Description

Effexor (Venlafaxine) 

Effexor (venlafaxine) is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and panic disorder. Known for its dual mechanism of action, Effexor provides stronger noradrenergic effects at higher doses, making it effective for both mood and energy regulation.Buy Effexor (Venlafaxine) online

Key Features & Benefits

✔ Dual Reuptake Inhibition – Boosts serotonin (5-HT) at all doses and norepinephrine (NE) at higher doses (≥150mg/day).Buy Effexor (Venlafaxine) online
✔ Fast-Acting for Anxiety – Often shows effects within 1–2 weeks for anxiety disorders.
✔ Extended-Release (XR) Formulation – Improves tolerability with once-daily dosing.
✔ Minimal Weight Gain – Unlike some SSRIs, it is weight-neutral or may cause slight loss.

Dosage & Administration

• Available Forms:

  • Immediate-Release (IR): 25mg, 37.5mg, 50mg, 75mg, 100mg tablets.

  • Extended-Release (XR): 37.5mg, 75mg, 150mg capsules.

• Starting Dose: 37.5–75mg/day (XR) for depression/anxiety.

• Therapeutic Range: 75–225mg/day (higher doses for severe cases).

• Max Dose: 375mg/day (rarely needed).

Mechanism of Action

Side Effects

⚠ Common:

• Nausea (usually fades after 1–2 weeks).

• Insomnia or drowsiness (dose-dependent).

• Increased blood pressure (monitor if dose >150mg/day).

• Sweating (excessive in some users).
  ⚠ Serious but Rare:

• Hypertension (check BP regularly).

• Serotonin syndrome (if mixed with MAOIs/other serotonergics).

• Withdrawal syndrome (abrupt stoppage causes “brain zaps,” dizziness).

Withdrawal & Discontinuation

• Half-Life: Short (~5h for IR, ~11h for XR) → high risk of withdrawal.

• Tapering Required:

  • Reduce by 37.5mg every 1–2 weeks.

  • Consider cross-tapering with fluoxetine (long half-life) for easier discontinuation.

Contraindications

• MAOI use (wait 14 days before/after Effexor).

• Uncontrolled hypertension (due to NE effects).

• Narrow-angle glaucoma.

• Pregnancy (Category C) – Possible neonatal withdrawal.

Comparison to Other SNRIs

Special Populations

• Elderly: Start at lower doses (↑ sensitivity to side effects).

• Hepatic/Renal Impairment: Reduce dose by 25–50%.

• Children/Teens: Not FDA-approved for pediatric use (↑ suicide risk).

Storage & Handling

• Room temperature (avoid moisture).

• XR Capsules: Swallow whole (do not crush/chew).

Final Notes

Effexor is a versatile SNRI effective for depression, anxiety, and panic disorders, with enhanced energy at higher doses. However, its short half-life makes withdrawal challenging, requiring careful tapering.

Disclaimer: Effexor must be tapered slowly. Abrupt discontinuation can cause severe withdrawal.