Drug Name:Effexor XR
Brand Names: Effexor XR, Efectin ER
Generic Name: Venlafaxine Hydrochloride
Uses: Effexor XR is an antidepressant that is used to treat symptoms of depression, social anxiety disorder and generalized anxiety disorder or GAD. It is also sometimes used to treat depressive phases of bipolar disorder. Effexor XR is also used to reduce the severity of 'hot-flashes' in women who are in the menopausal stage. Effexor XR works by affecting the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters or chemical messengers in the brain involved in depression.
How to use: Effexor XR is taken once a day with food. It can be swallowed whole or the contents of the capsule can be mixed with one spoon of applesauce and swallowed immediately followed by a glass of water.
Side Effects: Among the side effects of Effexor XR include suicidal tendencies such as agitation, irritability or restlessness; high blood pressure; increase heart rate; increase eye pressure in patients with glaucoma; nervousness, nausea, dizziness, abnormal ejaculation in males, constipation, insomnia, palpitation, abnormal vision, dry mouth, sweating, gas, loss of appetite, tremor and loss of libido or lack of sexual desire. Other side effects may include abnormal bleeding or bruising, eye redness, irritable mood, hyperactivity and rapid, excessive speech. Call immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.
Precautions: Effexor XR may worsen such conditions as high blood pressure, heart disease, suicidal thoughts, liver or kidney problems, glaucoma, seizures and thyroid problems. Inform your doctor if you have any of these conditions before taking Effexor XR. Avoid driving a car, operate machine or do extremely dangerous tasks until you know how your body reacts to Effexor XR.
Drug Interaction: Serious reaction or even death may result if Effexor XR is taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOs). If you are taking MAOs, stop the medication 14 days before taking Effexor XR. If you will no longer take Effexor XR, wait for at least 7 days before taking back MAOs.
Overdose: An overdose is not likely to occur if you will follow your doctor’s instructions. However, if you have taken more than what is prescribed, call your doctor immediately.
Notes: Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Effexor XR since this may cause other side effects to occur other than those listed above.
Missed Dose: The missed dose of Effexor XR can be taken later in the day but do not double the dose.
Important Note: Taking Effexor XR may increase your cholesterol level and blood pressure so the doctor may require you to undergo blood tests or blood pressure checking regularly. This is also to determine your response to the medication.
Storage: Store Effexor XR at room temperature between 20º to 25ºC or 68º to 77ºF.
More information on Effexor XR:
All about Effexor XR :antidepressant treatment
