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Effexor (venlafaxine) is a fairly new antidepressant that is thought to have the therapeutic effects of SSRI's and TCA's combined. For some people, Effexor relieves the symptoms of depression better than other medications, perhaps because it increases the levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine (two neurotransmitters thought to cause the symptoms of depression) in the brain.
Along with the many positive effects of Effexor, you may also experience some side effects. Side effects are unintended or undesirable reactions to medications. Most of the side effects you experience can be lessened with additional medications, dosage changes, or changes in your daily habits. Or, they may simply fade over time as your body adjusts to the medication. If you experience any side effects, contact your doctor or clinician right away and continue taking your medication.
It is also important to be aware of the risks of Effexor . The risks occur very rarely, but it is important to know what to look for, just in case. If you think you are experiencing one of the risks, contact your doctor or clinician or go to the emergency room right away!
| Most common side effects |
headache, nausea, sexual difficulties, weight loss |
| Occasional side effects |
anxiety/nervousness, blurry vision, diarrhea, dizziness, dry mouth, insomnia |
| Risks |
hypomania |
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Most common side effects
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Headache
Effexor can cause headaches, which often fade as your body adjusts to the medication. If you experience
headaches, and they 're disruptive, talk to your doctor before you take any pain medications. S/he can let you
know which medications are safe to take with Effexor . |
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Nausea
Most people who experience this side effect notice that it usually disappears in a few weeks. To
reduce or eliminate nausea, eat several small meals per day instead of three big ones, or try snacking on dry toast
or crackers. |
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Sexual difficulties
Changes in sexual function may include difficulty achieving orgasm, difficulty maintaining an erection,
delayed ejaculation, or decreased physical sensation. These problems are sometimes the most difficult for people
to discuss. They might feel embarrassed and instead of mentioning it to their physicians, they suffer with it or
worse yet, stop their medication on their own. Doctors are accustomed to talking about these problems and they
are trying to help you recover. Please do not hesitate to talk to your doctor if you experience this or any other
side effect or risk. |
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Weight loss
You may experience decreased appetite and as a result, may lose weight even if you are not trying
to. Try eating smaller, but more frequent meals to take in more calories. Your doctor or clinician can help you
monitor your weight and suggest a high calorie (but healthy) diet for you if weight loss is a concern. |
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Occasional side effects
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Anxiety/nervousness
You may experience heightened anxiety or nervousness as a result of your antidepressant,
but it should wear off in a few weeks. If anxiety continues to be a problem, talk to your doctor about it. |
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Blurry vision
Blurred vision is another side effect of Effexor . If you think that you are experiencing blurred
vision, don 't drive until you talk to your doctor or clinician about it. |
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Diarrhea
If you experience diarrhea, drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Your doctor can tell
you which anti-diarrheal products are safe to take with your medication. |
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Dizziness
If you feel dizzy when you sit or stand up quickly, there are some precautions that you can take
to avoid injury. Get up very slowly from a laying or sitting position and make sure you have something to hold
onto as you stand up. Then, wait a moment or two before you start walking. |
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Dry mouth
Some people taking Effexor experience dry mouth. Although dry mouth may not go away completely,
it usually gets better with time. Dry mouth may be relieved by sucking on hard candy or crushed ice, drinking plenty
of fluids, or eating frozen grapes. |
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Insomnia
If you experience insomnia as a result of your medication, your doctor may change your dose, prescribe
a medicine to help you sleep, advise you to take the medication in the morning, or change your antidepressant altogether.
To combat insomnia, avoid eating heavy meals, exercising, or drinking caffeinated beverages before bed. |
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Risks
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Hypomania
Effexor may cause an increase in mood called hypomania. Symptoms of hypomania include euphoria,
racing thoughts, pressured speech, and excessive energy. If you notice any of these changes, contact your doctor
right away. S/he can help you determine if your change in mood seems unusual. |
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