Effexor

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.

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 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.

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.

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.