Effexor XR, also known as Venlafaxine, is a prescription medication used to treat depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and social anxiety disorder (social phobia). It may improve your mood and energy level, as well as help you restore interest in daily life. It may also relieve stress, fear, and unwanted thoughts, in addition to reducing the frequency of panic attacks. Venlafaxine is a reuptake inhibitor of serotonin and norepinephrine (SNRI). It works by restoring the equilibrium of certain natural molecules in the brain (serotonin and norepinephrine).
How to use Effexor XR?
Before you begin using venlafaxine, read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet issued by your pharmacist, as well as each time you obtain a refill. If you have any concerns, see your doctor or pharmacist.
Effexor XR should be taken with meals at the same time every day.An extended-release capsule should not be chewed.
If you stop taking Effexor XR suddenly, you may have unpleasant side effects (such as agitation, confusion, tingling or electric shock feelings). Consult your doctor about how to discontinue this medication safely.
It is possible that your symptoms will not improve for several weeks.
This medication may provide false positive findings on a drug-screening urine test. Inform the laboratory personnel that you are taking Effexor XR.
Store away from moisture and heat at room temperature.
Dosage
The dosage is determined by your medical condition as well as your reaction to therapy. To limit the possibility of side effects, your doctor may advise you to begin this medicine at a low dose and gradually increase it. Follow your doctor’s advice carefully. To get the most out of this drug, take it on a daily basis at the same time every day.
Adult Standard Dose for Depression:
Release date extension:
- Initial dose: 75 mg once
- Maintenance dose: 75 to 225 mg once daily
- Moderately depressed outpatients: 225 mg/day
- Severely depressed inpatients: 375 mg/day
Adult Standard Dose for Generalized Anxiety Disorder:
Release date extension:
- Initial dose: 75 mg once day
- Maintenance dose: 75 to 225 mg once daily
- Maximum dose: 225 mg/day
Adult Dosage for Social Anxiety Disorder:
75 mg orally once a day for extended release
Adult Standard Dose for Panic Disorder:
Release date extension:
- Initial dose: 37.5 mg orally once daily for 7 days, then 75 mg orally once daily afterwards.
- Maintenance dose: 75 to 225 mg orally once daily.
Side Effects
You may be wondering how frequently particular side effects occur with this medication. Here’s more information on some of the potential negative effects of this medication.
- Allergic Reaction
- Weight Gain or weight loss
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Suicidal thoughts
- Hyper sensitivity
- Elevation in blood pressure
- Abnormal bleeding
- Seizure
This is not an extensive list of potential negative effects. Contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately if you experience any of the above side-effects or any other symptoms.
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Reference:
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-4896/effexor-xr-oral/detail
- https://www.drugs.com/effexor.html
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326678#side-effects
- https://www.rxlist.com/effexor-drug.htm#side_effects
