Venlafaxine ER (EFFEXOR XR) Tips from Pharmacists

• Take Effexor XR (venlafaxine ER) once a day with or without food. Do not cut, crush, or chew the capsule. However, if you have difficulty swallowing pills, you can open the capsule and sprinkle its contents on some soft food like applesauce. Consume the mixture right away - do not store it for later use. Drink a glass of water afterwards to ensure you swallow all of the medicine.

• If you swallow Effexor XR capsules whole, you may see the shell casing in your stool. This is nothing to worry about.

• If Effexor XR (venlafaxine ER) causes drowsiness and dizziness, it may help to take your dose at bedtime. Do not drive or do anything that requires your full concentration until you know how the medicine affects you.

• Avoid alcohol while on venlafaxine ER because it can make side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and low blood pressure worse.

• Call your doctor without delay if you develop any unusual changes in mood or behavior while on Effexor XR.