Can Effexor XR make Migraines worse?

Question: Can Effexor XR make Migraines worse?

Answer:

Full Question:

I have been diagnosed with chronic depression and have been taking Effexor XR 150 mg for a year now. I have had migraines most of my life. I am 55-years-old. Since starting the medication it seems my headaches are more often and it takes more to dull the pain. I have to take about 8 codeine tablets just to make it tolerable. My questions are:

Will taking these pills together with Effexor XR cause any long term damage? Are some of the side effects of Effexor XR migraine headaches? Is there an food group that is acting as a trigger that I should avoid?

I have had many side effects from the Effexor XR and reported them immediately to my Doctor. He told me they were normal and they would go away. Some of them have lessened, but the written material about the Effexor XR says to discontinue use immediately if these side effects occur. I need the medication for my depression so what is my alternative for dealing with the migraines. I do not drink alcoholic beverages. I don't smoke. I eat a pretty balance diet. I drink lots of liquids but I drink too much coffee. (About 6 cups a day) Thank you...Bryan.

Answer:

Dear Bryan

There are no studies showing any problems with taking Codeine and Effexor XR at the same time as long as both are taken according to prescribing guidelines. Too much codeine alone could be harmful, let alone with other meds, so please stay within the limits established by your doctor.

It's possible the the Effexor could be affecting the frequency of your Migraines. If so, that's unfortunate because it's also an excellent Migraine preventive for some people. Certainly, if you're uncomfortable with the side effects, you should talk to your doctor about it again. There are plenty of other antidepressants you can try, and some of them are also good Migraine preventives. Perhaps you'll find one that does both jobs for you.

As for Migraine trigger foods, there are potential trigger foods from many groups. You can find a list of them in the following book review:

Review: The Headache Prevention Cookbook
Unfortunately, foods are a major headache trigger for many people. Fortunately, Dr. David Marks has written this book with a superb program for identifying those triggers and preventing headaches. His wife, Dr. Laura Marks has developed some wonderful recipes to accompany the program.

Good luck,
Teri Robert and John Claude Krusz

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