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Venlafaxine >>
Consumer Information
CONSUMER INFORMATION
Venlafaxine
CAS number 93413-69-5
WARNING: Antidepressant medications are used to treat a variety of
conditions, including depression and other mental/mood disorders. These
medications can help prevent suicidal thoughts/attempts and provide other
important benefits. However, studies have shown that a small number of
people (especially people younger than 25) who take antidepressants for any
condition may experience worsening depression, other mental/mood symptoms,
or suicidal thoughts/attempts. Therefore, it is very important to talk with
the doctor about the risks and benefits of antidepressant medication
(especially for people younger than 25), even if treatment is not for a
mental/mood condition.
USES: Venlafaxine is an antidepressant (serotonin-norepinephrine
reuptake inhibitor type-SNRI) used in the treatment of depression, anxiety,
and panic attacks. It works by restoring the balance of natural substances
(neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine) in the brain.
Venlafaxine may improve your mood, feelings of well-being, and energy level
and decrease nervousness and the number of panic attacks you may have. HOW
TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you
start using venlafaxine and each time you get a refill. If you have any
questions, consult your doctor
ake this medication with food, usually once daily or as directed by your
doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
Swallow the medication whole. Do not crush, break, or chew the capsule or
place it in water. If you have difficulty swallowing this medication whole,
you may open the capsule, sprinkle the contents onto a spoonful of
applesauce, and swallow immediately. Do not chew the food/medication
mixture. Follow each dose with a glass of water.
To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start
taking this drug at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your
doctor's instructions carefully. Do not take more or less medication or take
it more frequently than prescribed.
SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, weakness, dry
mouth, constipation, loss of appetite, weight loss, blurred vision,
tiredness, nervousness, trouble sleeping, sweating, or yawning may occur. If
any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor promptly.
Venlafaxine may increase blood pressure. Your blood pressure should be
checked regularly while you are taking this medication.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek
immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic
reaction, including: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble
breathing.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of: personal or family history
of psychiatric disorders (e.g., bipolar/manic-depressive disorder), personal
or family history of suicide attempts, bleeding problems, severe loss of
body water (dehydration), glaucoma, high blood pressure, heart problems
(e.g., chest pain, irregular heartbeat, heart failure, heart attack, QT
prolongation in the EKG), high cholesterol, kidney disease, liver disease,
seizure disorder, history of stroke, thyroid problems, low sodium in the
blood (e.g., hyponatremia).
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Use caution while driving, using
machinery, or doing any other activity that requires alertness. Avoid
alcoholic beverages.
Caution is advised when using this medication in the elderly because they
may be more sensitive to its effects. The elderly are more likely to lose
too much salt (hyponatremia), especially if they are also taking "water
pills" (diuretics) with this medication.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your
usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 68-77 degrees F (20-25
degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep
all medicines away from children
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