Effexor (venlafaxine) online prescription for depression and anxiety
About Effexor (venflafaxine) medication
Some conditions that Effexor is known to treat include depression, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Off-label uses include migraine prevention, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), among others.
Effexor may be prescribed as immediate-release or extended-release tablets and capsules. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage you are prescribed.
If you are prescribed Effexor, be sure to continue taking the course daily unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. It’s also very important to reduce the dose slowly if needing or wanting to stop, if possible, as withdrawal effects can be significant should you stop altogether (cold-turkey, as it’s called).
Effexor uses
Major depressive disorder (MDD)
Generalized anxiety disorder
Social anxiety disorder (SAD)
Panic disorder
Effexor side effects
The side effects associated with taking Effexor are typically mild. Most Effexor side effects are related to physical discomfort. Effexor has some common side effects. They may include:
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Drowsiness
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Tiredness
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Sleep trouble
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Sexual dysfunction
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Changes in weight
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Fast heartbeat
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:
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Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include hallucinations, sweating, twitching, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Serotonin syndrome happens when too much serotonin is in your system. This is rare, and usually only happens when other drugs that raise serotonin levels are also present.
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Blurred vision
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Seizure
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Difficulty breathing
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Unusual bleeding problems
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Low blood sodium
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Severe nervous system reaction
You should call 911 if you notice any of these severe side effects or develop other new or concerning symptoms. Use of Effexor in young children under age 12 is not advised because it is not approved by the FDA for child use.
How to take Effexor
Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
Effexor can come in different forms and doses, so follow the specific instructions on your prescription. It is typically prescribed one time per day. Some specific instructions may include; Extended release: 75 mg orally once daily.
What to avoid while taking Effexor
Ask your doctor when taking Effexor before taking any opioid medications, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, or seizure medication.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if it is acceptable to consume alcohol while taking Effexor.
Some research shows that regular alcohol consumption may increase nervous system side effects, including dizziness and drowsiness. Alcohol may also reduce the medication’s ability to do its job, making it harder to treat depression and anxiety.
Avoid taking MAO inhibitors, as these can cause severe and possibly fatal drug interactions.
Tell your doctor before stopping Effexor XR treatment, as this can increase the withdrawal symptoms and worsen the generalized anxiety disorder or depression.
Medication alternatives to Effexor
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment, they may suggest another selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor or an antidepressant in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
Effexor prescription FAQs
How much does Effexor cost?
How can I refill my Effexor prescription?
What should I avoid while taking Venlafaxine?
How long does it take to get used to Effexor?
What time of day is it best to take Effexor?
What are the dangers of taking Effexor?
While Effexor is ideal for treating panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, and social anxiety disorder, there is a risk of serious side effects, including:
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Suicidal thoughts
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Serotonin syndrome
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High blood pressure
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Closed-angle glaucoma
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mania or hypomania
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Allergic reaction
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Low blood sodium
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Seizures
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Pneumonia
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High cholesterol
Who should not take Effexor?
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People with a history of brain disease, damage, or seizures as this can increase the risk.
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Heart disease or high or low blood pressure, as Effexor can make these worse.
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History of mania as Effexor can make this worse.
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Kidney disease or liver disease as these can increase adverse side effects
What happens if I miss a dose of Effexor?
What happens if I take too much Effexor?
3 simple steps to request your Effexor prescription today
Book an Effexor prescription request appointment.
Talk to your medical provider regarding your Effexor prescription.
Pick up your Effexor prescription.
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Read moreSources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
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Effexor XR Official Website. "Effexor XR." Accessed on October 13, 2023, at https://www.effexorxr.com/.
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FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration). "Effexor XR (venlafaxine hydrochloride) Extended-Release Capsules." FDA. Accessed on October 13, 2023, at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/020699s107lbl.pdf.
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Mayo Clinic. "Venlafaxine (Oral Route) - Side Effects." Mayo Clinic. Accessed on October 13, 2023, at https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/venlafaxine-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20067379?p=1.
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Cleveland Clinic. "Venlafaxine (Tablets)." Cleveland Clinic. Accessed on October 13, 2023, at https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20828-venlafaxine-tablets.
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