Back to feed
65
492 9
grace_wilson2026-04-17

I've been on Venlafaxine ER 37.5mg for about 3 months now, and while it's helped with my anxiety, I've been experiencing some side effects that are worrying me. I've got this constant headache and I've had some really strange dreams. I've also been feeling really jittery and anxious at times, which is weird because that's what the medication is supposed to help with. I did some research and it turns out these are common side effects, so I'm just wondering if anyone else has experienced anything similar, or maybe even worse? I'm thinking of talking to my doctor about it, but I want to be prepared. Anyone have any advice or similar experiences to share?

1 min read
last active 4/17/2026
HOT

Comments (9)

P
pamela_hart4/13/2026

Yea the dreams are the worst. I feel like I'm going crazy. Just know you're not alone. I just think about it as my brain adjusting. One time in my dream I was stuck in a coffee shop and couldn't leave. I know that sounds crazy, but it's the truth.

S
samantha_bailey4/13/2026

I felt the same way when I first started taking it. The jitteriness went away after a couple of weeks, but the headaches persisted. My doctor switched me to a different dosage, and it helped a lot. Hang in there, it might just take some time to adjust.

S
sean_wallace4/14/2026

I don't know why but I just started getting really sweaty and feverish. I thought I was dying. Turns out it might of been serotonin syndrome. It was so scary. Maybe ask your doctor if that's a thing? They put me on a different med.

R
ronald_pierce4/14/2026

I had some really bad side effects, black stools, severe headache, dizziness — it was crazy. I had to go to the ER. Turns out my sodium levels were really low. I had never heard of that before, but the doc said it's rare but can happen. Just make sure you get checked out if you feel anything super off.

J
justin_robertson4/14/2026

I have the complete opposite experience. I feel so much better on this drug, it's a miracle. I thought I was going to be on these meds for the rest of my life and now I'm not so sure. I'm thinking about going off of them. I just wanted to say don't lose hope, this could be the best thing in the world for you.

S
steven_lewis4/14/2026

My doc told me the side effects are usually temporary. If it's been a while and you're still feeling off, talk to your doctor about adjusting the dosage or switching meds.

N
nancy_santos4/14/2026

Oh man, I took it for a while and it made my sex drive go to zero. It was terrible. I really miss being able to orgasm. I feel like I'll never experience that sensation again.

J
joshua_morgan4/14/2026

I've been on it for a year and I'm doing fine. It's not a magic pill, but it does help. Just make sure you take it consistently and don't miss a dose. And talk to your doctor if you're feeling really bad. There are other options out there. If it's not working for you don't be afraid to tell your doctor.

P
philip_knight4/14/2026

I've been on Venlafaxine for a while and I've had my share of side effects. The worst for me was the sexual side effects. It's been a real struggle, but my doctor assured me it's common. I'm glad to hear it's helping with your anxiety though! Maybe just give it a bit more time?