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Panic attack after starting Effexor

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answered 05:06 PM EST, Thu May 24, 2018
Major Panic Attack or Seritonin Syndrome.. I started Effexor xr 75 mg on Thursday May 17th. By Monday morning I noticed I was weighing in a few pounds light, thought it was great at the time. Abs were cracking more than usual so I was happy. I felt great, happy and clear until about 4pm I took 3 hits of strong marijuana and had a massive panic attack that put me in an ambulance. The attack lasted nearly an hour. The syncopy started as I stood up and I just couldn't gain my ground. I took Xanax the night before if that matters. Im ok now, but don't know how to proceed. I stopped taking the Effexor. I guess my question is, would I have had this attack if I had waited for my body to adjust to the Effexor, or is this a sign that this medicine isn't for me.

Dr. Stuart Shipko Says...

Although drugs such as Effexor are prescribed for anxiety, it is not uncommon for the serotonin based antidepressants to precipitate serious panic attacks when they are first started.  The marijuana probably also played a role in this panic attack, as both the marijuana and the Effexor affect the autonomic nervous system.  Many people are able to use marijuana and antidepressants, but it was probably worse for you since you had just started the Effexor.  Often the serotonin based antidepressants are initiated along with a benzodiazepine such as Klonopin or Ativan to prevent the initial anxiety/panic that may occur.  It was probably a good idea for you to stop the Effexor, as you likely would have had more panic attacks.  This is a pretty common side effect.  You can still take this category of medicine.  One strategy to prevent initial anxiety/panic is to start off at a very low dose.  Another strategy is to start the medication with a benzodiazepine.  You should avoid marijuana at least until you are stable on the medication. 

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Page last updated May 24, 2018

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