"i&#039;ve been on effexor xr for several years now.  as far as helping to control my depression, it has been wonderful.  however, i have had some severe side effects.  i have gained 80 lbs since i started taking the medication.  i have been diagnosed with benign vertigo.  i have had countless specialists poke and prod me because no one can figure out why i get a sinus infection every month.  i stopped getting menstrual cycles, and specialists can&#039;t figure out why.  these are all possible side effects"