I started taking Effexor 3 years ago. My doctor had put me on Wellbrutrin, Lexapro, Zoloft, Paxil, and probably a couple of others without great results. But Effexor did work for me with some sideffects. I have gained over 40 pounds since I have been on Effexor, have had no energy, over slept a lot and had the most vivid dreams. If I missed one or two doses by accident I would feel shitty. I have now quit since 3 weeks ago ( somewhat gradually). Right now I feel pretty angry and wound up most of the time. I also have a cough that won't go away.