|  | Conditions Treatments | Depression

What Is Effexor XR Used For?

Effexor XR is the brand name and extended release form of the prescription medication venlafaxine hydrochloride. Doctors prescribe Effexor XR for the treatment of a number of mental health conditions.

  1. Function

    • Effexor XR works by preventing the breakdown of three chemicals in your brain--serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine. This causes levels of these chemicals to increase.

    Effects

    • Doctors prescribe Effexor XR to treat conditions associated with deficiencies of serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine, including depression, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder and panic disorder.

    Time Frame

    • For depression, patients typically require 12 months of treatment with Effexor XR, while panic and anxiety disorders usually require between 4 and 6 months, according to RxList.

    Features

    • Because Effexor XR elevates brain chemicals, many patients experience withdrawal side effects if use of the drug is suddenly discontinued. Due to this phenomenon, doctors typically wean patients off of Effexor XR by decreasing its dose by 75mg each week, according to RxList.

    Considerations

    • Since the effects of Effexor XR upon fetal development are unknown, doctors restrict use of the drug in pregnant women to instances where there is no safe alternative to treatment. If you have a history of bipolar disorder, bleeding problems, glaucoma, hypertension, high cholesterol, low blood sodium, seizure, heart attacks or failure, hyperthyroidism, mania or kidney or liver disease, it may not be safe for you to take Effexor XR.

Depression - Related Articles