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Antidepressants > Effexor
Effexor
 Effexor®
Important
Note
The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the
expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare
professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is
safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare
professional before using this drug.
Uses
This medication is used in the treatment of depression. The extended release
form of this medication is also used to treat anxiety.
How to Use
Take this medication 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.
Side
Effects
This medication 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.
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 this medication. 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 this medication appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before
breast-feeding.
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 this
medication. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist
approval.
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.
Notes
Laboratory tests may be done periodically while taking this medication to
monitor the effects. See your doctor regularly.
Missed Dose
Try to take each dose at the scheduled time. If you miss a dose, take it as
soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose,
instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not
"double-up" the dose to catch up.
Storage
Store this medication 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.
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