Does Effexor XR Cause Tinnitus?

Effexor is associated with ringing in the ears.

Dec 03, 2018

Sheldon asked

I'm having tinnitus which starts almost the same time of day every day-to-day mix afternoon. It continues the remainder of the day, sometimes it increases in volume. I've tapered & stopped Effexor XR. Could this be a side effect?

At a glance

  • Effexor XR (venlafaxine) is associated with tinnitus, or ringing of the ears. It appears to be relatively uncommon, but has a higher incidence rate in those stopping the medication. Symptoms are reported to go away within a few days of discontinuation.

Answer

Effexor XR (venlafaxine extended release) is associated with tinnitus, or ringing of the ears.

The prescribing information for the drug notes that the reported rate of this side effect is less than or equal to the placebo rate.

However, it does specifically state that tinnitus has been reported more often when the drug is being discontinued:

References
  1. Effexor XR Prescribing Information. AccessFDA
  2. Venlafaxine-associated tinnitus. PubMed
  3. Pathophysiology of tinnitus. PubMed

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