Hey,
I've been on Venlafaxine 4 separate times over the past 8 years. Overall, it's been a positive experience. It has some side effects that are difficult to tolerate; for me, the three hardest have been insomnia, diminished appetite, and nausea. ALl three were more or less fixable -- my psychiatrist prescribed me a safe sleeping pill, and so long as I'm on the Ven, I'll be on the pill, as well. Eating, I'm careful to eat most of my food in liquid form, which is easier - yogurt, protein shakes, veg. drinks, etc. The last two times I've been on it (invluding now), I've gotten into a real routine, health wise, and it's worked out well for me.
The benefits, for me, far outweigh the negatives. While I'm taking venlafaxine, I'm functioning. And that's essentially what it comes do. I function normally, I laugh and work and relax and interact with people and the world -- I'm myself. I feel an overarching sense of happiness and contenment.
So, for me, it's been worth it.
Good luck,
Sarah