Venlafaxine

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Efegen XR, Efexor XR, Illovex SR, Odiven, Venlor XR

Drug group:

Antidepressant drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Venlafaxine is used in the treatment of:

• Depression - elevates mood and restores interest in everyday activities
• Generalized anxiety disorder

How does it work?

• Venlafaxine is an antidepressant with a unique chemical structure
• It has properties of both the tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and lacks anticholinergic side effects

How should it be used?

The drug should be taken with food at a similar time every day

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Taken once daily (XL preparations) or twice daily (other)
• Total daily dose for adults: 75–150mg daily (up to 375mg in severely depressed patients)

How quickly will it start to work?

Some effects in a few days, full antidepressant effect may not be felt for 2–6 weeks. Anxiety may take longer to respond.

How long will the effects last?

8–12 hours (up to 24 hours for XL preparations). Antidepressant effects may continue for up to 6 weeks following prolonged treatment.

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor. You may experience withdrawl symptoms (e.g. dizziness, headache, anxiety, nausea, and insomnia) if the drug is not stopped gradually over at least 4 weeks.    
                     

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No problems expected but blood pressure should be monitored if high doses are prescribed. If you experience confusion, drowsiness, muscle cramps, or seizures you will need to have your sodium levels checked. There is a small risk of suicidal thoughts and selfharm in children and adolescents, and they should be monitored carefully.

What are the possible side effects?

Side effects may wear off in 1–2 weeks.

The following have been reported:

• More common: weakness, nausea, constipation, restlessness (anxiety, nervousness, tremor, abnormal dreams, insomnia, agitation, confusion), blurred vision, drowsiness, dizziness, sexual dysfunction
• Less common: high blood pressure, palpitations
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: suicidal thoughts or attempts

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver/kidney/heart problems, diabetes, high blood pressure, glaucoma, history of bleeding disorders or epilepsy or mania, previous problems with alcohol/drug misuse/abuse, previous adverse reactions to other antidepressants
• Other medicines: sedatives, antihypertensive drugs, warfarin, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety in pregnancy not established, Not recommended for use while breastfeeding
• Children: Not recommended <18 years
• Over 60: Reduced dose may be necessary, increased risk of side effects
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision
• Alcohol: Avoid, enhanced sedative effects