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I saw my MS specialist last week for my yearly visit. I am SPMS now after RRMS since 1990. Lately I have been depressed about all the things I can't do anymore. The doctor said I could try Effexor. I would like to hear any pros/cons from anyone who has taken Effexor for depression. Thank you!
Lynn

Yes, I did take it for a time. It is a bit of a nasty drug as I recall. You have to titrate up to your optimal dose and then if you decide to stop taking it you have to be weaned off. While it is still available, the same firm has a newer (and more expensive) drug called Pristiq which I currently take. It does help a lot and is not as nasty as its older brother Effexor. You might want to discuss the pros and cons of each with your doctor. There is something in you post however, which suggests to me that neither may be your best answer.

You state you are depressed about all the things you can't do anymore. The drugs will help with general depression (depression with no specific issue). I am not sure they will do much for your problem. A good psychologist or similar might be your better choice if your depression has a specific cause as you describe - depression with a tangible reason.

Good luck and hang tough.

There are many proven effective ways to treat depression without drugs. Are you open to learning about them?

Thank you both for the replies. I have heard so much bad stuff about Effexor that I am in no hurry to try it or even take it at all. I am going to try Aqua therapy and I just got a dvd Yoga for MS. Maybe that will help with my balance and walking problems and I can soldier on without drugs.
Lynn