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Home Knowledge Center Wellness Library Venlafaxine XR 24 HR Extended Release Oral Capsule 37.5 mg, 75 mg, 150 mg

Venlafaxine XR 24 HR Extended Release Oral Capsule 37.5 mg, 75 mg, 150 mg

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • anxiety
  • depression
  • menopausal symptoms
  • narcolepsy
  • pain
  • post-traumatic stress disorder

Brand Name(s): Effexor

Generic Name: Venlafaxine XR

Instructions

Instructions

Swallow the medicine without crushing or chewing it.

Take the medicine with food.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.

It may take several weeks for this medicine to fully work.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all your medicines. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines.

Do not suddenly stop taking this medicine. Check with your doctor before stopping.

 Cautions

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Do not drink beverages with alcohol while on this medicine.

Family should check on the patient often. Call the doctor if patient becomes more depressed, has thoughts of suicide, or shows changes in behavior.

Call the doctor if there are any signs of confusion or unusual changes in behavior.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Do not start or stop any other medicines without first speaking to your doctor or pharmacist.

Call your doctor right away if you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

 Side Effects

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
  • decreased appetite
  • constipation
  • dizziness or drowsiness
  • dry mouth
  • high blood pressure
  • nausea
  • nervousness
  • sweating

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • bleeding or bruising
  • chest pain
  • cough that does not go away
  • pain in the eye
  • hallucinations (unusual thoughts, seeing or hearing things that are not real)
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • muscle cramps or weakness
  • dilation of the pupils
  • restlessness
  • problems with sexual functions or desire
  • shakiness
  • shortness of breath
  • dark, tarry stool
  • blurring or changes of vision
  • severe or persistent vomiting

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

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