Antidepressants Generic Effexor XR Venlafaxine 37.5/75mg

Drug Uses

Effexor XR (Venlafaxine 37.5/75mg) is used to relieve the symptoms of depression. It works primarily by inhibiting the reuptake of two chemicals in the brain — serotonin and norepinephrine — which are thought to maintain communications between synapses in the region of the brain where mood is regulated. By correcting the imbalance in the secretion of these brain chemicals, a person may be relieved from the gloomy or down state that a depressed person usually feels.

How Taken

Effexor XR comes in the form of a capsule for oral consumption. The usual administration for this medicine is once a day after meals, and it must be swallowed whole or taken by sprinkling the contents of an opened capsule on a spoonful of applesauce. The latter method of administering this drug is best for persons who vomit after ingesting a medicine, or those types of persons who dislike swallowing pills. When this method is used, the caregiver of a depressed person should ensure that the patient has swallowed the spoonful of applesauce in one gulp, followed by a drink of a glass of water. This is to ensure that the entire dose of the medicine has been swallowed. Antabus kopen zonder recept.

Warnings/Precautions

Before you begin Effexor XR therapy, inform your psychiatrist about the medicines that you are currently taking, most especially those that are used to treat heart diseases. Even medicines that you buy over-the-counter, herbals, and supplements must be mentioned to your doctor. You should not take Effexor XR if you are taking an MAOI medicine. If you are currently undergoing therapy with antidepressants, take caution when taking Effexor XR. You must be under close supervision of your physician or a competent caregiver to monitor your condition. This is most especially true if you react to antidepressants and Effexor XR in a more destructive way — that is, you have a strong urge to suddenly end your life. If this thought crosses your mind during the first week of treatment, your dose of Effexor XR may be increased or decreased, depending upon the observation and tests that your doctor will perform. Other behaviors that should be monitored during your first few weeks of Effexor XR treatment include: hostility even toward family members, impulsiveness, restlessness, irritability, and agitation. If these behaviors occur, report them immediately to your doctor. Effexor XR may also make a person hypertensive, so blood pressure changes should be closely monitored regularly. This medication requires tapering, so do not stop taking it without the express consent of your doctor. Pregnant or nursing women are generally advised against taking this medicine or any other form of antidepressants. Every person reacts differently to Effexor XR; thus, you must first know how Effexor XR affects your vision, breathing, and coordination before you engage in any physical activity, drive a car, or operate heavy and complicated machinery. It is strictly prohibited to consume alcohol while taking Effexor XR.

Missed Dose

Never take a double dose of this medicine as it may have serious effects. If you miss a dose, take it at the next scheduled dosing time to avoid double dosing (especially if you tend to be forgetful).

Possible Side Effects

Almost all medicines have side effects. But before you learn about the side effects of Effexor XR, first determine if you have an allergy to this medicine. Side effects are annoying, but having an allergy to a medicine is more than annoying — it’s life-threatening. Here are the most common symptoms of someone suffering from an allergic reaction: swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, and redness in the eyes. Hives or rashes on the skin are very visible. A person with allergies to Effexor XR may also have difficulty breathing, swallowing, or closing the throat. If any of these occur, do not hesitate to go to the nearest hospital for immediate medical attention.

As for side effects, the most common and less serious may include vomiting, abdominal cramps, drowsiness, mild tremors, and nausea. When you experience these, continue taking Effexor XR and report these side effects to your doctor if they become bothersome. Other side effects that might cause concern, which may pass as you continue treatment, include: agitation, increased anxiety, difficulty sleeping, vivid dreams, and increased blood cholesterol levels. Your doctor will monitor you during the first few weeks of taking this medicine to help you manage these side effects.

During treatment, you may experience sexual dysfunction as a side effect. In men, this may include impotence, erectile dysfunction, and abnormal ejaculation. In women, it may include decreased libido and difficulty reaching orgasm.

There may be other side effects not listed here. If any side effects seem unusual or become too bothersome, discuss them with your doctor to get proper guidance and recommendations for relief.

Storage

Always store Effexor XR at 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), or at room temperature. Never store it in direct sunlight, as sunlight may damage the integrity of the medicine’s chemical components. Keep Effexor XR out of reach of everyone, especially children.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose of Effexor XR, call your local poison control center for first aid instructions. Immediately after, seek medical attention at the nearest hospital. A patient who has overdosed on Effexor XR may experience the following: nausea, dizziness, irregular heartbeats, numbness in the hands and face, seizures, and unconsciousness.

More Information

Effexor XR may cause dizziness or headaches, especially during the first few weeks of taking it. If you don’t know how your body will react to it, use caution when engaging in physical activities such as driving or operating heavy machinery. As much as possible, avoid alcohol during your Effexor XR therapy, as it may increase drowsiness and the occurrence of side effects. This medicine requires tapering, so do not stop taking it without your doctor’s recommendation. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose during the tapering period and when you should stop completely.

Disclaimer

This drug information is for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for your doctor’s advice or recommendations. This information covers the basic uses, dosage administration, drug interactions, and side effects of this medicine. We disclaim all responsibility for any outcome or result arising from reliance on and use of the information provided. We do not claim accuracy or reliability of the information stated herein.

What is the shelf life of the pills?

The expiry date is mentioned on each blister. It is different for different batches. The shelf life is 2 years from the date of manufacture and may vary from batch to batch depending on when they were manufactured.

Disclaimer: The content on this blog is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before starting any new medication or changing your current treatment.