I had this information years ago, I lost years in a depression‘coma’. More medications were added, and I was told it just takes time. Even when 450 wellbrutrin was added still in bed or napping and only up 4-6 hours a day. Finally moved and my new psychiatrist moved me from the 5 medications to an MAOI, and finally got some relief, I am up 10 -12 hours a day for the last few years. Did not give up and have a new team and being tested for autism, and other underlying conditions.
Thank you for your brilliant videos. Your non-jargon explanation on the differences and similarities between SSRI’s & SNRI’s was easily understood. This is a wonderful public service, knowledge is understanding and may help patients diminish their levels of anxiety and depression in league with medication, professional help & guidance.
Thank you so much for posting this! It is EXACTLY what I've been looking for. I've been on SSRI's for a good portion of my life primarily due to anxiety/depression but have recently been diagnosed ADHD as well so I've been switched to SNRIs... and so my drug research began! Everything you have talked about with Noradrenaline is spot on with what I have personally experienced; however, I do understand how the noradrenaline can help the ADHD. Thank you again for the post and I look forward to listening to your other videos.
It’s an SSRI. The video explains the difference between SSRIs and SNRIs. Neither is “better” they are different. Is a hammer better than a mallet. They are different. Answer to How is SNRI better than SSRI? www.quora.com/How-is-SNRI-better-than-SSRI/answer/Al-Griskaitis?ch=99&share=200f3864&srid=sumLd
ADHD symptoms are commonly a direct result of SOME antidepressants, such as venlafaxine (Effexor) and mirtazapine ( has numerous brand names - Avanza is but one). Both are very dangerous when given abruptly in moderate to large dosage. One MUST begin lowest dose & SLOWLY increase, with best effects from 20 to 30 days. Once feeling better, NEVER increase the dose - even on very temporary relapse. I had been taking Effexor for 26 years & my personality quickly & drastically changed. Taking unwise rusks - gambling, speeding, unsafe sex, shoplifting, verbal anger/outbursts etc. All caused by Effexor and Avanza (mirtazapine). There are much better alternatives than these two which are linked to suicide ideation of all ages. Hope this helps.
I have ADHD that went undiagnosed and think it’s important to say that I was initially diagnosed depression. SSRI was the worst for me in terms of agitation, I couldn’t think and very hyperactive. SNRI worked for mood (believe impact it had on dopamine helped) so helped depressed mood and I was less anxious/agitated (a lot of ‘anxiety’ was racing thoughts from adhd). I am 30, diagnosed a few months ago. Mood dysregulation or sensitivity is a part of adhd not yet recognised in the dsm. I would not go to a doctor for difficulty organising or concentrating. I went because I felt sad and anxious. So that’s what I was treated for. Given limited access to psychiatrists in Australia, I never saw one and gps typically screen for mood/anxiety, not adhd especially in females. Your presentation was fantastic, in future could you please mention or make note of how SSRI’s are commonly prescribed by GP’s, and can make adhd symptoms worse, or aren’t right for certain populations. I think medication is important but the right medication even more so, and for us (adhders) SNRI’s typically preferred over SSRI. :)
Great comment. Our other talk might also be relevant: ADHD Stimulant Medication Secrets: The 10 secrets to how Dexamphetamine, Ritalin and Adderall work ruclips.net/video/LG_yD5SXuCg/видео.html
I have adhd and SSRIs helped. I was calmer, not anxious, hyper focus was improved. The hyperactivity on SSRI IS NOT how someone with true adhd reacts. YOU HAD A COMMON BIPOLAR REACTION TO SSRI. Bipolar is often confused with adhd. SSRI induces mania in bipolar patients exactly as you described. You should speak to a psychiatrist asap because typical depression treatments will have harmful consequences for undiagnosed bipolar / misdiagnosed adhd. It’s going to take some real honesty with yourself and with your doctor. Good luck.
I know I can't take any of this stuff as peer reviewed information but it's still really interesting to see two professionals in my field talking about cool shit
I have been taking escitalopram and clomipramine for a while now. But I've had really disturbing dreams and my psychiatrist wasn't responding too well, he just used to say continue the meds. Today, I saw a new doctor and he just changed to a completely different antidepressant. And im just so scared now. I just really want a hug.
@@Iliketurtlezz It took a couple months for the physical effects to subside, but to this day, years later, I still have issues with certain things like regulating my body temperature. I took them between ages 18-23 and I think it may have impacted my endocrine system for life
I was on Effexor for 5 years when I was 19 and came off it when I was 25. Then tried to go back on it, but the side effects were so severe, had really bad vertigo/dizziness. Wasn’t fun times. Love your videos
@@kaileyshaffer4381 sorry for late reply, didn’t see your comment. I tried at least 5 different SSRI’s and nothing seemed to work. Instead I started exercising a lot and stopped drinking, and haven’t looked back, I’m way better than I ever was.
I've been on the Loxitane for 2 1/2 months. For the past two weeks I've been feeling unlike myself I thought I was going crazy. Thank you for this video.
Me watching this after taking cymbalta at night but it clearly said in the morning on the description 🤦🏽 🤦🏽🤦🏽 but thank you for the information. It's really helpful 😊
EXACTLY the same 11 years on effexor,'after my son was born. they kept trying to up my dose up my dose 300mg in end. I was not improving. I saw this and not only have I been fighting anxiety and insomnia, but now I'm also on 2mg of clonazepam a day to sleep and help with agitation. I'm tapering off venlafaxine now by choice with gp. who didn't even know that effexor was an snri she told me it was s'sri. I found this vid at exactly the right moment. thank you. almost eleven years of my life gone. no enjoyment, turning into a social recluse. so we are down to 100mg effexor. introducing 10mg of escitalopram. first week OMG. not pleasant effexor withdrawl. brain zaps, ear and head ringing, black outs etc. . . I have tried many times to get off this antidepressant. I'm determined this time. I'm feeling relief.'sleeping allot to avoid the side effects of change. but this vid explains allot. great for people like me, on effexor for years, having no benefit from it but insomnia, anxiety. the change is starting to feel better. I know still early days. but gives me hope. and wish this info was available years ago. thanks so much guys. ❤ this new info needs to be spread. I've already shared this vid three times with other people having the same problem with venlafaxine. one almost suicidal. always to make a plan with g.p on how to taper and change over of course. this couple save people's lives. I was ready to give up at 42. my son has only seen me on effexor will he notice a diff mum?'hopefully a positive and happy mum that wants to engage with people and leave the house.
Such a brilliant informative video. I was prescribed Venlafaxine for chronic pain. Been on 150mg for 16 months and wanting to get off it for at least 9 months of that time. The brain fog and zaps, insomnia and fatigue have been awful. I actually had to start taking it at night as I felt completely out of my body driving to work when I took it in the mornings. Day 5 of tapering off, now on 112.5mg - GP has advised doing this for a month before reducing to 75mg so will be 3 months before I'm off it. Interesting that you mention the anxiety because looking back my anxiety has been horrendous on this medication, especially since I wasn't put on it for mental health reasons. Thank you for the wonderful insight!
It’s very interesting, I feel like GPs are lacking this understanding. I also feel there should be more awareness around pharmaco genetics testing. This can help reduce the trial and error process. Also it would be nice if you guys could do a video on it .
Thank you for making this. My psychiatrist prescribed Effexor XR because he thinks SSRIs failed me in the past, which makes no sense to me. I have high anxiety, so putting me on a medication that makes it worse seems like a bad call on his part. I was initially on 75mg, but I didn't like the side effects, even after a month, so I asked to be taken off it, but he refused and upped my dose to 150. I'm feeling much worse now. I have an appointment with him tomorrow and I'm gonna stand firm on being taken off. I can't stand all this agitation, high BP, and insomnia (wired, but tired). Again, thank you for explaining how it works in an easy to understand format. It helped a lot. :)
Hi, I had a similar experience. How are you feeling today? Did you find a good medication for your symptoms? I have anxiety and I'm still treating it...
@@rickparizotto so you're on Effexor? If you have anxiety, it's not recommended, at least not by pill pushers. I eventually left that psychiatrist and got a new one. While she's definitely a lot nicer and more personable, she put me on two different SSRIs at the same time. Regular doctors are warning me about that, saying the two medications don't go well together. I actually asked her today if I could be taken off them, but she simply upped the doses. I'm not feeling like they're doing anything, unfortunately. I've had this issue for decades, where antidepressants do very little or nothing. My therapist says that some people simply don't respond to them, which sucks, but I guess I'm one of them. At this point, I'm wondering if I even need them. Yes, I have issues that need resolving, but it doesn't seem like medication is the answer. Anyway, enough about me. Have you talked to your psychiatrist about the side effects? They can't force you to take them, so I'd recommend asking for a different medication. I honestly wish you the best of luck. I've been on antidepressants and muscle relaxers off and on since I was 15. I'm 40 now, so you can imagine my experience. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask me and I'll do my best to answer.
@@MidnightSonnet Hi, I've already tried almost 10 different antidepressants. I didn't take Effexor (venlafaxine), but I took one called Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq), which according to my doctor is similar to Effexor. And it was a bad experience. I'm taking Fluoxetine (Prozac 40mg), Trazodone XR (150mg), and atenolol (25mg) to help with my anxiety. It's like a roller coaster. Some days I feel good, others don't... And I've been sleeping a lot lately. I think it's because of trazodone. But I still don't feel 100% good. I feel there's something missing...
@@rickparizotto holy hell, that's a lot of medication. Seems like overkill unless you're extremely unwell. Are you seeing a therapist, as well? In my experience, discovering the root cause(s) of anxiety and depression and working to heal that is infinitely more helpful than medication. If you are seeing a therapist, did they have you take an anxiety/depression quiz and, if so, what were the scores? The past two therapists I've seen have me take the quiz around once a year or when something changes to see if I've made any progress. You can also express your concerns regarding your medication to your therapist, as it's helpful to them and you. Currently, I'm taking Vilazodone HCL 40mg (this is a new medication that no doctor I've spoken to has ever heard of) and Buspar 30mg.
We’re going to be putting out a whole series on root causes soon. But I’m the mean time here’s something we touched on a while ago: The root causes of depression. Address them now! ruclips.net/video/q4duMQMPG9Y/видео.html
This explains a lot. I was on Luvox for over 15 years and became increasingly tired and brain foggy as time went on. I took a gene test that listed three different flags for Luvox (mainly slow metabolism), and have been transferred to Pristiq. It was hard going at first because I'd been so numb, but it's interesting being awake too. So I'm on Pristiq and Nuvigil now have to see how it plays out.
I’ve recently tapered off venlafaxine and switched to a low dose of fluoxetine. Ever since taking Venlafaxine I struggled with health anxiety (came out of nowhere) panic attacks, low self esteem. First day today on fluoxetine only and I can honestly say I feel like myself again pre venlafaxine. Never going back to it again. The withdrawal wasn’t so bad as I tapered but I definitely had side effects like zaps, sweats and irritability. This video makes complete sense to me.
I have anxiety and adhd. Not sure why after my history of anxiety attacks (not fun) my doc would prescribe this SNRI to me:/ lexapro had cruddy side effects, Ritalin was too strong for me.
Thank you so much!!!!! This totally explains the experience in having with the Effexor! I finally understand why my panic attacks were actually getting worse. This confirms my decision to come off the Effexor. ***Update: it's been 14 days without my normal 37.5mg of Effexor and I feel like a new person! The 20mg bridge of Flouxitine most definitely helped. I actually only used both on day 1 and then only Flouxitine since then. I'm gonna wait to about the 2 month mark, before trying to wean of the Flouxitine, just to ensure I'm only dealing with it's withdrawals. Thxs again for this. 🤗
I'm so glad you've been able to recognise what it was doing to you and be able to take action about it. Panic attacks are terrible enough without finding out they've been worsened by a drug prescribed to supposedly help you feel better.
Did you feel emotions and like yourself again after getting of them.. Since 4 years i cant feel joy, happiness, love or cant feel myself...taper down now...
@@Butterfly-vd4tg Yes, once off the Effexor I slowly got back to a "pre-effexor" state. But it did take about 3 months to lose all traces. I did end up deciding to stay on 20mg of flouxitine as it really helps keep me balanced and feel great. Of course, everyone is different and it take longer or shorter.
Best video explains neurotransmitters ever. I used to get jittery from a half a can of Coca-Cola, after being on Paxil, caffeine doesn’t affect me at all, drinking the strongest triple espresso ever is like drinking water now. I can’t find any explanation anywhere about that subject?
Don’t know exactly, but I’d suggest the Paxil may reduce ones sensitivity to a point where one is more tolerant to the sensitising effect of caffeine. Just speculating. Here’s a discussion about sensitivity: ruclips.net/video/cqBAZwy5EwA/видео.html
Great video, can you please do a video that discusses psychomotor stimulants and Antidepressant meds, what happens when both are being taken? Also I've heard about new trials of ketamines and psilocybe to treat depression from John's Hopkins University, it would be great to understand that at a 1000 foot view. Watched a few Ted Talks on problems of treating the entire brain and it’s neurotransmitters as a kind of pea soup, rather than being able to specifically target brain regions. The analogy used by the Neuroscientist in the Ted Talk was that it was a litte like opening the hood of your car and pouring oil all over the engine block, in order to fill the oil tank, potentially damaging and sometimes ineffective, are these medications getting smarter and able to target areas or regions? The small amount of research I've done into brain chemistry I realise what an amazingly complex subject it is but fascinating and love to understand it more. Are there ways now to selectively target brain regions with meditation, also are things like MRI scans used these days? I love this marriage of psychology (with awesome schema Therepy) and psychiatry, it's awesome and helpful, hope GP's watch this. I think you need a Neuroscientist to complete the dream team and marry up practical with theoretical. Thank you both for producing this!
My GP wanted me to stop my SSRI and go on Effexor. I asked him why. “Because I’m putting all my ssri patients on Effexor.” I said no way, and he said ok, he’d make an ‘exception’ for me. Weird way of prescribing, what? Because he’s putting all his patients in it... General practitioners should stay out of this stuff, anyway. When I went through very bad withdrawal (had sepsis, stopped taking Paxil having no idea this could be a problem) he had no idea what was going on so assumed, naturally, that the extreme nausea and everything else was “all in my head”. I can’t even think about that year, it’s still too upsetting. Let psychiatrists prescribe psychotropics, not family doctors.
Seems arbitrary and potentially destabilising if a patient is doing okay. Not to mention the noradrenergic effect on anxiety/distress. I wonder what their incentive is?
@@thePSYCHcollective of that GP? I would guess a pharmaceutical representative visited him with information about Effexor (which was fairly young, then - it was long ago) and either offered him a kickback or made him so enthusiastic he wanted all his patients to benefit from it. He was not happy that I declined.
That’s what I’ve been saying gps do not know enough about psychotropics, at least mine didn’t. And I’m sure most don’t, or are very careless in there prescribing. I have been through very traumatic events, and still not getting the right help. Antidepressants are causing havoc on my life, or it’s not the right one. I’m at the end of my rope, trying to prove what’s going on with me. It’s like talking to a wall, and people in my life are not making it any easier, the minimize what I’ve been through.
@@craftygirl17 Many of us have been there…I’ve just been through another awful year. And yes, loved ones can make it worse. The year was awful because I was trying to wean off my SSRI, over the course of 2 years in all, no less. I was extremely strong willed, went to the gym every day, took cold showers, ate only healthy food, no snacking, so smoking or drinking - nothing helped. Valium didn’t even touch it anymore. It is horrible and lonely. Back on SSRI and doing better again. Not great, but better. Has no SSRI ever helped you?
Wow and as a first timer, my doctor tried prescribing me effexor and knew practically nothing about it. Said there were no side effects or risks other than dry mouth! So glad I didn't blindly get it because these symptoms mentioned above are what I'm experiencing already and would've really messed it up more
I've been on 15 different mental tablets in twenty years. It was only in the past year that I was offered psychology. I wonder how it might have helped had I been given psychology sooner. Now I have a consultant psychologist every two weeks.
Yeah David I feel your pain! As a preteen till I was in my late teens I was put on all sorts of meds. I had trauma related issues but the pill pusher diagnosed me with bipolar incorrectly. So I was having rang if emotions trying different crap and horrible side effects. Seeing a shrink to actually process that crap is HUGE. I say meds just push down the feelings but never heal them. In fact if I missed a dose I would feel really depressed really fast. Now that I've been going to the RIGHT therapist I don't need psych meds personally. Although it took me a handful of therapists to find my right match it was worth it. Through some trauma based work I'm bringing up crap I never thought was still an issue. I think I also feel better in my self knowing the happiness I feel is real and not due to a med. Although some people seem to need them. Getting my vitamin levels healthy, eating better, and working out helped a lot. I seriously wouldn't be this well of though without therapy. Therapy is what helped me feel like bricks were removed from my back I never knew I was carrying. Hopefully you find the right psychologist to help. Training and skill is good but you need to click with them. There are several wise ones making YT videos I enjoy but could never be a client. Good luck!
SSRIs are depressants for me. Incredibly sedating and brought on worse thoughts at the lowest dose. It always amazes me how people find them energizing and invigorating. We are all unique.
Wish I never started on these as a teenager. How irresponsible it was for my Dr. to have prescribed these to me. I needed council and guidance but instead I was given drugs. Now I can't gett off them without twitching uncontrollably when I try to sleep. Also for those considering Ativam, my experience is terrible almost unbearable rebound anxiety and despair so proceed with caution.
SSRI are great. I took them for my PTSD. helped me overcome my anxiety and panic . I get amazing sleep with them. Unfortunately melatonin or Benzos dont work on me. But a Low dose of paroxetine and i fall asleep in 10 mins and sleep through the night.
I tried a few SSRI's and bad reaction, but I was on Effexer/SNRI in 2000 for Depression and it worked really well, so we figured lets try that now for my anxiety and depression. So far I'm really glad I finally went on it. Still dealing with some side effects, but have my life back for now. Taking 75MG. Thanks for the feedback!
@@OhhhJP Hello I got off. I don't take them anymore. I dont experience any severe side effects. But do I seem to have a sugar craving which I can't seem to control.
@@OhhhJP Yes. There are minimum side effects once u leave the meds. But again I did not take them for a long period of time. I took it for a couple of months. There will be a strong urge to go back to the meds. But it you can stay off for a week, then u get more confident .
Great info. I’ve been on cymbalta for 6 months and doubled dose, from 15mg, 3 separate times. Started researching because of the sensitivity issue. I’m getting critical of things a little. But I have also been taking 500mg panax ginseng extract for the past week. I have issues with fatigue from illness and thats why I was put on cymbalta. I thought the ginseng wouldn’t hurt but the sensitivity and hyper activity started in the past few days so Im interested in seeing if it is the ginseng (probably is). If not, the luvox or an ssri is something to run by my psych. Thanks for your work.
I have researched and found out that shrooms are very helpful , it has really helps to reduce anxiety and depression . I would love to try magic mushrooms but I can't easily get some , Is there any realiable source I can purchase one
I am feeling the same way too, I put too much on my plate and it definitely affects my stress and anxiety levels. I am also glad to be part of this community.
I’ve been on Effexor for about 10 years- 300mg/day. My anxiety is totally out of control! Can’t imagine coming off this stuff though, the withdrawals I have if I forget to take them, or even take them a bit late! Will talk to my GP about coming off them!
@@tutorialesguitarradelcielo9581 aww thank you. I did a bit of research myself and decided to try and wean off them. The capsules I have (2 x 150mg) have 12 x 12.5 mg mini tablets in them - so over the last 2 weeks, I’ve taken a few beads out, now I’m up to 5 beads out of one capsule today, which is a total decrease of 62.5mg! Will stay there for a week, then drop another 12.5mg. No side effects really as yet 🤞🏻🙏🏻
I've been on venlafaxine for years,I have weaned myself off over a year yes going back on is a nightmare manic for 6days my Dr wants me to just up the dose I'm getting a second opinion, this is so helpful thank you 🙏
Gawd ive been on Cymbalta for years and spend a lot of days just miserable. Also can be possible rsd reactive. Love to go back to SSRI but the Cymbalta gives huge withdrawal effects. Swimmy, sad, zappy, feels like my head catches up after my vision. Do I have to go turkey before possibly swapping?
A slow crossover can work. You’ll need to discuss with your doc how that might be done. Generally the dose of the snri is lowered a touch and after a week or so a tiny bit of ssri is commenced. Then the snri is lowered again etc. it’s not always smooth sailing and it’s a good idea to get your reflexes checked before and as this process takes place. Increasing reflexes, nightly sleep starts or day time jerks are signs of serotonin excess.
Psychiatric prescriber in the US here. Loved the explanation and would really appreciate an expanse on noradrenaline effect on pain. Is there more to it than just more energy leading to increased motivation and less fixation on pain?
Well glad I watched this before I picked up my new Rx for Effexor to treat my anxiety! Wonder why it would even be prescribed for anxiety then if it will make it worse? I am guessing that will only happen if the does it too high though?
My dad started taking it. Made his depression and anxiety worse. Won’t eat. Trip to the hospital. Just sitting and staring into the distance. Will hardly talk. Won’t smile. Obsessive over small weird things like a closet door track being broke and him saying that he’s absolutely screwed and doesn’t know that there’s anything that can be done. Thought people were following him. Thought his legs were too small all of a sudden. And more. Super zombie. Totally gone mentally. Worst drug ever. Getting him off this ASAP with the help of a Naturopathic psychiatrist. If family wasn’t there for him he would wouldn’t even have the mental capacity to understand something is wrong and would be stuck the rest of his life. Super scary shit.
@@tidyguys223 Sorry to hear that. I had that when I was on Prozac. I actually finally gave in a few weeks ago and started taking my Effexor, was tired of trying to deal with my depression/anxiety holistically for the past year, tried everything Kava, Kratom, THC, intense EMDR therapy for past 14 months, got sober after 25yrs of being a drug addict, all helped short term, but nothing worked so I said fuck it, if it doesn't work then can't say I didn't try. The first week sucked, sent me in panic and felt like I was tripping, called my Psychiatrist and asked what do I do, of course he said keep taking it so I did, but I also refilled my valium which I was on for 7 yrs and that fucked my brain up, but I only took if that first week, then started to feel better and today I feel great! I'm glad I decided to try it, but also glad I tried everything else first to before jumping right on it. I know this is short term also, and once they start upping the dose when it stops working I will not keep taking it. I know how these work, the first six months are great, then comes the zombie mode and that's when I'm out! Hope your dad can find the right meds, I tried a handful and they really messed me up so everyone is different for sure! Good luck! I''m sure I will check in about 6months from now and say fuck this shit don't take LOL, but it's working today!
Worsened anxiety is a known side effect at first, when your brain is getting used to the spike in serotonin and norepinephrine. The desired effects of reducing anxiety and depression appear after a few weeks. It gets a bit worse before it gets better, and it doesn't work well in everyone.
@@schok51 Yeh that's what happened. I finally went on it for my depression and hopefully anxiety too. The first week I had to go back on a benzo, but now after month and half feeling really good at 75MG and off the benzo. We'll see how long it works for but so far so good. Thanks for the info!! Good to know
Cymbalta leveled me out, preventing high anxiety, but it was not good for lifting my mood. Also, I had some irritability. BTW, the best mood lifters I've ever used were imipramine and amitriptyline. Presently, after many years on imipramine I'm switching to Paxil. Hopefully my obsessive thinking will diminish but not my good mood. Also, I'm hoping my tinnitus will diminish, and I know imipramine was a contributor to my tinnitus.
I had the worst experience of my life when a psychiatrist advised me to quit Lexapro cold turkey after an ineffective transition from SSRI to SNRI. I would never consider either of these meds ever again.
See this is what I’m talking about even some psychiatrist don’t know what they are doing or just don’t care, you really have to look hard for good help. Really investigate who your dealing with not all psychiatrists are good at what they do. Or they misdiagnose you. I’ve been there with different psychiatrist went through all of them where I live and got a different diagnoses with all of them they didn’t take the time to listen to my situation. All started with my doctor saying I was depressed and gave me a antidepressant that I really didn’t need it was distress. And very hard to get off of. No one would listen they all were dismissive, when your dealing with one thing after another they don’t take the time to sit and listen and go from there to quick to hand you a perscription and you trust them.
Dang man your brain. I know someone who was in Benzos and then got real sick and stopped cold turkey. They were all messed up in the brain and we're hearing things. Took them a week to seem normal but they still were not quite there. Crazy stuff.
Hi there this video had been great I was on lexapro ssri 30mg little anxiety came back so touched base with pyciatrist he suggested we try Effexor been on 150mg for 5 weeks I’m ten times worse with physical anxiety symptoms worry scared complete pain
Excellent video. I'm currently tapering off Effexor XR (from 150 to 112.5 at present). 150 is too much for me, I get sort of a buzzing sensation that's annoying and agitating. Seeing my Doc in a couple weeks, and will discuss maybe switching to just an SSRI.
I'm also considering tapering off Effexor at (currently at 175). I feel like I've gotten good at coping with stressors + my life/environment is just... less stressful now (finished school & work is less exploitative). Last time I tried tapering off, I got into some beef with my manager and had to move sites (LOL). Part of me thinks I wasn't managing my emotions well because of the tapering off symptoms but... my job then was too demanding for a CPTSD person. This time I'm going to taper off much slower and plan ahead to make it as comfortable as possible. I just bought an elliptical to help start my days with something stabilizing
Effexor first helped me greatly. The problem I have with all psychiatric drugs is that no Psychiatrist ever tells the patient anything what to expect. Effexor began making me so sick, severe nausea, almost passing out if you didn't take it exactly on time everyday. Worst drug I was ever on.
I used a lot of different antidepressants. Effexor was ( by a country mile ) the hardest to taper off. Withdrawal was brutal for me personally. I swear I haven’t felt the same ever since, even though I stopped a year ago.
@@thePSYCHcollective Venlafaxine increased my blood pressure, I never had any problems with that, I feel pain on the side of my head just above the eye, a little dizziness, chills, hot body, extremely strange and abnormal dreams, tremors, the cardiologist confirmed to me that it is because of the medicine, which is strong, can even speed up the heart. I informed the psychiatrist and I'm going to suspend it, he asked me to reduce it from 150mg to 75mg for 1 month, and then suspend it
I take 300mg a day for 4,years now and in my first 6 weeks of taking them I almost gave up !! Thank god I didn’t . This drug saved my life and changed me from a person constantly in the throes of depression almost daily to someone who maybe as a minor episode every month or 2 . The first 6 weeks where truly awful and gettin through that takes guts and true grit to get thought but my personal experience makes me say keep going as I literally woke up one day and it was like a light switch went off !!! I was suddenly normal and it got better from there !!!
To add I started on 75mg and went up to my current dose over my first year . Now my dose feels perfect and has been that way for 2 years . I’ve never felt like I’ve had to go up Just another thing is that last night I helped he-man fight the nazi regime along with the British and Americans !! I was only a professional football player for Real Madrid and then I was he mans right hand man in the fight against racism and fascists
@@gump5ter01were you on 75mg those first hellish 6 weeks? How long were you on 75? Then... how long were you on 150? Why did you increase the dose? Thank you
@invan99999 so I was on 75 for like a month. But went up fairly fast. The first 6 weeks kind of felt like when u have a really bed period of depression. Like when ur really low and lethargic and panicked. But oh my God when it cleared it was like I was blind but now I see. Best thing I ever did honestly
@invan99999 like the world was just better. My life was. Changed. Don't be scared to ask for higher dosage as they are proven to work on nanodrenalon above 150mg and that was good tipping point for me. Now I take 150mg 2 times a day and my mental health is cured almost. Since my last post i haven't had a manic or depressive episode even once. Mentally i still get sad or anxious or frustrated but on a normal human level. Something can get me down if something bad happens but I doesn't set me back months or weeks. It doesn't take over my whole life and send me spiralling like it used to for weeks on end. I can manage my emotions and compartmentalise problems. I can have a bad day now without my depression sending me into a meltdow.
Anti-psychotics turned me into a zombie. I think I could still benefit from them as I have very severe Bipolar I, but I'm scared of the side-effects. I take a mood stabilizer and an SNRI now. I still experience hypo-mania and can obsess over things big time, but it's manageable. I'll never take an atypical anti-psychotic again. They terrify me.
SNRI duloxetine/cymbalta is giving me more energy but doesn't let me sleep properly and has made me more anxious, and hasn't helped my depression, pain, or ADHD.
My goodness, I've been on 5 different ones since 2017 and I'm so done with them all. Nothing but a zombie and maybe that's what my doctor wants? Day 2 without taking effexor and I'd rather deal with withdrawing
Hi Dr Al and Dr Jess, great video, very informative, engaging and enlightening! I'm quite a sensitive person and for me anxiety has been as much of an issue as depression. I've tried a number of SSRIs like Sertraline, Lexapro and Prozac and haven't had much benefit. Interestingly I've had the most benefit from SNRIs like Pristiq which I've been on for years, also tried Effexor which was okay and Cymbalta which was no good for me. I'm at a bit of a cross roads as I feel the Pristiq is not as effective as it used to be and my psychiatrist suggested I try Valdoxan which increases melatonin, norepinephrine and dopamine and after watching this video I think that may only add to my anxiety and nervousness. Dr Al can you tell me what SSRIs are similar to Luvox that only increase serotonin??
All the SSRIs affect SERT and NET (those are the serotonin and noradrenaline reuotake inhibitors respectively). All the SSRIs have a much greater effect on SERT than NET but they all affect NET to a small degree. SNRIs have a substancial effect on NET but this effect is not large at low doses. The impact of SERT inhibition is more serotonin effect which translates to less sensitivity (less anxiety/neuroticism) so things don’t seem so difficult. Until you get used to it, then the effect reduces with time, the doses go up or the meds get swapped.
@@thePSYCHcollective If my problem is huge sensitivity to everything, social fobia, agoraphobia, general anxiety ans negative thoughts. I have little energy because i am also in chronic pain. But in mind i always want to do stuff, my body like keeps me from doing it because of the fear something bad will happen if i go out of the house, i also have Ibs because of stress. Are SSRI good for such things? I now take Lexapro and mexazolam. I am seeing only a little effect on 3 week. And my libido is low.
Lexapro should help. But the most important thing you can do is to courageously start to approach the things you avoid. Start small an repeat and repeat and repeat. Many times a day. Embody courage. Focus on being courageous for whatever short duration you can muster. Practice being courageous. Courage is the solution to anxiety/avoidance. So practice that.
Hello, Thank you for the informative video. Is it correct to conclude that SNRI (Venlafaxine) causes higher sensitivity and reactivity than any other Antidepressant? if yes, does the dose matter such as 37.5g?
It’s generally thought that at 37.5mg there’s not a great deal of noradrenergic effect. The SNRIs do tend to reduce sensitivity (owing to the serotonergic effect) but when a stress/overwhelm threshold is eventually crossed: the noradrenergic effect may exacerbate distress.
Im on the left end and its so helpful to see it on the scale, I don’t wanna lose my intense emotions and temper but I feel a lot anxiety and sadness as well, Im now on 50mg sertraline
This might interest you: Reducing Sensitivity improves Resilience to Distress; here's how to improve sensitivity/resilience. ruclips.net/video/cqBAZwy5EwA/видео.html
SAME, i was on pristiq for like 2 years and was totally fine, them i stopped taking them, now a few months later i tried again and im like very sensitive to things like sounds or smells
Thank you for your video. Very informative. I had a question if I may. I went on Effexor very low dose for about 3 months. I took 37.5 mg ER. The side effects I experienced were EXTREME fatigue, which is confusing because i still also experienced increased bp and restlessness. I was also always ready to sleep. Why do you think that would occur possibly?
@Amy Shiyab Short answer is: I don’t know. But you’ve asked me to speculate so here goes: I’ve seen a few people who had severe symptoms (including chronic high arousal with chronic sleep deprivation) and when they start treatment and if it reduces their arousal they have what looks like a rebound fatigue which looks like they are paying back all the arousal. I don’t know if that is really plausible, but that’s what it sometimes looks like.
@@thePSYCHcollective i can't say that doesn't make sense because I know that because every single person responds differently, anything is possible. I also may have underlying things contributing to the fatigue independent of the medication. I have anemia which I know contributes to fatigue and weakness , but the difference between that every day tiredness and post starting meds was drastic. It was as if weights were close my eyelids shut and my entire body was just ready to shut off . Driving was tiring, talking was tiring .... my days consisted of school and sleep. I did stop taking it cold turkey ( I know I shouldn't have) and the side effects have been a little concerning . But back to symptoms while being on it, in general, what does it mean when 99.9 percent don't experience a symptom you do? What could that mean with regards to how I may respond to another medication within that class of meds? I apologize for the questions, but I have not gotten anywhere with any provider I have seen.
@Amy Shiyab It’s really hard to figure these things out in clinical settings and impossible in this setting. The simple version is: There are many root causes to the different symptoms. Medications don’t really address root causes (generally). People have variability in how they respond to different treatments. Often one class of meds will produce similar results. But not always. Treatment with meds is mostly about trying to address symptoms, approaching that with a logical sequence, in other words it’s informed trial and error. Tackling symptoms is helpful, but tackling root causes where they can be established is probably even better than just tackling symptoms. What are the causes of depression: root causes of “depression” ruclips.net/video/q4duMQMPG9Y/видео.html
Its because this video is showing a simpler perspective of how the antidepressants work for various disorders. They don't cover ADHD medications and their effects on the cortex.
@@roybelovoskey well, bupropion and reboxetine for example are also known for drowsiness. It doesn't happen always but it does happen often. Anyways this is really good video that cleared some things out.
Could be adrenal fatigue- also different people get different reactions to these meds the only way of seeing what helps for somebody can be to suck it and see
I find this video superhelpful to understand my mental issues better. Ive been on SSRIS but I dont tolerate the initial side effets. SNRIs was super easy to start because they are more chemically balanced. Ive been on pristiq but did nothing for anxiety (probably because as is explained here is not very serotonergic?) My two options now are venlafaxine or duloxetine. I have a mixed statte of anxietu and depression. I really dont know which to pick up. My GP seems lost with me as well. Is cymbalta more serotonergic than venlafaxine? I think serotonin is what really treats my disorder. But for any reason I cannot go through the initial increase of serotonin of ssris. Make my anxiety 10 times worse. Sorry for long text. Congrats for the great job on the video and thanks so much. Roberto
If anxiety is the issue, then I’d generally advocate avoiding anything noradrenergic as that’s likely to worsen anxiety. The meds you mention are all noradrenergic SNRIs. The video suggests a simple ssri like Luvox for anxiety. Very serotonergic and minimally noradrenergic.
First of all I'm 71, work out, walk everywhere, good blood pressure etc. My ENT prescribed Venlafaxine 37.5 mg for my Vestibular Migraine that came out of nowhere. He said take it for 2 weeks. I took one at 10am and by Noon my Vertigo was 80% gone. I thought cool.. 2am the next morning I woke up with a blinding headache, and I don't get headaches. But I did read on Web MD you might want to watch your Blood Pressure if you take this. So I decided to take my Blood pressure. 196/121. Yeah off to the Emergency room I went. I realize different medications can work differently in different people.. Just a Heads up.
Thanks for sharing your story. Based on the timing of the events of your story, my guess is that the headache was some sort of rebound effect to the drug wearing off and the high BP was a result of the severe headache pain. Does that seem about right to you?
@@thePSYCHcollective Not sure I've been misdiagnosed 3 times. First it was a Vestibular Neuritis, then it was a crystal floating around in my right ear, now it's Vestibular Migraine. Ive been to two ENT's next up a neurologist. I have had this now for just over a year. If I thought this was permanent I would have already put a bullet in my head.
I started Effexor 37.5 last Wednesday and I couldn’t sleep thanks to the anxiety, vomiting, and diarrhea. I felt like I wanted to run as fast as I could and scream. Such a terrible night 😢 Needless to say I stopped taking it. I’m so scared of medications.
@@woody6791 Hi, I started feeling better like two days later. I’m now taking Trintellix. It hasn’t been perfect because this one has many side effects too, but I’ve been able to deal with them. The anxiety is still bad, I’m going to stick to this medication for a few more weeks to see if it starts working.
Reporting here! I have been effexor 75mg all my life (can't go less or more of that dose otherwise I get depressed/disctrated), this med gave me a lot of intellectual, focus, creativity, consciousness, lessen depressed good for my uni/work. The problem is that it FLAT my emotions, makes me angry, anxiety irritable person, with a little of ocd, obssesive, so is hard for me to stablish relationships even with all the therapy, this pills makes my body agitated so is my voice, plus i sweat like a pork lol. I found this video, so decided to try it with my psiquiatrist. Even if i try to take 2 beads of the capsule, my concentration/alertness goes to hell, I added the Luvox 50mg and started to feel a bit better like my emotions kinda, but for this context, I ask you base on your experience, because not all the doctors has the ability, they just do whats in the "book". that means that if i cannot reduce my effexor due to loss of concentration? or will luvox will increase that as passes the time (im just 4 days on this). Thank you.
Why does not Australia allow Wellbutrin to be prescribed for depression? What about dopamin? Totally neglected by the Australian anti-depressants - this is how it appears to me but I would gladly be proved wrong.
SNRI are better for me than SSRI! Too many side affects with SSRI insomnia, restlessness, sexual disfunction, both can quite dull your mood sometimes but I'm on venlafaxine X2 75mg a day, wow dreams are insanely good!
Hello Again Doctor, I’ve started fluvox and have tapered down Effexor to 75 and already feel a reduction in my restlessness thank you so much for this information. You literally saved me. I wanted to ask if the Luvox tiredness diminishes with time, and also when I increased Luvox I started having jaw tightness is this normal, or something that should subside or I should be concerned about? Thanks so much, you are a lifesaver ❤
(Not medical advise) Jaw tightness, by which I think you are referring to bruxism can be the result of the change (either the reduction or the addition). It could also be the result of increased stress. If I was trying to figure it out I’d do so empirically, eg If a single top up dose of Effexor resolves the issue, that implies that the Effexor reduction is at fault. If a one night doubling of the Luvox worsens it, that implies the Luvox is the issue. In any case people with bruxism should talk to a dentist as one may have been night grinding and may need a splint. Also TRE (look up on RUclips) can give relief from bruxism for several hours.
I really liked the video. But I have question. If a patient is suffering from insomnia and erosive gastritis, which medicine will be suitable for him/her?
We discuss that here: Weight gain and antidepressants: Emotional eating, indifference and effects on appetite. ruclips.net/video/HhGlYf7hOdU/видео.html
Yes! I started Effexor in 2015 at 75 mg and eventually upped to 187.5 mg. I gained so much weight, and saw a new psychiatrist who said she never would have put me on Effexor. She reduced it to 150 mg and added 300 mg Wellbutrin so I'd have more energy, and to curb my appetite. I'm on day 3 of 0 Effexor but still on Wellbutrin. Side effects are awful, but I'm so worried about my anxiety. I wish I knew more about Wellbutrin.
I’ve been on Effexor for 15 years for severe anxiety and obsessive thoughts which are triggered by a certain thing. The last three years I’ve felt things going in the wrong direction. Is it possible the Effexor just isn’t working anymore? I have an appointment with a psychiatrist tomorrow and I’m desperate to feel better. Some days I can’t even open my eyes and get out of bed. Any advice will help. Thank you 🙏🏻
Definitely something to talk to your doctor about. It can be that one gets adapted to the effects of a medication. Or it can be that the root causes which led to one taking medication have worsened/accumulated.
@@thePSYCHcollective thought I’d give you an update…I’m completely off Effexor now and on 40mg daily of Prozac. Feel a million times better with zero side affects. 🙂
Same thing I’ve been on Zoloft for 5 years and for anxiety and it helped me but from the last few months it’s up and down sometimes I feel good sometimes bad 😣😣
Cymbalta was the worst thing I ever took. Total anxiety insomniac nightmare with brain zaps that still happen years after stopping it. I think it actually gave me permanent brain damage.
For the last few months I have been dealing with anxiety and panic attacks, one thing or symptom that is consistent is depersonalization. I have been in this state of feeling for months .it is very frustrating, uncomfortable, and draining. I don’t feel like I am “in or connected “ to my body. I notice to that it correlates with my bloating problem especially. My doc prescribed me Venlafaxine XR, but have been afraid to try it because of the side effects that I have read about from other users. Do you suggest this medication for the particular problem ghat I am having? Thank you.
Hi Yessenia, we can’t provide specific clinical recommendations. Depersonalisation will often be either from anxiety states or trauma memories. Our clip discusses how Noradrenergic activation can potentially intensify anxiety states of any cause. But everyone is different in the causes of their problems and in their responses to treatments. This clip might be relevant helping people to reduce anxiety: m.ruclips.net/video/0PBIKKZIwGI/видео.html
Hi I’m in the boat as you today I have terrible depersonalization I miss my loved ones I’m in nursing school and I just want to feel better like a normal person I was prescribed Effexor as well took my first dose today I am scared how did it work for you I know this post was 5 months old
@@arielabeyta9500 don’t be scared you have to wait at least 14 days to your body absorbs it and if it doesn’t you have to change it listen what your doctor says best of luck 🤞 don’t worry it will be pass and it is not permanent
Interestingly, SSRIs like escitalopram and fluoxetine also relieve depression in mice lacking the serotonin transporter. In fact, they are just as effective in mice without serotonin transporters. Although hard to believe, serotonin reuptake inhibition may have nothing to do with the antidepressant effect of SSRIs. All SSRIs bind to TRK-B (as does ketamine). Fast acting antidepressants like ketamine and psilocybin, activate this receptor quickly. Slower acting antidepressants take a few weeks to produce conformal changes in the receptor to make it more responsive to BDNF.
Could the zombie effect be high dopamine as kids on too much stimulant with ADHD get that effect too? Don't antidepressants all raise dopamine in round about way? ssri more gradually than snri. And the poop out effect of snri might really be excess dopamine too which eventually will cause tolerance to set in and require dose increase or a drug holiday to reset.
My psychiatrist just prescribed Pristiq and benzodiazepines. I am scared to take it since the last anti depressant I took (Paxil) the bad side effects, intense withdrawal symptoms, and sometimes having crazy behavior that begun to surface at the end of my 3 years on Paxil. How safe is Pristiq?
REPORTING IN 6 WEEKS AFTER WATCHING THIS: OMG! You guys are life savers. I've reduced my SNRI (Effexor) by 75% over the past 4 weeks, with my GPs guidance. Still on 50mg but the reduction in symptoms as you described have been amazing. SUCH A RELIEF. It's been 8 1/2 years on Effexor and I had no idea it could be adding to my symptoms. Going to stay on 50mg for a few weeks then drop it and probably introduce a SSRI as suggested (think I will need that at least for a while). Thank you so much. I've put my GP onto your channel so she can get herself up to spead for client's like myself. So grateful. 💖🐨💖🐨💖🐨💖🌞
Delighted to hear that things are going well and that you’re collaborating with your gp on this. Great feedback. Thanks!
hi there is it safe to take antidepressant especially SNRI for 8 years..... will it really reshape my brain??? i want to be more socially graceful especially when talking.... and my SNRI DULOXETIN MAKES ME ELOQUENT
I was 23 years old when I was first prescribed this I'm now 40 and feel that I really need to come off it but the withdrawal symptoms are evil!!!
@@barrymichaels2663 if you don't think they are working for you as well as they should, or causing some of the nasty side-effects in this video, it's definitely worth it. Please do it under the guidance of a well qualified professional, who know what they are talking about. My GP did not. Also... I took getting off the SNRI I was on VERY SLOWLY... it took nearly three months. Only the last week was hard to cope with. This is just from my experience... 💖🐨💖
@@permissiontoshine if I can get down to 150 mg that will be an achievement for me.
I wish our doctors explained it like this and asked questions based off some kind of chart such as this when prescribing! 👏
Thank you
Me too but there is no way a doc would have the time to explain this to every patient.
This is such an excellent breakdown of the neurotransmitters and their effects!
its cool seeing the difference of how a psychiatrist think vs how a psychologist thinks
You guys are so good at explaining, and you are right on the noradrenaline.
SSRI Escitalopram has been great for me, 20mg for 5years now. Virtually eliminated OCD, anxiety, panic and crying at nothing.
Nursing student here and i have an exam tomorrow for my mental health class. This video has been excellent in my understanding of SSRI and SNRI effects qnd medicines. Appreciate you and your team so much!
I wish I had this information years ago, I lost years in a depression‘coma’. More medications were added, and I was told it just takes time. Even when 450 wellbrutrin was added still in bed or napping and only up 4-6 hours a day. Finally moved and my new psychiatrist moved me from the 5 medications to an MAOI, and finally got some relief, I am up 10 -12 hours a day for the last few years. Did not give up and have a new team and being tested for autism, and other underlying conditions.
Thank you for your brilliant videos. Your non-jargon explanation on the differences and similarities between SSRI’s & SNRI’s was easily understood. This is a wonderful public service, knowledge is understanding and may help patients diminish their levels of anxiety and depression in league with medication, professional help & guidance.
Thanks for your feedback.
We recently looked at some sleeping medications actions. This might be of interest.
ruclips.net/video/a4LgPQNXKzo/видео.html
Thank you so much for posting this! It is EXACTLY what I've been looking for. I've been on SSRI's for a good portion of my life primarily due to anxiety/depression but have recently been diagnosed ADHD as well so I've been switched to SNRIs... and so my drug research began! Everything you have talked about with Noradrenaline is spot on with what I have personally experienced; however, I do understand how the noradrenaline can help the ADHD. Thank you again for the post and I look forward to listening to your other videos.
You’re welcome.
We appreciate your feedback.
@@thePSYCHcollective so is lexapro better?
It’s an SSRI. The video explains the difference between SSRIs and SNRIs. Neither is “better” they are different. Is a hammer better than a mallet. They are different.
Answer to How is SNRI better than SSRI?
www.quora.com/How-is-SNRI-better-than-SSRI/answer/Al-Griskaitis?ch=99&share=200f3864&srid=sumLd
hi I hope you're feeling better, what snri did you switch to? and did it work without stimulants?
ADHD symptoms are commonly a direct result of SOME antidepressants, such as venlafaxine (Effexor) and mirtazapine ( has numerous brand names - Avanza is but one). Both are very dangerous when given abruptly in moderate to large dosage. One MUST begin lowest dose & SLOWLY increase, with best effects from 20 to 30 days. Once feeling better, NEVER increase the dose - even on very temporary relapse. I had been taking Effexor for 26 years & my personality quickly & drastically changed. Taking unwise rusks - gambling, speeding, unsafe sex, shoplifting, verbal anger/outbursts etc. All caused by Effexor and Avanza (mirtazapine). There are much better alternatives than these two which are linked to suicide ideation of all ages. Hope this helps.
Very nice way to structure the conversation around symptoms. Thank you.
Great discussion. Am a family practitioner in US and found it spot on relevant to my practice..
I have ADHD that went undiagnosed and think it’s important to say that I was initially diagnosed depression. SSRI was the worst for me in terms of agitation, I couldn’t think and very hyperactive. SNRI worked for mood (believe impact it had on dopamine helped) so helped depressed mood and I was less anxious/agitated (a lot of ‘anxiety’ was racing thoughts from adhd). I am 30, diagnosed a few months ago. Mood dysregulation or sensitivity is a part of adhd not yet recognised in the dsm. I would not go to a doctor for difficulty organising or concentrating. I went because I felt sad and anxious. So that’s what I was treated for. Given limited access to psychiatrists in Australia, I never saw one and gps typically screen for mood/anxiety, not adhd especially in females. Your presentation was fantastic, in future could you please mention or make note of how SSRI’s are commonly prescribed by GP’s, and can make adhd symptoms worse, or aren’t right for certain populations. I think medication is important but the right medication even more so, and for us (adhders) SNRI’s typically preferred over SSRI. :)
Great comment. Our other talk might also be relevant:
ADHD Stimulant Medication Secrets: The 10 secrets to how Dexamphetamine, Ritalin and Adderall work
ruclips.net/video/LG_yD5SXuCg/видео.html
@@thePSYCHcollective cool thank you I will check it out 😊
I have had a similar experience with ADHD and depression.
I have adhd and SSRIs helped. I was calmer, not anxious, hyper focus was improved. The hyperactivity on SSRI IS NOT how someone with true adhd reacts. YOU HAD A COMMON BIPOLAR REACTION TO SSRI. Bipolar is often confused with adhd. SSRI induces mania in bipolar patients exactly as you described. You should speak to a psychiatrist asap because typical depression treatments will have harmful consequences for undiagnosed bipolar / misdiagnosed adhd. It’s going to take some real honesty with yourself and with your doctor. Good luck.
@@xeathenia8539 I doubt that as SNRIs are even worse for bipolars. Brings on mania even faster.
I know I can't take any of this stuff as peer reviewed information but it's still really interesting to see two professionals in my field talking about cool shit
That’s my all time favourite comment!
This is an amazing video and deserves more views. Best i have seen on this subject.
I have been taking escitalopram and clomipramine for a while now. But I've had really disturbing dreams and my psychiatrist wasn't responding too well, he just used to say continue the meds. Today, I saw a new doctor and he just changed to a completely different antidepressant. And im just so scared now. I just really want a hug.
Life ruiner. I am so lucky and grateful i was able to get off SNRI’s and rebuild my life.
how long did recovery take you?
@@Iliketurtlezz It took a couple months for the physical effects to subside, but to this day, years later, I still have issues with certain things like regulating my body temperature. I took them between ages 18-23 and I think it may have impacted my endocrine system for life
I was on Effexor for 5 years when I was 19 and came off it when I was 25. Then tried to go back on it, but the side effects were so severe, had really bad vertigo/dizziness. Wasn’t fun times. Love your videos
If you don’t mind sharing, what did you end up doing after retrying the Effexor?
@@kaileyshaffer4381 sorry for late reply, didn’t see your comment. I tried at least 5 different SSRI’s and nothing seemed to work. Instead I started exercising a lot and stopped drinking, and haven’t looked back, I’m way better than I ever was.
@@mstringer90I’m having a battle…withdrawl is killing me
@@rustymullins6623is it from Effexor?
I've been on the Loxitane for 2 1/2 months. For the past two weeks I've been feeling unlike myself I thought I was going crazy. Thank you for this video.
Me watching this after taking cymbalta at night but it clearly said in the morning on the description 🤦🏽 🤦🏽🤦🏽 but thank you for the information. It's really helpful 😊
EXACTLY the same 11 years on effexor,'after my son was born. they kept trying to up my dose up my dose 300mg in end. I was not improving. I saw this and not only have I been fighting anxiety and insomnia, but now I'm also on 2mg of clonazepam a day to sleep and help with agitation. I'm tapering off venlafaxine now by choice with gp. who didn't even know that effexor was an snri she told me it was s'sri. I found this vid at exactly the right moment. thank you. almost eleven years of my life gone. no enjoyment, turning into a social recluse. so we are down to 100mg effexor. introducing 10mg of escitalopram.
first week OMG. not pleasant effexor withdrawl.
brain zaps, ear and head ringing, black outs etc. . . I have tried many times to get off this antidepressant. I'm determined this time. I'm feeling relief.'sleeping allot to avoid the side effects of change. but this vid explains allot. great for people like me, on effexor for years, having no benefit from it but insomnia, anxiety. the change is starting to feel better. I know still early days. but gives me hope. and wish this info was available years ago. thanks so much guys. ❤ this new info needs to be spread. I've already shared this vid three times with other people having the same problem with venlafaxine. one almost suicidal. always to make a plan with g.p on how to taper and change over of course. this couple save people's lives. I was ready to give up at 42. my son has only seen me on effexor will he notice a diff mum?'hopefully a positive and happy mum that wants to engage with people and leave the house.
Great video team. Clear real world examples and information.
Thanks Matt!!
Such a brilliant informative video. I was prescribed Venlafaxine for chronic pain. Been on 150mg for 16 months and wanting to get off it for at least 9 months of that time. The brain fog and zaps, insomnia and fatigue have been awful. I actually had to start taking it at night as I felt completely out of my body driving to work when I took it in the mornings. Day 5 of tapering off, now on 112.5mg - GP has advised doing this for a month before reducing to 75mg so will be 3 months before I'm off it. Interesting that you mention the anxiety because looking back my anxiety has been horrendous on this medication, especially since I wasn't put on it for mental health reasons. Thank you for the wonderful insight!
Thanks for the feedback!
Omg who would give it to you for pain 😮 its a very strong pill for ppl with clinical depression who stare at the wall all day
Did pain go away?
This is amazing, I’d love to see something like this with managing ADHD and Anxiety.
ADHD Stimulant Medication Secrets: The 10 secrets to how Dexamphetamine, Ritalin and Adderall work
ruclips.net/video/LG_yD5SXuCg/видео.html
It’s very interesting, I feel like GPs are lacking this understanding. I also feel there should be more awareness around pharmaco genetics testing. This can help reduce the trial and error process. Also it would be nice if you guys could do a video on it .
Ok y 5ZE a s6
Thank you for making this. My psychiatrist prescribed Effexor XR because he thinks SSRIs failed me in the past, which makes no sense to me. I have high anxiety, so putting me on a medication that makes it worse seems like a bad call on his part. I was initially on 75mg, but I didn't like the side effects, even after a month, so I asked to be taken off it, but he refused and upped my dose to 150. I'm feeling much worse now. I have an appointment with him tomorrow and I'm gonna stand firm on being taken off. I can't stand all this agitation, high BP, and insomnia (wired, but tired). Again, thank you for explaining how it works in an easy to understand format. It helped a lot. :)
Hi, I had a similar experience. How are you feeling today? Did you find a good medication for your symptoms? I have anxiety and I'm still treating it...
@@rickparizotto so you're on Effexor? If you have anxiety, it's not recommended, at least not by pill pushers. I eventually left that psychiatrist and got a new one. While she's definitely a lot nicer and more personable, she put me on two different SSRIs at the same time. Regular doctors are warning me about that, saying the two medications don't go well together. I actually asked her today if I could be taken off them, but she simply upped the doses.
I'm not feeling like they're doing anything, unfortunately. I've had this issue for decades, where antidepressants do very little or nothing. My therapist says that some people simply don't respond to them, which sucks, but I guess I'm one of them. At this point, I'm wondering if I even need them. Yes, I have issues that need resolving, but it doesn't seem like medication is the answer.
Anyway, enough about me. Have you talked to your psychiatrist about the side effects? They can't force you to take them, so I'd recommend asking for a different medication. I honestly wish you the best of luck. I've been on antidepressants and muscle relaxers off and on since I was 15. I'm 40 now, so you can imagine my experience. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask me and I'll do my best to answer.
@@MidnightSonnet Hi, I've already tried almost 10 different antidepressants. I didn't take Effexor (venlafaxine), but I took one called Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq), which according to my doctor is similar to Effexor. And it was a bad experience. I'm taking Fluoxetine (Prozac 40mg), Trazodone XR (150mg), and atenolol (25mg) to help with my anxiety. It's like a roller coaster. Some days I feel good, others don't... And I've been sleeping a lot lately. I think it's because of trazodone. But I still don't feel 100% good. I feel there's something missing...
@@rickparizotto holy hell, that's a lot of medication. Seems like overkill unless you're extremely unwell. Are you seeing a therapist, as well? In my experience, discovering the root cause(s) of anxiety and depression and working to heal that is infinitely more helpful than medication.
If you are seeing a therapist, did they have you take an anxiety/depression quiz and, if so, what were the scores? The past two therapists I've seen have me take the quiz around once a year or when something changes to see if I've made any progress. You can also express your concerns regarding your medication to your therapist, as it's helpful to them and you.
Currently, I'm taking Vilazodone HCL 40mg (this is a new medication that no doctor I've spoken to has ever heard of) and Buspar 30mg.
We’re going to be putting out a whole series on root causes soon. But I’m the mean time here’s something we touched on a while ago:
The root causes of depression.
Address them now!
ruclips.net/video/q4duMQMPG9Y/видео.html
boy I wish I could have you both to treat me
This explains a lot. I was on Luvox for over 15 years and became increasingly tired and brain foggy as time went on. I took a gene test that listed three different flags for Luvox (mainly slow metabolism), and have been transferred to Pristiq. It was hard going at first because I'd been so numb, but it's interesting being awake too. So I'm on Pristiq and Nuvigil now have to see how it plays out.
Cymbalta ruined my life. Gave me severe akathisia for 3 years. Incredible that I survived it.
I love this and thank you but also you two are so funny. There is so much tension in this room!
I’ve recently tapered off venlafaxine and switched to a low dose of fluoxetine. Ever since taking Venlafaxine I struggled with health anxiety (came out of nowhere) panic attacks, low self esteem.
First day today on fluoxetine only and I can honestly say I feel like myself again pre venlafaxine. Never going back to it again. The withdrawal wasn’t so bad as I tapered but I definitely had side effects like zaps, sweats and irritability. This video makes complete sense to me.
Thanks for posting.
Sadly it’s a common experience.
@@thePSYCHcollective thank you for making the video and helping me see clearly that I wasn’t going crazy! I was just on the wrong drug.
Hi, what dose of Venlafaxine where you on and how long for? Glad your feeling better
@@ethompson5061 thank you! I was on 75mg for 3 years and then 112.5mg for another year
Hey I am where you are a month ago … health anxiety 😟 came of snri. They had me on devs … has the fluoxetine helped u chill out?
Amazing thank you so much, i appreciate you taking your time to educate for free, you are awesome.
thanks for the info actually found a helpful youtube video that made sense. underappreciated channel
I have anxiety and adhd. Not sure why after my history of anxiety attacks (not fun) my doc would prescribe this SNRI to me:/ lexapro had cruddy side effects, Ritalin was too strong for me.
Excellent discussion. Do the Venlafaxine withdrawal horror stories come about because there's an increase in adrenaline and hence anxiety?
Thank you so much!!!!! This totally explains the experience in having with the Effexor! I finally understand why my panic attacks were actually getting worse. This confirms my decision to come off the Effexor.
***Update: it's been 14 days without my normal 37.5mg of Effexor and I feel like a new person! The 20mg bridge of Flouxitine most definitely helped. I actually only used both on day 1 and then only Flouxitine since then. I'm gonna wait to about the 2 month mark, before trying to wean of the Flouxitine, just to ensure I'm only dealing with it's withdrawals. Thxs again for this. 🤗
I'm so glad you've been able to recognise what it was doing to you and be able to take action about it. Panic attacks are terrible enough without finding out they've been worsened by a drug prescribed to supposedly help you feel better.
Good luck. You are on the right course.
Did you feel emotions and like yourself again after getting of them.. Since 4 years i cant feel joy, happiness, love or cant feel myself...taper down now...
@@Butterfly-vd4tg Yes, once off the Effexor I slowly got back to a "pre-effexor" state. But it did take about 3 months to lose all traces. I did end up deciding to stay on 20mg of flouxitine as it really helps keep me balanced and feel great. Of course, everyone is different and it take longer or shorter.
@@AaronWakely thanks so much ☺️ and i asked myself why i feel since 4 years like a zombie and always ill and not like myself...
Best video explains neurotransmitters ever. I used to get jittery from a half a can of Coca-Cola, after being on Paxil, caffeine doesn’t affect me at all, drinking the strongest triple espresso ever is like drinking water now. I can’t find any explanation anywhere about that subject?
Don’t know exactly, but I’d suggest the Paxil may reduce ones sensitivity to a point where one is more tolerant to the sensitising effect of caffeine. Just speculating.
Here’s a discussion about sensitivity: ruclips.net/video/cqBAZwy5EwA/видео.html
I noticed when I was on Paxil I could drink 10 coffees and it would not effect me. Normally if I drink one coffee or tea the caffeine is too strong.
I’ve come across that phenomenon. The serotonergic drugs reduce sensitivity and thereby lessen anxiety from stimulants like caffeine.
Great video, can you please do a video that discusses psychomotor stimulants and Antidepressant meds, what happens when both are being taken? Also I've heard about new trials of ketamines and psilocybe to treat depression from John's Hopkins University, it would be great to understand that at a 1000 foot view. Watched a few Ted Talks on problems of treating the entire brain and it’s neurotransmitters as a kind of pea soup, rather than being able to specifically target brain regions. The analogy used by the Neuroscientist in the Ted Talk was that it was a litte like opening the hood of your car and pouring oil all over the engine block, in order to fill the oil tank, potentially damaging and sometimes ineffective, are these medications getting smarter and able to target areas or regions? The small amount of research I've done into brain chemistry I realise what an amazingly complex subject it is but fascinating and love to understand it more. Are there ways now to selectively target brain regions with meditation, also are things like MRI scans used these days?
I love this marriage of psychology (with awesome schema Therepy) and psychiatry, it's awesome and helpful, hope GP's watch this. I think you need a Neuroscientist to complete the dream team and marry up practical with theoretical. Thank you both for producing this!
My GP wanted me to stop my SSRI and go on Effexor. I asked him why. “Because I’m putting all my ssri patients on Effexor.” I said no way, and he said ok, he’d make an ‘exception’ for me. Weird way of prescribing, what? Because he’s putting all his patients in it...
General practitioners should stay out of this stuff, anyway. When I went through very bad withdrawal (had sepsis, stopped taking Paxil having no idea this could be a problem) he had no idea what was going on so assumed, naturally, that the extreme nausea and everything else was “all in my head”.
I can’t even think about that year, it’s still too upsetting.
Let psychiatrists prescribe psychotropics, not family doctors.
Seems arbitrary and potentially destabilising if a patient is doing okay. Not to mention the noradrenergic effect on anxiety/distress. I wonder what their incentive is?
@@thePSYCHcollective of that GP? I would guess a pharmaceutical representative visited him with information about Effexor (which was fairly young, then - it was long ago) and either offered him a kickback or made him so enthusiastic he wanted all his patients to benefit from it. He was not happy that I declined.
That’s what I’ve been saying gps do not know enough about psychotropics, at least mine didn’t. And I’m sure most don’t, or are very careless in there prescribing. I have been through very traumatic events, and still not getting the right help. Antidepressants are causing havoc on my life, or it’s not the right one. I’m at the end of my rope, trying to prove what’s going on with me. It’s like talking to a wall, and people in my life are not making it any easier, the minimize what I’ve been through.
Sorry to hear about your predicament. I hope some of content helps.
@@craftygirl17 Many of us have been there…I’ve just been through another awful year. And yes, loved ones can make it worse. The year was awful because I was trying to wean off my SSRI, over the course of 2 years in all, no less. I was extremely strong willed, went to the gym every day, took cold showers, ate only healthy food, no snacking, so smoking or drinking - nothing helped. Valium didn’t even touch it anymore. It is horrible and lonely.
Back on SSRI and doing better again. Not great, but better.
Has no SSRI ever helped you?
Wow and as a first timer, my doctor tried prescribing me effexor and knew practically nothing about it. Said there were no side effects or risks other than dry mouth!
So glad I didn't blindly get it because these symptoms mentioned above are what I'm experiencing already and would've really messed it up more
I've been on 15 different mental tablets in twenty years. It was only in the past year that I was offered psychology. I wonder how it might have helped had I been given psychology sooner. Now I have a consultant psychologist every two weeks.
why would you have a consult every 2 weeks lol usuallu they are a one time thing and they just inform your family doc on how to medicate you
@@fogpimp I think you might have confused consultant psychologist with a psychiatrist.
Which tablet do you rate best for depression?
Doctors defend big Pharma & their profession only.
Yeah David I feel your pain! As a preteen till I was in my late teens I was put on all sorts of meds. I had trauma related issues but the pill pusher diagnosed me with bipolar incorrectly. So I was having rang if emotions trying different crap and horrible side effects.
Seeing a shrink to actually process that crap is HUGE. I say meds just push down the feelings but never heal them. In fact if I missed a dose I would feel really depressed really fast. Now that I've been going to the RIGHT therapist I don't need psych meds personally. Although it took me a handful of therapists to find my right match it was worth it.
Through some trauma based work I'm bringing up crap I never thought was still an issue. I think I also feel better in my self knowing the happiness I feel is real and not due to a med. Although some people seem to need them. Getting my vitamin levels healthy, eating better, and working out helped a lot. I seriously wouldn't be this well of though without therapy. Therapy is what helped me feel like bricks were removed from my back I never knew I was carrying. Hopefully you find the right psychologist to help. Training and skill is good but you need to click with them. There are several wise ones making YT videos I enjoy but could never be a client.
Good luck!
the best video on the topic. Really good
SSRIs are depressants for me. Incredibly sedating and brought on worse thoughts at the lowest dose. It always amazes me how people find them energizing and invigorating. We are all unique.
Wish I never started on these as a teenager. How irresponsible it was for my Dr. to have prescribed these to me. I needed council and guidance but instead I was given drugs. Now I can't gett off them without twitching uncontrollably when I try to sleep. Also for those considering Ativam, my experience is terrible almost unbearable rebound anxiety and despair so proceed with caution.
SSRI are great. I took them for my PTSD. helped me overcome my anxiety and panic .
I get amazing sleep with them. Unfortunately melatonin or Benzos dont work on me. But a Low dose of paroxetine and i fall asleep in 10 mins and sleep through the night.
I tried a few SSRI's and bad reaction, but I was on Effexer/SNRI in 2000 for Depression and it worked really well, so we figured lets try that now for my anxiety and depression. So far I'm really glad I finally went on it. Still dealing with some side effects, but have my life back for now. Taking 75MG. Thanks for the feedback!
Do you still take them??? Or did you get better and get off of them?
@@OhhhJP Hello I got off. I don't take them anymore. I dont experience any severe side effects. But do I seem to have a sugar craving which I can't seem to control.
@@dbyajitroy so you took your meds and after awhile got off of them and now you feel better?
@@OhhhJP Yes. There are minimum side effects once u leave the meds. But again I did not take them for a long period of time. I took it for a couple of months.
There will be a strong urge to go back to the meds. But it you can stay off for a week, then u get more confident .
Great video. I suspected this was the case with SNRI. Thanks for the good info
Thanks for the feedback
US healthcare needs your help.
This was an excellent explanation. Thank you for making this vid!
You’re welcome!
Great vid, very helpful and interesting!
Fantastic video, thanks guys
I wonder what effects would the combination between SNRI and antipsychotics like Seroquel has. It definitely helped me deal with childhood trauma
Great info. I’ve been on cymbalta for 6 months and doubled dose, from 15mg, 3 separate times. Started researching because of the sensitivity issue. I’m getting critical of things a little. But I have also been taking 500mg panax ginseng extract for the past week. I have issues with fatigue from illness and thats why I was put on cymbalta. I thought the ginseng wouldn’t hurt but the sensitivity and hyper activity started in the past few days so Im interested in seeing if it is the ginseng (probably is). If not, the luvox or an ssri is something to run by my psych. Thanks for your work.
Anxiety happens when you think you have to figure out everything all at once . Breathe . You're strong . You got this . Take it day by day .
I have researched and found out that shrooms are very helpful , it has really helps to reduce anxiety and depression . I would love to try magic mushrooms but I can't easily get some , Is there any realiable source I can purchase one
I am feeling the same way too, I put too much on my plate and it definitely affects my stress and anxiety levels. I am also glad to be part of this community.
@@tomrandell2979 Does he ship?
@@tomrandell2979 This whole thing is pretty new to me, can I try 3 grams?
@@vincentgiovanni1963 Reach out to him, he will give you the best satisfactory responses...
I’ve been on Effexor for about 10 years- 300mg/day. My anxiety is totally out of control! Can’t imagine coming off this stuff though, the withdrawals I have if I forget to take them, or even take them a bit late! Will talk to my GP about coming off them!
It's seems kind of high. Hope it goes well. After all sometimes we have to risk it. You got this
@@tutorialesguitarradelcielo9581 aww thank you. I did a bit of research myself and decided to try and wean off them.
The capsules I have (2 x 150mg) have 12 x 12.5 mg mini tablets in them - so over the last 2 weeks, I’ve taken a few beads out, now I’m up to 5 beads out of one capsule today, which is a total decrease of 62.5mg! Will stay there for a week, then drop another 12.5mg. No side effects really as yet 🤞🏻🙏🏻
I've been on venlafaxine for years,I have weaned myself off over a year yes going back on is a nightmare manic for 6days my Dr wants me to just up the dose I'm getting a second opinion, this is so helpful thank you 🙏
Gawd ive been on Cymbalta for years and spend a lot of days just miserable. Also can be possible rsd reactive. Love to go back to SSRI but the Cymbalta gives huge withdrawal effects. Swimmy, sad, zappy, feels like my head catches up after my vision. Do I have to go turkey before possibly swapping?
A slow crossover can work. You’ll need to discuss with your doc how that might be done. Generally the dose of the snri is lowered a touch and after a week or so a tiny bit of ssri is commenced. Then the snri is lowered again etc. it’s not always smooth sailing and it’s a good idea to get your reflexes checked before and as this process takes place. Increasing reflexes, nightly sleep starts or day time jerks are signs of serotonin excess.
Psychiatric prescriber in the US here. Loved the explanation and would really appreciate an expanse on noradrenaline effect on pain. Is there more to it than just more energy leading to increased motivation and less fixation on pain?
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17030082/
Well glad I watched this before I picked up my new Rx for Effexor to treat my anxiety! Wonder why it would even be prescribed for anxiety then if it will make it worse? I am guessing that will only happen if the does it too high though?
My dad started taking it. Made his depression and anxiety worse. Won’t eat. Trip to the hospital. Just sitting and staring into the distance. Will hardly talk. Won’t smile. Obsessive over small weird things like a closet door track being broke and him saying that he’s absolutely screwed and doesn’t know that there’s anything that can be done. Thought people were following him. Thought his legs were too small all of a sudden. And more. Super zombie. Totally gone mentally. Worst drug ever. Getting him off this ASAP with the help of a Naturopathic psychiatrist. If family wasn’t there for him he would wouldn’t even have the mental capacity to understand something is wrong and would be stuck the rest of his life. Super scary shit.
@@tidyguys223 Sorry to hear that. I had that when I was on Prozac. I actually finally gave in a few weeks ago and started taking my Effexor, was tired of trying to deal with my depression/anxiety holistically for the past year, tried everything Kava, Kratom, THC, intense EMDR therapy for past 14 months, got sober after 25yrs of being a drug addict, all helped short term, but nothing worked so I said fuck it, if it doesn't work then can't say I didn't try. The first week sucked, sent me in panic and felt like I was tripping, called my Psychiatrist and asked what do I do, of course he said keep taking it so I did, but I also refilled my valium which I was on for 7 yrs and that fucked my brain up, but I only took if that first week, then started to feel better and today I feel great! I'm glad I decided to try it, but also glad I tried everything else first to before jumping right on it. I know this is short term also, and once they start upping the dose when it stops working I will not keep taking it. I know how these work, the first six months are great, then comes the zombie mode and that's when I'm out! Hope your dad can find the right meds, I tried a handful and they really messed me up so everyone is different for sure! Good luck! I''m sure I will check in about 6months from now and say fuck this shit don't take LOL, but it's working today!
@@planetnone24 nice to know
Worsened anxiety is a known side effect at first, when your brain is getting used to the spike in serotonin and norepinephrine. The desired effects of reducing anxiety and depression appear after a few weeks. It gets a bit worse before it gets better, and it doesn't work well in everyone.
@@schok51 Yeh that's what happened. I finally went on it for my depression and hopefully anxiety too. The first week I had to go back on a benzo, but now after month and half feeling really good at 75MG and off the benzo. We'll see how long it works for but so far so good. Thanks for the info!! Good to know
Cymbalta leveled me out, preventing high anxiety, but it was not good for lifting my mood. Also, I had some irritability. BTW, the best mood lifters I've ever used were imipramine and amitriptyline. Presently, after many years on imipramine I'm switching to Paxil. Hopefully my obsessive thinking will diminish but not my good mood. Also, I'm hoping my tinnitus will diminish, and I know imipramine was a contributor to my tinnitus.
I had the worst experience of my life when a psychiatrist advised me to quit Lexapro cold turkey after an ineffective transition from SSRI to SNRI. I would never consider either of these meds ever again.
See this is what I’m talking about even some psychiatrist don’t know what they are doing or just don’t care, you really have to look hard for good help. Really investigate who your dealing with not all psychiatrists are good at what they do. Or they misdiagnose you. I’ve been there with different psychiatrist went through all of them where I live and got a different diagnoses with all of them they didn’t take the time to listen to my situation. All started with my doctor saying I was depressed and gave me a antidepressant that I really didn’t need it was distress. And very hard to get off of. No one would listen they all were dismissive, when your dealing with one thing after another they don’t take the time to sit and listen and go from there to quick to hand you a perscription and you trust them.
Dang man your brain. I know someone who was in Benzos and then got real sick and stopped cold turkey. They were all messed up in the brain and we're hearing things. Took them a week to seem normal but they still were not quite there. Crazy stuff.
Hi there this video had been great I was on lexapro ssri 30mg little anxiety came back so touched base with pyciatrist he suggested we try Effexor been on 150mg for 5 weeks I’m ten times worse with physical anxiety symptoms worry scared complete pain
Chart is too small 😔 i appreciate your explanation. Dr too often assume pt are not interested or not capable of understanding these things🙄
Excellent video. I'm currently tapering off Effexor XR (from 150 to 112.5 at present).
150 is too much for me, I get sort of a buzzing sensation that's annoying and agitating.
Seeing my Doc in a couple weeks, and will discuss maybe switching to just an SSRI.
Good luck. Would love to hear about how things progress.
I'm also considering tapering off Effexor at (currently at 175). I feel like I've gotten good at coping with stressors + my life/environment is just... less stressful now (finished school & work is less exploitative). Last time I tried tapering off, I got into some beef with my manager and had to move sites (LOL). Part of me thinks I wasn't managing my emotions well because of the tapering off symptoms but... my job then was too demanding for a CPTSD person. This time I'm going to taper off much slower and plan ahead to make it as comfortable as possible. I just bought an elliptical to help start my days with something stabilizing
@@Julian-st4cz I started weaning my Effexor 150mg a month ago. I’m now at 120mg. Very motivated. Good luck!
I am at 225 lol
I really enjoy y’all. Do you make any videos on how to taper off of venlafaxine
Compounding pharmacy
Effexor first helped me greatly. The problem I have with all psychiatric drugs is that no Psychiatrist ever tells the patient anything what to expect. Effexor began making me so sick, severe nausea, almost passing out if you didn't take it exactly on time everyday. Worst drug I was ever on.
I used a lot of different antidepressants. Effexor was ( by a country mile ) the hardest to taper off. Withdrawal was brutal for me personally. I swear I haven’t felt the same ever since, even though I stopped a year ago.
Some people have a hellish time coming of it
@@thePSYCHcollective Venlafaxine increased my blood pressure, I never had any problems with that, I feel pain on the side of my head just above the eye, a little dizziness, chills, hot body, extremely strange and abnormal dreams, tremors, the cardiologist confirmed to me that it is because of the medicine, which is strong, can even speed up the heart. I informed the psychiatrist and I'm going to suspend it, he asked me to reduce it from 150mg to 75mg for 1 month, and then suspend it
So true.
Have some more,
Add this,
Stop this take this.
Quite maddening when you already feel down .
I take 300mg a day for 4,years now and in my first 6 weeks of taking them I almost gave up !! Thank god I didn’t . This drug saved my life and changed me from a person constantly in the throes of depression almost daily to someone who maybe as a minor episode every month or 2 . The first 6 weeks where truly awful and gettin through that takes guts and true grit to get thought but my personal experience makes me say keep going as I literally woke up one day and it was like a light switch went off !!! I was suddenly normal and it got better from there !!!
To add I started on 75mg and went up to my current dose over my first year . Now my dose feels perfect and has been that way for 2 years . I’ve never felt like I’ve had to go up
Just another thing is that last night I helped he-man fight the nazi regime along with the British and Americans !! I was only a professional football player for Real Madrid and then I was he mans right hand man in the fight against racism and fascists
@@gump5ter01 I just started this. Did you get any weight gain?
@@gump5ter01were you on 75mg those first hellish 6 weeks? How long were you on 75? Then... how long were you on 150? Why did you increase the dose? Thank you
@invan99999 so I was on 75 for like a month. But went up fairly fast. The first 6 weeks kind of felt like when u have a really bed period of depression. Like when ur really low and lethargic and panicked. But oh my God when it cleared it was like I was blind but now I see. Best thing I ever did honestly
@invan99999 like the world was just better. My life was. Changed. Don't be scared to ask for higher dosage as they are proven to work on nanodrenalon above 150mg and that was good tipping point for me. Now I take 150mg 2 times a day and my mental health is cured almost. Since my last post i haven't had a manic or depressive episode even once. Mentally i still get sad or anxious or frustrated but on a normal human level. Something can get me down if something bad happens but I doesn't set me back months or weeks. It doesn't take over my whole life and send me spiralling like it used to for weeks on end. I can manage my emotions and compartmentalise problems. I can have a bad day now without my depression sending me into a meltdow.
Anti-psychotics turned me into a zombie. I think I could still benefit from them as I have very severe Bipolar I, but I'm scared of the side-effects. I take a mood stabilizer and an SNRI now. I still experience hypo-mania and can obsess over things big time, but it's manageable. I'll never take an atypical anti-psychotic again. They terrify me.
very good review guys well done
SNRI duloxetine/cymbalta is giving me more energy but doesn't let me sleep properly and has made me more anxious, and hasn't helped my depression, pain, or ADHD.
My goodness, I've been on 5 different ones since 2017 and I'm so done with them all. Nothing but a zombie and maybe that's what my doctor wants? Day 2 without taking effexor and I'd rather deal with withdrawing
Hi Dr Al and Dr Jess, great video, very informative, engaging and enlightening! I'm quite a sensitive person and for me anxiety has been as much of an issue as depression. I've tried a number of SSRIs like Sertraline, Lexapro and Prozac and haven't had much benefit. Interestingly I've had the most benefit from SNRIs like Pristiq which I've been on for years, also tried Effexor which was okay and Cymbalta which was no good for me. I'm at a bit of a cross roads as I feel the Pristiq is not as effective as it used to be and my psychiatrist suggested I try Valdoxan which increases melatonin, norepinephrine and dopamine and after watching this video I think that may only add to my anxiety and nervousness.
Dr Al can you tell me what SSRIs are similar to Luvox that only increase serotonin??
All the SSRIs affect SERT and NET (those are the serotonin and noradrenaline reuotake inhibitors respectively). All the SSRIs have a much greater effect on SERT than NET but they all affect NET to a small degree. SNRIs have a substancial effect on NET but this effect is not large at low doses.
The impact of SERT inhibition is more serotonin effect which translates to less sensitivity (less anxiety/neuroticism) so things don’t seem so difficult. Until you get used to it, then the effect reduces with time, the doses go up or the meds get swapped.
@@thePSYCHcollective If my problem is huge sensitivity to everything, social fobia, agoraphobia, general anxiety ans negative thoughts. I have little energy because i am also in chronic pain. But in mind i always want to do stuff, my body like keeps me from doing it because of the fear something bad will happen if i go out of the house, i also have Ibs because of stress. Are SSRI good for such things? I now take Lexapro and mexazolam. I am seeing only a little effect on 3 week. And my libido is low.
Lexapro should help.
But the most important thing you can do is to courageously start to approach the things you avoid. Start small an repeat and repeat and repeat. Many times a day. Embody courage. Focus on being courageous for whatever short duration you can muster. Practice being courageous. Courage is the solution to anxiety/avoidance. So practice that.
Excellent video and information for my exams on Venlafaxine "Medical Valley" 75 mg. Thank you both very much.
Hello, Thank you for the informative video. Is it correct to conclude that SNRI (Venlafaxine) causes higher sensitivity and reactivity than any other Antidepressant? if yes, does the dose matter such as 37.5g?
It’s generally thought that at 37.5mg there’s not a great deal of noradrenergic effect. The SNRIs do tend to reduce sensitivity (owing to the serotonergic effect) but when a stress/overwhelm threshold is eventually crossed: the noradrenergic effect may exacerbate distress.
Im on the left end and its so helpful to see it on the scale, I don’t wanna lose my intense emotions and temper but I feel a lot anxiety and sadness as well, Im now on 50mg sertraline
This might interest you:
Reducing Sensitivity improves Resilience to Distress; here's how to improve sensitivity/resilience. ruclips.net/video/cqBAZwy5EwA/видео.html
@@thePSYCHcollective thx!!
I took tramadol and it is also an srni but i dont know how much is equal to venlafaxine 75 mg for example thank you so much sir for answering
Pristiq helps to treat depression but made anxiety much more severe and made me more sensitive to sensory issues (noises, lights and smells).
SAME, i was on pristiq for like 2 years and was totally fine, them i stopped taking them, now a few months later i tried again and im like very sensitive to things like sounds or smells
Thank you for your video. Very informative. I had a question if I may. I went on Effexor very low dose for about 3 months. I took 37.5 mg ER. The side effects I experienced were EXTREME fatigue, which is confusing because i still also experienced increased bp and restlessness. I was also always ready to sleep. Why do you think that would occur possibly?
@Amy Shiyab
Short answer is: I don’t know.
But you’ve asked me to speculate so here goes: I’ve seen a few people who had severe symptoms (including chronic high arousal with chronic sleep deprivation) and when they start treatment and if it reduces their arousal they have what looks like a rebound fatigue which looks like they are paying back all the arousal. I don’t know if that is really plausible, but that’s what it sometimes looks like.
@@thePSYCHcollective i can't say that doesn't make sense because I know that because every single person responds differently, anything is possible. I also may have underlying things contributing to the fatigue independent of the medication. I have anemia which I know contributes to fatigue and weakness , but the difference between that every day tiredness and post starting meds was drastic. It was as if weights were close my eyelids shut and my entire body was just ready to shut off . Driving was tiring, talking was tiring .... my days consisted of school and sleep. I did stop taking it cold turkey ( I know I shouldn't have) and the side effects have been a little concerning . But back to symptoms while being on it, in general, what does it mean when 99.9 percent don't experience a symptom you do? What could that mean with regards to how I may respond to another medication within that class of meds? I apologize for the questions, but I have not gotten anywhere with any provider I have seen.
@Amy Shiyab
It’s really hard to figure these things out in clinical settings and impossible in this setting. The simple version is:
There are many root causes to the different symptoms. Medications don’t really address root causes (generally).
People have variability in how they respond to different treatments. Often one class of meds will produce similar results. But not always. Treatment with meds is mostly about trying to address symptoms, approaching that with a logical sequence, in other words it’s informed trial and error.
Tackling symptoms is helpful, but tackling root causes where they can be established is probably even better than just tackling symptoms.
What are the causes of depression: root causes of “depression”
ruclips.net/video/q4duMQMPG9Y/видео.html
I have sleeping problems already. I read the Effexor can make sleeping problems even worse.
Do you have a Central Sensitization syndrome? Fibromyalgia? This could cause increased sensitivities to medications.
I just would like to know, why pure SNRI's like Strattera actually make you drowsy?
Its because this video is showing a simpler perspective of how the antidepressants work for various disorders. They don't cover ADHD medications and their effects on the cortex.
@@roybelovoskey well, bupropion and reboxetine for example are also known for drowsiness. It doesn't happen always but it does happen often.
Anyways this is really good video that cleared some things out.
Could be adrenal fatigue- also different people get different reactions to these meds the only way of seeing what helps for somebody can be to suck it and see
I find this video superhelpful to understand my mental issues better. Ive been on SSRIS but I dont tolerate the initial side effets. SNRIs was super easy to start because they are more chemically balanced. Ive been on pristiq but did nothing for anxiety (probably because as is explained here is not very serotonergic?) My two options now are venlafaxine or duloxetine. I have a mixed statte of anxietu and depression. I really dont know which to pick up. My GP seems lost with me as well. Is cymbalta more serotonergic than venlafaxine? I think serotonin is what really treats my disorder. But for any reason I cannot go through the initial increase of serotonin of ssris. Make my anxiety 10 times worse. Sorry for long text. Congrats for the great job on the video and thanks so much.
Roberto
ruclips.net/video/q_vsBZbnuGM/видео.html
Maybe this video could be helpful for you :)
@@stevio8865 Thanks a lot. Thats super interesting :)
If anxiety is the issue, then I’d generally advocate avoiding anything noradrenergic as that’s likely to worsen anxiety. The meds you mention are all noradrenergic SNRIs. The video suggests a simple ssri like Luvox for anxiety. Very serotonergic and minimally noradrenergic.
This is a great video. I am on Mirtazapine 15mg, and Duloxetine 30mg.
Delighted you found it!
First of all I'm 71, work out, walk everywhere, good blood pressure etc. My ENT prescribed Venlafaxine 37.5 mg for my Vestibular Migraine that came out of nowhere. He said take it for 2 weeks. I took one at 10am and by Noon my Vertigo was 80% gone. I thought cool.. 2am the next morning I woke up with a blinding headache, and I don't get headaches. But I did read on Web MD you might want to watch your Blood Pressure if you take this. So I decided to take my Blood pressure. 196/121. Yeah off to the Emergency room I went.
I realize different medications can work differently in different people.. Just a Heads up.
Thanks for sharing your story.
Based on the timing of the events of your story, my guess is that the headache was some sort of rebound effect to the drug wearing off and the high BP was a result of the severe headache pain. Does that seem about right to you?
@@thePSYCHcollective Not sure I've been misdiagnosed 3 times. First it was a Vestibular Neuritis, then it was a crystal floating around in my right ear, now it's Vestibular Migraine. Ive been to two ENT's next up a neurologist. I have had this now for just over a year. If I thought this was permanent I would have already put a bullet in my head.
I started Effexor 37.5 last Wednesday and I couldn’t sleep thanks to the anxiety, vomiting, and diarrhea. I felt like I wanted to run as fast as I could and scream. Such a terrible night 😢 Needless to say I stopped taking it. I’m so scared of medications.
Dont take it, the withdrawals are absolutely horrible. Cymbalta is another hell of a drug, wish never took it
@@woody6791 Hi, I started feeling better like two days later. I’m now taking Trintellix. It hasn’t been perfect because this one has many side effects too, but I’ve been able to deal with them. The anxiety is still bad, I’m going to stick to this medication for a few more weeks to see if it starts working.
Reporting here! I have been effexor 75mg all my life (can't go less or more of that dose otherwise I get depressed/disctrated), this med gave me a lot of intellectual, focus, creativity, consciousness, lessen depressed good for my uni/work. The problem is that it FLAT my emotions, makes me angry, anxiety irritable person, with a little of ocd, obssesive, so is hard for me to stablish relationships even with all the therapy, this pills makes my body agitated so is my voice, plus i sweat like a pork lol. I found this video, so decided to try it with my psiquiatrist. Even if i try to take 2 beads of the capsule, my concentration/alertness goes to hell, I added the Luvox 50mg and started to feel a bit better like my emotions kinda, but for this context, I ask you base on your experience, because not all the doctors has the ability, they just do whats in the "book". that means that if i cannot reduce my effexor due to loss of concentration? or will luvox will increase that as passes the time (im just 4 days on this). Thank you.
Why does not Australia allow Wellbutrin to be prescribed for depression? What about dopamin? Totally neglected by the Australian anti-depressants - this is how it appears to me but I would gladly be proved wrong.
i take escitalopram 5mg to counteract the emotional side effects of venlafaxine 75mg. now i can feel pleasure while being energetic and motivational.
SNRI are better for me than SSRI! Too many side affects with SSRI insomnia, restlessness, sexual disfunction, both can quite dull your mood sometimes but I'm on venlafaxine X2 75mg a day, wow dreams are insanely good!
Does it help with social anxiety? If you even had that. Thank you
@@josmith5419 it helps but benzodiazipines were the best for social anxiety
@@Pazuzu82 damn. Have you tried buspar?
@@josmith5419 no
@@josmith5419 37.5mg helped me tremendously with anxiety. Works different for everyone. But remember it took 4 weeks to work.
Hello Again Doctor, I’ve started fluvox and have tapered down Effexor to 75 and already feel a reduction in my restlessness thank you so much for this information. You literally saved me. I wanted to ask if the Luvox tiredness diminishes with time, and also when I increased Luvox I started having jaw tightness is this normal, or something that should subside or I should be concerned about? Thanks so much, you are a lifesaver ❤
(Not medical advise)
Jaw tightness, by which I think you are referring to bruxism can be the result of the change (either the reduction or the addition). It could also be the result of increased stress. If I was trying to figure it out I’d do so empirically, eg If a single top up dose of Effexor resolves the issue, that implies that the Effexor reduction is at fault. If a one night doubling of the Luvox worsens it, that implies the Luvox is the issue. In any case people with bruxism should talk to a dentist as one may have been night grinding and may need a splint. Also TRE (look up on RUclips) can give relief from bruxism for several hours.
Which one is best for panic and anxiety disorders ? Can’t take anything that’s shoots the adrenaline up
I really liked the video. But I have question. If a patient is suffering from insomnia and erosive gastritis, which medicine will be suitable for him/her?
What about the weight gain. You put on take this medication.
We discuss that here:
Weight gain and antidepressants: Emotional eating, indifference and effects on appetite.
ruclips.net/video/HhGlYf7hOdU/видео.html
Can you go over wellbutrin perhaps? It helped me at first but now I'm struggling with mental health again.
Yes! I started Effexor in 2015 at 75 mg and eventually upped to 187.5 mg. I gained so much weight, and saw a new psychiatrist who said she never would have put me on Effexor. She reduced it to 150 mg and added 300 mg Wellbutrin so I'd have more energy, and to curb my appetite. I'm on day 3 of 0 Effexor but still on Wellbutrin. Side effects are awful, but I'm so worried about my anxiety. I wish I knew more about Wellbutrin.
I’ve been on Effexor for 15 years for severe anxiety and obsessive thoughts which are triggered by a certain thing. The last three years I’ve felt things going in the wrong direction. Is it possible the Effexor just isn’t working anymore? I have an appointment with a psychiatrist tomorrow and I’m desperate to feel better. Some days I can’t even open my eyes and get out of bed. Any advice will help. Thank you 🙏🏻
Definitely something to talk to your doctor about. It can be that one gets adapted to the effects of a medication. Or it can be that the root causes which led to one taking medication have worsened/accumulated.
@@thePSYCHcollective thought I’d give you an update…I’m completely off Effexor now and on 40mg daily of Prozac. Feel a million times better with zero side affects. 🙂
That’s great news. We see that kind of outcome often when people come off Effexor. Great to hear you’re doing so well. A
Same thing I’ve been on Zoloft for 5 years and for anxiety and it helped me but from the last few months it’s up and down sometimes I feel good sometimes bad 😣😣
@@mikes8815 Wow I'm really happy for you. !!!
Cymbalta was the worst thing I ever took. Total anxiety insomniac nightmare with brain zaps that still happen years after stopping it. I think it actually gave me permanent brain damage.
For the last few months I have been dealing with anxiety and panic attacks, one thing or symptom that is consistent is depersonalization. I have been in this state of feeling for months .it is very frustrating, uncomfortable, and draining. I don’t feel like I am “in or connected “ to my body. I notice to that it correlates with my bloating problem especially. My doc prescribed me Venlafaxine XR, but have been afraid to try it because of the side effects that I have read about from other users. Do you suggest this medication for the particular problem ghat I am having? Thank you.
Hi Yessenia, we can’t provide specific clinical recommendations. Depersonalisation will often be either from anxiety states or trauma memories. Our clip discusses how Noradrenergic activation can potentially intensify anxiety states of any cause. But everyone is different in the causes of their problems and in their responses to treatments. This clip might be relevant helping people to reduce anxiety: m.ruclips.net/video/0PBIKKZIwGI/видео.html
Don’t be scared listen to your doctor alway
I was at the same situation feel much better
Hi I’m in the boat as you today I have terrible depersonalization I miss my loved ones I’m in nursing school and I just want to feel better like a normal person I was prescribed Effexor as well took my first dose today I am scared how did it work for you I know this post was 5 months old
@@arielabeyta9500 don’t be scared you have to wait at least 14 days to your body absorbs it and if it doesn’t you have to change it listen what your doctor says best of luck 🤞 don’t worry it will be pass and it is not permanent
Interestingly, SSRIs like escitalopram and fluoxetine also relieve depression in mice lacking the serotonin transporter. In fact, they are just as effective in mice without serotonin transporters. Although hard to believe, serotonin reuptake inhibition may have nothing to do with the antidepressant effect of SSRIs. All SSRIs bind to TRK-B (as does ketamine). Fast acting antidepressants like ketamine and psilocybin, activate this receptor quickly. Slower acting antidepressants take a few weeks to produce conformal changes in the receptor to make it more responsive to BDNF.
Now wondering if the Effexor and seroquel in combination has contributed to worsening my ADHD symptoms??? I’ve been on 300mg for years!
Could the zombie effect be high dopamine as kids on too much stimulant with ADHD get that effect too? Don't antidepressants all raise dopamine in round about way? ssri more gradually than snri. And the poop out effect of snri might really be excess dopamine too which eventually will cause tolerance to set in and require dose increase or a drug holiday to reset.
My psychiatrist just prescribed Pristiq and benzodiazepines. I am scared to take it since the last anti depressant I took (Paxil) the bad side effects, intense withdrawal symptoms, and sometimes having crazy behavior that begun to surface at the end of my 3 years on Paxil. How safe is Pristiq?