"this medicine saved my life. i was at my wits end with anti-depressants and was ready to give up. my doctor finally prescribed me this after many failed medications, i am so glad she did. i honestly do not know where i would be without effexor xr. side effects were very mild compared to other anti-depressants i tried. i was drowsy for the first couple days, but it was tolerable. i highly recommend this for severe depression. i would also like to mention for people to realize there is light at the end of the tunnel and you will get better, and to never give up."