I have been taking effexor for about 7 years now. I take 300 mg daily. I have had a very positive experience but would like to say that it is really important to take at the same time daily. On the weekends when I tend to sleep in I have missed taking it for several hours and you will be able to tell. I will feel light headed and just not good, and if for some reason you miss a dose entirely you will definitely notice as you will feel terrible and have like a brain buzz....sounds weird but not sure how to explain. My point is that I have had a great experience but also know that it is super important to take at the same time daily, and not to miss a dose.