Venlafaxine 100 mg: Venlafaxine Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing
Venlafaxine Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing
Warnings:
Antidepressant medications are used to treat a variety of conditions, including depression and other mental/mood disorders. These medications can help prevent suicidal thoughts/attempts and provide other important benefits. However, a small number of people (especially people younger than 25) who take antidepressants for any condition may experience worsening depression, other mental/mood symptoms, or suicidal thoughts/attempts. It is very important to talk with the doctor about the risks and benefits of antidepressant medication (especially for people younger than 25), even if treatment is not for a mental/mood condition.
Tell the doctor right away if you notice worsening depression/other psychiatric conditions, unusual behavior changes (including possible suicidal thoughts/attempts), or other mental/mood changes (including new/worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostile/angry feelings, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, very rapid speech).
Be especially watchful for these symptoms when a new antidepressant is started or when the dose is changed.
Warnings:
Antidepressant medications are used to treat a variety of conditions, including depression and other mental/mood disorders. These medications can help prevent suicidal thoughts/attempts and provide other important benefits. However, a small number of people (especially people younger than 25) who take antidepressants for any condition may experience worsening depression, other mental/mood symptoms, or suicidal thoughts/attempts. It is very important to talk with the doctor about the risks and benefits of antidepressant medication (especially for people younger than 25), even if treatment is not for a mental/mood condition.
Tell the doctor right away if you notice worsening depression/other psychiatric conditions, unusual behavior changes (including possible suicidal thoughts/attempts), or other mental/mood changes (including new/worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostile/angry feelings, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, very rapid speech).
Be especially watchful for these symptoms when a new antidepressant is started or when the dose is changed.
… Show More
Uses
Venlafaxine is used to treat depression. It may improve your mood and energy level, and may help restore your interest in daily living. Venlafaxine is known as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). It works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances (serotonin and norepinephrine) in the brain.
How to use Venlafaxine HCL
Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using venlafaxine and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually 2 to 3 times daily with food.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose.
Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.
Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Also, you may experience symptoms such as confusion, mood swings, blurred vision, headache, tiredness, sleep changes, and brief feelings similar to electric shock. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased to reduce side effects. Report any new or worsening symptoms right away.
It may take several weeks to feel the benefit of this medication. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.
Side Effects
See also Warning section.
Nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, constipation, loss of appetite, blurred vision, nervousness, trouble sleeping, unusual sweating, or yawning may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
This medication may raise your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: easy bleeding/bruising, decreased interest in sex, changes in sexual ability, muscle cramps/weakness, shaking (tremor).
Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: cough that doesn’t go away, shortness of breath, chest pain, severe/pounding headache, black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, eye pain/swelling/redness, widened pupils, vision changes (such as seeing rainbows around lights at night), seizure.
This medication may increase serotonin and rarely cause a very serious condition called serotonin syndrome/toxicity.
The risk increases if you are also taking other drugs that increase serotonin, so tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the drugs you take (see Drug Interactions section). Get medical help right away if you develop some of the following symptoms: fast heartbeat, hallucinations, loss of coordination, severe dizziness, severe nausea/vomiting/diarrhea, twitching muscles, unexplained fever, unusual agitation/restlessness.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before taking venlafaxine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to desvenlafaxine; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: bleeding problems, personal or family history of glaucoma (angle-closure type), high blood pressure, heart problems (such as heart failure, previous heart attack), high cholesterol, kidney disease, liver disease, seizure disorder, thyroid disease.
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or blur your vision. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages.
Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially bleeding and dizziness when standing. Older adults may also be more likely to develop a type of salt imbalance (hyponatremia), especially if they are taking “water pills” (diuretics). Dizziness and salt imbalance can increase the risk of falling.
Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of the drug, especially loss of appetite and weight loss. Monitor weight and height in children who are taking this drug.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. It may harm an unborn baby. Also, babies born to mothers who have used this drug during the last 3 months of pregnancy may rarely develop withdrawal symptoms such as feeding/breathing difficulties, seizures, muscle stiffness, or constant crying.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your newborn, tell the doctor promptly.
Since untreated mental/mood problems (such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks) can be a serious condition, do not stop taking this medication unless directed by your doctor. If you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, immediately discuss the benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy with your doctor.
This drug passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.
Some products that may interact with this drug are: other drugs that can cause bleeding/bruising (including antiplatelet drugs such as clopidogrel, NSAIDs such as ibuprofen/naproxen, “blood thinners” such as dabigatran/warfarin).
Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding when used with this medication. However, if your doctor has directed you to take low-dose aspirin for heart attack or stroke prevention (usually 81-162 milligrams a day), you should continue taking it unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Taking MAO inhibitors with this medication may cause a serious (possibly fatal) drug interaction. Avoid taking MAO inhibitors (isocarboxazid, linezolid, metaxalone, methylene blue, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, safinamide, selegiline, tranylcypromine) during treatment with this medication. Most MAO inhibitors should also not be taken for two weeks before and at least 7 days after treatment with this medication.
Ask your doctor when to start or stop taking this medication.
The risk of serotonin syndrome/toxicity increases if you are also taking other drugs that increase serotonin. Examples include street drugs such as MDMA/”ecstasy,” St. John’s wort, certain antidepressants (including SSRIs such as fluoxetine/paroxetine, other SNRIs such as duloxetine/milnacipran), tryptophan, among others. The risk of serotonin syndrome/toxicity may be more likely when you start or increase the dose of these drugs.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other products that cause drowsiness such as opioid pain or cough relievers (such as codeine, hydrocodone), alcohol, marijuana (cannabis), drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants (such as carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine), or antihistamines (such as cetirizine, diphenhydramine).
Check the labels on all your medicines (such as allergy or cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness.
Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.
Venlafaxine is very similar to desvenlafaxine. Do not take medications containing desvenlafaxine while using venlafaxine.
This medication may interfere with certain lab tests (including urine tests for amphetamines), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.
Does Venlafaxine HCL interact with other drugs you are taking?
Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe drowsiness, seizures, fast/irregular heartbeat.
Do not share this medication with others.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as blood pressure, cholesterol) should be done while you are taking this medication.
Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Images
venlafaxine 75 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: L 178
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 75 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: I 21
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 75 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: ZC 67
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 25 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: I 17
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 25 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: ZC 64
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 50 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: shieldImprint: 394
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 37.5 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: shieldImprint: 393
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 25 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: shieldImprint: 392
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 100 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: I 22
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 50 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: I 20
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 37.5 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: ZC 65
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 75 mg tablet
Color: light orangeShape: ovalImprint: IP 304
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 100 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: R DY 549
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 50 mg tablet
Color: light orangeShape: roundImprint: IP 303
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 25 mg tablet
Color: light orangeShape: roundImprint: IP 301
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 75 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: R DY 548
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 50 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: R DY 547
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 37.5 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: R DY 546
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 25 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: R DY 545
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 100 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: L 179
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 37.5 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: I 19
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 100 mg tablet
Color: light orangeShape: ovalImprint: IP 305
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 25 mg tablet
Color: orangeShape: ovalImprint: H P 246
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 25 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: 175
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 37.5 mg tablet
Color: yellowShape: roundImprint: V 2 M
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 37.5 mg tablet
Color: orangeShape: ovalImprint: H P 247
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 100 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: ZC 68
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 50 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: ZC 66
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 75 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: shieldImprint: 395
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 100 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: shieldImprint: 396
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 75 mg tablet
Color: yellowShape: roundImprint: M V4
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 50 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: L177
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 37.5 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: T V 2 K
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 37.5 mg tablet
Color: light orangeShape: roundImprint: IP 302
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 50 mg tablet
Color: orangeShape: ovalImprint: H P 248
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 37.5 mg tablet
Color: peachShape: roundImprint: 176
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 75 mg tablet
Color: orangeShape: ovalImprint: H P 249
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
venlafaxine 100 mg tablet
Color: orangeShape: ovalImprint: H P 250
This medicine is a peach, round, scored, tablet imprinted with “L 178”.
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Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.
CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
Venlafaxine Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing
Warnings:
Antidepressant medications are used to treat a variety of conditions, including depression and other mental/mood disorders. These medications can help prevent suicidal thoughts/attempts and provide other important benefits. However, a small number of people (especially people younger than 25) who take antidepressants for any condition may experience worsening depression, other mental/mood symptoms, or suicidal thoughts/attempts. It is very important to talk with the doctor about the risks and benefits of antidepressant medication (especially for people younger than 25), even if treatment is not for a mental/mood condition.
Tell the doctor right away if you notice worsening depression/other psychiatric conditions, unusual behavior changes (including possible suicidal thoughts/attempts), or other mental/mood changes (including new/worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostile/angry feelings, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, very rapid speech).
Be especially watchful for these symptoms when a new antidepressant is started or when the dose is changed.
Warnings:
Antidepressant medications are used to treat a variety of conditions, including depression and other mental/mood disorders. These medications can help prevent suicidal thoughts/attempts and provide other important benefits. However, a small number of people (especially people younger than 25) who take antidepressants for any condition may experience worsening depression, other mental/mood symptoms, or suicidal thoughts/attempts. It is very important to talk with the doctor about the risks and benefits of antidepressant medication (especially for people younger than 25), even if treatment is not for a mental/mood condition.
Tell the doctor right away if you notice worsening depression/other psychiatric conditions, unusual behavior changes (including possible suicidal thoughts/attempts), or other mental/mood changes (including new/worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostile/angry feelings, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, very rapid speech).
Be especially watchful for these symptoms when a new antidepressant is started or when the dose is changed.
… Show More
Uses
Venlafaxine is used to treat depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and social anxiety disorder (social phobia). It may improve your mood and energy level and may help restore your interest in daily living. It may also decrease fear, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, and the number of panic attacks. Venlafaxine is known as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). It works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances (serotonin and norepinephrine) in the brain.
How to use venlafaxine oral
Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using venlafaxine and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily with food, either in the morning or evening.
Do not crush, chew, or dissolve this medication. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Swallow whole without crushing or chewing.
If you are taking the capsules, swallow them whole. If you have trouble swallowing the capsules whole, you may open the capsule and sprinkle the contents onto a spoonful of applesauce. Swallow all of the mixture right away without chewing. Drink a glass of water after each dose.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.
Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped.
Also, you may experience symptoms such as confusion, mood swings, blurred vision, headache, tiredness, sleep changes, and brief feelings similar to electric shock. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased to reduce side effects. Report any new or worsening symptoms right away.
It may take several weeks to feel the benefit of this medication. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.
Side Effects
See also Warning section.
Nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, constipation, loss of appetite, blurred vision, nervousness, trouble sleeping, unusual sweating, or yawning may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
This medication may raise your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: easy bleeding/bruising, decreased interest in sex, changes in sexual ability, muscle cramps/weakness, shaking (tremor).
Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: cough that doesn’t go away, shortness of breath, chest pain, severe/pounding headache, black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, eye pain/swelling/redness, widened pupils, vision changes (such as seeing rainbows around lights at night), seizure.
This medication may increase serotonin and rarely cause a very serious condition called serotonin syndrome/toxicity. The risk increases if you are also taking other drugs that increase serotonin, so tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the drugs you take (see Drug Interactions section). Get medical help right away if you develop some of the following symptoms: fast heartbeat, hallucinations, loss of coordination, severe dizziness, severe nausea/vomiting/diarrhea, twitching muscles, unexplained fever, unusual agitation/restlessness.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before taking venlafaxine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to desvenlafaxine; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: bleeding problems, personal or family history of glaucoma (angle-closure type), high blood pressure, heart problems (such as heart failure, previous heart attack), high cholesterol, kidney disease, liver disease, seizure disorder, thyroid disease.
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or blur your vision. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially dizziness when standing. Older adults may also be more likely to develop a type of salt imbalance (hyponatremia), especially if they are taking “water pills” (diuretics).
Dizziness and salt imbalance can increase the risk of falling. Older adults may also be at greater risk for bleeding while using this drug.
Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of the drug, especially loss of appetite and weight loss. Monitor weight and height in children who are taking this drug.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. It may harm an unborn baby. Also, babies born to mothers who have used this drug during the last 3 months of pregnancy may rarely develop withdrawal symptoms such as feeding/breathing difficulties, seizures, muscle stiffness, or constant crying. If you notice any of these symptoms in your newborn, tell the doctor promptly.
Since untreated mental/mood problems (such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks) can be a serious condition, do not stop taking this medication unless directed by your doctor. If you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, immediately discuss the benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy with your doctor.
This drug passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.
Some products that may interact with this drug are: other drugs that can cause bleeding/bruising (including antiplatelet drugs such as clopidogrel, NSAIDs such as ibuprofen/naproxen, “blood thinners” such as dabigatran/warfarin).
Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding when used with this medication. However, if your doctor has directed you to take low-dose aspirin for heart attack or stroke prevention (usually 81-162 milligrams a day), you should continue taking it unless your doctor instructs you otherwise.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Taking MAO inhibitors with this medication may cause a serious (possibly fatal) drug interaction. Avoid taking MAO inhibitors (isocarboxazid, linezolid, metaxalone, methylene blue, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, safinamide, selegiline, tranylcypromine) during treatment with this medication. Most MAO inhibitors should also not be taken for two weeks before and at least 7 days after treatment with this medication. Ask your doctor when to start or stop taking this medication.
The risk of serotonin syndrome/toxicity increases if you are also taking other drugs that increase serotonin. Examples include street drugs such as MDMA/”ecstasy,” St. John’s wort, certain antidepressants (including SSRIs such as fluoxetine/paroxetine, other SNRIs such as duloxetine/milnacipran), tryptophan, among others. The risk of serotonin syndrome/toxicity may be more likely when you start or increase the dose of these drugs.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other products that cause drowsiness such as opioid pain or cough relievers (such as codeine, hydrocodone), alcohol, marijuana (cannabis), drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants (such as carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine), or antihistamines (such as cetirizine, diphenhydramine).
Check the labels on all your medicines (such as allergy or cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.
Venlafaxine is very similar to desvenlafaxine. Do not take medications containing desvenlafaxine while using venlafaxine.
This medication may interfere with certain lab tests (including urine tests for amphetamines), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.
Does venlafaxine oral interact with other drugs you are taking?
Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe drowsiness, seizures, fast/irregular heartbeat.
Do not share this medication with others.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as blood pressure, cholesterol) should be done while you are taking this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Images
venlafaxine ER 150 mg capsule,extended release 24 hr
Color: dark orangeShape: oblongImprint: E 89
This medicine is a dark orange, oblong, capsule imprinted with “E” and “89”.
venlafaxine ER 37.5 mg capsule,extended release 24 hr
Color: peach,grayShape: oblongImprint: E 73
This medicine is a dark orange, oblong, capsule imprinted with “E” and “89”.
venlafaxine ER 75 mg capsule,extended release 24 hr
Color: peachShape: oblongImprint: E 74
This medicine is a dark orange, oblong, capsule imprinted with “E” and “89”.
venlafaxine ER 37.5 mg capsule,extended release 24 hr
Color: white,grayShape: oblongImprint: ZA-35 37.5 mg
This medicine is a dark orange, oblong, capsule imprinted with “E” and “89”.
venlafaxine ER 75 mg capsule,extended release 24 hr
Color: peach,whiteShape: oblongImprint: ZA-36 75 mg
This medicine is a dark orange, oblong, capsule imprinted with “E” and “89”.
venlafaxine ER 225 mg tablet,extended release 24 hr
Color: whiteShape: roundImprint: 13 52
This medicine is a dark orange, oblong, capsule imprinted with “E” and “89”.
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Color: whiteShape: roundImprint: 394
This medicine is a dark orange, oblong, capsule imprinted with “E” and “89”.
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Color: pink,grayShape: oblongImprint: RDY 453
This medicine is a dark orange, oblong, capsule imprinted with “E” and “89”.
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Color: whiteShape: roundImprint: 395
This medicine is a dark orange, oblong, capsule imprinted with “E” and “89”.
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Color: whiteShape: roundImprint: 150 mg
This medicine is a dark orange, oblong, capsule imprinted with “E” and “89”.
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Color: whiteShape: roundImprint: 75mg
This medicine is a dark orange, oblong, capsule imprinted with “E” and “89”.
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Color: whiteShape: roundImprint: OS 302
This medicine is a dark orange, oblong, capsule imprinted with “E” and “89”.
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Color: white,grayShape: oblongImprint: V 9
This medicine is a dark orange, oblong, capsule imprinted with “E” and “89”.
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Color: peach,whiteShape: oblongImprint: V 10
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Color: peach,grayShape: oblongImprint: 1018 37.5
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Color: pink,whiteShape: roundImprint: 760
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Color: pink,whiteShape: roundImprint: 759
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Color: pink,whiteShape: ovalImprint: 794
This medicine is a dark orange, oblong, capsule imprinted with “E” and “89”.
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Color: orange,whiteShape: oblongImprint: V 11
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Color: pinkShape: oblongImprint: RDY 454
This medicine is a dark orange, oblong, capsule imprinted with “E” and “89”.
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Color: whiteShape: roundImprint: 393
This medicine is a dark orange, oblong, capsule imprinted with “E” and “89”.
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Color: pink,whiteShape: ovalImprint: 758
This medicine is a dark orange, oblong, capsule imprinted with “E” and “89”.
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how to take drugs, effect, can you drink without a prescription and with alcohol
Medicine and health
Ekaterina Kushnir
treats anxiety disorder
I have generalized anxiety disorder.
For a long time I coped without pills and other help, but one day I got tired of constant anxiety and began to interfere with my normal life. As a result, I turned to a private psychiatrist.
The doctor prescribed an antidepressant from the SSRI group – these are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Such drugs are the first thing prescribed in the treatment of depression and a number of other conditions, including my illness.
The doctor immediately warned me about some peculiarities associated with taking the drug. Some of them I then felt on myself. I think everyone who plans to be treated with antidepressants should know about them.
At the same time, it should be taken into account that most of the negative effects of therapy are temporary and not dangerous, and if they do not go away, one medicine can be replaced with another. Antidepressants help many people with mental disorders and other illnesses get rid of their symptoms and return to a full life, so you definitely should not be afraid of them. The main thing is to take such drugs when they are really needed: as prescribed by a competent doctor and under his control.
See a doctor
Our articles are written with love for evidence-based medicine. We refer to authoritative sources and go to doctors with a good reputation for comments. But remember: the responsibility for your health lies with you and your doctor. We don’t write prescriptions, we give recommendations. Relying on our point of view or not is up to you.
Fact No. 1
Antidepressants may make symptoms worse at first
Antidepressants can increase anxiety in anxiety disorders, as well as cause irritability and agitation – the so-called causeless motor agitation, the inability to sit still.
It’s not dangerous, but rather unpleasant. This condition is sometimes referred to as initial anxiety, that is, the anxiety of starting therapy. Up to 65% of people face it.
Antidepressant-induced anxiety syndrome – a systematic review in the British Journal of Psychiatry
There is also evidence that some classes of antidepressants, including SSRIs, may increase suicidal ideation in depression in young people aged 18 to 24 years. These data are not very reliable, and in older people, the risk of suicide no longer increases and even decreases.
Without treatment, depression is more likely to lead to suicidal thoughts, and in case of anxiety, you just need to prepare for such an effect, then it will be easier to survive the attacks.
The doctor told me that in the first two or three weeks there may be an increase in anxiety, but I did not take it too seriously.
Everything was fine for the first week. After about seven days, I became nervous and irritable.
And then I woke up at night and after a while I felt an incomprehensible fear. My heartbeat increased, my head was spinning, my throat was constricted. Because of this, I felt a real panic – I spent the rest of the night fighting terrible thoughts, in the morning I got up completely broken.
8 myths about antidepressants
I never had such panic attacks before taking medication — my anxiety was background, general. I got scared and wrote to the doctor, who reassured me and said that it was not dangerous and would pass soon.
After that, I already expected these panic attacks, immediately tried to relax, calm down, remember that this was just a temporary effect of the drugs. And they ended faster, and then they completely disappeared.
My letter to a psychiatrist. I was scared: I expected an increase in background anxiety, but not panic attacks. I even thought about giving up the medicine
Fact No. 2
The effect of antidepressant treatment will not be immediate
Increase the dose of antidepressants gradually to reduce side effects.
They usually start with the minimum, and then bring it up to the working one. For example, for SSRIs with the active ingredient “sertraline”, the working dose is from 100 mg per day. I started taking such a drug with 25 mg, and then gradually, in several steps, under the supervision of a doctor, raised the dose to 100 mg.
SSRI dosage – NHS
What doses of antidepressants will be optimal – an article in The Lancet
The process of reaching a working dose can take from two weeks to a month or more. It depends on the drug and its tolerance. I turned out to be sensitive to the medicine, it was hard for me to survive every increase in dosage: anxiety increased again, there were other side effects that then stopped. However, this is not the case for everyone, sometimes the process goes faster.
The full therapeutic effect, that is, the disappearance or a strong improvement in the symptoms of the disease, occurs some time after reaching the working dosage. As a rule, this is a week or two, although some positive changes may be earlier.
For some people, this process stretches for a longer period: 6-12 weeks. Minimum initial doses of drugs usually do not work.
It is better to prepare for the fact that the symptoms of the disease will not disappear in the first weeks of treatment. And remember – this does not always mean that the drug needs to be changed, sometimes you just need to wait or further increase the dosage under the supervision of a doctor.
Fact No. 3
Antidepressants are usually taken in combination with other drugs
Another way to mitigate the side effects of antidepressants is to prescribe an additional drug along with them: for example, from the group of tranquilizers. Such drugs may have their own side effects, they should not be taken for a long time. Unlike antidepressants, some of them can be addictive. They are usually appointed for a month, but this period may be shorter or longer.
Antidepressants together with benzodiazepines work better for depression – BMJ magazine
My doctor prescribed a rather mild drug for me.
However, he did not suit me. At first, it caused increased drowsiness: during the period of increased anxiety, it went away for a while, but then returned – even with half a pill I turned off and could sleep all day. And if I drank at night, I woke up with difficulty in the morning. The psychiatrist prescribed another medicine, but I could not buy it: the drug was not available in any pharmacy nearby.
As a result, I simply endured all the side effects of therapy – they were unpleasant, but tolerable. When discussing with the doctor, she called this option acceptable if the side effects of the second medicine only worsen the situation.
My prescriptions for drugs. I never used one, because there was no such medicine in pharmacies
Fact No. 4
Side effects are not always, but they are
Modern antidepressants, including SSRIs, are mild and have almost no side effects. Older drugs – tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors – cause more side effects.
Doctors usually use them when milder first-line drugs don’t work or when they can’t be prescribed.
Side effects of antidepressants – NHS
Side effects of different antidepressants – UpToDate
Side effects of antidepressants and their impact on the outcome of treatment of major depressive disorder – Nature
Selective reuptake inhibitors with serotonin – UpToDate
Managing Antidepressant Side Effects – Advice from the Mayo Clinic Staff
Choosing an SSRI drug does not guarantee the absence of side effects – many people tolerate treatment easily, but sometimes a drug change may be necessary.
The first couple of weeks of taking there is a risk that the state of health will be so-so – it’s worth thinking about. It may be worth scheduling the start of therapy on vacation.
I work remotely, and it was easier for me: the first pill was taken on Saturday, I slept through the weekend. Then she continued to work, but refused any additional loads: housework, part-time jobs, training and everything else.
It was hard work: I wanted to sleep, then I began to worry and get distracted. I also had diarrhea, nausea, headaches, tremors, i.e. hand trembling, hot flashes, sweating, palpitations. At night, panic attacks began, in the morning I had difficulty getting up because I was in pain and dizzy.
There are mixed data on how common the side effects of antidepressants are. If we summarize them, then the numbers look something like this:
- nausea – about 25% feel it;
- diarrhea – it happens in 15% of people, and 5%, on the contrary, will have constipation;
- about 20% of people experience sweating and feeling hot;
- sexual dysfunction, decreased libido may occur in 80% of cases;
- insomnia – in 11% of cases;
- headache and dizziness – in about 10-11% of cases;
- weight gain – not all drugs give this effect.
Some, on the contrary, can reduce weight. On my medicine, I lost 2 kilograms in the first month, despite the fact that I quit training due to poor health. True, then they returned back.
Some, on the contrary, can reduce weight. On my medicine, I lost 2 kilograms in the first month, despite the fact that I quit training due to poor health. True, then they returned back.It can be seen that most side effects occur in less than half of the cases. In addition, in most cases they pass in the first weeks and are not dangerous.
Side effects not listed above are very rare. I was “lucky”, and I faced one such – a decrease in visual acuity. Once in the morning I noticed that I see worse without glasses. A little later, I realized that something was wrong with the glasses.
I wrote to the doctor, she replied that this happens, as a rule, is not dangerous and passes, but it is better to visit an ophthalmologist. I went to the ophthalmologist, everything was fine with my eyes, there was nothing terrible, but my vision really worsened – it was not a subjective feeling. On the right eye, it was -0.5 diopters, it became -0.75, and on the left eye it was -1.
5, and it became -3.5.
I was offered to try changing the drug, but I decided to wait. Vision was then restored. I have not yet gone to the doctor to have it measured, but according to subjective feelings, it is at the same level as before: I am comfortable again in my glasses.
Side effects should not be tolerated – if something greatly worries, scares or interferes with life, it is better to tell the doctor right away. The psychiatrist will be able to determine whether the side effect of the drug is dangerous and whether it is worth continuing to take it. There are several antidepressants of the SSRI group, in addition, there are groups of drugs with a slightly different mechanism of action. As a rule, doctors manage to find a medicine that gives a good effect without side effects.
If there is no danger, the doctor can adjust the dose or increase it more gradually – this often helps to cope with unpleasant effects.
I wrote to the doctor again when my visual acuity decreased
Fact No.
5
Antidepressants need to be taken long term
Antidepressants are not drugs that you can stop drinking as soon as you get better. They are taken for a long time: usually from several months, less often several years.
Anxiety Therapy – UpToDate
For example, for generalized anxiety disorder, the duration of treatment is at least a year. Moreover, the date is not counted from the very beginning, but from the moment when a lasting effect appeared from the pills. In fact, they will have to be drunk for about 1.5 years – it depends on how long it takes to reach the working dosage of the medicine.
The cost of a package of the most famous antidepressant “Zoloft” is about 700 R, enough for about a month. That is, a course of therapy will cost about 10,000 R – maybe more or less, depending on which drug is selected.
Psychotherapy review – UpToDate
Another drug of the same group already costs more than 2000 R per pack. Source: rigla.ru
The cost of an appointment with a good psychiatrist in Moscow is 3000-5000 R.
At first, you will need to visit him about once every 1-1.5 months, then less often.
You can apply to the psycho-neurological dispensary at the place of residence under compulsory medical insurance – it’s free. At the same time, they will not put you on psychiatric registration: it was canceled in 1993. People with disorders that do not threaten their lives or those around them are on consultative and diagnostic care. If you stop going to the doctor, he will not find out what happened: a person seeks help at will.
Psychotherapy, usually cognitive-behavioral, is also commonly prescribed to enhance and sustain the effects of antidepressants. In many cases, it improves the effectiveness of drugs, including depression and generalized anxiety disorder. An appointment with a psychotherapist in Moscow costs an average of 5000 R. For treatment, you will need about 10 sessions or more.
How psychotherapy works
Fact No. 6
Antidepressants should not be stopped abruptly
Antidepressants are not addictive.
However, if you abruptly stop drinking them, there will be a withdrawal syndrome. This is felt as electric current discharges while moving or turning the head, headaches, dizziness, insomnia. Many people experience symptoms similar to the flu or an intestinal virus: low fever, diarrhea, general malaise, chills. Often there is anxiety, there are intrusive images.
Withdrawal symptoms after taking serotonin reuptake inhibitors – Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
How difficult it is to stop taking antidepressants – American Psychological Association
Stopping antidepressants in adults – UpToDate
For this reason, they changed their minds about taking pills or the treatment period has ended, they should be canceled only under the supervision of a doctor.
Antidepressant withdrawal occurs as gradually as the start of treatment. The dosage is slowly reduced, usually at this time again a cover-up drug is prescribed to alleviate side effects.
As a rule, this is the same medicine that was at the beginning of the intake.
Withdrawal is usually harmless and resolves within the first weeks of stopping the drug. Sometimes even within a few days – it still depends on which medicine was prescribed. If severely disturbing symptoms appear during the withdrawal period, you should consult a doctor.
Fact No. 7
If you need to change the drug, everything will start over
It is far from always possible to immediately find the right antidepressant – sometimes the side effects do not go away and you need to take a new one.
Changing antidepressants in adults – UpToDate
Serotonin syndrome – MSD
Most often, it is started again with a small dosage, this delays the process of obtaining the effect of treatment. The new drug may also have side effects – the same or different. We will have to wait again until they pass.
You won’t be able to change the drug on your own, since all antidepressants are sold only by prescription – and that’s good.
Switching from one drug to another can be dangerous if you do not know the characteristics of different groups of drugs.
For example, taking SSRIs is possible only some time after the withdrawal of antidepressants from the group of monoamine oxidase inhibitors – due to the risk of developing serotonin syndrome. This is a potentially fatal condition, accompanied by a change in mental state, high fever, increased muscle tone and other symptoms.
If the drug is changed correctly, there will be no dangerous negative effects, so consultation with a doctor is required.
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Fact No. 8
Among antidepressants there are original drugs and generics
Preparations may be original or generic. Originals are medicines first released by some pharmaceutical company that have passed all clinical trials and checks. Generics are drugs with the same active ingredient from another pharmaceutical company, that is, copied from the original drug.
Theoretically, the action of generics should not differ from the action of original drugs. However, this is possible, since generics may contain other additional substances or the manufacturer may use other raw materials.
Due to my anxiety, I did not read anything in detail about specific drugs before I bought my first antidepressant in a pharmacy so as not to be scared and not think about taking it. I also didn’t think to ask the doctor about this question.
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As a result, I first bought a generic because it was in stock. Then it turned out that, after all, according to the experience of my psychiatrist, the original drug often gives fewer side effects and is better tolerated. As a result, I changed the generic to the original drug – and, indeed, the side effects softened.
In my subjective opinion, which is supported by some data, in the case of antidepressants and other psychotropic drugs, you should always choose the original medicine.
Moreover, the cost of originals and generics is not always very different.
Originals and generics of some SSRIs
| Active ingredient | Original | Original price | Generics | Cost of generics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sertraline | Zoloft | About 700 R, 100 mg tablets | Serenata, Sirlift | 500-600 R 100 mg tablets |
| Escitalopram | Cipralex | 3000 R, tablets 10 mg | “Selektra”, “Elycea” | 500-1300 R 10 mg tablets |
| Fluoxetine | Prozac | About 350 R, 20 mg tablets | Profluzak, Fluoxetine | 100-200 R, 20 mg tablets |
Sertraline
Original
Zoloft
Original price
About 700 R, tablets 100 mg
90 002 Generics
“Serenata”, “Serlift”
Cost of generics
500-600 R, tablets 100 mg
Escitalopram
Original 90 003
Cipralex
Original cost
3000 R, tablets 10 mg
Generics
Selektra, Elycea
Cost of generics
500-1300 R, tablets 10 mg
Fluoxetine
Original
Prozac
Original cost
Approx.
ikov
100-200 R, tablets 20 mg
My tablets: I bought several packs of Serenata at once, so one remained unclaimed
Fact No. 9
Do not take alcohol along with antidepressants
Drinking alcohol while taking antidepressants may exacerbate unpleasant side effects. Also, alcohol is a depressant, that is, it has the opposite effect, and its intake can adversely affect the results of treatment.
Why you shouldn’t mix antidepressants and alcohol – Mayo Clinic
Alcohol is strictly forbidden to drink with some groups of antidepressants, for example, tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors: combination with the latter, for example, can lead to an uncontrolled increase in pressure. MAO inhibitors in general require a special diet – it is unlikely that a doctor will prescribe such drugs as the first antidepressants, but if necessary, he will issue a list of what is allowed and prohibited.
With other antidepressants, moderate use may not be dangerous and may even pass without consequences, but doctors still recommend abstaining so as not to increase side effects and improve treatment outcome.
The main thing is not to temporarily stop taking the drug in order to drink. This can lead to the development of a withdrawal syndrome.
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Fact No. 10
Antidepressants are incompatible with certain drugs and have contraindications
It is important to tell your doctor what medications you are taking and what chronic illnesses you have. For example, SSRIs may not be suitable for epilepsy and bleeding disorders, and tricyclic antidepressants are usually not prescribed for those who have recently had a heart attack, suffer from glaucoma, or porphyria.
Antidepressant Warnings – NHS
Drug Compatibility Test – Drugs.com
It is also important to be careful if you are about to take any over-the-counter medicine. For example, ibuprofen, which people often take on their own to relieve pain and reduce fever. It should not be taken with SSRIs as it increases the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.