Oh let me know how the effexor works out for you! My doc wants me to take it but I am hesitant to take pills like that for personal reasons but I am getting to the point where it might be necessary. My anxiety and ibs have totally limited my life and I would like to be a productive member of society again:( I did take Effexor years ago for anxiety(no ibs) but never took it appropriately to get the full effects, it did help some with anxiety. My dad is on it and is a changed person as far as anxiety goes. The thing with it though is NEVER to just stop taking it once you start, I made this mistake and never will again. If you decide to change meds or don't like it talk with your doctor about how to taper off. Good luck.