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mts · 08-28-2006, 05:32 AM

Lisa,

I have been on Effexor since the 3rd week of chemo (1/05)... it is given to breast cancer patients for the relief of hot flashes. It's normally used for depression/anxiety. I accidentaly went off the Effexor once when I failed to pick-up my prescription at the drug store. Big mistake. I had horrid dizziness and could barely drive. After I went to the onc thinking I had some brain tumor, the onc nurse asked me about my Effexor and figured out it was the culprit. Once I got back on it, I was fine. I know now never to quit it cold turkey. I take 32.5 mg (the usual dose is 75mg) and sometimes higher. Getting the hot flashes to go away was huge for me. I don't have that "exasperated" feeling anymore, I don't know if it has affected me psychologically or just the fact that no flashes makes me not think about my cancer... either way, I am happy with the result. I sleep at night!
I envy your relationship with your sister- I have one that lives 3 blocks away and has only called me once since my diagnosis 2 yrs ago. Fortunately, I have an awesome husband and support from his side of the family and good friends...
I hope things work out for your sister. Chemo does a number on your body and brain. Hopefully her mood will improve once she realizes that everything possible is being done for her. My best wishes to both of you.

Maria (MTS)

08-28-2006, 05:32 AM	#12
mts Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Central Florida Posts: 503	Lisa, I have been on Effexor since the 3rd week of chemo (1/05)... it is given to breast cancer patients for the relief of hot flashes. It's normally used for depression/anxiety. I accidentaly went off the Effexor once when I failed to pick-up my prescription at the drug store. Big mistake. I had horrid dizziness and could barely drive. After I went to the onc thinking I had some brain tumor, the onc nurse asked me about my Effexor and figured out it was the culprit. Once I got back on it, I was fine. I know now never to quit it cold turkey. I take 32.5 mg (the usual dose is 75mg) and sometimes higher. Getting the hot flashes to go away was huge for me. I don't have that "exasperated" feeling anymore, I don't know if it has affected me psychologically or just the fact that no flashes makes me not think about my cancer... either way, I am happy with the result. I sleep at night! I envy your relationship with your sister- I have one that lives 3 blocks away and has only called me once since my diagnosis 2 yrs ago. Fortunately, I have an awesome husband and support from his side of the family and good friends... I hope things work out for your sister. Chemo does a number on your body and brain. Hopefully her mood will improve once she realizes that everything possible is being done for her. My best wishes to both of you. Maria (MTS)