Salts
Uses
Mechanism of Action
Dosage
Side Effects
Warnings/Precautions
Venlafaxine is used to treat major depressive episodes and to prevent repeated occurrence of such episodes
Mechanism of Action
- Venlafaxine belongs to a group of medicines called selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
- It works by increasing signal transmission (neurotransmitter activity) in the central nervous system of brain
Dosage
For depression- Initial: 75 mg/day in 2-3 divided doses, increase slowly if needed.Max: 375 mg/day For anxiety Extended release- Initial: 75 mg once daily, may increase slowly if needed.Max: 225 mg/day For panic disorder- 37.5 mg once daily for 1st 7 days, may increase slowly if needed.Max: 225 mg/day
Side Effects
Abnormal micturation during the day Increased muscle contractions Inability to achieve an erection Unable to sleep Pounding or fluttering sensation in chest Irregular heartbeats Increase in serum cholesterol Vasodilatation Decreased sexual desire Tremor Abnormal ejaculation in males Depersonalization Impaired micturation High blood pressure Visual disturbance Abnormality of accommodation Sedation &Abnormal sensations of skin Difficulty reaching orgasm after ample sexual stimulation Dilatation of the pupil of the eye Menstrual disorders associated with increased bleeding/Increased irregular bleeding
Warnings/Precautions
Taking venlafaxine may increase risk of dilatation of pupil of eye (mydriasis). Seek medical advice from your doctor Avoid use of venlafaxine if you develop fits Care should be taken if you are an elderly patient, taking diuretics, and if you have volume-depletion, because there may be a greater risk of hyponatremia (low sodium in blood) Use with caution if you are prone to bleeding, if you are taking anticoagulants and platelet inhibitors, or if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, liver disease, kidney disease, narrow-angle glaucoma If you are on antidiabetic therapy you may advised to adjust the dose of the medication