Effexor XR (Venlafaxine extended-release)

Description

Effexor XR (Venlafaxine extended-release) is an antidepressant agent. It is typically used for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder, treatment of panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia (a fear of being in situations where escape might be difficulty) and treatment of social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia. It may also have other uses.

Additional information

Effexor XR (Venlafaxine extended-release) is typically used once daily. However, your doctor or pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. Important: Follow the instructions on the label. Do not use more of this product, or more often, than prescribed. If you miss a dose, contact your pharmacist. Take this drug with food, either in the morning or in the evening. Swallow the capsules whole. Do not crush, chew, or split the capsules.
WARNING: Treatment with venlafaxine has been associated with increases in blood pressure. Caution should be exercised in patients whose underlying conditions might be compromised by increases in blood pressure. All patients should have their blood pressure evaluated before starting venlafaxine and monitored regularly during treatment. Venlafaxine may cause drowsiness or dizziness, affecting your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these and other hazardous tasks until you have determined how Effexor XR (Venlafaxine extended-release) affects you. If you have heart disease, discuss with your doctor how Effexor XR (Venlafaxine extended-release) may affect your medical condition. Elderly may be more sensitive to the side effects of Effexor XR (Venlafaxine extended-release). Caution should be exercised in treating elderly patients. In addition to its desired action, Effexor XR (Venlafaxine extended-release) may cause some side effects, notably:
It may cause diaphoresis (excessive sweating), abnormal dreams. It may cause weight loss, constipation, headache. It may cause anorexia (loss of appetite for food), nausea, xerostomia (dry mouth).
It may cause dizziness, drowsiness, insomnia. Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to venlafaxine or any component of the formulation, use of MAOIs (other antidepressants) intended to treat psychiatric disorders (concurrently or within 14 days of discontinuing the MAOI), initiation of MAOI intended to treat psychiatric disorders within 7 days of discontinuing venlafaxine, initiation in patients receiving linezolid or IV methylene blue.
Taking Effexor XR (Venlafaxine extended-release) during pregnancy may be harmful for the baby. Women of childbearing potential should use an effective contraceptive method. Pregnant women should not use this product. If you're planning a pregnancy or become pregnant or breastfeeding, contact your family doctor.
A treatment with Effexor XR (Venlafaxine extended-release) requires regular monitoring by a doctor. Be sure to see your doctor for all regularly scheduled appointments.Effexor XR (Venlafaxine extended-release)

Warning

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your doctor or pharmacist. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.