Effexor (venlafaxine) is an antidepressant prescription medication
that is effective in treating long-term depression, anxiety, and panic
disorders. It is classified as a selective serotonin and norepinephrine
reuptake inhibitor (SSNRI), a class of drug that helps stabilize levels
of these important chemicals of the brain when they are not in balance.
As
with all prescription drugs, caution is advised and some common Effexor
side effects to be aware of include dry mouth, altered sense of taste,
loss of appetite and upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss.
Decreased
sexual desire and inability to function sexually are also common
Effexor side effects, as are headaches, excess sweating, agitation,
nervousness, dizziness, drowsiness, anxiety, insomnia, and blurred
vision.
Some of the more severe Effexor side effects include
allergic reactions (itching skin, rash, hives, difficulty breathing,
feelings of tightness in the chest, and swelling in the face or mouth),
bizarre behavior and confusion, decreased urination, fast or irregular
heartbeat, extreme weight loss, and severe or persistent headaches.
Other
dangerous Effexor side effects include severe and unusual mood swings;
increased level of depression; aggressive or impulsive behavior; fever,
chills, and other flu-like symptoms; panic attacks, severe anxiety,
irritability, restlessness, or hostility; and persistent or severe
ringing in the ears.
Thoughts of suicide should be taken very seriously and all precautions should be made to prevent any suicide attempts.
When
taking a SSNRI, serotonin syndrome may develop, especially if the
patient is taking other medications, too. Serotonin syndrome can cause
confusion, hallucinations, and coma. It is sometimes fatal.
If
any of these severe Effexor side effects should occur, the patient and
/ or his caretaker should seek immediate medical attention.
Women
who are pregnant or nursing should avoid Effexor. Children and
teenagers are at greater risk of experiencing severe adverse reactions
to this medication and its use is best avoided.
Drinking
alcohol and taking other prescription medications while undergoing
treatment with Effexor can be very risky. Be sure to notify your
physician of any other medications you are taking, including any
monoamine oxidase inhibitors, St. John’s wort, or any other
over-the-counter or herbal remedies.
Diet medications can
trigger dangerous reactions when used in conjunction with Effexor so be
sure to notify your prescribing physician or avoid them during
treatment.
Med-Help is for informational purposes and should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment recommendations.