Venlafaxine (Effexor) is an SNRI antidepressant used for major depression, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety. It boosts serotonin and norepinephrine to improve mood and reduce anxiety. People often notice some benefit within 2–4 weeks, but full effect can take 6–8 weeks.
Typical starting doses are 37.5–75 mg per day for extended-release forms. Many patients stay on 75–150 mg daily. Some clinicians increase up to 225 mg daily when needed; higher doses raise the chance of side effects. Your prescriber will pick the right dose based on symptoms and response.
Short-term side effects include nausea, dry mouth, headache, insomnia, and sweating. Sexual side effects such as decreased libido or difficulty orgasming can occur. Venlafaxine can raise blood pressure in some people, especially above 150 mg daily, so check BP at baseline and periodically after dose increases. If you notice a fast heartbeat, severe headache, or sudden vision changes, contact your healthcare provider.
Stopping venlafaxine abruptly often causes discontinuation symptoms: dizziness, electric shock sensations, flu-like aches, or mood swings. To avoid this, taper slowly under medical guidance over weeks. If withdrawal symptoms start, contact your prescriber; a slower taper usually helps.
Avoid combining venlafaxine with MAO inhibitors. Doing so can cause serotonin syndrome, a life-threatening condition. Also be cautious with other serotonergic drugs like triptans, tramadol, or some herbal supplements (for example, St. John's wort). Mixing with alcohol can worsen drowsiness and impair judgment.
Tell your prescriber if you have bipolar disorder, uncontrolled high blood pressure, seizures, or a history of bleeding disorders. Pregnant or breastfeeding people should discuss risks and benefits; venlafaxine can pass into breast milk and may affect newborns.
If you buy medication online, always get a prescription and use reputable pharmacies. Look for clear contact details, licensed pharmacist access, and secure payment pages. Be wary of sites selling prescription drugs without a prescription or offering prices that seem unrealistically low.
Keep follow-up appointments to track mood, side effects, and blood pressure. If the first dose doesn’t help after several weeks, don’t increase on your own—talk to your clinician about adjusting the dose or switching medications. Many people need a couple tries before finding the best antidepressant and dose.
Combine medication with therapy for best results. Cognitive behavioral therapy works well with venlafaxine, especially for anxiety and panic. Keep a simple daily log of mood, sleep, and side effects for the first two months — that helps your clinician fine-tune treatment. If cost or access is an issue, ask about generic venlafaxine; it works the same and is usually cheaper.
Keep emergency contacts handy and tell a family member about medication changes right away.
Need quick decisions? If you feel sudden worsening of mood, suicidal thoughts, or dangerous side effects, seek emergency care right away. For routine questions about dosing, side effects, or tapering, your prescriber or pharmacist can give safe, tailored advice.
Effexor, also known as venlafaxine, has become a common treatment for depression and anxiety in Australia and worldwide. This guide looks at how Effexor works, what you can expect from taking it, and what side effects you might encounter. Real facts, user tips, and research are packed in to help you make better decisions. If you're considering Effexor or just want to know more, this article cuts through confusion with clear, honest detail.