Effexor
Effexor (generic name: Venlafaxine) is in a new class of anti-depressant medications that affects chemical messengers within the brain. These chemical messengers are called neurotransmitters, and some examples are serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Neurotransmitters are manufactured by nerve cells and are released by the cells. The neurotransmitters travel to nearby nerve cells and cause the cells to become more or less active. Many experts believe that an imbalance in these neurotransmitters is the cause of depression and also may play a role in anxiety. Effexor is believed to work by inhibiting the release or affecting the action of these neurotransmitters. Venlafaxine is available in an extended release formulation (Effexor XR).
Life-threatening interactions can occur in combination with MAO inhibitors such as Nardil and Parnate. MAO inhibitors and venlafaxine should not be taken together, and a waiting period of 14 days between taking these two classes of medications is strongly advised.
Most medications affecting the brain such as venlafaxine have the potential to slow reflexes or impair judgment. Therefore, caution is advised especially early in the course of treatment.
Safety has not been established in children below the age of 18 years.
Effexor side effects
Effexor Venlafaxine, like most anti-depressants, can cause nausea, headaches, anxiety, insomnia, drowsiness, and loss of appetite. Increased blood pressure can occur, and blood pressure should be monitored. Seizures have been reported.
“If anti-depressants are discontinued abruptly, symptoms may occur such as dizziness, headache, nausea, changes in mood, or changes in the sense of smell, taste, etc. (Such symptoms even may occur when even a few doses of anti-depressant are missed.) Therefore, it is recommended that the dose of anti-depressant be reduced gradually when therapy is discontinued.”