Venlafaxine, sold under the brand name Effexor among others, is an antidepressant medication of the serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) class. [5][9] It is used to treat major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. [9] Venlafaxine is used to treat depression. It is also used to treat general anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. Venlafaxine belongs to a group of medicines known as serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI). EFFEXOR XR (venlafaxine extended-release) capsules are a prescription medicine used to treat adults with a certain type of depression called Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), or Panic Disorder (PD). Depressed patients who are currently being treated at a therapeutic dose with Effexor (immediate release) may be switched to Effexor XR at the nearest equivalent dose (mg per day), e.g., 37.5. Find patient medical information for Venlafaxine (Effexor) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings Effexor XR (venlafaxine) is used to treat major depressive disorder, anxiety, and panic disorder. Includes Effexor XR side effects, interactions and indications. Major Depressive Disorder The recommended starting dose of venlafaxine extended-release capsules is 75 mg given once daily. Patients not responding to the initial 75 mg/day dose may benefit from dose increases to a maximum of 225 mg/day.4. Effexor XR (venlafaxine) is a prescription capsule that’s used to treat depression, anxiety, and panic disorder. Learn about side effects, dosage, and more. Effexor XR: side effects, dosage, interactions, FAQs, reviews. Used for: anxiety, autism, depression, generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, panic disorder, and more. Effexor XR is an extended-release capsule for once-a-day oral administration that contains venlafaxine hydrochloride, a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI).