Effexor & Effexor XR (venlafaxine)

Classification:

Serotonin-norepinephrine Re-uptake Inhibitor (SNRI) Antidepressant

Form:

• Effexor: 25mg, 37.5mg, 50mg, 75mg and 100mg tablets
• Effexor XR: 37.5mg, 75mg, and 150mg capsules

Dosage:

• Effexor: Start at 25mg three times daily up to 75mg three times daily. Maximum dose is 225mg in 24 hours
• Effexor XR: Typical dose is 75mg once daily but can be started at 37.5mg initially to minimize side effects

Instructions:

• Should be taken with food.
• Effexor XR should be taken the same time each day if possible.

Side Effects to Report to Your Doctor:

• problems urinating
• insomnia or drowsiness
• nausea / vomiting /diarrhea
• dry mouth
• headache
• dizziness
• sexual dysfunction (ejaculatory delay)
• unusual dreams
• nervousness
• heart palpitations
• sweating
• tremors
• increased cholesterol

Precautions:

• Do not give this drug to persons younger than 18.
• Do not drink alcohol with this medication.
• People taking MAOIs should not take Effexor or Effexor XR.
• If a dose of Effexor XR is missed DO NOT take two doses the next day.

Black Box Warning:

• Antidepressants increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children and teenagers. Patients who are started on therapy should be observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidal ideations, or unusual changes in behavior. Effexor XR & Effexor (venlafaxine HCl) are not approved for use in children and teenagers.

For More Information:

Detailed information about:

• Effexor XR
• Effexor

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