Changing from citalopram to venaflaxine in 2 days

Hi Dawn,

When I first went on Venlafaxine it was like a wonder drug but over time it became a nightmare for me as I suffered seriously with withdrawal symptoms if I missed even one dose. Over time it just stopped working - I was on 225mg and didn't want to go any higher. That's not to say you will have issues with it, when it was working properly for me it was very beneficial. Although now I wish I'd never taken it at all as I believe I'm still struggling with withdraw 3 months later.

I'm surprised that your doctor and CPN are suggesting venlafaxine when you are on the lowest dose of citalopram. I was on 90mg citalopram before I switched to Venlafaxin. Also - I'm surprised you are being prescribed diazepam - lorazepam is almost always favoured over diazepam as it has far fewer side effects and tends not to make patients so sleepy.

I'd seriously suggest asking to up the citalopram dose first and ask about lorazepam. Sorry - I know this isn't the reassurance you wanted. If you go with venlafaxine - go slow. I was on Citalopram and venlafaxine at the same time, while also using mirtazapine and lorazepam to help with severe anxiety and it was still hell.

Make sure you've got loads of support from your doctor and CPN. Ask loads of questions. Read up on line. Don't be afraid to tell them what you need.

I wish you all the very best x

Hello Dawn,  Venlafaxine helps many more than not. What I see as a problem with it and many other meds is that since people come in all sizes, weights etc so do their shoes come in all sizes. The pill makers try to get us to all fit for a certain size of pill and strength, seldom if ever really knowing the chemical cross overs that create side effects. It is in the side effects that changes the impact of each pill, therefore I always have a pharmogolist consel. Not just the drug store person dressed white, not the GP not even the specialist are chemists. good luck, I am on 225 of Venlafaxine daily along with like 12 or more other pills. take care.

Hi Dawn I'm sorry but I have to agree with ArianeBee why haven't they tried you on a higher dose before deciding it's not working than trying Sertraline before going onto a drug that can have very serious side effects. I understand that some drugs work better for some people but after taking part in discussions on site I woul consider ever going back on ven.  I think having another discussion with your gp ect would be better. I hope everything goes well for you

Hi Dawn

I was on citalopram then escitalopram for years but the manufacturer had problems and I think it wasn't working anymore anyway, I went on venlafaxine last January and then it was upped to 75mg a few months later. I have to say that I've felt great on it, it really has been good for me. Yes I have had some side effects of coming off of them but when you're on them it's fine (for me anyway). Good luck with the changes anyway, hope this helps.