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Mary Jo · 07-24-2012, 06:37 PM

It's been awhile since I needed to ask for some help or opinions but that is what I am seeking.

Since chemo started in 2005 I have been having HORRIBLE hot flashes. In the 7 years I have had barely a break in them and the severity this past year is as bad as when I was on chemo. Not fun. I keep telling myself it's better than having cancer again or going through chemo. And, it is. However, I get so many during a day AND night that it is physically and mentally draining. I've even started noticing more depression/anxiety that I'm sure is related to sleep deprivation and hormone imbalance.

My GYN recommeded a low dose Effexor 37.5 mg. (I am on the generic though). I took my first one today. I take NO prescription meds and it bothers me to take this one but what bothers me isn't taking it (cause I hope it helps) but it's what I've read about getting off of it that scares me. Seeing as I only took 1, it isn't too soon to stop cold turkey. I don't want to stop cause I want to feel better BUT I don't want to go through hell when I stop them. OHHHHHHH, I'm so confused. HELP!

Any advice from you guys would be appreciated.

Mary Jo

07-24-2012, 06:37 PM	#1
Mary Jo Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Sheboygan, WI Posts: 2,582	Effexor Question It's been awhile since I needed to ask for some help or opinions but that is what I am seeking. Since chemo started in 2005 I have been having HORRIBLE hot flashes. In the 7 years I have had barely a break in them and the severity this past year is as bad as when I was on chemo. Not fun. I keep telling myself it's better than having cancer again or going through chemo. And, it is. However, I get so many during a day AND night that it is physically and mentally draining. I've even started noticing more depression/anxiety that I'm sure is related to sleep deprivation and hormone imbalance. My GYN recommeded a low dose Effexor 37.5 mg. (I am on the generic though). I took my first one today. I take NO prescription meds and it bothers me to take this one but what bothers me isn't taking it (cause I hope it helps) but it's what I've read about getting off of it that scares me. Seeing as I only took 1, it isn't too soon to stop cold turkey. I don't want to stop cause I want to feel better BUT I don't want to go through hell when I stop them. OHHHHHHH, I'm so confused. HELP! Any advice from you guys would be appreciated. Mary Jo __________________ "Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10 Dx. 6/24/05 age 45 Right Breast IDC ER/PR. Neg., - Her2+++ RB Mast. - 7/28/05 - 4 cm. tumor Margins clear - 1 microscopic cell 1 sent. node No Vasucular Invasion 4 DD A/C - 4 DD Taxol & Herceptin 1 full year of Herceptin received every 3 weeks 28 rads prophylactic Mast. 3/2/06 17 Years NED <>< Romans 8:28