It's important to be aware of the potential side effects of taking any medication. Side effects are a common reason why people stop taking their medication. It is also important to know about significant contraindications and cautions. For more Important Safety Information, click here.
Research shows that people who are informed about their medication are better prepared to get started and more likely to stick with their treatment — and so increase the likelihood of achieving their treatment goals.
Contraindications
If you are taking another type of antidepressant called a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), you should not take Effexor XR. If you are taking an MAOI, your doctor should stop your medication at least 14 days before beginning Effexor XR. Similarly, your doctor should stop treatment with Effexor XR at least 7 days before starting you on an MAOI.
Potential Drug Interactions
Side effects due to taking different medicines at the same time are called drug interactions. Some medicines can affect how Effexor XR works. Therefore, be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications that you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal and nutritional supplements. Make sure you list all of the medicines you are taking and discuss them with your doctor.
If you take migraine headache medicines, talk to your doctor about whether the medicine is a triptan — and whether you can take Effexor XR at the same time. You need to be aware of the possibility of serotonin syndrome.
Common Side Effects
In depression studies, common side effects included nausea, dizziness, sleepiness, sexual side effects, sweating, dry mouth, nervousness, insomnia, loss of appetite, and constipation.
Effexor XR may raise blood pressure in some patients. Tell your doctor if you have or have had high blood pressure. It is recommended that your doctor check your blood pressure on a regular basis.
Some of the common side effects with Effexor XR may lessen as your body adjusts to the medication. In general, it takes 4 to 8 weeks for antidepressant medication to work, and you may also begin to notice positive changes in your mood and behavior at this time.
Results with Effexor XR may vary among individuals, but the best way to help return to feeling like yourself again is to take your medication every day exactly as instructed by your doctor. If any side effects persist or cause you significant distress, talk with your doctor. Working together with your health care provider can help you manage side effects you may experience.
Side effects can occur, but studies of patients taking Effexor XR for depression have found that only about 11% of people stop taking Effexor XR due to side effects.
Potential Sexual Side Effects and Weight Gain
Men taking Effexor XR may experience delayed ejaculation. Studies have shown, however, that only about 3% of people taking Effexor XR for depression experienced decreased sexual desire.
In clinical trials, 3% of people experienced a change in body weight, either upward or downward, with Effexor XR.
The best way to address either of these side effects is by talking openly with your health care professional. It is important to discuss all aspects of your treatment with your health care professional — even if you feel embarrassed.