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[Nik2502]

Hi

I’m really suffering from anxiety, low mood, tearfulness at the minute. It’s awful. Every day is a struggle. I don’t even feel like me!

Currently on estradot 100 with 25 gel, 5mg Provera and Androfemme (recent increase with gel).
Also on Venlafaxine (16 years).

Do we ever get better? Is this life from now? I feel like I’ve things to look forward to - grandchildren, holidays, retirement but just feel so flat.

I just needed to get this off my chest today and know I’m not alone.

Love
Nik xx

[Kathleen]

Hello Nik2502

I am sorry that you feel this way and you are most definitely not alone.

I am struggling with the same issues and I know how hard it can be.

Our HRT regimes are very different however, I am now using about 50mcg of gel, prog (Cyclogest) on alternate nights and zero Androfeme. I am taking Venlafaxine though and have done since 2013.  It seems that the AD is the only medication we have in common

I wish I had the answers and perhaps other ladies will be along soon with some suggestions.

In the meantime take care and sending hugs.

K.

[CLKD]

Which does of venlafaxine are you taking?

[Nik2502]

Hi

I’m on 225mg of Venlafaxine.


X

[Kathleen]

Hello again Nik2502

I see that you are on 225mg of Venlafaxine, I am on a lesser dose of 150mg.

I still think that our problems are hormone related but could the Venlafaxine be adding to our troubles? I suppose side effects are unlikely as we have both been taking it a long time and I realise that some ladies are told that this AD is the best for the Meno. Indeed I was told to take it to reduce night sweats.
Nevertheless could a change of AD be required?

Take care and wishing you well.

K.

[Nik2502]

Hi Kathleen

Thank you for your kind words.

Venlafaxine is notoriously hard to come off and change to another. My GP has requested the advice of the community mental health team to see if they can advise on doing so as she admits she doesn’t have the knowledge.

I’m hoping the 125 of oestrogen will kick in soon. I just hate feeling like this.

Nik xx

[CLKD]

Who says that ADs are hard to withdraw from?   I had 1 - can't remember the name - in the 1990s, it took 9 weeks of careful monitoring and dropping a dose every 3/4th day.  There were side effects but once I realised that they didn't get worse each time, I relaxed more.  Some can be stopped some require weaning off.  It may B that this has stopped working for you, sometimes the brain gets so used to ADs that they no longer have the required effect.

[Flossieteacake]

I remember coming off venlaflaxine. It was very hard. I am so pleased your GP is seeking specialist advice with this.

I really hope the oestrogen helps. It is an awful way to feel and I am sending you a virtual hug.

[Nik2502]

CLKD

Venlafaxine is notoriously hard to come off. Even missing one dose can give horrendous withdrawal symptoms. It’s also difficult to cross taper with another antidepressant.
I was advised it could take two years for a slow withdrawal! 

Nik x

[Nik2502]

Thank you. I hope it helps too x

quote author=Flossieteacake link=topic=63638.msg882261#msg882261 date=1666018311]
I remember coming off venlaflaxine. It was very hard. I am so pleased your GP is seeking specialist advice with this.

I really hope the oestrogen helps. It is an awful way to feel and I am sending you a virtual hug.
[/quote]

[Nik2502]

Feeling super anxious again. Haven’t been able to work today. Just want to stay in bed x

[discogirl]

Hi Nik2502

Anxiety is awful, I suffer from it and it's really debilitating.

If you feel you need to stay in bed today, go with the flow, stick a box set on.

Maybe you need some downtime.

You're not alone with the anxiety, keep talking to us ladies on here, you're not on your own. I know I keep saying this, but it's true xxxxxx

[CLKD]

Make sure if you stay in bed (we woke at 9.40) that you keep hydrated, eat little and often as low blood sugar can cause anxiety surges.  My go to foods are dried fruits and nuts; bananas; RedyBrek; Bovril in hot water ........... plain rice with a little butter.  Missing meals doesn't help anxiety.   

[Nik2502]

Thank you ladies.

I’ve made it to the living room.  It’s a big step the way I feel today. I’m going to eat a banana to stave away the low blood sugar.

Your support is very much appreciated xx

[CLKD]

Little steps.  Anxiety is all consuming  .  bananas good.  What's next on your menu?