Venlafaxine
Generic Name: Venlafaxine
Seek Urgent Medical Attention If:
You experience severe allergic reaction symptoms (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat causing difficulty breathing), severe rash with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose. Call emergency medical services immediately.
Uses & Medical Indications
Treatment of major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder
Depression, GAD, SAD, Panic disorder
Dosage & Administration Guidelines
75 mg/day in divided doses (IR) or once daily (ER), increase gradually
Not approved; off-label for anxiety/depression
Use caution, start at lower doses
225-375 mg/day depending on formulation and setting
Reduce dose by 25-50% in mild to moderate impairment
Reduce dose by 50% in mild to moderate impairment
Side Effects & Safety Warnings
Nausea, somnolence, dry mouth, sweating, abnormal ejaculation, anorexia
Suicidal thoughts, serotonin syndrome, sustained hypertension, hyponatremia
Concomitant use with MAOIs
Suicidality in children/young adults. Discontinuation syndrome if stopped abruptly.
Interactions (Drugs, Food & Alcohol)
MAOIs, other serotonergic drugs, NSAIDs/aspirin (bleeding risk)
Take with food
May increase CNS depression
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety
Risk of neonatal adaptation syndrome
Excreted in milk, potential for adverse effects in infant
Patient Counseling & Practical Advice
Do not stop taking abruptly. Report worsening depression or suicidal thoughts.
Take as soon as remembered. Do not take two doses at once.
Mental status, blood pressure, serum sodium
Content for Venlafaxine was synthesized and fact-checked against standardized regulatory monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and national health authorities:
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) — National List of Essential Medicines
- World Health Organization (WHO) — Model List of Essential Medicines 23rd List
- Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) — Indian Pharmacopoeia Drug Monographs
- National Health Service (NHS) — Medicines A to Z Clinical Guidelines
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.