Venlafaxine ER

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Mar 10, 2023

Pros & Cons


Venlafaxine ER (EFFEXOR XR) Pros and Cons

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  • Venlafaxine ER is effective in treating major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, panic attacks, and certain other psychiatric disorders.
  • Selective serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors like venlafaxine may work better than other antidepressants because they have an effect on two chemicals, serotonin and norepinephrine, in the brain.
  • This medication is generally well tolerated with few side effects, especially at low doses.
  • It is available in a low-cost generic version.

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  • It takes venlafaxine ER 1-2 weeks to have an effect and it can take 6-8 weeks to get the full benefit of this medicine.
  • Effexor XR (venlafaxine ER) can lead to suicidal ideation, especially in young adults.
  • This prescription medicine can cause symptoms of serotonin syndrome, high blood pressure, angle-closure glaucoma, bleeding events, interstitial lung disease, and other serious side effects.