Getting Started With EFFEXOR XR

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Five Important Topics

Before you begin taking Effexor XR, review these points that may help make your treatment more effective.

  1. Maintain open and ongoing communication with your health care professional.

    Your health care professional is your partner in treatment — and your first-line source of information. It's important to always communicate all of your symptoms and your questions and concerns as your treatment progresses. Prepare for these conversations with your own Doctor Discussion Guide.

  2. Focus on feeling better.

    It may take 4 to 8 weeks to feel the benefits of treatment. Just as depression and anxiety disorders do not develop overnight, it also takes time to feel better. Be sure to stay in contact with your health care professional and keep track of your progress.

  3. Be informed.

    Review the following important information about Effexor XR on this site.

    Always talk to your health care professional about any questions you may have.

  4. Understand potential side effects.

    Effexor XR is associated with potential side effects. Make sure you talk with your health care professional about any side effects you experience. Also, do not stop taking Effexor XR or reduce your dose without first consulting your health care professional. A sudden change in dosage can lead to discontinuation symptoms.

  5. Take Effexor XR as prescribed.

    One good way to help reach the goal of full remission of symptoms is to take your medication every day, exactly as instructed by your health care professional. It is extremely important that you continue to take Effexor XR even as you start feeling better. If you're thinking of changing your dosing in any way, talk to your health care professional first.