Venlafaxine
An antidepressant Venlafaxine is a prescription drug often used to treat panic disorder, depressive disorder and anxiety. The drug is contraindicated to people under the age of 18, as well as pregnant or lactating women.
Venlafaxine in Australia has a number of contraindications, side effects and drugs interactions, so it is necessary to obtain all information about the medicine from your doctor before using it, and also provide the doctor with the necessary information about your health condition. When you first take the medicine, there is a possibility of suicidal thoughts.
You should tell your doctor about all the medications or supplements you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs or substances.
Also, tell your doctor about any illnesses you currently have or have had recently. Venlafaxine may be not safe for you if you have ever experienced diabetes, liver and kidney disease, thyroid problems, bipolar disorder, glaucoma, etc.
Sudden discontinuation of taking the medication can cause dangerous reactions on the body. Do not stop taking your medicine without talking to your doctor.
Dosage
Only your doctor can prescribe the correct dosage for you based on your medical history. The total dose of the drug for depression can vary from 37.5 mg to 375 mg, divided into several doses throughout the day. The dose depends on the degree of the disease and the type of the treatment (outpatient or inpatient).
The dosage of the drug for treating generalized anxiety disorder in adult patients is from 75 mg to 225 mg. The doctor may make changes to the dosage of the medicine, if necessary.
Taking Venlafaxine in Australia, it is recommended to refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages. It is also recommended to refrain from driving a car until you are sure that the medicine is completely safe for you.
Application
Venlafaxine should be taken in exact accordance with the instructions and advice of the attending physician. Tablets or capsules should be taken whole, without chewing or breaking them, daily at the same time during having a meal. Do not open the capsule before the intake if you can swallow it. If for any reason you cannot swallow the capsule, you may open it and mix the medication with some applesauce and then swallow the mixture.
The medicine will not work immediately. It usually takes several weeks before a positive effect is achieved and the symptoms improve.
Side Effects
Like most medicines, Venlafaxine can cause some adverse effects, and common ones include: headache, fatigue, insomnia, vision problems, diarrhea, nausea, loss of appetite, sexual problems, dizziness, increased sweating.
Serious adverse reactions can be: panic, sudden mood changes, impulsivity, severe irritability, hyperactivity, aggressiveness. If any of them occur, you should seek immediate medical attention.
Please note that the information in this article is for informational purposes only and is not complete. For complete information about Venlafaxine, its contraindications and side effects, you should consult your doctor.
During the treatment, visit your doctor in a timely manner and inform him of any changes in your condition. Do not stop taking the drug even if you notice an improvement in your health. Tell the doctor as soon as possible if you do not see any positive effect after several weeks of taking the drug.
Keep your medicine in a cool, dry place, away from children. Don't let other people screw up your personal medications.