"i was on 300mg. of effexor xr for 3 years and did not realise what it was doing to me until i weaned myself off it.  i had constant suicidal thoughts and attempted suicide several times.  i had severe alcohol craving and was labelled an alcoholic and had several very expensive stays in re-hab.  i suffered horrific nightmares, paranoia and at times had difficulty rationalising what was reality.  i lost all ability to handle my finances.  my relationships were severely damaged because of this and i almost died 4 times.  i have now been off it for 4 months and i am a different person.  i no longer have nightmares, suicidal thoughts or crave or drink alcohol. this is an extremely dangerous drug!  avoid it completely!  my story is not unique."