Does Effexor make you dumb? (3 negative impacts)
By
Dr Kirti Hira PhD
| Reviewed by
Ivan Kahwa
The contents of this article are fact-based except otherwise stated within the article.
Author bio
Dr Kirti Hira is a medical writer with expertise in Pharmacology and conducting systematic literature reviews (SLR). She writes and reviews content on pharmaceutical drugs.
Dr Kirti Hira’s Highlights:
- Associate consultant at IQVIA, India
- PhD in Pharmacy with a focus on the Discovery of Pro-inflammatory cytokine inhibitors from bacterial strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa at the BITS-Pilani, Hyderabad campus, India
- Master’s in Pharmacology with a focus on the development of a new acute pancreatitis model at the NIPER, Mohali, India
Professional Experience:
Dr Kirti Hira joined IQVIA, India as soon as she completed her doctoral degree.
Dr Kirti Hira was involved in performing a systematic literature search and gap analysis to support the development of a clinical evaluation report (CER) and performance evaluation report (PER) as per EU MDR (European Medical Device Regulations) and/or EU IVDR (European In-Vitro Device Regulations).
In addition to this, she has also supported the development of a literature search strategy, reviewed and appraised the literature critically, and prepared systematic literature review (SLR) reports to identify the potential risks, safety trends, and off-label uses to ensure that the medical device safety profile is aligned with safety and marketing claims.
Dr Kirti Hira has contributed to screening, analyzing, and reviewing the published literature and clinical investigation results to evaluate the safety and performance of medical devices and pharmaceutical drugs.
Education:
- 2014 Bachelor of Pharmacy at the Delhi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research (DIPSAR), New Delhi, India
- 2016 Master of Science, Pharmacology at the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Mohali, India
- 2021 PhD in Pharmacy at BITS-Pilani, Hyderabad campus, India
The main Publications of Dr Kirti Hira are:
Articles:
- Hira, K., Sharma, P., Mahale, A., Kulkarni, O. P., & Begum, A. S. (2022). Cyclo (Val-Pro) and Cyclo (Leu-Hydroxy-Pro) from Pseudomonas sp.(ABS-36) alleviates acute and chronic renal injury under in vitro and in vivo models (Ischemic reperfusion and unilateral ureter obstruction). International Immunopharmacology, 103, 108494.
- Hira, K., Shaik, A., Kumar, S., & Ahil, S. B. (2017). Pseudomonas Potential Source for Drug Lead Discovery. Current Trends in Biomedical Engineering & Biosciences, 5(5), 108-111.
- Ahil, S. B., Hira, K., Shaik, A. B., Pal, P. P., Kulkarni, O. P., Araya, H., & Fujimoto, Y. (2019). L-Proline-based-cyclic dipeptides from Pseudomonas sp.(ABS-36) inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines and alleviates crystal-induced renal injury in mice. International Immunopharmacology, 73, 395-404.
- Kumar, S. S., Hira, K., Begum Ahil, S., Kulkarni, O. P., Araya, H., & Fujimoto, Y. (2020). New synthetic coumarinolignans as attenuators of pro-inflammatory cytokines in LPS-induced sepsis and carrageenan-induced paw oedema models. Inflammopharmacology, 28, 1365-1373.
- Begum, S. A., Hira, K., Pal, P. P., Nessa, S., Kulkarni, O. P., Danaraj, J., … & Fujimoto, Y. (2021). Halodule pinifolia (Seagrass) attenuated lipopolysaccharide-, carrageenan-, and crystal-induced secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines: mechanism and chemistry. Inflammopharmacology, 29, 253-267.
- Kumar, S. S., Begum, A. S., Hira, K., Niazi, S., Kumar, B. P., Araya, H., & Fujimoto, Y. (2019). Structure-based design and synthesis of new 4-methyl coumarin-based lignans as pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β) inhibitors. Bioorganic Chemistry, 89, 102991.
- Begum, A. S., Kumar, S. S., Gottapu, S., & Hira, K. (2018). O-Glucoside of natural cleomiscosin-A: An attenuator of pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Phytochemistry Letters, 26, 83-87.
- Sanjana, P., Kirti, H., & Begum, A. S. (2016). Medical devices and their approval procedure in India. International Journal of Drug Regulatory Affairs, 4(3), 19-29.
Book Chapter:
- Hira, K., & Sajeli Begum, A. (2021). Methods for evaluation of TNF-α inhibition effect. The TNF Superfamily: Methods and Protocols, 271-279.
Conference papers:
- Cyclo (Val-Pro) attenuates renal injury by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines in mice renal ischemic model. Cytokines 2019- International Cytokines and Interferon Society, Vienna, Austria. Oct 20-23,2019.
- Natural Diketopiperazines as TNF-α and IL-6 inhibitors. Pharmacology 2018 British Pharmacological Society, London, UK. Dec 18 – 20, 2018.
- HDAC5/KLF2 axis regulates NLRP3-mediated renal inflammation and fibrosis associated with nephrocalcinosis-related chronic kidney disease. Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation, 35(Supplement_3), 2020
- Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha inhibitory activity of H.pinifolia. 24th ISCB International Conference, Manipal University, India. 11-13th Jan 2018.
- Bioactive cyclic dipeptides of microbial origin in discovery of cytokine inhibitors. International Conference on Drug Development Technology (Dubai), Oct 16-17, 2017, 19(10) Part VIII, 888.
- MTT assay-guided isolation of a cytotoxic lead from Hedyotic umbellate and its mechanism of action against non-small cell lung cancer A549 cells. International Conference on Drug Development Technology (Dubai), Oct 16-17, 2017, 19(10) Part VIII, 891.
- Screening of phyto-compounds to identify cytotoxic lead molecules against A549, MDA- MB and HT-29 cell lines and their isolation methods. 68th Indian Pharmaceutical Congress, 2016, Dec 16-18, Visakhapatnam.
You can view Dr Kirti’s work below and links to her professional profiles.
Research Gate:https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Kirti-Hira
LinkedIn:https://in.linkedin.com/pub/kirti-hira/a3/975/549
Google Scholar:https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=hlbrGn4AAAAJ&hl=en
Reviewer 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 discuss the negative effect of Effexor on cognition and how Effexor can make you dumb and affect your intelligence. Further, we will discuss the measures to manage and minimize the cognitive side effects of Effexor.
Does Effexor make you dumb?
Effexor (Venlafaxine) does not necessarily make you dumb but it can affect your cognition. Currently, there are limited reports on the effects of Effexor on psychomotor and cognitive functions and the possibility of Effexor affecting your mental abilities cannot be neglected.
Although antidepressants whether SSRIs, SNRIs or TCA, all have shown improvement in the mental health condition of the patients, sometimes they may leave some impact on your cognition abilities. Therefore, the usage of such drugs should be carefully monitored.
What does research suggest?
Several studies were carried out to study the impact of Venlafaxine on the human brain.
Clinical trials conducted on healthy subjects showed no effect of Venlafaxine on performances of any of the cognitive tests (Like choice reaction, memory and psychomotor function) examined (1, 2).
Another clinical study conducted on healthy volunteers demonstrated Venlafaxine to be a better therapeutic option with less adverse impact on psychomotor functions (3).
The case report of a 48-year-old woman showed severe irreversible motor and cognitive deterioration after a Venlafaxine overdose (4).
Although current shreds of evidence do not show a significant effect of Effexor on cognition, the effect of the medication may vary from individual to individual. Hence, such drugs should be administered after careful analysis of all the symptoms, and medication history under the constant supervision of a medical practitioner.
How can Effexor make you dumb?
Effexor can make you dumb or affect your cognition by causing the following adverse effects:
Impaired Memory
Impaired memory or memory loss is a common side effect associated with antidepressant use. Effexor may cause memory loss and impairment of recall abilities.
Effexor may cause hyponatremia or low sodium levels. When combined with other drugs that reduce sodium levels or cause diarrhoea and vomiting, will result in extremely low sodium levels in your body. As a result, you may experience forgetfulness or memory loss.
Difficulty with concentration and focus
The common side effects of Effexor include drowsiness, tiredness and insomnia. It may affect your ability to concentrate and focus. This is particularly of great concern in the case of students. Lack of focus may affect their ability to learn and grow.
If your child is taking Venlafaxine, your child’s doctor should constantly supervise the growth of your child.
Cognitive Impairment
Lack of proper sleep due to insomnia and nightmares induced by this drug may slowly impair your cognitive processing speed. Also, this medication can make you feel drowsy and affect your judgement, thinking and motor capabilities.
Do not drive or operate machinery if you notice these side effects.
What to do if Effexor is affecting your cognition?
If you notice any changes in your cognitive and psychomotor abilities, you should immediately seek help from your healthcare professional. Effexor is a well-tolerated anti-depressant but its effect may vary from individual to individual.
You should openly discuss all your concerns with your physician so that he can guide you in the best possible way. Do not stop your medication without proper consultation as immediate withdrawal can lead to life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.
How can you improve your cognition while on Effexor?
Effexor can impact your mental health by causing side effects like memory loss, drowsiness, fatigue, insomnia and inability to focus and concentrate. The following techniques can help you improve your cognitive abilities while taking Effexor.
- Practising mind relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation can help you to relieve such effects and improve your cognitive abilities.
- Taking care of your physical health can help you improve your cognitive abilities. Regularly go for health check-ups and consult your doctor about the medicines you take.
- Take a nutrient-rich diet and have enough sleep for eight hours daily.
- Do regular exercise and household chores to keep yourself physically active.
- Engage yourself in intellectual hobbies to keep your mind active.
Points to remember while taking Effexor
- Take Effexor at the same time daily to avoid any inconsistencies.
- Do not stop your medication abruptly as this may lead to serious withdrawal syndrome.
- Avoid alcohol with Effexor as it can quickly become addictive and may exaggerate the side effects.
- Share details of all current medications with your healthcare provider, so that he can guide you for safe and effective treatment in the best possible way.
- Immediately seek medical attention if you notice any adverse reaction.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Venlafaxine is generally regarded as a safe drug with a low toxicity profile. There are limited reports on the effect of Effexor on cognition and psychomotor abilities.
Severe cognitive deterioration has been observed in the case of Venlafaxine overdose whereas at therapeutic dosage no adverse effect on cognition and motor abilities was reported.
Therefore, the cognitive effects of Effexor should be constantly monitored. Consult your healthcare provider immediately if you notice any changes in your cognitive abilities. Do not make any changes to your prescription without consulting the doctor.
Was this helpful?
References
1.-
Siepmann T, Mueck-Weymann M, Oertel R, Kirch W, Pittrow D, Siepmann M. The effects of venlafaxine on cognitive functions and quantitative EEG in healthy volunteers. Pharmacopsychiatry. 2008 Jul;41(4):146-50. doi: 10.1055/s-2008-1076724. PMID: 18651343. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18651343/
2.-
Nathan PJ, Sitaram G, Stough C, Silberstein RB, Sali A. Serotonin, noradrenaline and cognitive function: a preliminary investigation of the acute pharmacodynamic effects of a serotonin versus a serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. Behav Pharmacol. 2000 Nov;11(7-8):639-42. doi: 10.1097/00008877-200011000-00011. PMID: 11198135. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11198135/
3.-
Shah RB, Patel S, Chaudhary V. Comparison of effects of amitriptyline and venlafaxine on cognitive and psychomotor functions in healthy volunteers: A randomized parallel group study. National Journal of Physiology, Pharmacy and Pharmacology. 2020;10(10):927-35. doi:10.5455/njppp.2020.10.08232202011092020. Available from: https://www.njppp.com/fulltext/28-1598429619.pdf
4.-
García-Cabeza I, de Blas MM, Epifanio MM, de Chávez MG. Cognitive deterioration after venlafaxine overdose. J Emerg Med. 2011 May;40(5):e103-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2009.04.059. Epub 2009 Jun 9. PMID: 19515524. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19515524/
Find a supportive therapist who can help with Depression.
Discover the convenience of BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connecting you with licensed and accredited therapists specialized in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships, and more. Complete the assessment and find your ideal therapist within just 48 hours.
AskYourPharm is user-supported. We may earn a commission if you sign up for BetterHelp’s services after clicking through from this site
