STYLETHREAD -- LET'S TALK SHOP!

I know that gruiz posted this in the past but I'm worried about my boyfriend now. He has been taking Effexor for about a year, and just can't deal w/the side effects anymore.  The worst are the nightmares - he has such horrible dreams that he wakes up constantly scared or in tears because they are all so awful and seem so real.  He also can't sleep throught he night, sweats like crazy all day long and has gained about 30lbs from being on it.  He wants to get off of it but I know he's worried about the withdrawls and about another pill not working as well for him. I know he tried several before Effexor.  He plans on calling his doctor but I was just wondering if any of you had any experiences w/it?  I'd appreciate whatever advice/info you can give.  TIA!