Effexor XR strongly inhibits the reabsorption of serotonin and norepinephrine-two neurotransmitters. As such, it is particularly significant in determining the pathophysiology of depression. It is used for the relief of the symptoms of depression via correcting the imbalance of these two chemicals. Effexor XR is administered orally in the form of a capsule. It is to be taken once daily with food. Each capsule should be swallowed whole with fluid. The capsules must not be broken, divided, crushed, chewed, or placed in water. The capsules may also be taken by opening them and sprinkling the content on a spoonful of fluid. The concoction must be swallowed immediately without chewing. Follow up with a glass of water to ensure the complete swallowing of the mixture.
Warnings Precautions
Before beginning treatment with Effexor XR, inform your doctor about any medicines you might be taking, including non-prescription drugs and herbal supplements. Effexor XR should not be used if you are taking MAOIs. Monitoring is necessary if you are taking antidepressants in order to determine whether your condition is getting worse or you are becoming suicidal. This is especially important at the beginning of the therapy or when the dosage is altered. Agitation, irritability, hostility, impulsiveness and restlessness are also symptoms that must be reported to your doctor immediately. Effexor XR may lead to increased blood pressure in some patients. Therefore, blood pressure should be monitored regularly. In case the treatment is interrupted abruptly or the daily dose of Effexor XR is reduced drastically patients may suffer from discontinuation symptoms. Consult your doctor before terminating or reducing your dose of Effexor XR. Pregnant and nursing women are not to undergo any treatment with antidepressants before consulting their doctor. Until the full effect of Effexor XR on the patient is determined driving and operating machinery must be exercised with caution. Avoid drinking alcohol during treatment with Effexor XR.
Missing a Dose
In case of missing a dose, take the medication as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is nearly time for your next dose. Never take two doses at the same time.
Possible Side Effects
In case of an allergic reaction (difficulty in breathing; throat congestion; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); seizures; or an irregular heartbeat or very high blood pressure (blurred vision, headache) terminate the administration of Effexor XR, contact your doctor or seek medical help immediately. There may be other less serious side effects besides the ones listed here. If you experience nausea, vomiting, an 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), continue treatment with Effexor XR but consult your doctor. Inform your doctor about any side effects that appear unusual or are particularly irritating.
Storage
Store Effexor XR at room temperature (68F to 77F or 20C to 25C). Keep Effexor XR away from children.
Overdose
In the case of an overdose, seek medical help immediately. Dizziness, drowsiness, numbness, nausea, an irregular heartbeat, seizures, and losing consciousness are among the symptoms of an Effexor XR overdose.
More Information
Effexor XR may cause dizziness or drowsiness. In case you experience any of these symptoms avoid hazardous activities. Exercise caution when driving and operating machinery. Consume alcohol cautiously as it may cause additional drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion. Do not terminate the Effexor XR therapy without consulting your doctor first. You may have to reduce the dosage gradually before terminating the treatment. An abrupt termination of the therapy may cause serious side effects.
Resources:
http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/venlafax_ad.htm
http://www.medhelp.org/HealthTopics/Effexor.html
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