My Dr. had me switch from 100 mg Zolft to 175 mg. Effexor XR. Cold turkey, no tapering.
I think I'm starting to have some side effects or withdrawl symptoms.
The Zoloft wasn't working that good and I had better luck on Effexor a couple years ago.

My doctor switched me from Paxil to Cymbalta. I had a few days of nausea but am feeling MUCH better on the Cymbalta. I was on Paxil for a few yrs for anxiety but bacame very depressed and I'm noticing a difference with the Cymbalta. I actually felt good today - first time in a long time. Day 10 of Cymbalta. I had heard also that you can't just switch from one to another but it worked for me.
Best wishes.

I've had meds s*****ed on me like that at least 30 times. The side effects were annoying, yet manageable. Don't be afraid to ask to be tapered off a drug if you have a bad feeling about the side effects. Psychiatrists should be flexible like that.

Maybe try switching your doctor instead. Haha... I guess he knows best, but side effects are going to be there regardless.
I started on Lexapro a few weeks ago and haven't had any side effects. Maybe ask about it if the Effexor doesn't work. I'm on 10 mg.
I was wondering if your allergy problems ended up mostly being anxiety? I have discovered after 4 months that most of my problems (weird head symptoms) were more likely anxiety than allergies...

I posted on 9-27 about being switched from Paxil to Cymbalta. The Cymbalta seemed to be working for me but shortly after that post, I started having every side effect listed. The worst was a headache from hell that would start in the afternoon everyday and stayed with me into the night. Saw DR Tuesday and said I want off the Cymbalta. Now she has me tapering 4 days 45 mg, 4 days 30 mg, 4 days 15 & then none. At the same time I'm starting w/20 mg of Lexapro. So maybe it depends on the drug you are being switched from and to? Apparently, Cymbalta is one that must be tapered.
JB