Effexor® is linked to suicidal thoughts and behavior and severe withdrawal effects. Effexor® is a prescription Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor (SNRI) prescribed to help counteract depression and manage anxiety. Like SSRIs, the drug works by restoring the natural balance of the brain chemicals, resulting in improved overall mood and a sense of wellness. Recent evidence has suggested Effexor’s effectiveness in treating certain cases of ADD and ADHD. Generating $2.1 billion a year in sales, Effexor® is Wyeth Pharmaceuticals’ top selling drug.

Children taking Effexor® have experienced suicidal thoughts and hostility. In August of 2003, Wyeth issued a “Dear Doctor” letter, warning healthcare officials of frightening results of a study of Effexor® XR, when used to treat Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) in children and teens. In addition to finding no benefit in using Effexor® to treat (GAD), 2% of Effexor® XR patients experienced hostility, and another 2% reported suicidal thoughts. Wyeth’s letter was preceded by British drug regulators’ advisory to medical professionals, recommending against prescribing Effexor® and several other antidepressants to patients under the age of 18.

The most severe adverse effects seen in Effexor® users include neurological disorders, slowed or labored speech, shuffled walk, fever, tremors, difficulty breathing or swallowing, skin rash, jaundiced appearance, irregular heartbeat, or muscle spasms, and death. Additional side effects may include upset stomach, drowsiness, weakness or fatigue, excitement or anxiety, insomnia, nightmares, dry mouth, sensitivity to sunlight, appetite or weight changes, and headache.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cited Wyeth for fraudulently marketing of Effexor® for unapproved conditions. Wyeth has also received notification by the FDA that practices concerning Effexor® and Effexor® XR were in violation of the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act.

If you or a loved one took Effexor® and feel your physical or mental health was jeopardized, and you may have grounds for a lawsuit. Our Philadelphia area Effexor® lawyers can help you pick up the pieces and gain compensation for your suffering. The Law Firm of Eisenberg, Rothweiler, Winkler, Eisenberg & Jeck, P.C. has a team of Philadelphia-based Effexor® lawyers who are committed to your safety and health.