EffexorŽ is used in the treatment of depression
and anxiety. EffexorŽ has been proven to help
more people achieve a virtual elimination of their
symptoms.
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EffexorŽ
Important Note
The following information is intended to supplement,
not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your
physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional.
It should not be construed to indicate that use of the
drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult
your healthcare professional before using this drug.
Uses
This medication is used in the treatment of depression.
The extended release form of this medication is also
used to treat anxiety.
How to Use
Take this medication by mouth exactly as prescribed.
During the first few days your doctor may gradually
increase your dose to allow your body to adjust to the
medication. Take this medication with food. Do not take
this more often or increase your dose without consulting
your doctor. Your condition will not improve any faster
but the risk of serious side effects will be increased.
Do not stop taking this drug suddenly without your doctor's
approval. Your dose may need to be gradually reduced
to prevent adverse effects.
Side Effects
This medication may initially cause dizziness and nausea
as your body adjusts to the medication. Other side effects
reported include sweating, loss of appetite, dizziness,
dry mouth, anxiety, tremor, blurred vision, constipation,
sleepiness, change in sexual ability. If any of these
effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor.
Notify your doctor if you develop any of these serious
effects: rapid or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, severe
headache, trouble breathing, painful or difficult urination,
skin rash. This medication may cause drowsiness, dizziness,
or clouded thinking. Use caution operating machinery
or engaging in activities requiring alertness. If you
notice other effects not listed above, contact your
doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of:
kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, high blood
pressure, glaucoma, any allergies. Elderly persons may
be more sensitive to the effects of this medication.
Use with caution. This medication should be used only
if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks
and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this
medication appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor
before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription
medication you may take especially: MAO inhibitors (e.g.,
tranylcypromine, phenelzine, isocarboxazid, selegiline,
furazolidone), other antidepressants, cimetidine, lithium,
sedatives, narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine, morphine),
seizure medication, certain migraine medicine (e.g.,
sumatriptan), medicine for weight control. It is recommended
to avoid alcohol while using this medication. Do not
start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist
approval.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison
control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms
of overdose may include sleepiness, irregular heartbeat,
and seizures.
Notes
Laboratory tests may be done periodically while taking
this medication to monitor the effects. See your doctor
regularly.
Missed Dose
Try to take each dose at the scheduled time. If you
miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take
it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead,
skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
Storage
Store this medication at room temperature between 59
and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away
from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep
this and all medications out of the reach of children.
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