Effexor^® (venlafaxine hydrochloride) is a prescription medicine that is licensed to treat depression in adults. The antidepressant, which works on chemicals in the brain that become unbalanced during depression, is a type of serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Studies have shown Effexor to be effective for depression treatment in adults. In these studies, people taking it had more improvement in their depression symptoms than people who did not take it. Also, long-term studies showed that the medication is also effective for preventing depression relapse.

 

As with any medication, side effects are possible with Effexor. However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. When side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Some of the common side effects of this drug include drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea, or sexual problems.

 

Seek medical attention immediately if you happen to overdose on Effexor. Some symptoms of an Effexor overdose include confusion, drowsiness, and increased heart rate.