Antidepressant drugs such as Effexor (venlafaxine) have been shown to increase the chance of suicidal thoughts and attempts in adults under age 25, while reducing the risk among older adults. Effexor is licensed for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder and social phobia.
The risk of suicidal thinking or attempts is 62 percent higher among the young adults enrolled in clinical trials of antidepressants, compared with patients taking placebos, Food and Drug Administration staff has said. On the other hand, among adults over 25, the risk of suicidal thinking declines by 21 percent.
Despite the risk in young adults, these drugs remain on the market as they are shown to treat symptoms effectively in some populations.
It is difficult to definitively establish a causal link between the medications and any increase in suicidal thinking and behavior. However, the evidence is compelling that the drug manufacturers can in some cases be held legally responsible for the harmful results for patients that use these drugs.
If you feel that you or a loved one has experienced harmful side effects while taking Effexor, contact us today to find out if you may have a personal injury claim.