EFFEXOR XR Dosing and General Information

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This section provides information about Effexor XR prescription dosages, information on how to take Effexor XR, ingredients, and storage.

Dosage Strengths

Effexor XR is available in different dosage strengths (37.5 mg, 75 mg, and 150 mg). It can be prescribed in various combinations as necessary and as determined by your health care professional. The usual starting dose is 75 mg for depression, generalized anxiety order (GAD), and social anxiety disorder (SAD). The usual starting dose is 37.5 mg for panic disorder (PD).

EFFEXOR XR Dosing Information and Dosages

Only your health care professional can tell you which dose is right for you and whether it will need to be adjusted over time. For example, some people diagnosed with depression start out on the 37.5-mg dose for several days to get used to taking the medication.

How to Take Effexor XR

  • Effexor XR should be taken as a single dose with food at about the same time every day, either in the morning or in the evening.
  • The capsule should be swallowed whole; it should not be divided, crushed, chewed, or placed in water.
  • The capsule can also be carefully opened and its contents sprinkled onto a spoonful of applesauce. This should be swallowed immediately and followed by drinking a glass of water. Do not chew this mixture before swallowing.

If You Miss a Dose...

It's best to take Effexor XR at about the same time every day. However, if you miss a dose of Effexor XR, it can be taken later that day. Don't try to "make up" for the missed dose by taking 2 doses the next day. You should never increase or decrease your daily dose without consulting your health care professional. Ask your health care professional if you have any questions about timing or your dosage. For more information about discontinuing Effexor XR therapy, click here.

In case of an overdose, call your health care professional or poison control center or go to the emergency room right away.

Important Prescription Advice

Do not use Effexor XR for a condition for which it has not been prescribed by your health care professional. Do not give Effexor XR to other people, even if they have the same symptoms you have. It may harm them.

Ingredients and Storage

Effexor XR contains venlafaxine hydrochloride, an antidepressant. Inactive ingredients consist of cellulose, ethylcellulose, gelatin, hypromellose, iron oxide, and titanium dioxide.

Store Effexor XR at room temperature (68° to 77°F, or 20° to 25°C). Keep Effexor XR away from children.