Venlift OD-75mg

Description

Venlift OD-75mg is an extended-release capsule containing Venlafaxine, which is an antidepressant belonging to the class of drugs called Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs).

Uses:

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): It’s primarily used to treat depression.
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Used for excessive and persistent worry.
• Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD): Helps with extreme fear in social situations.
• Panic Disorder: Used to manage recurrent panic attacks.

How it works: Venlafaxine works by increasing the levels of certain natural chemical messengers in the brain, namely serotonin and norepinephrine. These chemicals are thought to play a crucial role in regulating mood and mental balance, thereby helping to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Dosage and Administration:

• Take Venlift OD-75mg as prescribed by your doctor.
• It is an extended-release formulation, meaning the medication is released slowly over time. Do not crush, chew, or divide the capsule; swallow it whole.
• It’s generally recommended to take it with food at the same time each day.
• Do not stop this medication suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms (e.g., dizziness, sleep disturbances, nausea, anxiety, tremors). Your doctor will likely recommend a gradual reduction in dosage.
• It may take a few weeks (typically 2 to 4 weeks) for the full effects of the medication to be noticed.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
• Constipation
• Increased sweating
• Drowsiness/sleepiness
• Sexual dysfunction (e.g., decreased libido, erectile dysfunction)
• Decreased appetite
• Tremor
• Blurred vision
• Weight loss (less common, but can occur)

Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention if you experience these):

• Serotonin Syndrome: Symptoms include agitation, hallucinations, confusion, rapid heart rate, sweating, shivering, muscle stiffness or twitching, loss of coordination, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. This can be life-threatening.
• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): Although rare, it’s a severe reaction with symptoms like high fever, rigid muscles, confusion, and fast or irregular heartbeats.
• Increased Blood Pressure: Venlafaxine can cause a sustained increase in blood pressure. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is recommended.
• Suicidal Thoughts or Behavior: Especially in young adults when first starting treatment or changing dosage. Monitor for any changes in mood or behavior.
• Increased Bleeding or Bruising: If taken with certain other medications (e.g., NSAIDs, blood thinners).
• Mania/Hypomania: Overactivity, racing thoughts, extreme excitement.
• Seizures.
• Low Sodium Levels (Hyponatremia): Headache, confusion, weakness.
• Allergic Reactions: Hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Eye problems: Eye pain, blurred vision, enlarged pupils (especially in those with or at risk of narrow-angle glaucoma).

Important Warnings and Precautions:

• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase drowsiness and the risk of side effects.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor. It may be unsafe during pregnancy and is generally not recommended during breastfeeding.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: This medicine can cause dizziness and sleepiness. Avoid these activities until you know how it affects you.
• Pre-existing Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have a history of:
  • Heart conditions (high blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms)
  • Liver or kidney disease
  • Diabetes
  • Seizures
  • Glaucoma
  • Bleeding disorders
  • Bipolar disorder or a history of mania/hypomania
• Drug Interactions: Venlafaxine can interact with many other medications, especially:
  • Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): A severe, potentially fatal interaction can occur. Do not take Venlift OD-75mg within 14 days of stopping an MAOI, and vice versa.
  • Other antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclics)
  • Migraine medications (triptans like sumatriptan)
  • Opioid pain medications (like tramadol, fentanyl)
  • Certain herbal supplements (e.g., St. John’s Wort)
  • Blood thinners (warfarin, aspirin, NSAIDs)
  • Medicines for weight loss (e.g., sibutramine)

This information is for general guidance only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific advice regarding your condition and medication.