Product Details: Effexor XR (Venlafaxine XR)

PLEASE NOTE BRAND EFFEXOR XR IS ALSO MARKETED INTERNATIONALLY UNDER THE NAME EFEXOR XR.

Brand Name Options - Manufacturer: Wyeth-Ayerst

Generic Options - Manufacturer: Generic

What are Generics? A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, how it is taken, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name and works the same way in the body in the same amount of time.

The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is the generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (e.g. different shape or color), as trademark laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.

Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to invent a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name drug and sell it at substantial discounts.

Description

This medicine is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) used to treat depression, generalized or social anxiety disorder, or panic disorder. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS that may occur while taking this medicine include abnormal dreams, blurred vision, changes in taste, constipation, decreased sexual desire or ability, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, flushing, headache, increased sweating, loss of appetite, nausea, nervousness, stomach upset, trouble sleeping, vomiting, weakness, weight loss, or yawning. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience vision problems, ringing in the ears, or significant weight loss. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience bizarre behavior; chest pain or discomfort; shortness of breath; severe or persistent cough; confusion; fast or irregular heartbeat; fever, chills, or persistent sore throat; new or worsening agitation, anxiety, panic attacks, aggressiveness, impulsiveness, irritability, hostility, restlessness, or inability to sit still; seizures; severe or persistent nervousness or trouble sleeping; severe or persistent headache, dizziness, or stomach pain; suicidal thoughts or attempts; tremor; unusual bruising or bleeding; unusual or severe mental or mood changes; worsening of depression. AN ALLERGIC REACTION to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice any unusual effects, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.