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Effexor and Insomnia

Up to 22.5 percent of people who take Effexor experience insomnia. Among the symptoms of this condition are difficulty falling asleep and waking up too early in the morning. A few suggestions for better sleep include keeping a regular sleep-wake cycle, not exercising within two hours of bedtime, and napping no later than 3 p.m. If insomnia becomes a problem while taking Effexor, let your healthcare provider know.

Does Effexor Cause Insomnia?

Insomnia is one of the most common Effexor® side effects, occurring in up to 22.5 percent of people who take the drug (venlafaxine hydrochloride).
 

What Is Insomnia?

People with insomnia have one or more of the following insomnia symptoms:
 
  • Difficulty falling asleep
  • Waking up often during the night and having trouble going back to sleep
  • Waking up too early in the morning
  • Non-refreshing sleep.
     

Suggestions for Treating Effexor-Related Insomnia

For some people who experience insomnia while taking Effexor, the
 insomnia cure can be improving sleep habits. Some tips for better sleep include:
 
  • Keeping a regular sleep-wake cycle. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same times every day.
  • Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine in the four to six hours before bedtime.
  • Avoiding exercise within two hours of bedtime. Exercising five or six hours before bedtime may help you sleep more soundly.
  • Avoiding eat large meals within two hours of bedtime.
  • Napping no later than 3 p.m.
  • Sleeping in a dark, quiet room with a comfortable temperature.
  • Doing a quiet activity somewhere else. If you can't fall asleep within 20 minutes, return to bed when you're sleepy.
  • Winding down in the 30 minutes before bedtime with a relaxing pre-sleep ritual such as a warm bath, soft music, or reading.
     
(Click Good Sleep Habits for more suggestions.)
 
Effexor and Insomnia Article Continues on Next Page >
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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