The
following information is a summary about
Effexor
XR. It is not intended to replace a doctor's
instructions.
Effexor XR USES
Effexor is used in the treatment of depression. The
extended release form (Effexor XR) is also used to
treat anxiety.
Effexor XR DIRECTIONS
Take Effexor XR by mouth exactly as prescribed. During
the first few days your doctor may gradually increase
your dose to allow your body to adjust to the medication.
Take this medication with food. Do not take this
more often or increase your dose without consulting
your doctor. Your condition will not improve any
faster but the risk of serious side effects will
be increased. Do not stop taking this drug suddenly
without your doctor's approval. Your dose may need
to be gradually reduced to prevent adverse effects.
Effexor XR SIDE EFFECTS
Effexor XR may initially cause dizziness and nausea
as your body adjusts to the medication. Other side
effects reported include sweating, loss of appetite,
dizziness, dry mouth, anxiety, tremor, blurred vision,
constipation, sleepiness, change in sexual ability.
If any of these effects continue or become bothersome,
inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop
any of these serious effects: rapid or irregular
heartbeat, chest pain, severe headache, trouble breathing,
painful or difficult urination, skin rash. This medication
may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or clouded thinking.
Use caution operating machinery or engaging in activities
requiring alertness. If you notice other effects
not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Effexor XR PRECAUTIONS
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially
of: kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease,
high blood pressure, glaucoma, any allergies. Elderly
persons may be more sensitive to the effects of Effexor
XR. Use with caution. This medication should be used
only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss
the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not
known if Effexor XR appears in breast milk. Consult
your doctor before breast-feeding.
Effexor XR DRUG INTERACTIONS
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription
medication you may take especially: MAO inhibitors
(e.g., tranylcypromine, phenelzine, isocarboxazid,
selegiline, furazolidone), other antidepressants,
cimetidine, lithium, sedatives, narcotic pain relievers
(e.g., codeine, morphine), seizure medication, certain
migraine medicine (e.g., sumatriptan), medicine for
weight control. It is recommended to avoid alcohol
while using Effexor XR. Do not start or stop any
medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Effexor XR OVERDOSE
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison
control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms
of overdose may include sleepiness, irregular heartbeat,
and seizures.
Effexor XR NOTES
Laboratory tests may be done periodically while taking
Effexor XR to monitor the effects. See your doctor
regularly.
MISSED DOSE
If you miss a dose, use Effexor XR as soon as you
remember. If it is near the time of the next dose,
skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing
schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
Effexor XR STORAGE
Store Effexor XR at room temperature between 59 and
86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from
heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep
this and all medications out of the reach of children..
