2006-12-19

jreilly4261: (Default)
2006-12-19 03:25 pm
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Effexor and me

Understanding EFFEXOR XR
EFFEXOR XR is believed to work by affecting the levels of 2 naturally occurring chemicals in the brain — serotonin and norepinephrine. Because EFFEXOR XR works on these 2 chemicals, it is known as an SNRI, or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. 

The above is from Wyeth Pharmaceuticals Inc. website http://www.effexorxr.com/.  I just read on the website that I should be keeping a progress journal daily.  With my memory issues, this would probably be helpful for followups.  I took the two week starter pack moving me from 37.5 mg to 75 mg.  Then I started on 150 mg.  I'm noticing that I'm generally feeling better with good days and bad days.  Today is a bad, though not terrible day.  At least I'm writing--of course, I'm avoiding work to do it.  :) 

I've been having trouble with unstructured social engagements.  I like structure--knowing what is expected of me.  Tonight I'm going to my wife's Christmas Party-the college's student government.  Should be pretty low-key; a bunch of twenty-somethings playing board games in a hotel suite.  I did well at my daughter's birthday party on Sunday.  I skipped my own company's Christmas party and my ASL teacher's Christmas party because I didn't feel up to it. 

Anxiety is a new component of depression for me.  I think the Effexor is having a positive effect on it.

My wife is having a tough time being at home with the kids full-time during the break.  I'm going to split early to give her a break and spend time with them.