Effexor XR Dosage

The usual starting dosage of Effexor XR for people with depression, social anxiety disorder, or generalized anxiety disorder is 75 mg daily. For people with panic disorder, the usual starting Effexor XR dosage is 37.5 mg daily. You should take your Effexor XR at the same time each day to maintain even levels of the drug in your system. If you are unsure about anything related to Effexor XR or your dosage, be sure to talk with your healthcare provider, nurse, or pharmacist.

Effexor XR Dosage: An Introduction

The dose of Effexor XR® (venlafaxine XR) that your healthcare provider prescribes will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
 
  • Your age
  • The medical condition being treated
  • Other medical conditions you may have
  • Other medications you may be currently taking.
     
As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
 
Effexor XR is usually taken once daily. In contrast, regular Effexor is given two or three times a day.
 

Effexor XR Dosing for Depression, Social Anxiety, and Generalized Anxiety

For the treatment of depression, social anxiety disorder, or generalized anxiety disorder, the usual starting dosage of Effexor XR is Effexor 75 mg each day. Your healthcare provider may increase your dose to Effexor XR 150 mg daily after four to seven days if you tolerate Effexor XR well. Some people may be started at Effexor XR 37.5 mg each day and increased to 75 mg within four to seven days before being increased to 150 mg daily. Your healthcare provider may increase your dose up to Effexor XR 225 mg once daily if needed to treat depression.
 

Effexor XR Dosage for Panic Disorder

The usual starting dose of Effexor XR for
 panic disorder is Effexor XR 37.5 mg a day. If you are tolerating Effexor XR well, your healthcare provider may increase your dose to Effexor XR 75 mg a day after seven days. If needed, Effexor XR doses might be increased again by 75 mg a week to a maximum dose of 225 mg daily.
 
(Effexor XR Dosage Continued: Page 2)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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