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Harmful Side Effects of Effexor

Effexor is a medication used to treat depression, social anxiety disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. It falls under the class of drug known as serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). If you experience any harmful or serious side effects while taking Effexor, let your doctor know right away.

  1. Increased Thoughts of Suicide

    • People taking Effexor and other antidepressants sometimes suffer from increased thoughts about suicide and may attempt suicide. This side effect happens more often when just starting to take Effexor. Teenagers and children are more likely to develop this side effect than adults. Having a loved one monitor the mood of a person who first starts taking Effexor is one way to know if this side effect is taking place.

    Mania

    • Mania is a side effect of taking Effexor. Mania can lead a person to believe they can accomplish the impossible, such as flying or surviving a fatal injury, which makes this side effect potentially harmful. Mania can also lead to jittery movements, nervousness and loss of sleep, which can result in even more harmful side effects.

    Seizures

    • Effexor and other antidepressants can sometimes cause a person to suffer from seizures or convulsions, which are involuntary spasms and movements. The unpredictability of a seizure or convulsion makes this a potential harmful side effect, since a person suffering a seizure or convulsion loses control of their body and may fall or, if driving, cause an accident.

    Serotonin Syndrome

    • Serotonin syndrome affects people who are taking medications like Effexor and medications to treat migraines called 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor agonists (triptans). The medications act together to create a dangerous level of serotonin in the body. Serotonin syndrome can cause hallucinations, loss of coordination and coma.

    High Blood Pressure

    • In some people, Effexor increases blood pressure and can put them at risk of developing heart damage. This side effect can happen immediately upon taking Effexor or can build up over time. Careful monitoring of blood pressure while on Effexor is recommended to ensure there are no dangerous changes.

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