Major dizziness, passing out, headaches (as in my ENTIRE head) from jaw clenching, unbelievable nausea, NO appetite (the only good side effect), HORRIBLE insomnia...probably more I don't remember. It was HORRIBLE. Oh, night sweats, BAD.

I've been on effexor xr, for 2 yrs. No major side effects. The best part of the effexor is my libido has increased immensly. (Not bad for a 50 yr!)

Well that has definately helped me to appreciate the side effects I have. I actually wish I had some of yours, LOL. Thanks for sharing.

It increased the tension in my neck and shoulders along w/ my shoulder blades, Major dizziness, Scary Suicidal thoughts that were very strong, awful headaches, worse nightmares, unbelievable nausea, awful night sweats and , HORRIBLE insomnia...probably more I don't remember. It was an experience I will not soon forget and the withdrawals made me feel as if I were going to literally die.

What made you decide to start taking it again? Sometimes the side effects are just not worth it. Are you in talk therapy? Do you exercise? Are you doing anything other than the meds to help with the depression?

I have been on it for a day now. I hope it doesn't cause headaches, I suffer from daily headaches as it is. I am very sensitive to meds, so that's another issue that I have. Wish me luck.

I have a psychiatrist that I go to 2x per month for depression, I do daily breathing techniques, and I listen to affirmation cd's. I was getting very frustrated with the constant symptoms of the depression so I went back on the Effexor XR. It's been 3 weeks now and the side effects are lessening. If I had some of the other side effects listed here I would definately stop taking it, wow I had no idea of the side effects that have been explained here. My doctor told me some of the normal side effects but so far anyway I have only had the severe tension which is lessening and insomnia. This is getting a little better. Thanks so much for all of your responses, they have been very informative and helpful.