Effexor XR Uses

Among the licensed uses for Effexor XR are the treatment of depression, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder (also known as social phobia). The medicine has not been approved for use in children or teenagers. Some off-label Effexor XR uses include the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder, diabetic neuropathy, and obesity.

Effexor XR Drug Info

Effexor XR Uses: An Overview

Effexor XR^® (venlafaxine XR) has been licensed to treat a number of conditions. Effexor XR uses may include the treatment of:

Depression
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
Panic disorder
Social anxiety disorder (also known as social phobia).

Depression

Depression is more than just "feeling sad." Some common symptoms of depression include:

Changes in sleep (sleeping too much or not enough)
Eating too much or too little (and weight gain or weight loss)
Having little interest in things that you used to enjoy
Physical pain
Feeling hopeless or worthless
Suicidal thoughts.

In large clinical trials, Effexor XR has been proven to help adults with depression. However, it is important to keep in mind that many antidepressants (including Effexor XR) take several weeks to begin working. Sometimes, other people will notice an improvement in your depression symptoms before you do. Often, the physical symptoms of depression (such as pain or changes in sleep) will improve first, sometimes within the first few weeks of treatment. It usually takes at least four to six weeks before significant changes in mood occur. It is important to give Effexor XR a chance to work before becoming discouraged.

Counseling and therapy (see Psychotherapy for Depression) are often used along with antidepressant medication to treat depression. Ask your healthcare provider if counseling or therapy would be good options for you (see Depression Treatment).

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