The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that 14.3 million Americans experienced at least one major depressive episode in 2008. One drug prescribed for the treatment of depression is Effexor, which is made by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals. Effexor is the brand name for the generic drug venlafaxine, and it is available in an "extended release" form, labeled Effexor XR. Though clinical trials have shown that Effexor XR is often effective in treating depression, this medication may cause negative side effects.
Mild Side Effects
Effexor XR may cause multiple possible mild side effects. Wyeth reports that Effexor XR users experienced the following side effects at an incidence greater than or equal to 10 percent: nausea (31 percent), dizziness (20 percent), somnolence (17 percent), insomnia (17 percent), sweating (14 percent), dry mouth (10 percent), nervousness (10 percent, and abnormal ejaculation (15 percent). MedlinePlus, a service associated with the National Institutes of Health, also reported other side effects, but their incidence was not reported by Wyeth as commonly occurring (i.e. occurred in less than 10 percent of Effexor XR users during clinical trials). These less-common mild side effects include stomach pain, diarrhea, gas, heartburn, dry mouth, loss of appetite, weight loss, muscle tightness, yawning, frequent and/or difficulty urinating, ringing in the ears, and changes in sexual desire or ability. MedlinePlus advises seeking medical attention if these side effects become severe or do not go away.
Severe Side Effects
According to MedlinePlus, Effexor XR has the potential to cause some serious side effects. Some serious negative side effects of Effexor XR occur if the patient is allergic to any of the ingredients in the medication. MedlinePlus reports that symptoms of an allergic reaction to Effexor XR are rash, hives, itching and difficulty breathing or swallowing. Other possibly severe side effects indicated by MedlinePlus are: chest pain, irregular heartbeat, seizures, abnormal bruising or bleeding, eye pain or redness, vision problems, fever associated with sweating and/or confusion, problems with coordination, hallucinations and loss of consciousness. If any of these negative side effects occur, MedlinePlus advises seeking immediate medical attention.
Psychological Side Effects
Effexor XR may also cause negative psychological side effects. Wyeth reports that some antidepressants, including Effexor XR, may increase the risk of suicide in children and young adults. Because of this risk, Effexor XR is not approved for use in pediatric patients. Also, according to Wyeth, Effexor XR may trigger a manic episode in patients with biopolar disorder. Though it has not been proven that antidepressants such as Effexor XR have this effect, Wyeth advises that patients undergo detailed screening for biopolar disorder before being prescribed this medication.
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