Hello to all. My doc gave me some samples of EffexorXR to try~we agreed on a low start dose(37.5). Well I get home and read the package insert and it says it can increase your BP and heart rate :eek: It also mentioned thyroid problems. I happen to take Diovan for my BP and Synthroid for hypothyroidism. I take 1mg of ativan daily to help calm my BP and my anxiety. My goal was to take something that would "calm" me and lower my anxiety level. BUT~I am already very nervous at the thought of taking something that could INCREASE my BP and heart rate. Also I have no idea of what it could do to my thyroid? I dont want to rely on Ativan forever because we all know the benzo's work better "as needed" rather than taking it daily. My doctor knows I have BP spikes and that I take Synthroid~WHY would he give me this med that could add to my already existing problems. Thoughts-ideas-comments~Anyone?
THANX~RR

[QUOTE=red-rider]Hello to all. My doc gave me some samples of EffexorXR to try~we agreed on a low start dose(37.5). Well I get home and read the package insert and it says it can increase your BP and heart rate :eek: It also mentioned thyroid problems. I happen to take Diovan for my BP and Synthroid for hypothyroidism. I take 1mg of ativan daily to help calm my BP and my anxiety. My goal was to take something that would "calm" me and lower my anxiety level. BUT~I am already very nervous at the thought of taking something that could INCREASE my BP and heart rate. Also I have no idea of what it could do to my thyroid? I dont want to rely on Ativan forever because we all know the benzo's work better "as needed" rather than taking it daily. My doctor knows I have BP spikes and that I take Synthroid~WHY would he give me this med that could add to my already existing problems. Thoughts-ideas-comments~Anyone?
THANX~RR

Effexor is well known for increasing blood pressure. If you're having HBP problems to begin with, I'd contact your doctor for an alternative AD.