Effexor (generic: Venlafaxine)

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Effexor^®
(generic: Venlafaxine)

Venlafaxine (Effexor) is an antidepressant medication. It affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause depression or anxiety. Venlafaxine is used to relieve symptoms of depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and social anxiety disorder (social phobia).

What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next one as directed. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected. Symptoms of a venlafaxine overdose may include dizziness, drowsiness, numbness, nausea, irregular heartbeats, seizures, and unconsciousness.

What are possible side effects of Venlafaxine?
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking venlafaxine and contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical treatment:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);

• seizures; or

• an irregular heartbeat or severely high blood pressure (blurred vision, headache).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take venlafaxine and talk to your doctor if you experience:

• nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, abdominal pain, or loss of appetite or weight;

• dry mouth;

• drowsiness or dizziness;

• mild tremor, anxiety, or agitation;

• insomnia;

• abnormal dreams;

• sexual problems such as impotence, abnormal ejaculation, difficulty reaching orgasm, or decreased libido;

• sweating;

• yawning; or

• increase in blood cholesterol levels (detected by blood tests);

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

There are also several herbs and natural supplements which have been studied and proven to help beating up depression. Here you can find more information about these natural depression remedies.