What Are The Effects Of Effexor?

Effexor, also known by the generic name venlafaxine, belongs to the serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor class of drugs. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved venlafaxine for the treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions, including major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder and social anxiety disorder. By altering brain chemistry, Effexor causes an array of therapeutic effects and possible adverse side effects.

Relief of Depressive Symptoms

Major depressive disorder is a common psychiatric illness characterized by feelings of hopelessness, pervasive sadness, irritability, sleep disturbances and a variety of other symptoms that interfere with a person's ability to function. Effexor can help alleviate symptoms of major depression in approximately 60 percent of patients treated, report Richard Hansen, Ph.D., of the University of North Carolina School of Pharmacy and colleagues in a 2005 article published in the "Annals of Internal Medicine." Continued treatment after the initial resolution of depressive symptoms can help prevent a relapse or recurrence, note Hansen and colleagues in a 2008 study published in the journal "Psychiatric Services."

Relief of Anxiety-related Symptoms

Generalized anxiety disorder, characterized by pervasive worry, an inability to relax and related physical symptoms, affects approximately 6.8 million Americans, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. In a June 2000 study published in the "American Journal of Psychiatry," Dr. Karl Rickels and colleagues report that Effexor reduces anxiety-related symptoms in a significant number of patients with generalized anxiety disorder.

Patients with social anxiety disorder and panic disorder commonly experience symptoms similar to those associated with generalized anxiety disorder. According to the manufacturer's FDA-approved prescribing information, Effexor can help relieve anxiety-related symptoms associated with these conditions. Mental health professionals may recommend psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, support group interaction or a combination of these interventions along with venlafaxine for patients with anxiety disorders.

Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors

Venlafaxine carries an FDA-mandated warning advising patients of the possible risk of new or increasing thoughts of suicide associated with the use of Effexor, especially among children, adolescents and young adults. The warning urges vigilance among patients, family members and health care professionals in watching for signs and symptoms of suicidality after beginning treatment with venlafaxine or after a change in dosage.

Sexual Problems

Effexor may cause sexual problems in some patients taking the medication. In an April 2002 article published in the "Journal of Clinical Psychiatry," Dr. Anita Clayton and colleagues report that sexual side effects occur in more than one-third of patients taking venlafaxine or another serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Possible problems include male impotence and delayed ejaculation, absence or delay of orgasm in women, and a decreased interest in sexual activity among men and women. Sexual side effects associated with venlafaxine typically persist throughout the course of drug therapy, notes Clayton.