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Effexor Drug Side Effects

 Effexor® (venlafaxine hydrochloride) is a medication that is available by prescription to treat depression in adults.
 
In clinical studies with Effexor, drug side effects that were reported include constipation, high blood pressure, nausea, and body weakness. Other, less common side effects (occurring in less than 1 percent of people using this drug) include abnormal bleeding or bruising, acne, hair loss, and facial swelling.
 
While most Effexor side effects are minor and either do not require medical attention or can be treated easily in most cases, certain problems are potentially serious and should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately. Seek medical attention right away if you experience difficulty breathing, suicidal thoughts or behavior, problems sleeping, or fast heart rate.
 
(Click Effexor Side Effects for a more complete list of possible Effexor drug side effects, including other rare but potentially serious problems that require immediate medical attention.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;