EFFEXOR XR (VENLAFAXINE XR)

About Effexor XR and How it Works

Effexor XR is a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SSNRI) antidepressant that may be prescribed to treat anxiety or panic disorder, or major depressive disorder.

Chemical compounds in the brain known as neurotransmitters act as chemical messengers between the nerve cells. When two of these neurotransmitters known as serotonin and noradrenaline are released from nerve cells, they act to lighten the mood. However, when these chemicals are reabsorbed into nerve cells, they no longer have this mood lightening effect.

Effexor XR prevents serotonin and noradrenaline from being reabsorbed to prolong the mood lightening effect to treat depression. Rather than being released into your system all at once, this extended-release medication is released gradually throughout the day, to help ensure that it stays at a more constant level in your system.

Effexor XR or generic Venlafaxine XR balances certain brain chemicals, which should lessen symptoms such as feeling guilty or worthless, loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, difficulty concentrating/making decisions, suicidal thoughts, significant weight loss/gain, insomnia or oversleeping, and loss of energy.

What is the Active Ingredient in Effexor XR?

The active ingredient in Effexor XR is Venlafaxine XR. When you shop at NorthWestPharmacy.com, you have the option to buy Effexor XR or the less expensive generic Venlafaxine XR online. Generic drugs such as Venlafaxine XR are less costly than brand name drugs and have the same active medicinal ingredients as their brand name counterparts. Generic Venlafaxine XR is available at a fraction of the cost of Effexor XR. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Conditions Treated by Effexor XR

Effexor XR may be prescribed to treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), a condition which is characterized by excessive, exaggerated anxiety and worry about everyday life events with no obvious reasons for worry. The anxiety may dominate a person’s life so that it interferes with daily functioning, including work, school, and relationships. GAD may also affect physical well-being, with symptoms such as muscle tension, headaches, tiredness, and nausea.

In addition to being prescribed to treat depressive disorders, Effexor XR or Venlafaxine XR generic may be prescribed to treat nerve pain. Effexor XR may significantly reduce the pain associated with diabetic neuropathy, a form of nerve damage that is characterized by numbness, tingling and pain in the legs and other extremities.

Before You Take Effexor XR

Before taking Effexor XR, advise your doctor of your complete medical history, especially of:

• Bleeding problems
• Personal or family history of glaucoma
• High blood pressure
• Heart problems (such as heart failure or previous heart attack)
• High cholesterol
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Seizure disorder
• Thyroid disorder

Your doctor will also need to know about any over-the-counter medications or Rx drugs you are presently taking to help determine the appropriate Effexor XR dosage for you.

Effexor XR Precautions

You should not suddenly stop taking this medicine, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms. These temporary symptoms can be avoided by consulting with your doctor to stop the medication gradually. You should not drink alcohol while taking Effexor XR. This medication may cause drowsiness, blurred vision, or dizziness. Avoid driving or performing any tasks that require you to be mentally alert until you know how Effexor XR affects you.

Possible Effexor XR Side Effects

• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Reduced sex drive
• Increased sweating
• Mild nausea