Does Effexor cause bloating? (5+ factors)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
In this article, we will explore whether Effexor causes bloating. Additionally, we will also discuss what the research suggests, contributing factors, what to do if you experience bloating, and what other gastrointestinal side effects may be caused by Effexor.
Does Effexor cause bloating?
Effexor may not directly cause bloating, but it may be associated with constipation, which is a common side effect of Effexor. Constipation is comprised of feelings that you have not emptied your bowels, you need to push hard, trying to defecate without success, or you have a hard stool.
Due to these difficulties in bowel movements during constipation, gases are produced inside the stomach which may cause pain and swelling in the abdominal region, termed as bloating. Gastrointestinal side effects are well known to be related to the use of antidepressants (1).
Constipation may be experienced by many patients using Effexor for the treatment of depression and anxiety. Effexor, also known as Venlafaxine, belongs to the serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) class of drugs. Effexor is approved by the FDA for treating conditions such as depression, social anxiety disorder (SAD), and cataplexy.
Additionally, Effexor may also be used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder, nerve-related problems with diabetes, and various pain-related issues. Effexor works by blocking the reuptake of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine in brain cells (2).
What does research suggest?
According to research studies, most antidepressants are linked to gastrointestinal side effects that are related to treatment. Effexor has also been found to cause constipation, which may be characterized by bloating in some patients (3).
Bloating is a common condition that may be linked to specific foods, stomach sensitivity, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, or drug-related side effects. Bloating is the swelling of the stomach, which might be painful for some individuals (4).
Although Effexor causes gastrointestinal side effects, it may also be used to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A research study suggested that Effexor is effective in reducing the symptoms of IBS, such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, or constipation and it also improves mental well-being and overall quality of life (5).
What are the contributing factors to bloating while taking Effexor?
Although Effexor is not directly associated with bloating, some factors may contribute to bloating while taking Effexor:
- Individual sensitivity
- Underlying stomach problems such as IBS, celiac disease
- Consumption of foods that cause bloating
- Obesity
- Hormonal changes, such as before menstruation
- Lack of physical activity
How to manage bloating with Effexor?
To manage bloating with Effexor, you may try the following tips:
- Eat small and frequent meals.
- Increase fibre content in your diet and use probiotics that improve your gut health.
- Avoid foods that are high in fat and food groups that can cause bloating such as kidney beans, a few lentils, chickpeas etc (6).
- Engage yourself in some kind of physical activity such as walking, yoga, and aerobics.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and flush out toxins from your body.
- If there is any bacterial infection causing constipation and bloating, your doctor may prescribe you antibiotics.
- Antispasmodics can be used that helps to relax the gut muscles, reduce the cramps, and promote smooth bowel movements.
- Prokinetic agents such as Benzamide and Cisapride can be used which helps to speed up gastric emptying (7).
However, if your bloating and constipation persist, please reach out to your healthcare provider.
Does Effexor cause other gastrointestinal side effects?
Effexor may also cause other gastrointestinal (GI) side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or abdominal pain. However, it is important to note that not everyone taking Effexor may experience these GI side effects (2).
These GI side effects may also be associated with the early phase of Effexor treatment, and you may feel better as your body adapts to the medication. Some patients may take a few days to adjust to Effexor, while others may take a few weeks to settle down depending on individual factors.
Conclusion
In my opinion, Effexor may not directly cause bloating, but it is associated with constipation, which is a common gastrointestinal side effect of the medication. Antidepressants are known to be linked with gastrointestinal side effects.
If you experience bloating while taking Effexor, consider some modifications in lifestyle and eating habits which may make you feel better. However, if any side effect persists or worsens, please reach out to your healthcare provider.
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References
1.-
Jani B, Marsicano E. Constipation: Evaluation and Management. Mo Med. 2018 May-Jun;115(3):236-240. PMID: 30228729; PMCID: PMC6140151. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6140151/
2.-
Singh D, Saadabadi A. Venlafaxine. 2022 Oct 10. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 30570984. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30570984/
3.-
Oliva V, Lippi M, Paci R, Del Fabro L, Delvecchio G, Brambilla P, De Ronchi D, Fanelli G, Serretti A. Gastrointestinal side effects associated with antidepressant treatments in patients with major depressive disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry. 2021 Jul 13;109:110266. doi: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110266. Epub 2021 Feb 5. PMID: 33549697. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33549697/
4.-
Mari A, Abu Backer F, Mahamid M, Amara H, Carter D, Boltin D, Dickman R. Bloating and Abdominal Distension: Clinical Approach and Management. Adv Ther. 2019 May;36(5):1075-1084. doi: 10.1007/s12325-019-00924-7. Epub 2019 Mar 16. PMID: 30879252; PMCID: PMC6824367. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6824367/
5.-
Sharbafchi MR, Afshar H, Adhamian P, Feizi A, Daghaghzadeh H, Adibi P. Effects of venlafaxine on gastrointestinal symptoms, depression, anxiety, stress, and quality of life in patients with the moderate-to-severe irritable bowel syndrome. J Res Med Sci. 2020 Dec 30;25:115. doi: 10.4103/jrms.JRMS_699_19. PMID: 33912225; PMCID: PMC8067890. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8067890/
6.-
The Use of Antidepressants in the Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Other Functional GI Disorders. Christine B. Dalton, PA-C Douglas A. Drossman, MD. Available from: https://www.med.unc.edu/ibs/wp-content/uploads/sites/450/2017/10/IBS-and-Antidepressants.pdf
7.-
Lacy BE, Cangemi D, Vazquez-Roque M. Management of Chronic Abdominal Distension and Bloating. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2021 Feb;19(2):219-231.e1. doi: 10.1016/j.cgh.2020.03.056. Epub 2020 Apr 1. PMID: 32246999. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32246999/
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