Venlafaxine HCl

If you are an adult facing a diagnosis of clinical depression (also known as major depression), your healthcare provider may recommend venlafaxine hydrochloride (HCl), a drug sold under the brand name Effexor^®. It comes in the form of a tablet, and most people take it two or three times a day.

This product is not suitable for everyone, so make sure to discuss the risks with your healthcare provider before you start taking it. For example, some people taking venlafaxine develop side effects such as drowsiness, headache, and nausea. In addition, your healthcare provider needs to know if you have high blood pressure, bipolar disorder, or any allergies. This will help him or her determine if this medication is the right treatment option for you.