What is Efexor® XR?

Efexor® XR (venlafaxine) belongs to the class of serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) [1, 2]. Efexor® XR works by blocking the reuptake of serotonin, norepinephrine and even dopamine in the brain [3], to relieve loss of pleasure, excessive worry, fear of socializing or repeated episodes of intense fear [1,4].

Efexor-XR carton

How do I take Efexor® XR?

Efexor® XR is an oral drug and should be taken with food [1].

food

The recommended dose for Efexor® XR is 37.5-225mg once daily [1].

efexor

Capsules should be swallowed whole with fluid and not divided, crushed, chewed or placed in water [1].

capsules

Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Efexor® XR [1].

alcohol

The safety of Efexor® XR

The most common side effects with Efexor® XR included nausea, somnolence, dry mouth and sweating[1]. Side effects, if they occur in the first week after taking Efexor® XR, often resolve with continuation of treatment [5]. Studies with Efexor® XR have shown that the rate of discontinuation due to side effects was 9%, compared to 7% in patients treated with SSRIs [6].

References

  1. Efexor® XR (Venlafaxine Hydrochloride) Prescribing Information: Version April 2023.
  2. Stahl SM. Cambridge medicine. 2013, Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
  3. Safeekh AT and Pinto D. Indian J Psychiatry.2009;51(4):308-9.
  4. American Association of Psychiatryic Pharmacists (2022). Availble at: https://www.nami.org/NAMI/media/NAMI-Media/Research/Venlafaxine.pdf, Accessed January 2024.
  5. Rudolph RL and Derivan AT. J Clin Psychopharmacol.1996;16(3 Suppl 2):54S-619S.
  6. Stahl SM, et al. Biol Psychiatry.2002;52(12):1166-74.

Efexor XR is a prescription only medication. The effectiveness and side effects to medication may vary among individuals. Please consult your doctor or your pharmacist for more information.

PM-EFE-24-070905 JUL 2024