Effexor

Generic name: Venlafaxine hydrochloride

What is Effexor?

Effexor is prescribed for the treatment of depression that interferes with daily functioning. The symptoms usually include changes in appetite, sleep habits, and mind/body coordination, decreased sex drive, increased fatigue, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, difficulty concentrating, slowed thinking, and suicidal thoughts.

What is the most important information I should know about Effexor?

Effexor is not approved for use in children or adolescents.

Antidepressants can increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children and teenagers. Both adult and pediatric patients taking antidepressants should be watched closely for changes in moods or actions, especially when they first start therapy or when their dose is increased or decreased. Patients and their families should contact the doctor immediately if new symptoms develop or seem to get worse. Signs to watch for include anxiety, hostility, insomnia, restlessness, impulsive or dangerous behavior, and thoughts about suicide or dying.

Who should not take Effexor?

Never take Effexor while taking other drugs known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Also avoid this drug if it has ever given you an allergic reaction.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Effexor?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Effexor. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have high blood pressure; heart, liver, or kidney disease; a history of seizures or mania; glaucoma; or an overactive thyroid.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual starting dose is 75 milligrams (mg) a day, divided into 2 or 3 smaller doses, and taken with food. If needed, your doctor may gradually increase your daily dose up to a maximum of 375 mg per day, generally divided in three divided doses.

If you have kidney or liver disease or are taking other medications, your doctor will adjust your dosage accordingly.

How should I take Effexor?

Effexor must be taken 2 or 3 times daily. Take it with food, exactly as prescribed. It may take several weeks before you begin to feel better. Your doctor should check your progress periodically.

What should I avoid while taking Effexor?

Effexor may cause you to feel drowsy or less alert and may affect your judgment. Therefore, avoid driving or operating dangerous machinery or participating in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Effexor?

Effexor should never be combined with MAOIs such as the antidepressants phenelzine and tranylcypromine as this could cause a fatal reaction.

Avoid alcohol while taking this medication.

If you have high blood pressure or liver disease, or are elderly, check with your doctor before combining Effexor with cimetidine.

You should consult your doctor before combining Effexor with other drugs that affect the central nervous system, including lithium, migraine medications known as triptans, narcotic painkillers, sleep aids, weight-loss products such as phentermine, tranquilizers, antipsychotic medicines, and other antidepressants that affect serotonin, such as fluoxetine and paroxetine.

Effexor has been found to reduce blood levels of the HIV drug indinavir.

What are the possible side effects of Effexor?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: abnormal ejaculation/orgasm, anxiety, blurred vision, constipation, dizziness, dry mouth, impotence, insomnia, nausea, nervousness, sleepiness, sweating, tremor, vomiting, weakness, weight loss

Can I receive Effexor if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Effexor during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. Effexor should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

If Effexor is taken shortly before delivery, the baby may suffer withdrawal symptoms. Effexor appears in breast milk and could cause serious side effects in a nursing infant. You'll need to choose between nursing your baby or continuing your treatment with Effexor.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Effexor?

It is not necessary to make it up. Skip the missed dose and continue with your next scheduled dose. Do not take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Effexor?

Store in a tightly closed container at room temperature. Protect from excessive heat and moisture.