Venlafaxine Hydrochloride

Venlafaxine Hydrochloride is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) indicated for the treatment of:

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
• Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)
• Panic Disorder (PD)

The mechanism of the antidepressant action of venlafaxine in humans is believed to be associated with its potentiation of neurotransmitter activity in the CNS. Preclinical studies have shown that venlafaxine and its active metabolite, O-desmethylvenlafaxine (ODV), are potent inhibitors of neuronal serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake and weak inhibitors of dopamine reuptake. Venlafaxine and ODV have no significant affinity for muscarinic, histaminergic, or α-1 adrenergic receptors in vitro. Pharmacologic activity at these receptors is hypothesized to be associated with the various anticholinergic, sedative, and cardiovascular effects seen with other psychotropic drugs. Venlafaxine and ODV do not possess monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitory activity.

Depression: Initially 75 mg daily in 2 divided doses. Can be increased if necessary after several weeks to 150 mgdaily in 2 divided doses.

Severely depressed or hospitalized patients: Initially 150 mg daily in 2 divided doses. Can be increased if necessary in steps of up to 75 mg every 2-3 days to max. 376 mg daily then gradually reduced.

Generalised anxiety disorder: 75 mg daily as a single dose.

Venlafaxine should not be used concomitantly with MAOIs, Cimetidine inhibits the hepatic metabolism of Venlafaxine.

Hypersensitivity to venlafaxine hydrochloride or to any excipients in the formulation. Severe hepatic or renal impairment; pregnancy and breast-feeding.

Side effects that have been most frequently reported withe Venlafaxine include nausea, headache, insomnia, dry mouth, dizziness, constipation, sweating, nervousness, asthenia. Orthostatic has been seen occasionally. Other side effects reported include anorexia, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, anxiety sexual dysfunction, visual disturbaces, vasodilatation, vomiting, tremor, chills palpitations, agitation, rashes, convulsion, hypertension.

History of myocardial infarction or unstable heart disease, blood pressure monitoring advisable if dose exceeds 200 mg daily, history of epilepsy, mania, hepatic or renal impairment, avoid abrupt withdrawal ( if taken for more than 1 week withdrew over at least 1 week); glaucoma.

History of MI or unstable cardiac disease, seizure; hypomania or mania, increased intraocular pressure or at risk of acute narrow-angle galaucoma, at risk of bleeding. Renal and hepatic impairment. Gradual dose reduction is recommended rather than abrupt withdrawal. Pregnancy and lactation. Patient Counselling May impair ability to drive or operate machinery.

Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI)

Store below 30° C temperature & in dry place, protected from light. Keep out of the reach of children.