Veniz XR (venlafaxine) is an extended-release version of the SNRI antidepressant Effexor. While regular Effexor is taken 2 or 3 times per day, Veniz XR is taken just once.

This product is an antidepressant. It works by regulating neurotransmitters in the brain, which are often imbalanced in individuals suffering mental disorders. While the exact mechanism of action is unclear, Veniz XR and other antidepressants help millions of patients beat depression, anxiety, and similar conditions.

Veniz XR may be the front-line treatment for:

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
• Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)
• Panic Disorder

The medication is generally not the preferred treatment in other mental conditions, but it is sometimes used when preferred treatments fail to produce significant results.

Patients who take Veniz XR often report:

• Fewer mood swings
• Better control of thoughts
• Better impulse control
• Improved ability to focus
• Increased mental clarity

Veniz XR doesn't help everyone, unfortunately. If there is no noticeable improvement after a month of treatment speak with a doctor about alternative medications.

Dosage & Administration

Veniz XR comes in both tablets or capsules, both of which should be taken with food. Tablets must be swallowed whole. Capsules can be opened and the contents sprinkled on soft food, which should then be swallowed immediately without chewing.

The medication is taken just once per day, usually morning or evening. In the interest of keeping levels of the drug consistent in the body, once a time has been chosen patients should make an effort to stick with it for the duration of treatment.

Patients under age 16 may need modified dosing. Patients up to age 24 may require additional monitoring at the start of treatment. Elderly patients and those with other major medical conditions should be extra alert for side effects.

In otherwise healthy patients treatment is similar in all conditions, but there are some minor differences.

For Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) or Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD):

• Treatment starts with 37.5 to 75 mg per day.
• If the initial dose does not produce significant results, dosage may be increased in 75 mg increments every four days, up to 225 mg per day.
• Most patients find 75 to 150 mg sufficient.

For Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD):

• Treatment starts with 75 mg per day.
• There is no evidence that higher doses will produce greater benefit.
• If 75 mg per day is insufficient, consider alternative treatments.

For panic disorder:

• Start with 37.5 once per day for 7 days.
• If 37.5 mg is not sufficient after 7 days, increase dosage to 75 mg per day.
• If needed, dosage may be further increased in 75 mg increments every seven days, up to 225 mg per day.

Dosage rarely exceeds 225 per day in any condition outside of a hospital setting.

Treatment should continue for as long as it provides benefit, usually 6 to 9 months. Higher doses and longer duration of treatment are associated with increased risk and severity of side effects.

Veniz XR should not be stopped abruptly; withdrawal effects are likely, and can be quite unpleasant. Treatment should be gradually reduced over time, usually in 75 mg increments per week. Some individuals will need a personalized discontinuation plan; speak with a doctor.

Risks for Young Patients

In younger patients under 24 years of age, SNRIs sometimes have a paradoxical effect of worsening mental disorders in the first few weeks of treatment. These patients are often monitored more closely than other patients at the start of treatment. Symptoms to watch for include:

• Increased anxiety or depression
• Increased hostility or aggression
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• Irritability
• Agitation
• Hyperactivity

These effects are very unlikely to develop in older patients; to the contrary, the above are less likely to occur as age increases.

Interactions

Veniz XR can interact with a wide range of other medications, both prescription and over-the-counter. Some of these interactions are potentially serious; patients are strongly encouraged to consult a doctor or pharmacist before mixing medications.