venlafaxine (Effexor)

Venlafaxine is used to treat depression, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. As a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), it works by balancing levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain.

Yes, weight changes are possible with venlafaxine. Side effects like nausea, vomiting, and appetite loss may cause temporary weight loss. Studies of antidepressant medications also show venlafaxine can cause some weight gain. If you're worried about weight changes with venlafaxine, talk with your provider about your concerns.

Venlafaxine starts working soon after you start taking the medication. However, it may take a few weeks before you notice a distinct improvement in your symptoms. If you have questions about the effectiveness of venlafaxine for your condition, talk with your provider to learn more.

No, venlafaxine is not a federally controlled substance, as it is not known to be habit-forming or addictive. For more information about how venlafaxine works, you can speak with your pharmacist or provider.

Yes, tiredness is a common side effect of venlafaxine. Taking venlafaxine may also cause problems with sleep, which could contribute to feelings of tiredness. However, keep in mind that tiredness or low energy may also be a symptom of your condition. If you're feeling tired with venlafaxine treatment, talk with your provider or pharmacist to discuss ways to manage this side effect.

If you are considering weaning off venlafaxine, do not do so on your own. Suddenly stopping venlafaxine may cause withdrawal symptoms, such as headache, agitation, anxiety, trouble sleeping, sweating, confusion, trouble with balance, and nightmares. If you're interested in stopping venlafaxine, talk with your provider before taking any action. They can help you gradually wean off the medication to lower your risk for withdrawal symptoms.

The duration of withdrawal symptoms from venlafaxine depends on individual factors, such as how you responded to venlafaxine, your dose and how quickly you're weaned off the drug, other conditions you may have, and other medications you may be taking. Typically, withdrawal symptoms for venlafaxine are mild and go away within a few weeks if your dosage is slowly lowered over time. In some cases, though, withdrawal symptoms may last for several months. If you're concerned about the duration of your withdrawal symptoms, talk with your provider.

You can meet with a licensed provider at Thriveworks, in person or online depending on your state. If it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe medication for a diagnosed mental health condition. Your provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.

Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication your provider prescribes, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your plan to confirm your medical and prescription coverage.

Schedule a session with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After discussing your symptoms and treatment goals, your provider may recommend medication and/or additional services to help you get where you want to be.

Yes. Thriveworks is LegitScript-certified, meaning we’ve been reviewed and verified by one of the most trusted compliance organizations in healthcare. This certification confirms that our services meet high standards for legality, safety, and transparency.