Veniz Xr 75

Name

• Brand Name: Veniz XR 75
• Common Name: Venlafaxine Extended-Release

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Venlafaxine (75mg)

Uses Veniz XR 75 is an antidepressant primarily used to manage various mental health conditions by increasing levels of the chemical messengers serotonin and noradrenaline in the brain. It is prescribed for:

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

Dosage and Administration Veniz XR 75 Capsule should be taken orally with food. The typical starting dose for extended-release venlafaxine is often 75 mg once daily, either in the morning or evening, at approximately the same time each day. Doses may be increased in increments of up to 75 mg/day at intervals of no less than 4 days, depending on patient tolerability and clinical effect, up to a maximum of 375 mg/day for some conditions. It is crucial not to stop the medication abruptly to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Side Effects Common side effects include:

• Nausea, dry mouth, constipation, decreased appetite
• Headache, dizziness, drowsiness, insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
• Increased sweating (including night sweats)
• Sexual dysfunction (decreased sex drive, problems with erection or orgasm)
• Tremor, nervousness, agitation

Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include signs of allergic reactions, serotonin syndrome (agitation, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, confusion), severe skin reactions, worsening depression, or suicidal thoughts.

Precautions

• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it can cause excessive drowsiness and increase the risk of liver damage.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor, as it may be unsafe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision, so avoid driving or activities requiring mental focus until you know how it affects you.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have kidney, liver, or heart conditions, a history of seizures (epilepsy), bipolar disorder, mania, or high blood pressure.
• Interactions: Do not take with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of stopping an MAOI, as this can lead to serious, potentially fatal reactions. Caution is advised with other antidepressants (e.g., mirtazapine, citalopram) or herbal supplements like St. John's Wort due to the risk of serotonin syndrome. It may also increase the risk of bleeding with blood thinners.
• Withdrawal: Do not stop taking Veniz XR 75 abruptly, as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms.

Storage Store Veniz XR 75 Capsules in a dry place at room temperature, below 30°C, protected from light. Keep out of reach of children.

Here are some frequently asked questions about VENIZ XR 75 by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD.

What is VENIZ XR 75 used for?

VENIZ XR 75 is an antidepressant medication primarily used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD). It is also prescribed for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and panic disorder. It helps improve mood, reduce nervousness, and enhance overall well-being.

How does VENIZ XR 75 work?

VENIZ XR 75 contains Venlafaxine, which belongs to a class of antidepressants known as serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). It works by increasing the levels of certain chemical messengers, namely serotonin and noradrenaline (also known as norepinephrine), in the brain. This action helps to balance brain chemistry, elevate mood, and reduce symptoms of anxiety and fear.

What is the usual dosage for VENIZ XR 75?

The usual starting dose for VENIZ XR 75 extended-release capsules is 75 mg once daily, taken with food, either in the morning or evening, at approximately the same time each day. Your doctor may start you on a lower dose of 37.5 mg daily for 4 to 7 days before increasing to 75 mg. The dose can be further increased in increments of up to 75 mg per day at intervals of no less than 4 days, up to a maximum of 225 mg/day for anxiety disorders. For more severe depression, doses may go up to 375 mg/day. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for dosage.

What are the possible side effects of VENIZ XR 75?

Common side effects include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, difficulty sleeping (insomnia), dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, constipation, decreased appetite, increased sweating, and sexual problems (e.g., lack of orgasm, decreased sex drive). Most of these side effects are temporary and usually resolve over time.

More serious side effects, though less common, can include:

• Serotonin Syndrome: Symptoms may include agitation, hallucinations, confusion, fast heartbeat, dizziness, increased sweating, tremors, stiff muscles, or seizures.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Signs may include skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, leading to difficulty breathing or swallowing.
• Increased Bleeding Tendency: This medication may increase the risk of bleeding.

If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

Is VENIZ XR 75 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

• Pregnancy: VENIZ XR 75 (venlafaxine) should only be used during pregnancy if your doctor determines it is absolutely necessary. While there is no strong evidence of it affecting early fetal development, taking it in the weeks before delivery can sometimes lead to temporary withdrawal symptoms or, rarely, breathing problems in the baby. There may also be a slightly increased risk of postpartum bleeding if taken in the last month of pregnancy. It's crucial to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.
• Breastfeeding: VENIZ XR 75 may pass into breast milk. While many breastfeeding mothers have used venlafaxine without issues, it has been linked to side effects in a small number of breastfed infants, such as unusual sleepiness, poor feeding, or irritability. If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks for you and your baby.

Can VENIZ XR 75 be taken with other medications?

It is crucial to inform your doctor about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins, you are taking.

• MAOIs: VENIZ XR 75 should not be taken with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of stopping an MAOI, as this can lead to a potentially fatal condition called serotonin syndrome.
• Serotonin Syndrome Risk: Concomitant use with other antidepressants (such as SSRIs, other SNRIs, TCAs), lithium, sibutramine, tramadol, buprenorphine, linezolid, and herbal remedies like St. John's wort, can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.
• Bleeding Risk: VENIZ XR 75 may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with aspirin, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), warfarin, and other anticoagulants.
• Other Medications: Discuss with your doctor if you are taking opioid pain relievers, cough medicines, sleeping pills, antihistamines, or any medications that affect blood pressure, as interactions can occur.

What precautions should be taken while taking VENIZ XR 75?

• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions, especially diabetes, liver problems, kidney problems, heart conditions (including high blood pressure or abnormal heartbeat), a history of seizures (epilepsy), bipolar disorder, mania, or glaucoma.
• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking VENIZ XR 75, as it can worsen drowsiness and increase the risk of liver damage.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: This medicine can cause dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, or blurred vision. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Sudden Discontinuation: Do not stop taking VENIZ XR 75 abruptly without consulting your doctor. Gradual dose reduction is necessary to avoid withdrawal symptoms such as agitation, anxiety, dizziness, headaches, nausea, or trouble sleeping.
• Mood Changes: Monitor for any worsening depression, unusual behavioral changes, or suicidal thoughts, especially at the beginning of treatment or when the dose is changed, and report them to your doctor immediately.

What happens if a dose of VENIZ XR 75 is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

How should VENIZ XR 75 be stored?

Store VENIZ XR 75 capsules in a dry place at room temperature, ideally below 30°C. Keep the medicine in its closed container, protected from heat, moisture, and direct light, and out of the reach of children. Do not use outdated or no longer needed medicine.