Venlafaxine Oral Tablet

Venlafaxine oral tablet is a prescription drug that’s only available as a generic drug. The tablet comes in immediate-release and extended-release forms. and an extended-release capsule.

Venlafaxine also comes in an extended-release oral capsule that’s available as both a generic drug and as the brand-name drug Effexor XR. Generic drugs usually cost less. In some cases, they may not be available in every strength or form as the brand-name version.

Why it's used

Venlafaxine is used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and panic disorder.

Venlafaxine may be used as part of a combination therapy. This means you may need to take it with other medications to treat your condition.

How it works

Venlafaxine belongs to a class of antidepressant drugs called serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). A class of drugs is a group of medications that work in a similar way. These drugs are often used to treat similar conditions.

SNRIs work by increasing the levels of substances called serotonin and norepinephrine in your brain. Having more serotonin and norepinephrine in your brain can improve your symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Keep these considerations in mind if your doctor prescribes venlafaxine oral tablet for you.

General

• Take venlafaxine with food
• You can cut or crush the immediate-release oral tablet.
• Do not cut or crush the extended-release tablet.
• Not every pharmacy stocks this drug. When filling your prescription, be sure to call ahead.

Storage

• Store venlafaxine oral tablets and extended-release oral capsules at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C).
• Store the extended-release oral tablet at temperatures between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C).
• Keep this drug away from light.
• Don’t store this medication in moist or damp areas, such as bathrooms.

Refills

A prescription for this medication is refillable. You should not need a new prescription for this medication to be refilled. Your doctor will write the number of refills authorized on your prescription.

Travel

When traveling with your medication:

• Always carry your medication with you. When flying, never put it into a checked bag. Keep it in your carry-on bag.
• Don’t worry about airport x-ray machines. They can’t hurt your medication.
• You may need to show airport staff the pharmacy label for your medication. Always carry the original prescription-labeled box with you.
• Don’t put this medication in your car’s glove compartment or leave it in the car. Be sure to avoid doing this when the weather is very hot or very cold.

Self-management

The extended-release oral capsule contains tiny beads. These beads release the drug slowly into your digestive tract. Not all of the beads break down, so you may notice some beads in your stool. This is normal.

Insurance

Many insurance companies require a prior authorization for this drug. This means your doctor may need to get approval from your insurance company before your insurance company will pay for the prescription.