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What Side Effects Occur When Keppra & Effexor XR Are Taken Together?

Keppra and Effexor XR are two commonly prescribed, yet very different medications. Each carries a long list of other drugs that interact with them. Drug interactions are potentially life-threatening and should be evaluated at every change in medication.

  1. Effexor XR Uses

    • Effexor XR (venlafaxine) belongs to a class of antidepressants known as SSNRI (Selective Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor) which are believed to work by balancing brain chemicals such as serotonin and norepinephrine.

    Keppra Uses

    • Keppra (levetiracetam) is an anti-epileptic drug used to treat various types of seizures in adults and children over 4 years.

    Interactions

    • According to drugs.com, when Effexor XR and Keppra are taken together, there is a moderate interaction which will potentially cause depressed central nervous systems and/or respiratory effects, especially in elderly patients. The patient's breathing may become dangerously shallow, causing a build-up of carbon dioxide in the blood.

    Keppra Serious Side Effects

    • On its own, Keppra can cause serious side effects, including hallucinations, fever, chills, flu symptoms, weakness, lack of coordination, increased or worsened seizures,nausea and general stomach upset.

    Effexor XR Serious Side Effects

    • Effexor XR has its own set of serious side effects, including possible increases in blood pressure, bruising, blistering of the skin, stiff muscles, irregular or fast heartbeat, tremors, nausea, loss of coordination, headache, hallucinations and seizures.

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