Brand Name: Effexor and Effexor XR (not available in generic)

Manufacturer: Wyeth-Ayerst Laboratories

Description: Venlafaxine's chemical structure is unlike any other antidepressant. It works to restore the balance of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters - specifically serotonin and norepinephrine. 

Indications and Uses: Venlafaxine has FDA approval for the treatment of depression. Some doctors reportedly have successfully used Venlafaxine to treat patients with panic and anxiety disorders, chronic pain, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and obsessive compulsive disorder. FDA indications for some of these uses are being requested by the manufacturer and are pending.

Contraindications, Warnings and Precautions: Venlafaxine is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity and in patients taking MAOI's (monoamine oxidase inhibitors). Hypertension (elevated blood pressure) can occur in some patients; the BP increases appear to be dose related. If the patient has a sustained increase in BP at a worrisome level, reducing the dose or discontinuing the medication should be considered. Venlafaxine should be used cautiously in patients with a history of seizures. Some patients on Venlafaxine develop anorexia (decreased appetite). It should not be used in patients with known anorexia.

Adverse Reactions:  Possible side effects include nausea, sleepiness, dry mouth, dizziness, constipation, nervousness, sweating, weakness, abnormal ejaculation/orgasm, and loss of appetite.

Dosing Range:  Effexor initially 75 mg. in two or three divided doses.  Usual maximum dose is 225 mg one time a day.  Effexor XR initially 37.5 mg or 75 mg once daily.  Usual maximum dose is 225 mg daily.

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© 2000 Red Oak Psychiatry Associates, P.A.    Updated 11/26/2007