Effexor Side
Effects
Venlafaxine Side Effects
Just like any other medications, there are some effexor side effects. However, relatively few side effects have been reported with Effexor. These side efffects are dose-related; that is, side effects increase as the dose increases. Very few patients have had to discontinue the medication because of side effects.
The most common minor side effects during clinical trials include short-term nausea (which can be reduced by taking the medication with food), sleepiness, dry mouth, dizziness, constipation, nervousness, sweating, weakness, ejaculation/orgasm problems, and loss of appetite.
A small percentage (about five percent) of patients, usually those taking higher doses, will develop elevated blood pressure. Therefore, patients taking Effexor XR should have their blood pressure checked regularly. Some agitation has been noticed at higher dosages. Patients who stop Effexor XR abruptly may experience dizziness, nausea, vertigo, and shock-like symptoms. Therefore, slow tapering is recommended.
Effexor Side Effects at a Glance
Some common and less severe side affects are:
- upset stomach
- drowsiness
- weakness or tiredness
- excitement or anxiety
- insomnia
- nightmares
- dry mouth
- skin more sensitive to sunlight than usual
- changes in appetite or weight
- headache
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following severe side effects:
- jaw, neck, and back muscle spasms
- slow or difficult speech
- shuffling walk
- persistent fine tremor or inability to sit still
- fever
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- severe skin rash
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- irregular heartbeat
While the listed Venlafaxine side effects is not long, there may be many more side effects exist that are not listed. Iit is very important to monitor your physical and mental condition closely while you are taking this medication.
