Effexor XR instructions

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Patient Education Monograph Venlafaxine HCl Extended-Release (VEN-lah-fax-EEN HIGh-droe-KLOR-ide)

Common Brand Name Effexor XR

The following product information is not intended to replace the physician's or manufacturer's instructions.

Effexor XR common medical uses:
Effexor, an antidepressant (mood elevator), used to relieve symptoms of depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and social anxiety disorder (social phobia). This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses. Effexor blocks the ability of the nerve terminals in the brain to bind and break down serotonin and norepinephrine so that more is available for the brain to use. Abnormally low levels of serotonin and norepinephrine may play a role in conditions such as depression and anxiety disorder.

Effexor XR contraindications:
Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to any ingredient in this medicine. Before you take Effexor, tell your doctor if you are taking or have taken within the last 2 weeks any MAO inhibitors (phenelzine (Nardil) or tranylcypromine (Parnate)). You should not take Effexor if you are taking either of these medications.

How to use Effexor XR:
How much medicine you take and how often you take it depends on many factors, including the condition being treated and the age and weight of the patient. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of the medicine you are taking, talk with your doctor. It is usually taken two or three times a day and should be taken with food to lessen stomach upset. Swallow capsules whole. Do not chew, crush, divide, or place the capsule in water before taking. It is important to take Effexor regularly to get the most benefit. Continue to take venlafaxine even if you feel well. Do not stop taking this drug suddenly. The stopping of using this medicine should be done gradually. This drug must be taken regularly for a few weeks before its full effect is felt. Do not take more or less of the medication or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
At least 14 days should pass between stopping the use of a monoamine oxidase inhibitor and the starting of Effexor. In addition, at least 7 days should pass after stopping Effexor before starting a monoamine oxidase inhibitor.

Effexor XR possible side effects:
Every medicine can cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Side effects from Effexor are common. Upset stomach, drowsiness, weakness or tiredness, excitement or anxiety, insomnia, nightmares, dry mouth, skin more sensitive to sunlight than usual, changes in appetite or weight, headache may occur. If any of the following side effects persist or worsen or do not go away, tell your doctor:

• constipation
• difficulty or frequent urination
• blurred vision
• changes in sex drive or ability
• excessive sweating

If you experience any of the following serious symptoms, stop taking Effexor and call your doctor immediately:

• allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face)
• jaw, neck, and back muscle spasms
• high blood pressure (blurred vision, headache)
• slow or difficult speech
• shuffling walk
• persistent fine tremor or inability to sit still
• fever
• yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Effexor XR precautions:
Before using this medicine, tell your health care provider if you are allergic to venlafaxine or any other drugs. Before you take Effexor, tell your doctor if you are taking or have taken within the last 2 weeks any MAO inhibitors (phenelzine (Nardil) or tranylcypromine (Parnate)). You should not take Effexor if you are taking either of these medications. Tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking, especially anticoagulants (warfarin (Coumadin)); cimetidine (Tagamet); lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid); medication for high blood pressure; muscle relaxants; sedatives; sleeping pills; tranquilizers. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or are breast-feeding. Tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, seizures, epilepsy. This medication may lessen your ability to judge, think, or handle complex motor skills. Use caution when driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness, coordination, or physical dexterity. Dizziness or lightheadedness can occur when rising from a seated or lying position. If this occurs, sit or lie down and avoid sudden changes in posture. Avoid alcohol while taking Effexor, as alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug. Have your blood pressure checked regularly.

Drug Interactions:
Many drugs can interact with Effexor, resulting in side effects or decreased effectiveness of the medicine. Do not take Effexor if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take especially:

• other antidepressants
• antipsychotics
• antihistamines
• cimetidine
• lithium
• sedatives
• narcotic pain relievers (codeine, morphine)
• seizure medication
• certain migraine medicine (e.g., sumatriptan)
• anxiety medicines
• muscle relaxants
• medicine for weight control

It is recommended to avoid alcohol while using Effexor. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose:
Call doctor or pharmacist immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include sleepiness, irregular heartbeat, and seizures.

Notes:
If you have any questions about your medicine, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Missed dose:
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Storage:
Store this medication between 68 to 77 degrees F away from heat and light. Protect from moisture. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.

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