Like other antidepressants, venlafaxine comes with an FDA black box warning about suicidal thoughts and behavior. Black box warnings are the strictest warnings issued by the FDA and are done so when there is significant evidence that a drug or product is associated with an adverse reaction that may lead to death or serious injury. The full black box warning regarding suicidal thoughts and behaviors reads: Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults in short-term studies. These studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior with antidepressant use in patients over age 24; there was a reduction in risk with antidepressant use in patients aged 65 and older. In patients of all ages who are started on antidepressant therapy, monitor closely for clinical worsening and emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Advise families and caregivers of the need for close observation and communication with the prescriber.