Switching from Wellbutrin to Effexor

[Brandi31]

I am currently on Wellbutrin SR 300 mg.  My doc is thinking of switching me to Effexor 75 mg.  I am really afraid of switching because of the extreme lows I experience when not on meds.  Also, does it take a while to get the Effexor in your system?  Are there any major side effects with the Effexor?

[Venora Moonwind]

Why does he want to switch you if you are doing ok on the wellbutrin? talk it over with him and see why he wants you to change.
Love Venora

[Troy3977]

Hey Brandi.  I would definitely take Venora's advice and ask your Dr. why he wants you to switch medications, and why effexor?  I switched from Lexapro to Effexor XR 14 months ago.  I've been on a 225mg dose since then.  I am currently trying to taper off of the drug, as xanax and cognitive behavioral therapy has helped me tremendously.  I would definitely read up about Effexor withdrawals and general side effects of the drug that are on this forum.  No doubt, the drug works.  But I haven't read one positive thing about coming off of it.  Good luck - you're in my prayers.

[Pudman56]

I'm on both.  300mg Effexor ER and 300 mg Welbutrin, once daily.  Prozac, Paxil and Zoloft did absolutely nothing for me.  I could use more of a lift, but mine is also a genetic thing and I know it's always going to be a control situation.  I've accepted the fact my sadness is just going to be a part of my life.  But, as long as Effexor ER is a part of my life, I never see those subway headlights coming and think "Just do it."  It just hit me, I started out a Thorazine and an Elavil user.  Thank god for SSRI's. I take Lamictal (Lamotrigine, a mood stabilizer) 250mg daily.  100 in the morning, 150 at night.

An aside:  Damn, did I make a good pizza.  Fresh basil, tomatoes and fresh mushrooms.  That's just one thing I can say for Effexor.  Without, you're lucky to get me to microwave a frozen mac 'n' cheese.

Wishing you the best.

Just a word of advice, and we're all different.  A bad day will always find a way to slither in like a snake.  If it happens with you, have you (I take my depression meds in the morning) nearby.  I'm the type who when it hits, I will sleep around the clock.  I also take 6 other pills throughout the day and a 7th added at bedtime.  As I was saying, have them near so even if you have to take them on an empty stomach, TAKE THEM.  Most importantly, the Effexor.  A day without, in my experience, will make life a sleeping hell until you're back on the regimen for 2 days.  Ain't worth it, trust me.