I've been taking effexor xr for over 3 years. I'm coming off of it now without withdrawal symptoms. I didn't have weight gain, but I watched what I ate. I did have a slight decrease in libido, but nothing problematic, even at 300mgs. Effexor xr is a very effective AD for many people. Keep researching it and make your own decision. My experience is only one person's experience, fwiw.

Good luck! And I'm glad you are taking an active role in understanding the AD's so that you can discuss them with your doctor.