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Effexor (Venlafaxine)
is an antidepressant
medication used in the treatment of
depression. The extended release form (XR) of this medication is also used to
treat anxiety. Effexor is thought to work on both serotonin and norepinephrine -
two chemicals in the brain linked to depression. Correcting the imbalance of
these two chemicals may help relieve symptoms of depression.
Uses of Effexor
Effexor is used in the treatment of depression.
The extended release form (XR) of this medication is also used to treat
anxiety.
Effexor Directions
Take
Effexor by mouth exactly as prescribed.
During the first few days your doctor may gradually increase your dose to
allow your body to adjust to Effexor. Take this medication with food. Do not
take Effexor 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. Do not stop taking Effexor suddenly without
your doctor's approval. Your dose of Effexor may need to be gradually
reduced to prevent adverse effects.
Effexor Side Effects
Effexor
may initially cause dizziness and
nausea as your body adjusts to the medication. Other side effects reported
include sweating, loss of appetite, dizziness, dry mouth, anxiety, tremor,
blurred vision, constipation, sleepiness, change in sexual ability. If any
of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify
your doctor if you develop any of these serious effects: rapid or irregular
heartbeat, chest pain, severe headache, trouble breathing, painful or
difficult urination, skin rash. Effexor may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or
clouded thinking. Use caution operating machinery or engaging in activities
requiring alertness. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact
your doctor or pharmacist.
Effexor Precautions
Tell your doctor your medical history,
especially of: kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, high blood
pressure, glaucoma, any allergies. Elderly persons may be more sensitive to
the effects of Effexor. Effexor should be used only if clearly needed during
pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known
if Effexor is excreted in breast milk. Consult your doctor before
breast-feeding.
Effexor Drug
Interactions
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or
prescription medication you may take especially: MAO inhibitors (e.g.,
tranylcypromine, phenelzine, isocarboxazid, selegiline, furazolidone), other
antidepressants, cimetidine, lithium, sedatives, narcotic pain relievers
(e.g., codeine, morphine), seizure medication, certain migraine medicine
(e.g., sumatriptan), medicine for weight control. It is recommended to avoid
alcohol while using Effexor. Do not start or stop any medicine without
doctor or pharmacist approval.
Missed Dose of Effexor
Try to take each dose of Effexor 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 of
Effexor on order to catch up.
Effexor Overdose
If overdose of
Effexor is suspected, contact
your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of
overdose may include sleepiness, irregular heartbeat, and seizures.
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July
13, 2008 - 
