Kris asked
I've had a sore throat staring a few days sence starting Effexor. When I looked into effexor's side effects, having signs of infection like sore throat is under "contact a dr immediately or go to an ER" I'm just curious as to exactly why I should need to contact my dr if I get signs of infection while taking effexor? (I don't even think it's an infection, its so mild)
Answer
Effexor (venlafaxine), a SNRI antidepressant medication can potentially cause a sore throat.
Specifically, the package insert for the drug states that both pharyngitis (i.e. sore throat) and sinusitis (i.e. sinus infection) have been reported as adverse effects. It should be noted however, that the incidence of pharyngitis and sinusitis did not occur at a higher rate than in individuals taking placebo, so it isn't well known whether or not Effexor is really the culprit.
Nevertheless, small studies have reported higher incidences of pharyngitis in those taking Effexor. One study even reported that 19% of participants had pharyngitis as an adverse effect.
The prescribing information for Effexor also lists "infection" as a possible side effect of Effexor, which could certainly lead to a sore throat.
When To See Your Doctor About Effexor Side Effects
In most cases, a sore throat from Effexor isn't overly serious. However, side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional include:
- Allergic reactions
- Breathing problems
- Confusion
- Changes in vision
- Chest pain
- Confusion
- Elevated mood
- Decreased need for sleep
- Racing thoughts
- Impulsive behavior
- Irregular heartbeat
- Feeling faint
- Feeling agitated
- Hallucination
- Loss of balance or coordination palpitations
- Blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin
- Seizures
- Stiff muscles
- Suicidal thoughts or other mood changes
