Venlafaxine ER (EFFEXOR XR) Uses

Venlafaxine ER is a prescription medicine that is used for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder.

There may be other uses of venlafaxine ER, including certain other psychiatric disorders like obsessive-compulsive disorder—your pharmacist or doctor can give you further venlafaxine ER drug information.

Venlafaxine ER (EFFEXOR XR) Mechanism of Action

Venlafaxine ER works by increasing the amounts of certain chemicals called serotonin and norepinephrine in the central nervous system. These substances are natural mood enhancers and help to maintain a chemical balance in the brain.

Venlafaxine ER (EFFEXOR XR) Doses

Venlafaxine ER is available in dosage strengths of 37.5 mg, 75 mg, and 150 mg extended-release capsules. The appropriate dose depends on the condition being treated. The usual starting dose of venlafaxine ER is 37.5 mg to 75 mg once a day. The target dose is 75 mg daily. For major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and panic disorder, the maximum dose of venlafaxine ER is 225 mg daily. For social anxiety disorder, the maximum dose is 75 mg daily.