Venlafaxine (Effexor)

Venlafaxine, a drug belonging to a class of medications called serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), is used for treating depression and anxiety. Often referred to by its brand name, Effexor, it belongs to a group of antidepressants called selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). It’s one of several SNRIs that help prevent specific brain chemicals from being destroyed prematurely.

Venlafaxine, or Effexor, works by affecting levels of certain chemicals in your brain. Specifically, it blocks reuptake of two important neurotransmitters: serotonin and norepinephrine. As a result, you have more of these chemicals available to help control mood. Venlafaxine has been approved by the FDA to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD) and panic disorders. It has also been approved as a preventative medication for migraines.

Common side effects of venlafaxine include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, dry mouth and nausea. Some people also experience constipation or diarrhea. The manufacturer of Effexor cautions against abrupt discontinuation of treatment with Venlafaxine as it may cause withdrawal symptoms including irritability, insomnia and tingling sensations in your hands or feet.

You can take venlafaxine with or without food. Dosing varies based on which condition is being treated. Take your medication as directed by your doctor. If you are taking it for depression, continue to take your medicine even if you begin to feel better after several days. Do not stop taking your medicine without talking to your doctor first. Stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as dizziness, headache, irritability, sleep disturbances, nausea and diarrhea.

Venlafaxine, a popular SSNI, can be taken with other medications, however it is important to share with your provider all the medications you are using (both prescription and over the counter). Your provider can then determine if there are any particular medications that should not be used with Venlafaxine

Venlafaxine is not for everyone. Do not take it if you are pregnant or breast-feeding, have liver problems, cardiovascular disease or seizure disorders.

Venlafaxine, like other antidepressants, can take time to work. You can expect to see some improvement over the first 4 weeks of using the medication. If you do not see improvement or have worsening symptoms talk to your provider immediately. There are several different doses of Venlafaxine and your provider will work with you to find the dose that works best for you.

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