Venlafaxine works by increasing serotonin levels, norepinephrine, and dopamine in the brain by blocking transport proteins and stopping their reuptake at the presynaptic terminal.
This action leads to more transmitters available at the synapse and ultimately increases the stimulation of postsynaptic receptors.

It is used to treat depression, severe and persistent anxiety known as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (also known as social phobia) and panic disorder (panic attacks)

Take this medicine by mouth.
Swallow the drug whole with a drink of water. Do not chew it.
Take with meal
If you feel the effect of your medicine is too weak or too strong, do not change the dose yourself, but ask your doctor.
It may take up to 2 weeks to show result
The amount of the drug you take will depend on your illness. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
The usual recommended starting dose for treatment of depression, generalized anxiety disorder and social anxiety disorder is: 75 mg per day. The dose can be raised by your doctor gradually, and if needed, even up to a maximum dose of 375 mg daily for depression.
If you are being treated for panic disorder, your doctor will start with a lower dose (37.5 mg) and then increase the dose gradually. The maximum dose for generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder and panic disorder is 225 mg/day.
Doses may be changed in special conditions so always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions.
If you take more than you should, talk to a doctor or go to the hospital straight away.
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember it unless it is nearly time for your next dose.
Do not take a double dose (two doses at the same time) to make up for the forgotten dose.

Although the following side effects are not common in everyone, some patients may complain from:

Swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, throat, hands, or feet, and/or a raised itchy rash (hives), trouble swallowing or breathing.
Coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath which may be accompanied by a high temperature
Black (tarry) stools or blood in stools
Itchiness, yellow skin or eyes, or dark urine, which may be symptoms of inflammation of the liver (hepatitis)
Heart problems, such as fast or irregular heart rate, increased blood pressure
Eye problems, such as blurred vision, dilated pupils
Nerve problems, such as dizziness, pins and needles, movement disorder (muscle spasms or stiffness) or seizures

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine.
Your doctor will discuss the possible risks and benefits of using this medicine during pregnancy and breast-feeding

Ginkgo biloba has been studied for its effects on mental health and found to be effective. Gingko Biloba extract can be purchased in liquid or capsule form for example Ginkozac Capsules
Some conditions can be triggered by stress.
Physical therapy like yoga will be helpful
Adequate amount of sleep is very important for your mental health
Always take your medications as instructed.

If you use other medicines that taken together with this drug could increase the risk of developing serotonin syndrome
If you have eye problems, such as certain kinds of glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye).
If you have a history of high blood pressure.
If you have a history of heart problems.
If you have been told you have an abnormal heart rhythm.
If you have a history of fits (seizures).
If you have a history of low sodium levels in your blood (hyponatremia).
If you have a history of bleeding disorders (tendency to develop bruises or a tendency to bleed easily), or if you are taking other medicines that may increase the risk of bleeding e.g., warfarin (used to prevent blood clots), or if you are pregnant (see Pregnancy and breast-feeding).
If you have a history of, or if someone in your family has had, mania or bipolar disorder (feeling over-excited or euphoric).
If you have a history of aggressive behavior

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken, or might take any other medications including over-the-counter non-prescription medicines, prescription medicines, herbal supplements, vitamins, and supplements.

Store below 25°c
Don’t refrigerate
Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children.
Store in the original package to protect from moisture.
Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the box/blisters/label. The expiry date refers to the last day of the month.

Vexal XR 150 Mg, Antidepressant - 14 Capsules

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