Your throats hurting from the acid burning it. Definitely need to sort that out before you get some damage.
I'm allergic to Effexor, hives and chest pains.

I had a lot of GERD when I first started taking some of my meds but it subsided after a while. I also use the elevated pillow to keep reflux at a minimum and now don't need to take antiacids except on a occasional basis. @jess01102015

I don't take effexor, I take cymbalta and I have the same problem, but it started out of the blue so I didn't link it to the cymbalta. my doctor tried putting me on gabapentin, but I stopped taking it but now I'm thinking that could possibly be why? it was horrible, I had heartburn when I would eat anything, or even drink just a tiny sip of water! I haven't had it this bad since I was pregnant in 2005! but it's better now, I hope yours goes away soon maybe once you get used to the medicine..

I have taken Prilosec(omearazole) for a long time now. I was diagnosed with GERD (Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease). My daughter and husband take Zantac 150 nightly. It is very common. I also sleep with an elevated pillow system. If I do not prop my head, I end up with trouble.

If your reflux happens at night when you sleep, take it before going to bed. The instructions say to take it before meals which is fine for most people because their issue is related to food consumption.