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Effexor XR
Effexor XR is a medication that is prescribed for the treatment of depression, social phobia, panic disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. Part of a class of drugs called serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), Effexor XR works by acting on specific chemicals within the brain known as serotonin and norepinephrine. The medicine comes in a capsule form that is usually taken once daily. Among the drug's common side effects are nausea, sweating, and insomnia.
Effexor XR® (venlafaxine XR) is a prescription medication that is used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. Effexor XR comes in an extended release capsule, meaning the medicine is released slowly into your body.
(Effexor is another prescription medicine that is used to treat depression in adults. Click Effexor if you have been prescribed Effexor and not Effexor XR.)
Effexor XR is manufactured by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals.
Effexor XR is licensed to treat a variety of conditions. These Effexor XR uses include the treatment of:
- Depression
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Panic disorder
- Social phobia (also known as social anxiety disorder).
In contrast, regular Effexor is licensed to treat only depression.
There are also a number of "off-label" uses for Effexor XR.
(Click Effexor XR Uses for more information on what Effexor XR is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD