Venlafaxine
Depressive Disorder, Pain ... show more
.svg)
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
No
venlafaxine
Summary
Venlafaxine is used to treat depression and anxiety disorders, which are conditions that affect mood and emotional well-being. It helps improve mood, energy levels, and interest in daily activities.
Venlafaxine works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, which are chemicals in the brain that help regulate mood. This action helps improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Venlafaxine is usually taken once or twice daily, with or without food. The starting dose for adults is typically 37.5 mg to 75 mg per day, and the maximum recommended dose is 225 mg per day.
Common side effects of Venlafaxine include nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, and sweating. These effects are usually mild to moderate and vary from person to person.
Venlafaxine can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in young adults. It should not be taken with MAO inhibitors, which are another type of antidepressant, due to the risk of serotonin syndrome, a serious condition caused by too much serotonin in the brain.
Indications and Purpose
How does Venlafaxine work?
Venlafaxine works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, which are chemicals in the brain that help regulate mood. It belongs to a class of medications called serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Think of it like adjusting the volume on a radio to improve the sound quality. By increasing these chemicals, Venlafaxine helps improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Is Venlafaxine effective?
Yes, Venlafaxine is effective for treating depression and anxiety disorders. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, which are chemicals in the brain that help regulate mood. Clinical studies show that Venlafaxine significantly improves symptoms of depression and anxiety. It may take several weeks to notice the full benefits. Always follow your doctor's instructions and continue taking the medication as prescribed for the best results.
What is Venlafaxine?
Venlafaxine is an antidepressant medication in the class of serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). It works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, which are chemicals in the brain that help regulate mood. Venlafaxine is primarily used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. Always follow your doctor's instructions when taking Venlafaxine.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Venlafaxine?
Venlafaxine is usually taken long-term for chronic conditions like depression and anxiety. The duration of use depends on your response to the medication and your doctor's recommendations. It's important to continue taking Venlafaxine as prescribed, even if you start feeling better. Stopping the medication without medical advice could cause your symptoms to return. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your Venlafaxine treatment.
How do I dispose of Venlafaxine?
Dispose of Venlafaxine by taking it to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw it in the trash at home. First, mix the medication with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal it in a plastic bag, and then throw it away. This helps prevent accidental ingestion by children or pets and protects the environment.
How do I take Venlafaxine?
Take Venlafaxine as prescribed by your doctor. It's usually taken once or twice daily, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew it. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's close to your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose. Do not double up on doses. Avoid alcohol while taking Venlafaxine, as it can increase side effects. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions regarding diet and fluid intake while on this medication.
How long does it take for Venlafaxine to start working?
Venlafaxine may start to improve symptoms within one to two weeks, but it can take several weeks to achieve its full therapeutic effect. Individual factors like age, overall health, and the severity of symptoms can affect how quickly you notice improvements. It's important to continue taking Venlafaxine as prescribed, even if you don't feel better right away. Always talk with your doctor about your progress and any concerns you have.
How should I store Venlafaxine?
Store Venlafaxine at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container to protect it from damage. Do not store it in humid places like bathrooms, as moisture can affect the medication's effectiveness. Always keep Venlafaxine out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.
What is the usual dose of Venlafaxine?
The usual starting dose of Venlafaxine for adults is 37.5 mg to 75 mg per day, taken once daily or divided into two doses. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your response and needs. The maximum recommended dose is 225 mg per day. For elderly patients or those with liver or kidney issues, dose adjustments may be necessary. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your health needs.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Venlafaxine with other prescription drugs?
Venlafaxine can interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects or reducing effectiveness. Major interactions include MAO inhibitors, which can cause serotonin syndrome, a serious condition with symptoms like confusion and rapid heart rate. Other interactions include blood thinners, which can increase bleeding risk, and other antidepressants, which can increase serotonin levels. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking to avoid interactions.
Can Venlafaxine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Venlafaxine is excreted into breast milk, and its effects on a breastfed infant are not well-known. It may cause side effects in the baby, such as irritability or poor feeding. If you're breastfeeding, talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking Venlafaxine. They can help you decide on the best treatment plan for you and your baby. Always discuss any concerns about medication use while breastfeeding with your healthcare provider.
Can Venlafaxine be taken safely while pregnant?
The safety of Venlafaxine during pregnancy is not well-established. Limited evidence suggests potential risks, such as complications in newborns. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest treatment options. They can help create a plan that protects both you and your baby. Always discuss any concerns about medication use during pregnancy with your healthcare provider.
Does Venlafaxine have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Venlafaxine can cause nausea, dizziness, and dry mouth, which are common adverse effects. Serious adverse effects include increased blood pressure and risk of suicidal thoughts. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor. They can help determine if these symptoms are related to Venlafaxine and suggest appropriate actions. Always report any concerning symptoms to your healthcare provider.
Does Venlafaxine have any safety warnings?
Yes, Venlafaxine has important safety warnings. It can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially in young adults and children. Monitor for mood changes and report them to your doctor. Venlafaxine can also cause serotonin syndrome, which is a serious condition with symptoms like confusion, rapid heart rate, and high blood pressure. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical help immediately. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any unusual symptoms.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Venlafaxine?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Venlafaxine. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects like dizziness and drowsiness. It may also worsen depression symptoms. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation and be aware of how alcohol affects you. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking Venlafaxine to get personalized advice based on your specific health situation.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Venlafaxine?
Yes, you can exercise while taking Venlafaxine. However, be aware that the medication can cause dizziness or drowsiness, which might affect your exercise capacity. Start with light to moderate activities and see how your body responds. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities if you feel dizzy or lightheaded. If you have concerns about exercising while on Venlafaxine, talk with your doctor. They can provide guidance based on your specific health situation.
Is it safe to stop Venlafaxine?
It's not safe to stop Venlafaxine suddenly. Doing so can cause withdrawal symptoms like dizziness, headache, and irritability. These symptoms can be uncomfortable and may last for several days. To avoid withdrawal, your doctor will likely recommend gradually reducing your dose. Always talk with your doctor before stopping Venlafaxine. They can help you make any medication changes safely to protect your health.
Is Venlafaxine addictive?
Venlafaxine is not considered addictive, but it can cause physical dependence. This means you might experience withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking it suddenly. These symptoms can include dizziness, headache, and irritability. To avoid withdrawal, your doctor will likely recommend gradually reducing your dose when it's time to stop the medication. Always follow your doctor's instructions and discuss any concerns about dependence with them.
Is Venlafaxine safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals are more vulnerable to the side effects of Venlafaxine, such as dizziness and increased blood pressure. These side effects can lead to falls or other complications. Venlafaxine should be used with caution in the elderly, and they should be closely monitored by their healthcare provider. Dose adjustments may be necessary based on their response and any side effects experienced. Always consult a doctor before starting or adjusting medication in elderly patients.
What are the most common side effects of Venlafaxine?
Side effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common side effects of Venlafaxine include nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, and sweating. These effects vary from person to person and are usually mild to moderate. If you experience new symptoms after starting Venlafaxine, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication. They can help determine if the side effects are related to Venlafaxine and suggest ways to manage them.
Who should avoid taking Venlafaxine?
Do not take Venlafaxine if you are allergic to it or its ingredients. It's contraindicated with MAO inhibitors, which are a type of antidepressant, due to the risk of serotonin syndrome, a serious condition caused by too much serotonin in the brain. Caution is needed for people with high blood pressure, as Venlafaxine can increase blood pressure. Always consult your doctor about any concerns or conditions before starting Venlafaxine.
Forms / Brands
