The
following information is a summary about
Effexor XR.
It is not intended to replace a doctor's instructions.
Effexor XR USES
Effexor XR (Venlafaxine) is used in the treatment of depression.
The extended release form (Effexor XR) is also used to
treat anxiety.
Effexor XR DIRECTIONS
Take Effexor XR (Venlafaxine) 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.
Effexor XR SIDE EFFECTS
Effexor XR 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.
Effexor XR 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 Effexor XR. 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 Effexor XR appears in breast milk. Consult
your doctor before breast-feeding.
Effexor XR 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 Effexor XR. Do not start or stop any
medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Effexor XR 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.
Effexor XR NOTES
Laboratory tests may be done periodically while taking
Effexor XR to monitor the effects. See your doctor regularly.
MISSED DOSE
If you miss a dose, use Effexor XR as soon as you remember.
If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed
dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the
dose to catch up.
Effexor XR STORAGE
Store Effexor XR 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..
