Your safety is our first priority. Learn more about key medication details, side effects, and other important information about your treatment.

Important Safety Information

Venlafaxine is a prescription medication used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and panic disorder. It belongs to a class of medications called serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Venlafaxine is commonly known by the brand name Effexor XR®.

Venlafaxine should only be used under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider.

Do not take Venlafaxine if you:

• Are currently taking or have recently taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
• Have uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma
• Are allergic to venlafaxine, desvenlafaxine, or any of its ingredients

Warnings and Precautions:

• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors may occur, especially in children, adolescents, and young adults. Monitor closely during the first few months of treatment or when adjusting the dose.
• Serotonin syndrome may occur when combined with other serotonergic drugs. Symptoms include agitation, hallucinations, fever, sweating, shivering, muscle stiffness, or tremors.
• May cause increases in blood pressure, especially at higher doses. Monitor blood pressure regularly during treatment.
• Use with caution in patients with a history of seizures, bipolar disorder, glaucoma, liver or kidney impairment.
• May cause hyponatremia (low sodium levels), particularly in elderly patients or those taking diuretics.
• Do not stop venlafaxine abruptly, as this may cause withdrawal symptoms (e.g., dizziness, headache, irritability, nausea, and insomnia).

Possible Side Effects

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Seizures
• Chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeat
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
• Signs of serotonin syndrome (e.g., confusion, hallucinations, fever, sweating, tremor)
• Thoughts of suicide or self-harm

Common Side Effects May Include:

• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Insomnia or drowsiness
• Increased sweating
• Loss of appetite or weight changes
• Sexual dysfunction (e.g., decreased libido, delayed ejaculation, or difficulty achieving orgasm)
• Constipation

Before Taking Venlafaxine, Tell Your Healthcare Provider If You:

• Have a history of mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder or suicidal thoughts
• Have high blood pressure or heart disease
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have glaucoma
• Have a history of seizures or epilepsy
• Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding

Drug Interactions

Tell your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, especially:

• Other antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs)
• Triptans, tramadol, lithium, or St. John’s Wort
• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin)
• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, aspirin)
• Drugs that affect blood pressure

Administration & Storage:

• Take venlafaxine exactly as prescribed, with food.
• Swallow extended-release capsules whole—do not crush, chew, or split.
• Take at the same time each day to maintain even levels in your body.
• Store at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.
• Keep out of reach of children.

If you experience side effects or have concerns about your medication, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Do not stop taking venlafaxine without medical supervision.