Effexor (Venlafaxine)

Description

Effexor (venlafaxine) is a medication prescribed for treating depression.

The brand name Effexor has been discontinued in the US; however, generic alternatives may be available.

Effexor (venlafaxine) comes as a tablet for oral administration.

Directions

Effexor (venlafaxine) should be taken as prescribed. An appropriate Effexor (venlafaxine) dosage for you will be determined by the treating physician.

Carefully read the medication guide for further usage instructions, including storage information.

You may direct any questions or concerns to your doctor or pharmacist.

Ingredients

Venlafaxine is the active ingredient in Effexor.

See the product label or ask your pharmacist for a full list of ingredients.

Contraindications

Consult your doctor about whether Effexor (venlafaxine) may be an option for you.

Cautions

• Before you begin treatment with Effexor (venlafaxine), talk to your doctor about:
• All the medications you take, including prescription and nonprescription medications
• Your allergies
• Your current health conditions
• Your past medical history
• Your status of pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Effexor (venlafaxine) is associated with this Important Warning:
• Suicidal thoughts or ideation have occurred in children, teenagers, and young adults up to 24 years old who took antidepressants during clinical studies. Children, teenagers, and young adults who take antidepressants for depression or other mental illnesses may be at greater risk for suicidality than those who do not take antidepressants for these conditions.
• Even if you are an adult older than 24 years, you should be informed that your mental health may unexpectedly change when you take Effexor (venlafaxine) or other antidepressants. You may become suicidal, especially when you first start your treatment and during dose adjustments. You, your family, or your caregiver should immediately contact your doctor if you experience worsening or new depression, suicidal thoughts or plans, extreme worry, agitation, panic attacks, sleep problems, aggression, irritability, acting without thinking, severe restlessness, and frenzied abnormal excitement. Ensure that your family or caregiver knows which symptoms may be serious so they can contact your doctor if you cannot obtain treatment on your own.
• Make sure you keep all your appointments with your doctor so that your progress can be monitored.
• Carefully read the medication guide that comes with your prescription.
• Before you begin taking an antidepressant, you, your parent, or your caregiver should consult your doctor about the risks and benefits of treating your condition with an antidepressant or other treatments. The risks and benefits of not treating your condition should also be discussed. Depression or other mental illnesses greatly increases the risk of suicidality. If anyone in your family has or has ever had bipolar disorder, mania, or has had suicidal thoughts or attempted suicide, your risk is higher. Consult your doctor about your condition, symptoms, and personal and family history so that you and your doctor can determine which treatment regimen is best for you.
• Tell your doctor(s) and dentist about all the medications you are taking, including Effexor (venlafaxine).
• Drowsiness can occur, and judgment, movements, and thinking can be affected by Effexor (venlafaxine) use; do not drive, operate machinery, or participate in other potentially hazardous activities until you know how the medication affects you. Alcohol can enhance drowsiness.
• High blood pressure may occur with Effexor (venlafaxine) use. Your blood pressure should be regularly checked.
• Angle-closure glaucoma can occur with Effexor (venlafaxine) use.

Side Effects

Side effects of Effexor (venlafaxine) may include but are not limited to drowsiness; weakness or tiredness; dizziness; headache; nightmares; nausea; vomiting; stomach pain; constipation; diarrhea; gas; heartburn; burping; dry mouth; taste changes; appetite loss; weight loss; uncontrollable shaking of a part of the body; pain, tingling, numbness, or burning in a part of the body; yawning; sweating; hot flashes/flushing; frequent or difficult urination; sore throat, chills, or other infection signs; ringing in the ears; sexual problems, and enlarged pupils.

Immediately inform your doctor of any bothersome or persistent side effects you experience while taking Effexor (venlafaxine).

Ask your doctor about Effexor (venlafaxine).

Reference

1. Venlafaxine. MedlinePlus; 2022.

About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)

Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....