Effexor Xr - Venlafaxine Sustained-release - Oral Brand Drug

General Information

• Below is miscellaneous information regarding Effexor Xr.
• Effexor XR
• ven-luh-FAX-een

Read Before Using Effexor Xr (precautions)

• Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of.

Medicinal Applications

• This medication is an antidepressant (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor type) used in the treatment of depression and anxiety disorders (Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder) in adults.
• It works by restoring the balance of natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain, thereby improving mood and feelings of well-being.
• Venlafaxine should not be used in children and teenagers due to lack of proven effectiveness in treating depression and anxiety disorders in children.
• Also, there have been reports of hostility and thoughts of suicide or self-harm occurring in some children using the drug.

What To Do In Case Of Missed Dose

• Try to take each dose at the scheduled time.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
• Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Drug Compatibility Recommendations

• This drug should not be used with the following medications because very serious interactions may occur.

Possible Side Effects

• This medication may initially cause dizziness and nausea as your body adjusts to the medication.
• Other side effects reported include trouble sleeping, nervousness, sweating, loss of appetite, dry mouth, tremor, blurred vision, constipation, drowsiness, change in sexual ability, or anxiety.
• If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.
• Notify your doctor immediately if you develop any of these serious effects.

Effexor Xr Storage Instructions

• Store this medication at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) away from heat and light.
• Do not store in the bathroom.
• Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children and pets.

Effexor Xr Miscellaneous Notes

• Laboratory and/or medical tests (for example, blood pressure monitoring) may be done periodically while taking this medication to monitor the effects.
• See your doctor regularly.
• Do not share this medication with others.

Usage Instructions

• Take this medication by mouth once a day, exactly as prescribed.
• Take this medication with food.
• Swallow the medication whole.
• Do not crush, break, chew, or place the capsule in water.
• If you have difficulty swallowing this medication whole, the capsule may be opened and the contents sprinkled onto a spoonful of applesauce and taken as directed.
• Swallow the mixture immediately.
• Do not chew the food/medication mixture.
• Follow each dose with a glass of water to wash the medication down.
• During the first few days your doctor may gradually increase your dose to allow your body to adjust to the medication.
• Do not take the medication more often or increase your dose without consulting your doctor.
• Your condition will not improve any faster but the risk of serious side effects will be increased if you do not follow the directions.
• Do not stop taking this drug suddenly without your doctor's approval.
• Your dose may need to be gradually reduced to prevent adverse effects.

Overdose

• If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
• Symptoms of overdose may include sleepiness, irregular heartbeat, and seizures.