Venlafaxine
Uses
Venlafaxine is used in the treatment of Depression, generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) and diabetic nerve disease.
How it Works
Venlafaxine is known as a serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) antidepressant. Venlafaxine increases the amount of circulating serotonin available in your brain, Serotonin works to stimulate other neurons in the brain that stimulates mood and physical symptoms in depression. Venlafaxine works by potentiating the activity of serotonin in the brain which it achieves by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin.Altering the balance of the chemicals in the brain can help with the symptoms of depression, anxiety disorders, and OCD.
Common Side effects
Patients who take Venlafaxine may suffer from such side effects;
Decreased libido,
Blurred vision,
Sleepiness,
Insomnia,
Vomiting,
Weakness,
Nausea,
Dry mouth,
Abdominal pain,
Agitation,
Lethargy,
Dyspepsia,
Headache,
Dizziness,
Increased sweating,
Paresthesia,
Fatigue,
Anxiety,
Chills,
Diarrhoea,
Vertigo,
Increased blood pressure,
Flushing,
Constipation,
Sleep disorder
Introduction
Effexor belongs to the antidepressant group of drugs. Specifically, it belongs to the group of SSNRIs or selective serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. It functions by means of affecting the chemical inside the brain which is responsible for depression. The manufacturers of this drug are Protec and Pfizer Labs. The generic name of this medication is venlafaxine.
Composition
The effexor drug is an antidepressant drug that is taken via the oral route. The molecular weight of this drug is 313.87. The color of venlafaxine is usually off-white to white. It is crystalline solid. The inactive ingredients of venlafaxine are iron oxides, magnesium stearate, lactose, sodium starch glycolate, and cellulose.
Use
The primary usage of Effexor is for the treatment of depression especially those of major depressive symptoms.
Dosage and administration
The suggested initial dose is Effexor 75 mg once a day. However, this drug can be given in divided doses. It is important that you take this drug on a full stomach. The dosage may be increased up to 150 mg a day depending on the patients condition
Side effects
Some of the side effects that may be experienced while taking this medication are High blood pressure, Abnormal urination during the day, Increased muscle contractions, Excessive Yawning, Chills, and headaches.
Storage
This drug has to be stored at room temperature away from children and pets. It has to be not be exposed to extreme heat, cold or moisture.