Venlafaxine (By Mouth)

Venlafaxine (VEN-la-fax-een)

Treats depression.

Brand Name(s):

Effexor-XR, Effexor
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to venlafaxine or if you have taken a medicine called an MAO inhibitor (Eldepryl®, Nardil®, Marplan®, Parnate®) in the past two weeks.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Long Acting Capsule

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to take and how often. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• It is best to take this medicine with food.
• Take the extended-release capsules with food and a full glass of liquid. Swallow the capsule whole. Do not crush, chew, or open it.
• It is best to take this medicine at the same time each day.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose.
• Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Certain drugs should not be used while using venlafaxine. Using these drugs can cause very serious medical problems, or even death.
• Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you have liver disease, kidney disease, or seizures.
• This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
• Your doctor will need to check your blood pressure at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Loss of appetite causing weight loss
• Seizures
• Unusual behavior

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Blurred vision
• Constipation, dry mouth, or sweating
• Drowsiness, tiredness dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sexual problems in men (abnormal ejaculation)
• Trouble sleeping

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.