Effexor, known generically as venlafaxine, is an antidepressant classified as a serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, or SNRI. It is prescribed to treat major depressive disorder, or MDD, according to the drug's manufacturer, Wyeth Pharmaceuticals Company. MDD is characterized by symptoms such as change in appetite or sleep habits, loss of interest in activities, decreased sexual desire, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness and guilt, difficulty concentrating and suicidal thoughts or attempt. While Effexor may be beneficial, it also causes risks of side effects.
Suicidal Thoughts and Actions
Antidepressants may worsen depression and cause suicidal thoughts and behavior in some patients, according to Wyeth. Patients should be monitored for symptoms believed to warn of developing suicidal behavior such as anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, difficulty sleeping, irritability, aggressiveness, hostility, impulsivity, restlessness, and unusual activity and excitability. These symptoms, other unusual changes in behavior, and any indication of suicidal intention must be reported immediately to a health care provider. Effexor should be gradually tapered when the decision is made to end treatment, Wyeth advises.
Serotonin Syndrome
Effexor and other SNRIs have caused a life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome, according to a July 2006 alert from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA. It can occur when Effexor and triptans, medicines used to treat migraine headaches, are used together. Dangerously high levels of serotonin result, producing symptoms of restlessness, overactive reflexes, diarrhea, vomiting, fast heart rate, hallucinations and loss of coordination. Death can result. Zomig, Imitrex, Maxalt, Frova and Axert are triptans. Antidepressants categorized as MAOIs, or monoamine oxidase inhibitors, have also caused serotonin syndrome when used with Effexor.
Antidepressant Discontinuation Syndrome
After Effexor and other antidepressants are discontinued, 20 percent of patients suffer from antidepressant discontinuation syndrome, according to the journal "American Family Physician." The syndrome is usually mild, but it can cause serious discomfort and may even be so severe that hospitalization is necessary. Flu-like symptoms, difficulty sleeping, nausea, dizziness, anxiety, agitation and sensory disturbances, described as "electric shock" sensations, numbness and tingling, can occur when Effexor is discontinued. Severe symptoms involving psychosis and serious impairment in mental abilities are rare, but possible. Patients can be misdiagnosed with other psychiatric or medical disorders if discontinuation syndrome goes unrecognized.
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