VENLAFAXINE - ORAL (ven-luh-FAX-een)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Effexor XR
USES: This medication is used in the treatment of depression. The extended
release form of this medication is also used to treat anxiety.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth exactly as prescribed. During
the first few days your doctor may gradually increase your dose to allow
your body to adjust to the medication. Take this medication with food. Do
not take this 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 this drug suddenly without your doctor's
approval. Your dose may need to be gradually reduced to prevent adverse effects.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication 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. This medication 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.
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 this medication.
Use with caution. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during
pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known
if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
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 this medication.
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center
or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include sleepiness,
irregular heartbeat, and seizures.
NOTES: Laboratory tests may be done periodically while taking this medication
to monitor the effects. See your doctor regularly.
MISSED DOSE: Try to take each dose 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 to catch up.
STORAGE: Store this medication at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees
F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in
the bathroom. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.
Disclaimer
This information is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice.
Be sure to contact your physician, pharmacist or other health care provider
for more information about this medication.
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Prescribing Information
Effexor Prescribing Information
