Effexor

It is an antidepressant and helps in treating mood and behavior related disorders, anxiety and panic disorders. Other uses of this drug includes treatment of migraines, diabetic neuropathy, and hot flashes. It is categorized as serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SSNRIs). It works by restoring the chemical balance in the brain. It is a peach-colored, shield-shaped, scored capsule and is available in 25, 37.5,50,75 and 100mg composition.

Effexor is also known as Effexor XR or venlafaxine HCl is extended release capsules for Effexor. It is also used to treat major depression disorders, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder and social anxiety disorder.

Dosage

Make sure you take Effexor as advised or prescribed by the doctor. It should never be taken for longer than prescribed or in large amounts. Make sure you drink full glass of water while taking this medication. It is generally prescribed to be taken once a day however based on the patient's condition and the way body reacts to the drug your doctor may tailor the dosage to get the best results. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember and it can be skipped if it is time for the next dosage already.

Side Effects

Among the severe side effects, the patient on medication of Effexor may have increased heart beat rate, seizures, abnormal bleeding, skin bruises, redness in eyes, pain in eyes, hallucinations and palpitations. It may also lead to increased lipid concentration or high blood cholesterol. The drug causes drowsiness or dizziness after some time of consumption. The person may feel nauseate with dry mouth, loss of appetite and constipation. It may also interfere with normal sleep patterns causing sleep apnea, insomnia and in result causes yawning, agitation and irritability. It also affects the thinking ability of the person and shows symptoms like confusion. It increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts in children or young adults. However all the patients on the medication need to be under medical supervision hence it is very important that the doctor is kept informed in case of any abnormal activity.

Precautions

Do not drink alcohol as it can aggravate its side effects. It affects thinking and increases response time of the body. Make sure you tell your doctor if you use any other medication for pain, seizures, hypertension, anxiety, muscle relaxation or any other form of sedatives. Make sure you do not take over dose of Effexor as that may result in dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, and rigor mortis. If you are on mono amine oxidase inhibitors, you should not take Effexor. If you plan to stop MAOI, you should wait for at least 2 weeks to start with Effexor. Likewise if you want to switch to MAOI by quitting Effexor you should wait for at least 1 week. Inform your doctor if you have been ever thorough depression, liver disease, hypertension, epilepsy or HDL. Effexor has not been approve to treat disorders in children or teens and should never be used.