Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD Last updated on April 21, 2025
Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request an Online Prescription
Venlafaxine ER (extended-release) is a prescription medication used to treat major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder.
Doctors prescribe venlafaxine ER to treat several mental health conditions, such as major depressive disorder (depression) and various anxiety disorders including:
Venlafaxine ER may be prescribed with other treatment strategies like therapy and lifestyle adjustments.
Venlafaxine ER belongs to a class of drugs known as serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Serotonin and norepinephrine are chemical messengers (neurotransmitters) responsible for regulating mood and helping you feel happy. These hormones are produced naturally by the neurons in your brain and are used to send signals between neurons (or nerves). Once a signal has been sent, the neuron reabsorbs the serotonin and norepinephrine to be recycled.
Sometimes, neurons reabsorb these hormones too quickly - before they can tell your brain to feel happy - resulting in low levels of these mood-regulating chemicals. Reducing the brain’s reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine can help balance your mood and relieve several conditions, such as stress, anxiety, and depression.
Venlafaxine ER is available as an extended-release oral capsule.
The dosage and frequency of use depend on the condition being treated, its severity, and how you respond to the medication.
Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and schedule. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or frequency of use without consulting your provider.
Venlafaxine ER is used to manage depression, anxiety, and panic disorder. The effects can be noticeable within a few weeks, but it may take several weeks to achieve the desired improvement in symptoms.
Continue using venlafaxine ER as prescribed, even if you start feeling better. Regular use according to your prescription is crucial for the management of your condition.
While venlafaxine ER is primarily used for treating depression, anxiety, and panic disorder, healthcare providers may prescribe it off-label for other conditions.
Discuss any alternative uses of venlafaxine ER with your healthcare provider.
Venlafaxine ER is available in the following dosage forms:
Venlafaxine ER is a prescription medication. You must have a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain it.
The use of venlafaxine ER can lead to various side effects in some individuals.
Common mild side effects of venlafaxine ER use include:
More severe side effects of venlafaxine ER use can include:
If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking venlafaxine ER, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with venlafaxine ER. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with venlafaxine ER.
Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:
You should also mention medical conditions such as:
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using venlafaxine ER with your healthcare provider.
Take venlafaxine ER exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.
Your provider may direct you to avoid alcohol while taking venlafaxine ER, as it can increase the risk of side effects.
Venlafaxine ER can increase blood pressure. Your provider may recommend that your blood pressure is regularly checked while taking venlafaxine ER.
Complete the full course of treatment, even if you feel better, to ensure the medication's effectiveness in managing your condition.
In case of a venlafaxine ER overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, or rapid heartbeat. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.
Venlafaxine ER is available in the following forms:
The typical starting dose of venlafaxine ER varies depending on the condition being treated, the severity of symptoms, and individual patient factors. It is crucial to follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and administration.
For depression:
For anxiety disorders:
For panic disorder:
Extended-release: 37.5 mg once daily for 7 days. Then 75 mg once daily.
The dosage may be adjusted based on the response and tolerance to the medication. Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate dose based on your medical history and your response to the medication.
Venlafaxine ER should be taken as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment without consulting your provider.
If you have any questions about your dosage or need adjustments, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. If you want to talk to a provider right away, consider scheduling an online doctor appointment through a telehealth platform like Sesame.
If you miss a dose of venlafaxine ER, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Take venlafaxine ER around the same time daily to maintain a consistent amount of medication in your body.
Continue taking venlafaxine ER as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better. It's important to keep taking the medication as directed to manage your condition effectively.
Do not suddenly stop taking venlafaxine ER; this can cause withdrawal symptoms and a return of your symptoms.
If you have any concerns or questions about your medication, discuss them with your healthcare provider for medical advice and recommendations.
Store venlafaxine ER according to the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Keep it at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Ensure the container is tightly closed and out of reach of children.
Do not use expired medication or medications that appear damaged or discolored. If you have any questions about storage, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.