Patient handout
Venlafaxine (Effexor XR)
You have been prescribed venlafaxine. This page explains what it is, what to expect, and when to call.
What it is
Venlafaxine is an SNRI antidepressant. It raises serotonin and, at higher doses, norepinephrine. It is used for depression, generalized anxiety, panic disorder, and social anxiety. It is effective, and it needs a little more care than SSRIs around blood pressure and around stopping.
How to take it
- Take the extended-release capsule once a day, at the same time, with food.
- Swallow it whole. Do not crush, chew, or open it.
- If you miss a dose, take it when you remember the same day. If it is the next day, skip it. Do not double up.
- Dose increases are made in steps over several weeks.
What to expect, and when
- Week 1 to 2: nausea and sweating are the most common early effects and usually fade.
- Week 2 to 4: worry, sleep, and energy often begin to improve.
- Week 4 to 8: full benefit at the right dose.
- Plan to stay on it for at least six to twelve months after you feel well.
Common side effects
Nausea, sweating, dry mouth, dizziness, trouble sleeping or sleepiness, constipation, reduced appetite, and sexual side effects. Blood pressure can rise at higher doses, so we check it at visits.
Call the office the same day if
- New or worsening thoughts of hurting yourself, especially early on or after a dose change (particularly under age 25)
- Unusual restlessness, racing thoughts, or little need for sleep
- Fever with agitation, fast heartbeat, muscle twitching, or confusion (possible serotonin syndrome)
- Severe headache, chest pain, or a very high blood pressure reading
- Unusual bruising or bleeding, or a rash, swelling, or trouble breathing (call 911)
Stopping
Venlafaxine has the strongest withdrawal effect of the common antidepressants. Missing even one or two doses can bring dizziness, nausea, irritability, and electric-shock sensations. Keep refills ahead of time, and never stop on your own. When it is time, we taper slowly together.
Good to know
- Have your blood pressure checked as asked, and tell us if you have high blood pressure or heart disease.
- Tell other prescribers and your pharmacist. Check before adding tramadol, triptans, St. John's wort, or other antidepressants.
- Keep alcohol light. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, tell us.
Questions about this medication?
Alice Tran Psychiatric Care · 3060 Williams Drive, Suite 300, Fairfax, VA 22031
Call: (703) 791-9099 · Text: (703) 791-9031 · info@alicetrannp.com · alicetrannp.com
This handout is for education and is not a substitute for the instructions you received at your visit. Follow the dose on your prescription label. If anything here differs from what you were told, call the office. In an emergency, call 911. If you are in crisis, call or text 988.