Effexor

Generic Name

Venlafaxine hydrochloride.

Brand Names

Effexor XR.

General Information

Effexor is a synthetic derivative of phenthylamine and a prescription antidepressant first marketed by Wyeth in 1993 under the names Effexor and Effexor XR (extended-release). Effexor affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause depression. Effexor is prescribed for the treatment of depression-that is, a continuing depression that interferes with daily functioning. Effexor is believed to work by affecting the levels of 2 naturally occurring chemicals in the brain serotonin and norepinephrine. It affects chemicals in your brain that may become unbalanced and cause depression. The recommended initial dosage for Effexor is 75mg per day, given in two or three divided doses with food. Depending on tolerability and the need for further clinical effect, the dose may be increased to 150mg per day, increased further to 225mg per day if needed. The most frequent side effects of Effexor use include somnolence, nervousness, insomnia, dizziness, dry mouth, anxiety, changes in urination, fatigue, vertigo, vivid dreams, electric-shock like sensations, increased blood pressure, gastrointestinal distress, nausea, headache, asthenia, sweating in men.

Effexor Dosage

Effexor XR should be administered in a single dose with food either in the morning or in the evening at approximately the same time each day.
The initial dose of venlafaxine was 75 mg/day.
For patients with difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules, capsules of Effexor XR can be opened and the contents sprinkled on a spoonful of applesauce.
For most patients, the recommended starting dose for Effexor XR is 75 mg/day, administered in a single dose.

Side Effects of Effexor

Some common side effects reported with this medicine include:

Nausea and fatigue.
Male and Female dysfunction.
Skin rash or hives
Dizziness.
Swelling of your face.
Weight loss.
Headache.
Increased blood pressure can occur.

Warnings and precautions before taking Effexor

Before taking venlafaxine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any medications, or if you have cirrhosis or other liver disease.
Tell your doctor if you have a bleeding or blood clotting disorder.
Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor.
If you are breast-feeding, you should not take effexor.
If you develop a skin rash or hives while taking Effexor, notify your doctor. Effexor may also cause bleeding or bruising of the skin.
Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor.
Children below 18 years of age should be given the medicine after taking all precautions and such patients should be monitored at regular interval, as these patients may develop suicidal thoughts.

Overdosage

After taking Effexor, If you feel that overdose is suspected, then contact with your doctor immediately.
An overdose of Effexor, combined with other drugs or alcohol, can be fatal.
The overdose may cause disturbed concentration, confusion and dizziness.
The overdose may also cause higher heart rate, irregular heart beats, impaired conduction as observed in ECG, convulsion, coma and constipation.
US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222.

Disclaimer : All information on www.healthatoz.info is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, please consult your doctor.