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Effexor

Effexor is the brand name used for the antidepressant (mood elevator) drug venlafaxine, and is used to treat depression. Effexor, an antidepressant similar to SSRIs (serotonin reuptake inhibitors), has been reported to induce very severe withdrawal reactions similar to those seen with SSRI discontinuation. Of all these similar antidepressants, only Paxil is reported as having worse withdrawal reactions. Effexor, like SSRIs inhibits the reuptake of serotonin. However, it also inhibits the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine. According to her husband, Andrea Yates, the Texas mother that drowned and killed her five children was taking a combination of Effexor and Remeron. There have been numerous other reports of people exhibiting agitated and violent behavior while taking or discontinuing SSRIs. When people discontinue use of an SSRI, the patient may exhibit extreme irritability within a few days after discontinuation of the drug. While Effexor is not specifically classified as a SSRI antidepressant, the medication does inhibit the reuptake of serotonin. It also inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine. Because it does inhibit the uptake of serotonin, people taking Effexor may experience many of the same side effects and withdrawal reactions seen with the SSRIs. Withdrawal reactions from SSRIs can be very serious and have reportedly caused some patients to become extremely agitated, violent, and/or suicidal.

What disorders is Effexor used to treat?

Effexor is used to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder. There is also current evidence that the drug may be useful in treating ADD/ADHD in children and adults.

How does Effexor work?

Effexor increases neurotransmitter activity and inhibits the reuptake of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.

What medications should not be taken with Effexor?

Effexor should not be taken with or within fourteen days of taking MAO inhibitors. Avoid using alcohol while taking this drug. Use of cimetidine (tagamet) and fluoxetine (prozac) while taking Effexor can significantly raise the blood concentration of Effexor.

What is the usual dose of Effexor?

A usual starting dose of Effexor is 75mg per day divided between 2-3 doses. The medication may be increased slowly up to 225mg per day.

What are some of the common side effects of Effexor?

• Nausea
• Headache
• Sleepiness
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Insomnia
• Constipation
• Nervousness
• Raised blood pressure
• Fatigue
• Sweating
• Decreased appetite
• Sexual dysfunction

How long does it take for Effexor to relieve symptoms of depression?

Effexor usually takes two to four weeks to relieve the symptoms of depression. However some patients report an improvement in symptoms within the first week.

What are the cautions and contraindications in the use of Effexor?

• Allergy to venlafaxine (Effexor)
• Use of MAOIs
• Pregnancy and breast feeding