I have been on Effexor for almost two years. I started on Zoloft (did not effect me) and then Remeron (enormous weight gain) then Lithium. I changed psych's and the new one started me on Seraquel (sp?) and Effexor. I was then on Seraquel, Effexor, Welbutrin, Ambien. Then went off Seraquel, changed to Trazadone with Ambien (all for sleep, insomnia, nightmares). The effects of Effexor when I first started taking it were enormous in the right direction. I could return to work, I thought of other things besides my depression, I wanted to do things again. I wouldn't say I am happy, but the two times I tried to go off of it myself, or didn't pick it up from the pharmacy, I would regress back to the very worst of my depression (uncontrollable crying-suicidality). The psych. doesn't promise happy anyway. I am just trying to be in the middle between manic and depressive (Bipolar II).
I take 225mg/day right now and I have a friend who has taken Effexor for 10 years (or since it came out), but she takes 75mg/day. She says it is a life saver for her also (more anxiety, panic than me).
In regards to side effects, I don't know what medication curbs my sex drive, but I have none. Not a factor since I don't have a significant other. There hasn't been any weight factors (loss/gain), no nervousness or sleepiness (I wish! ;) )
Right now my "cocktail" is Lithium, Effexor, Lamictal, Klonapin, and Trazadone. I am getting a sleep study soon and the Trazadone might go away if we can find a way for me to sleep.
I hope this helps.
Kelly :)