Efexor XR



 
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Efexor XR - Basic Information

 

Indication of Efexor XR:

Efexor is used in the treatment of major depression. It may also be used in the prevention of relapse and recurrence where appropriate.Efexor-XR is appropriate for these indications, as well as the treatment of generalised anxiety disorder and social anxiety disorder.

Action of Efexor XR:

Venlafaxine is an antidepressant unrelated to any other class of antidepressants. It may be useful where many others have failed It is believed to exert its antidepressant effect by increasing the availability of the neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) serotonin and noradrenaline to the brain. It strongly prevents their reuptake into cells, leaving them available to stimulate brain cells. Venlafaxine dose not have activity at a number of other sites in the brain, leaving it free of sedative and other side effects seen with other antidepressants.

Dose Advice of Efexor XR:

Usual dose is 75mg/day.This may be increased to 150mg if no response is seen in 2 weeks.Maximum daily dose is 375mg.Dose changes should be made no more often than 2-weekly.Venlafaxine should be taken once daily, preferably at the same time every day.Dose should be taken with food. Efexor tablets can be divided; Efexor-XR capsules should be swallowed whole.Patients should be regularly reviewed with regard to ongoing need for antidepressant medication.Renal impairment: dose should be reduced by 25-50% in patients with a creatinine clearance of 30ml/min or less.

Schedule of Efexor XR:

S4

Common side effects of Efexor XR:

Nausea.Vomiting.Loss of appetite.Headache.Sweating.Rash.Anxiety.Dizziness.Fatigue.Fainting.High blood pressure (dose-related).Lightheadedness on standing.Tremor.

Uncommon side effects of Efexor XR:

Sexual dysfunction (eg. impotence).Loss of libido.Dry mouth.Insomnia.Oversleeping.Constipation.Low sodium levels in blood.ECG changes.Palpitations.Liver inflammation.Seizures.Bleeding from skin and mucous membranes.

Diseases treated by Efexor XR:

Depression (Clinical depression)  (Clinical depression)


GN: Venlafaxine hydrochloride

Con: depression