Venlafaxine 150mg

Venlafaxine 150mg — Uses and Benefits

Venlafaxine 150mg is prescribed mainly for depression and anxiety-related conditions.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treating major depressive disorder
• Managing generalised anxiety disorder
• Managing social anxiety disorder
• Managing panic disorder

HOW IT WORKS

• It increases the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, natural chemicals in the brain that help regulate mood
• This helps improve mood, sleep, energy, and reduce excessive worry over time
• Full benefit usually takes a few weeks of regular use

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a quick-fix or one-time relief medicine for occasional stress
• It is not used for common mood swings without a diagnosed condition
• It is not a sleeping pill or painkiller
• It should not be used to self-treat without a doctor's evaluation

How to Use Venlafaxine 150mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily
• Take with food, at the same time each day
• Swallow the extended-release capsule/tablet whole; do not crush or chew
• Do not stop suddenly without your doctor's advice, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms
• It may take several weeks before you notice full benefit

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, set a reminder or speak with your doctor

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Do not store in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink

Venlafaxine 150mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Sweating
• Sleep disturbances
• Constipation

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Blurred vision
• Increased blood pressure
• Loss of appetite
• Sexual difficulties
• Feeling anxious or nervous initially
• Tremors

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Thoughts of self-harm or worsening depression
• Severe allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face or throat, difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Signs of serotonin syndrome: agitation, rapid heartbeat, high fever, muscle stiffness
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Severe dizziness or fainting

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Venlafaxine 150mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to venlafaxine or any of its ingredients
• Are currently taking, or have taken in the last 14 days, an MAOI antidepressant
• Are a child unless specifically advised by a specialist

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have high blood pressure or heart disease
• Have a history of seizures
• Have glaucoma
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have a history of bleeding disorders
• Have a history of suicidal thoughts or bipolar disorder

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• MAOI antidepressants
• Other antidepressants such as SSRIs
• Migraine medicines called triptans
• Blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin
• Tramadol and certain painkillers
• St. John's Wort and other herbal supplements

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop taking this medicine once I feel better?

No, stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms; your doctor will guide you on gradually reducing the dose.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while on this medicine?

Alcohol is best avoided as it can increase drowsiness and other side effects.

How long does it take to work?

• Most people notice improvement in a few weeks, though full benefit may take longer.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.