Drug Uses

Effexor XR is a powerful inhibitor of the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine-two neurotransmitters and is believed to be very important for the pathophysiology of depression. The correction of the imbalance of serotonin and norepinephrine-two neurotransmitters may help for relief of the depression symptoms.

How Taken

Effexor XR is available as capsules that are taken orally. The common dosage is one capsule a day that is taken with food. Do not divide, chew, crush or put the capsule in water. Swallow it whole with liquid or open the capsule very carefully and sprinkle its content on a spoonful of apple sauce. You should swallow this mixture immediately with a glass of water so that the pellets would be swallowed completely.

Warnings/Precautions

Inform your doctor about all other prescription or non-prescription medicines that you are using. You should not take Effexor XR in case you are taking MAOIs. During a therapy with antidepressants you should be closely monitored for signs of worsening of your condition or becoming suicidal especially at the beginning of the treatment or when your dosage is increased or reduces. You should also be monitored about becoming agitated, irritable, hostile, impulsive or restless. Inform your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. Blood pressure should be monitored regularly because Effexor XR may raise it in some patients. You may experience discontinuation symptoms in case you reduce your dosage or stop using Effexor XR. Do not do this without the approval of your doctor. You should not use antidepressants without a consultation with your doctor if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Be very cautious when you drive or operate machinery until you see how the medicine affects you. It is recommended that you avoid alcohol consummation during a treatment with Effexor XR.

Missed Dose

In case you miss a dose, take the missed tablet as soon as you remember. However, if it is already time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and take the regular dose. Do not take a double dose to catch up the missed one.

Possible Side Effects

You should discontinue the usage of Effexor XR and immediately search for medical help in case you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); seizures; or an irregular heartbeat or severely high blood pressure (blurred vision, headache). You may experience some less serious side effects. Consult your doctor but do not stop using Effexor XR if you have nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, abdominal pain, or loss of appetite or weight; dry mouth; drowsiness or dizziness; mild tremor, anxiety, or agitation; insomnia; abnormal dreams; sexual problems such as impotence, abnormal ejaculation, difficulty reaching orgasm, or decreased libido; sweating; yawning; or increase in blood cholesterol levels (detected by blood tests). You may also experience other adverse effects that are not mentioned in this leaflet. Consult your doctor if you experience some other side effects.

Storage

Effexor XR is stored at a room temperature (68F to 77F or 20C to 25C). Keep the medicine away from children.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, immediately search for medical help. AN overdose of Effexor XR may be indicate by dizziness, drowsiness, numbness, nausea, irregular heartbeats, seizures, and unconsciousness.

More Information

Be cautious when you drive, operate machinery or perform other dangerous activities because Effexor XR may cause dizziness, drowsiness. Avoid the above-mentioned activities if you experience dizziness, drowsiness. Be careful with the usage of alcohol as it may enhance the drowsiness and dizziness caused by Effexor XR. Do not discontinue the usage of Effexor XR without a consultation with your doctor. Your dosage may have to be gradually reduces before you stop taking the medicine completely. A sudden discontinuation of Effexor XR may cause adverse effects.

Disclaimer

This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.