Effexor

Drug Uses

Effexor is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that restores the balance of two chemicals called serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Symptoms of depression are relieved by correcting the imbalance of these two chemicals in the brain.

How it is taken

Effexor comes in the form of an oral capsule. It should be taken with a meal and the capsule should not be divided, crushed, chewed, or placed in water.

It is recommended that you swallow it with fluid. However, you may also carefully open the capsule, sprinkle the contents on a spoonful of applesauce and swallow it. Drink a glass of water after that.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Overdose

Some of the symptoms of an Effexor overdose include dizziness, drowsiness, numbness, nausea, irregular heartbeats, seizures, and unconsciousness. Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect an overdose.

Warnings/Precautions

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances.

If you are taking an antidepressant for the first time, then you may require constant and regular monitoring. It also increases suicidal tendencies and make patients agitated, irritable, hostile, impulsive, or restless. If the patient is experiencing any of these conditions, then please contact your doctor immediately.

Constant blood pressure monitoring may be required while undergoing Effexor therapy.

You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or if you are taking MAOIs.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using and contact your doctor immediately.

Certain drugs can interact with and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.

It is unknown whether Effexor is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Possible Side Effects
Some of the possible side effects of Effexor are nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, abdominal pain, loss of appetite or weight, dry mouth, drowsiness or dizziness, mild tremor, anxiety, 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). Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, closing of the throat, swelling of the lips, tongue, or face, or hives), seizures, irregular heartbeat, severely high blood pressure (blurred vision, headache).

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.