Common Questions and Answers about Effexor side effects alcohol effexor Suicidal thoughts, awful and constant negative rumination, self-confidence all but shattered, increasing social isolation, and just watching a gradual shut-down. Before going into the topic of mixing alcohol and Effexor, and possible side effects and interactions, what is Effexor? Effexor is the brand name for the drug venlafaxine, which is used to treat depression and anxiety disorders including general anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and panic disorder. Combining alcohol and Effexor XR is usually not recommended. But as this eMedTV Web page explains, most doctors advise their patients that it is okay to drink in moderation (one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men) while on Effexor XR. How to use Effexor XR. Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using venlafaxine and each time you get a refill. Alcohol can increase the nervous system side effects of venlafaxine such as dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. Some people may also experience impairment in thinking and judgment. Alcohol can increase the nervous system side effects of venlafaxine such as dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. Some people may also experience impairment in thinking and judgment. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Effexor XR. In clinical studies, the most common side effects with Effexor XR (reported in at least 5% of patients and at least twice as often as with placebo) were constipation, dizziness, dry mouth, insomnia, loss of appetite, nausea, nervousness, sexual side effects, sleepiness, sweating, and weakness. Effexor, which is the brand name for the medication venlafaxine, is an antidepressant typically prescribed to treat depression or anxiety. This type of antidepressant is a selective serontonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which not only have their own side effects, but also can cause potentially serious negative effects when taken with alcohol. While taking this medication = while you are using this drug, i.e. is in your system. When you quit taking this medication and take no more, then you can use alcohol with no worries.