Effexor XR

The active ingredient in Effexor XR is venlafaxine hydrochloride. It belongs to a group of medications known as serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI). Its mechanism of action works by increasing the activity and amounts of serotonin and norepinephrine, natural chemical substances in the brain, to help maintain mental balance.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Effexor XR. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Effexor XR:

• Effexor XR is typically taken once daily with food.
• If extended-release capsules cannot be swallowed whole, open the capsule and sprinkle its contents on a spoonful of applesauce.
• If you miss a dose of Effexor XR, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

The most common side effects of Effexor XR include:

• Nausea.
• Headache.
• Drowsiness.
• Tiredness.
• Tremors.
• Fast heart rate.
• Blurred vision.
• Vomiting.
• Diarrhea.
• Increased sweating.
• Dry mouth.
• Loss of appetite (anorexia).
• Constipation.
• Trouble sleeping.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Effexor XR. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Severe, life-threatening allergic reactions - hives, itching, swelling.
• Symptoms of serotonin syndrome - agitation, hallucinations, fever, sweating, shivering, fast heart rate, muscle stiffness, loss of coordination, twitching, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.
• Increased blood pressure.
• Increased risk of bleeding.
• Behavioral changes suicidal thoughts/behaviors or other mood changes such as new/worsening anxiety, panic attacks, and irritability.
• Eye pain (angle-closure glaucoma).
• Manic episodes in people with bipolar disorder.
• Discontinuation syndrome - agitation, irritability, confusion, tingling or electric shock feelings).
• Seizures.
• Low sodium levels in your blood (hyponatremia).
• Lung problems.
• Sexual problems (dysfunction, abnormal ejaculation).

These are not all of the possible side effects of Effexor XR. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Effexor XR, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Bipolar disorder.
• Heart disease.
• High blood pressure (hypertension).
• High cholesterol.
• Diabetes.
• Lung disease.
• Glaucoma.
• Thyroid disorder.
• Seizure.
• Sexual problems.
• Bleeding problems.
• Low blood levels of sodium.
• Liver problems.
• Kidney disease.

Boxed Warning

• In children, adolescents, and young adults taking antidepressants, increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior and worsening mood were observed.
• Effexor XR is not indicated nor approved for use in pediatric patients.

• Hypersensitivity reactions to venlafaxine hydrochloride, desvenlafaxine succinate, or any inactive ingredients in the Effexor XR formulation.
• Associated use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing an MAOI.

It may take a few weeks before you notice improvements in your symptoms and 6 to 8 weeks to get the full effects of Effexor XR.

When Effexor XR is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, or tranylcypromine.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or any other serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI).
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) - (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen).
• Blood thinner medications (warfarin).
• Amphetamines.
• Opioid pain medications (tramadol, fentanyl).
• St. John's wort.
• Tryptophan.
• Weight loss medications (phentermine).
• Lithium.
• Buspirone.
• Cimetidine.
• Ketoconazole.
• Tricyclic antidepressant medications.
• Migraine medications (triptan - sumatriptan, zolmitriptan).

Dosage forms of Effexor XR include:

• Extended-release capsules - 37.5 mg, 75 mg, and 150 mg.

Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat and keep it out of reach of children.

Pfizer is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Effexor XR.

There are lower-cost generics available for the brand name Effexor XR.

Do not stop or adjust your use of this medication without first consulting with your doctor. Stopping Effexor XR suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, flu-like symptoms, nausea, trouble sleeping, and dizziness.

Taking Effexor XR during pregnancy could harm your unborn baby. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Effexor XR passes into your breast milk and may harm your baby. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.