Effexor Xr

Venlafaxine

Formulated to address major depressive disorder and utilized to alleviate symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder with intent to promote mental wellbeing.

Active ingredient
Venlafaxine
Supply
Pharmacy
Route
Oral use
Form
Prolonged-release capsule, hard
Strengths
75 · 150mg

Effexor Xr details

Alternative names
Efexor XL
Therapeutic class
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor (SNRI)
Pharmacological class
SNRI
Known off-label uses
hot flushes
Minor side effects
nausea; dizziness; dry mouth; sweating; insomnia
Moderate side effects
anorexia; tremor; abnormal vision; hypertension
Dosage forms
Prolonged-release capsule, hard
Administration route
Oral use
Supply category
Pharmacist only, dispensed without a prescription
Manufacturer
Pfizer
Onset Time
2–4 weeks
Duration
24 hours
Storage instructions
Store at room temperature, keep in original packaging.
Drug interactions
monoamine oxidase inhibitors; st. john's wort; tramadol; alcohol
Age restrictions
Not recommended for use in children and adolescents.
Contraindications

hypersensitivity to venlafaxine; concurrent use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors; uncontrolled hypertension

Precautions and warnings

avoid rapid discontinuation; monitor blood pressure; may impair driving ability; caution in patients with a history of seizures

Serious side effects

serotonin syndrome, requires immediate medical attention; suicidal ideation, requires immediate medical attention; seizures, requires immediate medical attention

Patient summary

formulated to address major depressive disorder and utilized to alleviate symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder with intent to promote mental wellbeing.

Mechanism of action

Venlafaxine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). It restores the balance of neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine within the brain to help improve mood and reduce anxiety symptoms.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Pregnancy: consult your doctor before use. Breastfeeding: venlafaxine passes into breast milk; discuss benefits and risks with your doctor.

Where this medicine is registered

  • Singapore
  • Hong Kong
  • Thailand
  • Malaysia
  • Philippines
  • Indonesia
  • Taiwan
  • South Korea
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • UAE
  • South Africa

About Effexor Xr

Effexor Xr is a brand of venlafaxine, a primary treatment for Major Depressive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. This medication is also known as Efexor Xl and is supplied as a tablet in strengths of 75mg and 150mg. Pfizer produces this treatment to assist with mental health management for patients around the world.

Effexor Xr availability in Asia

Effexor Xr is registered across 13 markets including Taiwan, South Korea and Japan, with availability also in the UAE, Singapore and Hong Kong. For those managing their mental health, generic venlafaxine, much of it made in India, is far more affordable than the original brand. This medication is best used under a doctor’s care, helping patients maintain consistency of treatment while living or working abroad.