Effexor (generic name: venlafaxine; brand names include: Ventab / Efexor / Venlor / Venla / Venlift) is an antidepressant that belongs to a class of medications called Serotonin-Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs).

For more than 12 years, Effexor has been used by many people to help manage the symptoms of depression and to help keep them from coming back.

Effexor is indicated for the treatment of:

Major depression
Generalised Anxiety Disorder
Social Anxiety Disorder
Panic Disorder

It is also indicated for the prevention of relapse and recurrence of major depression where appropriate.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

This medicine is not recommended for use in children or adolescents under 18 years of age.

Recommendations

Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Effexor exactly as directed.

Effexor should be taken as a single dose with food at about the same time every day, either in the morning or in the evening.
The capsule should be swallowed whole; it should not be divided, crushed, chewed, or dissolved in water.
The capsule can also be carefully opened and its contents sprinkled onto a spoonful of applesauce. This should be swallowed immediately and followed by drinking a glass of water. Do not chew this mixture before swallowing.

Although you may begin to feel better after two weeks, it may take several weeks before you feel much better. It is important to give Efexor time to work. It may take 6 to 8 weeks or longer for you to feel the full benefit of this medication. Continue to take Effexor even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Effexor without talking to your doctor. Your doctor will probably decrease your dose gradually.

Do not miss any doses. If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Store this medicine at room temperature, away from heat and light.

Precautions

Before you start to take Effexor, tell your doctor or pharmacist if:
you have allergies to the active ingredient or other medicines
you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant, or you are breast-feeding

also if you have, or have had, any medical conditions, especially the following:

A history of fits (seizures or convulsions)
Blood pressure problems
Glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
Problems with your heart, kidneys or liver
Conditions that require treatment with anti-coagulants or platelet therapy

Ingredients

Active ingredient: venlafaxine.