Bipolar Disorder Forum - Help! Effexor Xr Once a Day Isn't Enough. Twice Seems Better

Mental Health > Bipolar Disorder Forum > Help! Effexor Xr Once a Day Isn't Enough. Twice Seems Better

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Q: Help! Effexor Xr Once a Day Isn't Enough. Twice Seems Better

asked by: CA 2 NJ on May 2nd, 2007

New User

Hello all. I just changed the way I'm taking My Effexor XR. I am now taking it all in the morning rather than 37.5 in the am & pm.

I've noticed since I started dosing this way that I wake up feeling really weird. Even before it's time for my next dose.

I believe the XR formulation has a half-life of like 10 hours or something. So if that's the case, does that mean I might be experiencing a bit of withdrawals?

I like the energy taking it all at once gives me as I have actually gotten more accomplished these past few days than I have in months. But I don't like waking up to this either!

I'm thinking maybe I should go back to 37.5 2x a day for 2 weeks and then taking 75mg in the morning and 37.5 in the evening. So that way I have a steady 75mg in my system. Does that sound right or make sense?

I could really use some help here as I feel yucky and just want to go back to bed. Or go vomit. I feel out of it and it's a weird feeling which I don't at all like.

Sounds to me like I'm experiencing a case of withdrawal between doses. That doesn't surprise me as I'm always one who has to take XR versions of meds at least 2x a day.

So what do you suggest? And what do you think is happening? I really need some input as I feel cruddy and just yesterday I felt so good! Sad

Thanks everyone. Take care and have a great day!

Hugs,
CA 2 NJ

Replies(2)

hawkeye69

replied on May 2nd, 2007

New User

You should probably call your doc right away. I have taken Effexor XR for about 5 years now, and have never experienced withdrawl. I take 375 mg. a day though.
I hope you feel better soon!

metalchemyst

replied on May 4th, 2007

New User

Effexor Xr (venlafaxine)

The 'XR' version of Venlafaxine was developed just exactly for the reason of preventing the 'dips' in medication you describe.

I would say you should be taking ALL of you dose in the morning as soon as you wake up. I have been taking 150mg this way and it seems to help me, which is why I changed to XR capules instead of the ordinary ones.

Maybe you should see your consultant to check your dose is (high enough?)
right for you.

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