Venlor (venlafaxine hydrochloride) is a prescription serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) developed for the management of major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. As a dual reuptake inhibitor, it modulates key neurotransmitters implicated in mood regulation, offering a comprehensive neurochemical approach for patients with moderate to severe symptoms. Its extended-release formulation ensures stable plasma concentrations, supporting consistent therapeutic effect and tolerability. Clinically validated and widely prescribed, Venlor represents a first-line pharmacological option for sustained mental wellness under professional supervision.

Features

• Active ingredient: Venlafaxine hydrochloride
• Available in immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (XR) formulations
• Standard strengths: 37.5 mg, 75 mg, 150 mg tablets/capsules
• Dual mechanism: inhibits reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine
• Bioavailability: approximately 45% following oral administration
• Half-life: ~5 hours (IR), ~11 hours (XR); active metabolite (O-desmethylvenlafaxine) half-life ~11 hours
• Excretion: primarily renal

Benefits

• Effective reduction of depressive symptoms, including low mood, anhedonia, and fatigue
• Decreased anxiety and panic attack frequency with improved overall functioning
• Dual neurotransmitter action may benefit patients with inadequate response to SSRIs
• Extended-release version supports once-daily dosing, enhancing adherence
• Onset of therapeutic effect typically within 2–4 weeks with continued improvement
• May improve concentration, energy levels, and social engagement in appropriate patients

Common use

Venlor is indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and panic disorder with or without agoraphobia. It is used in adult patients and may be considered off-label for certain conditions under specialist guidance, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, or neuropathic pain. Treatment should be initiated following a comprehensive psychiatric assessment and diagnosis.

Dosage and direction

Dosage must be individualized based on patient response and tolerance. For depression and anxiety disorders, the recommended starting dose for extended-release capsules is 75 mg once daily, taken with food at approximately the same time each day. Depending on therapeutic response, the dose may be increased to 150 mg/day, and further to a maximum of 225 mg/day in some cases. For immediate-release tablets, dosing is typically 2–3 times daily. Dosage adjustments should occur at intervals of no less than 4–7 days. Avoid abrupt discontinuation; taper gradually under medical supervision.

Precautions

Use with caution in patients with hypertension, cardiac conditions, glaucoma, seizure disorders, or a history of mania/hypomania. Monitor blood pressure regularly, especially after dose increases. Venlor may impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills; advise patients to avoid driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them. Alcohol may enhance CNS depression and should be avoided. Not recommended during pregnancy unless potential benefit justifies potential risk. Use in pediatric and adolescent populations may be associated with an increased risk of suicidal ideation.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to venlafaxine or any component of the formulation. Concomitant use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing MAOI therapy due to risk of serotonin syndrome. Contraindicated in patients with uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma.

Possible side effects

Common side effects (≥1/10): nausea, headache, dry mouth, sweating, insomnia, dizziness, somnolence, nervousness.
Less common (≥1/100): constipation, anorexia, blurred vision, tremor, fatigue, hypertension, palpitations, abnormal dreams.
Rare but serious: serotonin syndrome, hyponatremia, abnormal bleeding, angle-closure glaucoma, seizures, suicidal thoughts or behaviors (especially in young adults), manic episodes, discontinuation symptoms.

Drug interaction

MAOIs: contraindicated due to risk of serotonin syndrome.
Other serotonergic drugs (e.g., SSRIs, tramadol, triptans, linezolid): increased serotonin syndrome risk.
Drugs that prolong QTc interval: use with caution.
CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., quinidine, fluoxetine, paroxetine) may increase venlafaxine concentrations.
Warfarin: may alter anticoagulant effect; monitor INR.
NSAIDs, aspirin: may increase risk of bleeding.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is close to the time of the next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Maintain regular dosing schedule to avoid fluctuations in plasma concentration.

Overdose

Symptoms may include dizziness, sedation, tachycardia, changes in blood pressure, seizures, serotonin syndrome, or coma. Cases of fatal overdose have been reported, often in combination with alcohol or other drugs. Suspected overdose requires immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic; consider activated charcoal if presented early. No specific antidote is available.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15–30°C), in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication. Do not ignore or delay seeking professional medical advice based on information read here.

Reviews

Clinical studies and meta-analyses support the efficacy and generally acceptable tolerability of venlafaxine in the treatment of depression and anxiety disorders. Patient experiences vary; some report significant improvement in mood and functionality, while others may experience side effects or inadequate response. Long-term use should be regularly reevaluated by a prescribing physician.