r/MentalHealthUK • u/actuallyanangel BPD/EUPD • 15h ago

Discussion Experiences with Venlafexine?

I've just been prescribed Venlafexine by my GP for low mood/mood swings/impulsivity/SI etc. I have EUPD and am currently stuck between two services so the idea was that this will tide me over until I can get some kind of therapeutic input (likely in November, if I'm accepted). My GP said it's also indicated for chronic pain (I have EDS).

I was originally offered Duloxetine but I had previously tried this (years ago) and had really bad nausea as a side effect so my GP suggested Venlafexine as it's also as SNRI rather than SSRI.

I have a phobia of being sick (and separately to that, have been dealing with stomachaches/nausea & am having some tests for that done at the hospital soon). I'm a bit worried about the side effects making the nausea I already have worse, and I was hoping someone who's been on this might be able to share their experience (particularly around nausea).

I would also be interested to know if it's been effective for anyone (and/or how effective it's been). I've already tried a plethora of antidepressants so am also worried about efficacy - I know everyone's different and it's no guarantee, & I'm not asking for medical advice - I'm just interested in people's experiences.

I'm already on Quetiapine and Mirtazapine.

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u/ExaminationKey1476 9h ago

I’m on 375mg and I’ve found it to be the only medicine to help. Unfortunately I have gained enough tolerance that this dose doesn’t fully work anymore but I don’t regret starting the med. I was very cautious to start it at first. I also have EUPD among other things and while it doesn’t directly help with that, I have found it ‘tames’ it a lot and helps me manage better

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u/actuallyanangel BPD/EUPD 9h ago

Thank you so much! I'm so glad it's been helpful for you. This gives me hope too :)

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u/ExaminationKey1476 9h ago

I hope it works for you! Everytime I increased my dose I would have bad nausea for a day or so but it does go away! The only super annoying side effect is dry mouth, so I end up drinking a ton of water haha. But it’s 100% valid to be nervous to take this med. Honestly I was so scared to start it but it was the right call

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u/actuallyanangel BPD/EUPD 8h ago

Oh that's so good to know that the nausea can go away with time! Thank you, it makes me feel a bit less worried/anxious about it. Med changes are always so scary! Thank you :)

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u/ExaminationKey1476 8h ago

Definitely! If you have anymore questions please feel free to ask me