"i took this for both anxiety and pain.  it did not work as well as effexor for anxiety but it helped keep away the bad anxiety attacks.  i had to take ativan several times a week where as on the effexor i took it once or twice a week.  i changed to the cymbalta hoping it would help with my chronic pain and it did significantly.  the only bad side effect i have had is higher body temperature and sweating.  i am currently researching other medications just because of this side effect.  if you anxiety is mild to moderate and you have chronic pain i think this is a good option if you dont experience the sweating.  my anxiety was a little to much for this drug to handle alone and i cant handle the sweating and &quot;hot flashes&quot;"