Venlafaxine HCL ER Coupon & Discounts

Venlafaxine HCL ER Information:

• What

What is Venlafaxine HCl ER?

Venlafaxine hydrochloride ER, or simply venlafaxine ER, is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that is used to treat major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and panic disorder. Its efficacy in treating these disorders is similar to or better than Prozac and Zoloft. It works by potentiating the effects of the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine by increasing their duration in the synaptic gap before being reabsorbed into nerve cells. Venlafaxine is slightly different from other SNRIs in that it has the dual ability to function as an SNRI or an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor). When this drug is taken in low doses it only affects the reuptake of serotonin. When given in higher doses if effects both serotonin and norepinephrine.

• How

How do I take venlafaxine HCl ER?

Venlafaxine ER is an extended release medication meaning that small doses of the drug are slowly released in the body over time. For this reason venlafaxine ER capsules should never be crushed or chewed. Chewing the tiny pellets inside the capsule could result in overdose or increased side effects. Take this medication with food at the same time every day. If the patient is unable to swallow the capsule, it may be carefully opened and sprinkled over a soft food like applesauce and swallowed. Do not chew the small pellets that come out of the capsule. Patients are usually started on a low dose of venlafaxine which is slowly increased over time. It may take weeks to feel the full benefit of this medication. Do not abruptly stop taking venlafaxine. Talk to your doctor to slowly decrease doses in order to avoid a worsening condition or unwanted side effects.

• Precautions
Before taking venlafaxine HCl ER, tell your doctor if:
• You have suicidal thoughts or have attempted suicide.
• You have taken any other antidepressants, including tryptophan and St. John’s wort within the past 14 days.
• You are taking prescription or nonprescription drugs, vitamins, or supplements, especially blood thinners, diuretics, anxiety medications, migraine medications, sedatives, sleeping pills, or tranquilizers.
• You have a history of drug abuse.
• You have heart problems, high blood pressure, or bleeding problems.
• You have glaucoma, high eye pressure, or a history of kidney, liver, or thyroid disease.
• You are pregnant or breast-feeding.
• You are allergic to venlafaxine or any of the other ingredients in this medication.
• Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of taking venlafaxine HCl ER?

As with most antidepressants, a small number of children and young adults taking this medication have experienced an occurrence or elevation of suicidal thinking. Report worsening of mood, suicidal thinking, panic attacks, extreme worry, frenzied or abnormally excited state, or difficulty sleeping to your doctor at once. Common side effects from taking venlafaxine ER include headache, nausea, weakness, dizziness, dry mouth, ejaculation problems, change in sex drive, sweating, weight loss, constipation and blurred vision. Report any strange or severe side effects including seizures, bruising, bleeding, or hallucinations to your doctor immediately.

• Missed Dose

What if I forget to take a dose of venlafaxine HCl ER?

If you forget to take a dose of venlafaxine ER, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it’s getting close to the time for you next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose of venlafaxine to compensate for a missed one.

• Storage

How do I store venlafaxine HCl ER?

Store venlafaxine ER at a room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit in a cool, dry place. Keep this medication away from children and pets and anyone prone to drug abuse.

• Overdose

What happens if I overdose on venlafaxine HCl ER?

It is extremely difficult to take a fatal overdose of venlafaxine ER. However, serotonin toxicity can occur with high dosages. Signs of overdose on venlafaxine may include seizures, irregular heartbeat, somnolence, and coma. If you think you or someone you know has overdosed on venlafaxine, contact the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim is unresponsive, contact 911.

• Additional Info

Warnings

Venlafaxine can be dangerous when combined with alcohol. Talk to your doctor about drinking alcohol while using this medication. Venlafaxine and other antidepressants have been known to cause suicidal thoughts and attempts in rare instances in children and young adults. This medication may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive until you know how this medication affects you.

Brand Names

Brand names for venlafaxine ER include Effexor XR. Get up to 75% off the cost of Effexor or venlafaxine HCl ER when you use our free coupons in your local pharmacy.