Does Effexor Make You Zone Out? (+3 Factors)

By Ivan Kahwa

Page last updated: 06/02/2024 | Next review date: 06/02/2026

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

Ivan Kahwa

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In this article, we will discuss whether Effexor (Venlafaxine) makes you zone out. We will also discuss why Effexor may cause such side effects, and what one should do if this side effect occurs.

Does Effexor make you zone out?

Effexor may make you zone out, especially during the early course of your treatment. However, it is not a common side effect of this antidepressant and zoning out is more commonly linked to mental health conditions that Effexor can help treat.

People experiencing depression often feel disconnected or unable to focus on their surroundings. They might feel numb, and disconnected, and find it challenging to remember who they are, who they are speaking to, or what they are doing.

Effexor, as an antidepressant, is expected to help with these conditions. However, individuals beginning Effexor might experience feeling zoned out. This occurs as the body takes time to adapt to Effexor and the alterations it brings to the brain.

If you feel that Effexor is causing you to feel overly drowsy, and disconnected or you are feeling the symptoms of emotional blunting, it is important to discuss this with your healthcare provider.

What does research suggest?

There is no research study linking Effexor with zoning out. However, it is reported in some cases. The incidence of this side effect can vary from person to person. When individuals begin taking Effexor, they might feel zoned out at first.

This happens because Effexor affects certain chemicals in your brain (serotonin and norepinephrine) and the brain needs time to get used to the medication. These side effects do not last long. As Effexor starts working fully and the body adapts to it, many people notice an improvement in their ability to concentrate (1,2).

This is especially helpful for people who struggle with focus because of depression. Effexor, by treating the root cause of depressive symptoms, can assist individuals in feeling more involved, connected, and attentive in their day-to-day activities.

What factors can contribute to zoning out while taking Effexor?

Several factors can contribute to zoning out while taking Effexor, including:

Initial adjustment period: When starting Effexor, some individuals may experience transient side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness or fatigue, which could lead to a feeling of being “zoned out”.

Dosage: Higher doses of Effexor might increase the likelihood of experiencing cognitive side effects.

Worsening of anxiety: Worsening of anxiety or depression symptoms while on Effexor can lead to increased difficulty focusing or feeling disconnected from your surroundings.

Drug interactions: Some medications, when taken along with Effexor, may impact your focus such as sedatives or medications that affect the central nervous system and contribute to zoning out.

Underlying conditions: Existing medical conditions and mental health issues, such as attention deficit disorder (ADD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can interact with Effexor and affect your ability to focus.

Substance abuse: Alcohol and other substances can interact with Effexor, potentially intensifying its side effects or causing zoning out.

Individual sensitivity: Different people react differently to medications. Some may be more sensitive to the effects of Effexor, leading to a sense of feeling disconnected or less focused.

What to do if Effexor makes you zoned out?

If you believe Effexor is making you zone out, reach out to your healthcare provider. They can determine whether Effexor is responsible for this effect or not.

If Effexor is the main culprit, your healthcare provider may reduce your dose to see if it works for you. If dose reduction does not work they may gradually discontinue your medication or switch to another antidepressant with minimum side effects.

Just make sure you do not make any changes to your prescription on your own or decide to stop Effexor abruptly. Sudden withdrawal or discontinuation can lead to discontinuation syndrome characterized by disturbing withdrawal symptoms such as agitation, hallucination, tremors, mood changes, etc (3).

What are the tips to improve your focus while taking Effexor?

Improving focus while taking Effexor can be a multifaceted approach. Here are some tips:

Stick to your prescribed medication schedule for Effexor. Consistency in taking the medication can help maintain a steady level in your system, potentially reducing side effects that might impact focus.
Engaging in games such as crosswords or memory-matching games can activate your brain and enhance focus. These activities challenge your thinking abilities and help keep your mind alert and engaged (4,5).
Physical activity is a great stress reliever and can boost your mood. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood-lifters (6). Meditation or yoga sessions can make a significant difference.
A healthy lifestyle, balanced diet and adequate sleep can positively impact focus and overall cognitive function.
Dehydration can affect your cognitive abilities. Drinking enough water is essential for overall brain function.

Remember, taking Effexor properly along with the above-mentioned tips can help you with zoning out with time. However, reach out to your doctor if something serious is bothering you.

Conclusion

In my opinion, Effexor can make some people zone out, but can actually help you with it once it kicks in. I suggest regular follow up with your healthcare provider for safe and effective use of medication.