How to Know If I Am Allergic to Venlafaxine

Venlafaxine is a drug used to treat major depression disorder, anxiety and panic disorder and is grouped with selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor drugs. It works by affecting unbalanced chemicals in the brain that can cause depression. It should not be taken if you are allergic or experience new or worsening symptoms or side effects. It can be difficult to tell if you are going to have an allergic reaction, which is why discussing your medical history with your doctor before treatment is so essential to determine if you're a good candidate for the drug.

Instructions

• 1

  Research all the potential allergic reactions to Venlafaxine, as well as the possible side effects. If you are taking other drugs, find out if they can potentially interact with Venlafaxine and what the side effects of such an interaction can be. Medicine for pain, swelling, arthritis and fever, for example, can cause easy bruising and bleeding when taken with Venlafaxine.

• 2

  Take the recommended dose. This can vary greatly, depending on your age -- whether you are taking immediate or extended release capsules -- and what you are taking the drug for, such as panic disorder, anxiety or depression.

• 3

  Get immediate medical help if you experience any allergic reaction. Symptoms of allergic reaction include skin hives or rash, swelling of the face, lips, throat or tongue and breathing difficulty.

• 4

  Call your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects of the drug. These include seizure, sweating, high fever, confusion, memory problems, hallucinations, fever, fast or uneven heartbeats, chest tightness, trouble breathing, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of coordination, agitation and fainting.