Effexor (venlafaxine hydrochloride) is a selective serotonin and norepinephrene reuptake inhibitor (SSNRI) used in the treatment of general anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder and as a preventative for major depressive disorder relapse. According to Mosby's 2010 Nursing Drug Reference, Effexor carries numerous systemic side effects as well as potentially adverse reactions if the drug is discontinued abruptly. Patients should read the package insert thoroughly and carefully before beginning medication therapy with Effexor for a complete understanding of signs and symptoms of serious complications.
Central Nervous System Side Effects
Although it's a treatment used in depressive disorders, Effexor carries the risk of increased suicidal ideation in young adults. Patients at risk for suicide or severe depressive disorder should be carefully monitored for behavioral changes signifying a deeper detachment from their loved ones and surroundings. Any noticeable changes in behavior should be reported to a physician. Other CNS side effects include headaches, dizziness, increased periods of sleep, nervousness, insomnia and abnormal dreams.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Effexor's side effects on the gastric system are fairly mild and easily managed with over-the-counter remedies. Side effects include nausea, constipation, dry mouth, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea and flatulence. Patients should consult their physician should these side effects become severe or unmanageable. Prolonged vomiting and diarrhea (more than 24 hours) may potentially cause electrolyte imbalance, and cardiac dysrhythmias and dehydration may occur.
Cardiovascular Side Effects
Hypertension (high blood pressure), tachycardia (fast heart rate) and a vasodilation effect are the most common cardiovascular side effects possible while taking Effexor. These side effects are considered serious. If any of these events occur, they should be immediately discussed with a physician. Patients already taking a vasodilator should discuss possible medications interactions with Effexor before beginning the new drug regimen.
Withdrawal Side Effects
The PDR Nurse's Drug Handbook 2010 says patients should be cautioned not to discontinue Effexor therapy abruptly because severe withdrawal side effects may occur. Changes in heart rhythm and rate and an increase in suicidal ideation are possible withdrawal complications. Effexor therapy should be tapered off over a period of two weeks, and patients should only do so after consulting their physician.
Miscellaneous Side Effects
Renal impairment has been reported. A patient with impaired renal function should receive 50 percent of the usual prescribed dosage of Effexor. Dialysis patients should not take Effexor on the day of their dialysis until after the dialysis treatment is completed.
Heavy sweating is a common side effect in patients taking Effexor.
Men on Effexor have experienced problems with abnormal and premature ejaculation and impotence. Men and women have reported urinary frequency.
References
- "PDR Nurse's Drug Handbook 2010"; Thomson Reuters and Alexander Ivy; 2009
- "Mosby's 2010 Nursing Drug Reference"; Linda Skidmore-Roth; 2009
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