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Venlafaxine is an antidepressant medication used to treat various mental health conditions, including depression. While it offers significant benefits, it is essential to be aware of potential risks and precautions. Below is a concise guide to the safety and warning information associated with venlafaxine:

• Suicidal Thoughts and Behavior: Venlafaxine may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior, particularly in individuals aged 24 or younger. Be alert for signs like worsening depression, aggression, agitation, or any mood changes, particularly at the beginning of treatment or during dosage adjustments. Immediate communication with your healthcare provider is crucial if these symptoms appear.

• Serotonin Syndrome: This is a rare but potentially fatal condition characterized by an excess of serotonin in the brain. The risk increases if venlafaxine is used with other serotonin-affecting medications (e.g., other antidepressants, lithium, tramadol). Symptoms include rapid heartbeat, sweating, muscle stiffness, fever, and confusion. Seek medical assistance immediately if these occur.

• High Blood Pressure: Venlafaxine might elevate blood pressure. Regular monitoring is essential, especially if you have a history of high blood pressure or heart conditions. Maintain any current hypertension treatments and consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

• Increased Bleeding Risk: Using venlafaxine can heighten bleeding or bruising risks, particularly when combined with aspirin, NSAIDs, or blood thinners. Report any persistent bruising, black stools, or unusual bleeding to your prescriber.

• Mania: Venlafaxine can trigger manic episodes, especially in individuals with a history of bipolar disorder. Symptoms like excessive excitement, delusions, or hyperactivity may occur. A thorough evaluation for bipolar disorder is advised before starting this medication.

• Glaucoma: Venlafaxine may cause pupil dilation, potentially increasing eye pressure, which is significant for those with glaucoma. Symptoms such as sudden eye pain or blurry vision require immediate attention.

• Withdrawal Symptoms: Abruptly stopping venlafaxine can lead to withdrawal symptoms like nausea, anxiety, and dizziness. Gradually tapering the dose with your healthcare provider's guidance can prevent these effects.

• Seizures: There is a potential risk of seizures in some individuals. Disclose any seizure history to your prescriber before starting the medication.

• Low Sodium Levels: Venlafaxine can occasionally cause low sodium levels, particularly in older adults or those taking diuretics. Symptoms like confusion, weakness, or instability necessitate prompt medical attention.

• Lung Problems and Pneumonia: Although rare, venlafaxine has been linked to lung issues. Seek medical help if you experience breathing difficulties or chest discomfort.

• Sexual Side Effects: Both males and females may experience sexual side effects, such as reduced libido or ejaculation issues. Discuss potential management options with your prescriber if these occur.

Contraindications:

• Do not use venlafaxine if you are currently taking MAOIs or have taken them within the last 14 days.
• Avoid concurrent use with linezolid or intravenous methylene blue.

Always consult your healthcare provider to discuss these risks and any concerns you have while taking venlafaxine.

Common side effects:

• nausea
• trouble sleeping
• dizziness
• loss of appetite
• drowsiness
• dry mouth
• sweating
• constipation
• nervousness
• weakness
• abnormal ejaculation

Serious side effects:

• easy bleeding or bruising
• decreased interest in sex
• muscle cramps or weakness
• tremor
• persistent cough
• shortness of breath
• chest pain
• severe headache
• black stools
• vomit resembling coffee grounds
• eye pain, swelling or redness
• widened pupils
• vision changes
• seizures
• serotonin syndrome
• rash
• itching
• swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat)
• severe dizziness
• trouble breathing

Interactions with high risk of serious adverse effects and should be avoided:

• MAO Inhibitors (such as isocarboxazid, Linezolid, Tranylcypromine)

Interactions with moderate risk that may require dose adjustment, closer monitoring, or timing changes:

• Drugs that increase serotonin (such as MDMA, St. John's wort, SSRIs like Fluoxetine, paroxetine, and Tryptophan)
• Antiplatelet drugs (such as Clopidogrel)
• NSAIDs (such as Ibuprofen, Naproxen)
• Blood thinners (such as Dabigatran, Warfarin)
• Aspirin
• Opioid pain or cough relievers (such as codeine, hydrocodone)
• Alcohol
• Cannabis
• Drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as Alprazolam, Lorazepam)
• Muscle relaxants (such as Carisoprodol, Cyclobenzaprine)
• Antihistamines (such as Cetirizine, diphenhydramine)
• Desvenlafaxine

Interactions with low risk that usually do not require a change in therapy:

• Metoprolol
• St John's Wort
• Zolpidem