I was on  Effexor xr 75mg for the last 3 years after a full hyster.  I am 48 , and also should be experiencing the best of my life right now.  My decision was to go and get my hormones checked,and go on Wiley Protocal bio identicals.  At first when I went on the effexor, my weight had dropped 20 lbs, I believe due to the fact, I felt so much better about myself, self esteem, etc..  body looked like a knock out at this great age of 45, but as time went on, depression came back.  Maybe if I was to increase my mg's, I may not have gained all this weight plus back.  I've not been off the effexor for 3 weeks, feel great, assuming due to the help of the hrt.  I havent lost weight yet, but my attitude to get my but out and do something about it,has.  I have put a goal I WILL be in the best shape of my life when I'm 50, and I will achieve this. I would suggest to get your hormones checked, adn your thyroid .  I wish you luck, cause I know exactly how you feel.  My weight gain has gone up 28 lbs since March of this year, and my goal will be for the next 2.