Effexor for Depression

Effexor^®(

venlafaxine hydrochloride) is a prescription antidepressant that belongs to a class of drugs known as serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. Healthcare providers primarily prescribe Effexor for depression, although the drug can be used "off-label" for other uses as well.

Effexor acts on certain chemicals within the brain. By balancing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, this drug can help improve symptoms of depression and prevent relapses from occurring.

The medication comes in tablet form and is taken by mouth, usually two or three times a day. While most people tolerate Effexor well, side effects are possible. Some of the most common side effects that have been reported with this antidepressant include dizziness, insomnia, and loss of appetite.

(Click Effexor to learn more about the effects of Effexor for depression, to find out when and how to take this medicine, and for more information on how the antidepressant works.)