Venlor XR (venlafaxine) is an SNRI antidepressant, used to treat major depression disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and some other mental conditions. It is also used off-label to help treat chronic nerve pain, reducing the level of pain as well as addressing the depression that often accompanies chronic pain.

The XR in this product's name indicates it's an extended release version. While regular tablets are taken two to three times per day, Venlor XR is taken just once per day. Most patients find once-per-day administration considerably more convenient, but some patients find that multiple, smaller administrations simply produce better results.

Women who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding a baby should avoid this medication, and all SNRIs, if at all possible. A doctor can help find a more suitable alternative.

What to Expect from Treatment

Venlor XR is often the first-line choice for treating the following conditions:

• Major Depressive Disorder
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder
• Social Anxiety Disorder
• Panic Disorder

It is usually not the first-line choice for other mental condtions, such as attention deficit disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder. When the preferred treatment is unsuitable for some reason, however, Venlor XR may be chosen instead and will provide at least some benefit.

The medication should be taken for at least two weeks for maximum benefit to be felt. Patients taking Venlor XR often experience numerous benefits to mood and thought control:

• Improved overall mood
• Decreased anxiety
• Fewer mood swings
• Better control of thoughts
• Better impulse control
• Improved ability to focus
• Increased mental clarity
• Increased energy levels

Treatment usually lasts at least six months, sometimes extending over one year. Doses may be higher at the start of treatment, reduced to a lower maintenance dose once the condition is under control. Most patients find Venlor XR very beneficial when suffering from depression or anxiety.

Treatment can continue for as long as needed, provided no serious side effects develop. However, treatment is not intended to last indefinitely and all patients should periodically cease treatment to see if continuation is necessary. The longer treatment continues, particularly at higher doses, the greater the risk of serious side effects.

Dosage & Administration

Venlor XR comes in capsules, which are taken just once per day. Taking each dose at the same time each day helps keep levels of the drug consistent in the body, which further helps the medication provide steady benefit.

Capsules may be opened, if desired, and the contents sprinkled on soft foods, provided the medicated food is swallowed without chewing.

Dosage modifications may be required for patients under age 16 and patients with other major medical condtions or taking other medications. For the most part, however, treatment is very similar.

For Major Depressive Disorder or Generalized Anxiety Disorder:

• 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 up to 225 mg per day.
• Most patients find 75 to 150 mg per day sufficient.

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 up to 225 mg per day.

For Social Anxiety Disorder:

• 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.

Technically treatment can go up to 375 mg per day, though going above 225 mg per day is very rare outside of a hospital setting. Do not exceed 225 mg per day without explicit doctor instruction.

Like all SNRIs, Venlor XR treatment should not end abruptly. Dosage should be gradually tapered down over the course of several weeks. Failure to taper down treatment can result in unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. A doctor can help come up with a discontinuation plan.

Potential Side Effects

Many patients will experience one or more common side effects when starting treatment, but these are usually mild and will stop occurring in the first couple weeks of treatment as the body adjusts. Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Appetite loss
• Constipation
• Insomnia
• Sweating

The above are not cause for concern unless severe or persistant beyond the first few weeks of treatment.

Other, more serious side effects are possible, though rare. Any disturbing symptom should be seen or discussed with a doctor.

Venlor XR is known to interact with other medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, and recreational drugs, including alcohol. The prescribing physician should be made aware of all medications being taken, and a doctor or pharmacist should be consulted before adding any new medications.

SNRIs, like Venlor XR, are rarely associated with the worsening of mental disorders in some patients below age 25. If this happens, it usually becomes apparent within the first several weeks of treatment, and such patients should be alert for and/or monitored closely at the start of treatment. Symptoms include:

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

The above symptoms are less likely to occur in patients age 25 and up.