Effexor

Brief description: Effexor (Venlafaxine) is an antidepressant used to treat depression and anxiety. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Therapeutic actions: Effexor is prescribed for the treatment of depression - that is, a continuing depression that interferes with daily functioning. The symptoms usually include changes in appetite, sleep habits, and mind/body coordination, decreased sex drive, increased fatigue, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, difficulty concentrating, slowed thinking, and suicidal thoughts. Effexor XR is also prescribed to relieve abnormal anxiety (generalized anxiety disorder and social anxiety disorder). Generalized anxiety disorder is marked by persistent anxiety for a period of at least 6 months, accompanied by at least 3 of these 6 symptoms: restlessness, fatigue, poor concentration, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances.
Social anxiety disorder is marked by a persistent fear (avoidance, anxiousness, or distress) of social situations, exposure to unfamiliar people, or possible scrutiny by others. Social anxiety is considered abnormal if it causes someone to alter an otherwise normal routine or interferes with daily functioning. The disorder can also cause panic attacks.
Effexor must be taken 2 or 3 times daily. The extended-release form, Effexor XR, permits once-a-day dosing.