Prescription required. Can not be split. Product of New Zealand. Shipped from New Zealand. Effexor XR is also marketed internationally under the name Efexor XR.
Prescription required. Can not be split. Product of Canada. Shipped from Canada.
Prescription required. Can not be split. Product of UK/EU. Shipped from United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Effexor XR is also marketed internationally under the name Efexor XL.
Prescription required. Can not be split. Product of New Zealand. Shipped from New Zealand.
Prescription required. Can not be split. Product of UK/EU. Shipped from United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Effexor XR is also marketed internationally under the name Efexor XL.
Prescription required. Can not be split. Product of Canada. Shipped from Canada.
Prescription required. Can not be split. Product of UK/EU. Shipped from United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Venlafaxine hydrochloride is a prescription medication primarily used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and certain other mental health conditions.
It is marketed under the brand names Effexor XR (extended-release) and Effexor XL (extended-release), which are formulations designed for once-daily administration. Effexor XR is the brand name utilized in the United States, while Effexor XL is marketed in many countries worldwide.
Classification: Venlafaxine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). It works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which may help improve mood, anxiety, and other symptoms.
Effexor is used to treat:
Major depressive disorder (MDD)
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
Social anxiety disorder (SAD)
Panic disorder
Depending on your healthcare provider’s discretion, Effexor may also be considered for other conditions.
Forms: Available as oral capsules in extended-release (XR/XL) forms.
To comply with Canadian International Pharmacy Association regulations you are permitted to order a 3-month supply or the closest package size available based on your personal prescription. read more
Dosage: The dosage will vary based on the condition being treated and the response to the medication. Standard doses are often used, but variability is also common based on individual needs.
Typical starting doses are:
Depression and anxiety disorders: Start at 75 mg per day and increase as necessary (up to 375 mg per day for extended-release formulations).
Panic disorder: Starts with 37.5 mg per day, then increases based on response.
Dosage adjustments may be necessary for patients with kidney or liver impairment.
Administration:
Effexor XR/XL should be taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal upset.
Take the capsule whole, do not crush, chew, or dissolve.
The extended-release formulation ensures a steady release of the medication throughout the day.
Timing: Take once daily, at the same time each day.
Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember unless it's close to the time for the next dose. Do not take two doses at once. Continue your regularly scheduled doses.
Discontinuation: Gradually taper the dose when stopping Effexor to minimize withdrawal symptoms. Never stop suddenly without consulting a healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can help you develop a personalized plan for gradually lowering your dose over time.
Common Side Effects:
Gastrointestinal: Nausea, dry mouth, constipation, loss of appetite.
Nervous system: Dizziness, drowsiness, insomnia.
Sexual: Reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, delayed orgasm.
Cardiovascular: Increased blood pressure (especially at higher doses).
Other: Sweating, tremors, blurred vision, fatigue, headache.
Effexor is generally well-tolerated and some side effects may improve as your body adjusts to the medication. Still, it’s important to maintain communication with your healthcare providers and let them know how you’re feeling, particularly early in therapy or after dose changes.
Serious Side Effects:
Serotonin Syndrome: A potentially life-threatening condition with symptoms like agitation, hallucinations, fever, rapid heart rate, excessive sweating, muscle rigidity, and tremors. This is more likely if multiple medications or supplements that increase serotonin levels are being used together.
Suicidal Thoughts: Increased risk of suicidal ideation, particularly in children, adolescents, and young adults.
Withdrawal Symptoms: Symptoms include irritability, dizziness, nausea, and electric shock-like sensations upon abrupt discontinuation.
Hypertension: Significant increases in blood pressure, especially with higher doses.
Severe Allergic Reactions: Rash, itching, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat.
Rare Side Effects:
Abnormal bleeding or bruising.
Worsening of eye problems such as narrow-angle glaucoma.
Seizures.
Can I take Effexor XR/XL with other medications?
Effexor may interact with several medications, including other antidepressants, certain pain relievers, anticoagulants, and herbal supplements (e.g., St. John's Wort). Always inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you're taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while on Effexor XR/XL?
It is generally advised to avoid alcohol while taking Effexor as it can increase the risk of side effects, including drowsiness and dizziness. Additionally, alcohol may worsen depression and anxiety.
How long does it take for Effexor XR/XL to start working?
It may take 2–4 weeks to notice the full effects of Effexor XR/XL, though some people experience initial improvements sooner. It's important to continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if you feel better.
Can I take Effexor XR/XL if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Effexor should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. This is determined on an individual basis with shared careful consideration between you and your healthcare providers. It is also present in breast milk, so discuss with your doctor whether breastfeeding is safe while on Effexor.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Effexor XR/XL?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed dose.
Will Effexor XR/XL cause weight gain?
Weight changes (either weight loss or gain) can occur while taking Effexor, though it is more commonly associated with weight loss in the initial stages. Talk to your doctor if weight changes are a concern.
Can Effexor XR/XL be used for long-term treatment?
Yes, Effexor can be used for long-term treatment of depression, anxiety, and other disorders. Regular follow-ups with your doctor are recommended to monitor for effectiveness and side effects.
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The content on this page is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice. Patients should not use the information presented on this page for diagnosing a health-related issue or disease. Before taking any medication or supplements, patients should always consult a physician or qualified healthcare professional for medical advice or information about whether a drug is safe, appropriate or effective.
