On this page
Venlafaxine
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC Directory| Ingredient | Strength | RxCUI | Monograph |
|---|---|---|---|
| Venlafaxine Besylate Monohydrate | 112.5 mg/1 | 2605950 | — |
| Venlafaxine Hydrochloride | 150 mg/1 | 808744 | View |
| Venlafaxine Hydrochloride | 225 mg/1 | 808744 | View |
| Venlafaxine Hydrochloride | 37.5 mg/1 | 808744 | View |
| Venlafaxine Hydrochloride | 75 mg/1 | 808744 | View |
Forms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| Class | Type | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Norepinephrine Uptake Inhibitors [MoA] | MoA | All 44 members |
| Serotonin Uptake Inhibitors [MoA] | MoA | All 73 members |
| Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor [EPC] | EPC | All 26 members |
Regulatory status
Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 215622-001 | VENLAFAXINE HYDROCHLORIDE | TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE | VENLAFAXINE HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AB | ||
| 215622-002 | VENLAFAXINE HYDROCHLORIDE | TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE | VENLAFAXINE HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AB | ||
| 215622-003 | VENLAFAXINE HYDROCHLORIDE | TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE | VENLAFAXINE HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AB | ||
| 215622-004 | VENLAFAXINE HYDROCHLORIDE | TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE | VENLAFAXINE HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AB |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookWhat this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated by in vivo or in vitro testing
Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplement | 1 | Labeling | Approved | November 1, 2023 | Standard |
| Original application | 1 | Approved | August 30, 2022 | Standard |
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260817). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Boxed Warning
openFDA Drug LabelingWARNING: SUICIDALITY AND ANTIDEPRESSANT DRUGS Antidepressants increased the risk compared to placebo of suicidal thinking and behavior (suicidality) in children, adolescents, and young adults in short-term studies of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders. Anyone considering the use of venlafaxine extended-release tablets or any other antidepressant in a child, adolescent, or young adult must balance this risk with the clinical need. Short-term studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidality with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults beyond age 24; there was a reduction in risk with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults aged 65 and older. Depression and certain other psychiatric disorders are themselves associated with increases in the risk of suicide. Patients of all ages who are started on antidepressant therapy should be monitored appropriately and observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior. Families and caregivers should be advised of the need for close observation and communication with the prescriber. Venlafaxine extended-release tablets are not approved for use in pediatric patients. [ See Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) and Patient Counseling Information ( 17.1 ) ] WARNING: Suicidality and Antidepressants See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents and young adults taking antidepressants for major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders. Venlafaxine extended-release tablets are not approved for use in pediatric patients. ( 5.1 )
Recent Major Changes
openFDA Drug LabelingRECENT MAJOR CHANGES Warning and Precautions ( 5.2 , 5.13 ) 8/2023
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug Labeling1 INDICATIONS & USAGE Venlafaxine extended-release tablets are a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) indicated for: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) ( 1.1 ) Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) ( 1.2 ) 1.1 Major Depressive Disorder Venlafaxine extended-release tablets (venlafaxine hydrochloride) are indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). Efficacy of venlafaxine in MDD was shown in both short-term trials and a longer-term trial in MDD [ see Clinical Studies (14.1)]. A major depressive episode (DSM-IV) implies a prominent and relatively persistent (nearly every day for at least 2 weeks) depressed mood or the loss of interest or pleasure in nearly all activities, representing a change from previous functioning, and includes the presence of at least five of the following nine symptoms during the same two-week period: depressed mood, markedly diminished interest or pleasure in usual activities, significant change in weight and/or appetite, insomnia or hypersomnia, psychomotor agitation or retardation, increased fatigue, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, slowed thinking or impaired concentration, a suicide attempt or suicidal ideation. 1.2 Social Anxiety Disorder Venlafaxine extended-release tablets are indicated for the treatment of Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), also known as Social Phobia, as defined in DSM-IV. Social Anxiety Disorder (DSM-IV) is characterized by a marked and persistent fear of 1 or more social or performance situations in which the person is exposed to unfamiliar people or to possible scrutiny by others. Exposure to the feared situation almost invariably provokes anxiety, which may approach the intensity of a panic attack. The feared situations are avoided or endured with intense anxiety or distress. The avoidance, anxious anticipation, or distress in the feared situation(s) interferes significantly with the person's normal routine, occupational or academic functioning, or social activities or relationships, or there is a marked distress about having the phobias. Lesser degrees of performance anxiety or shyness generally do not require psychopharmacological treatment. Efficacy of venlafaxine extended-release in the treatment of SAD was established in short-term SAD trials [ see Clinical Studies (14.2) ].
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug Labeling2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Venlafaxine extended-release tablets should be administered in a single dose with food either in the morning or in the evening at approximately the same time each day. Each tablet should be swallowed whole with fluid and not divided, crushed, chewed or placed in water. Initial Treatment ( 2.1 ) Indication Starting Dose Dose Increase Maximum Dose Major Depressive Disorder 75 mg/day (in some patients, 37.5 mg/day for 4 days to 7 days) 75 mg/day increments at intervals of 4 days or longer 225 mg/day Social Anxiety Disorder 75 mg/day No benefit at higher doses 75 mg/day Venlafaxine extended-release tablets should be taken as a single daily dose with food in either the morning or evening at the same time each day. ( 2 ) Discontinuation: Gradual; individualized as necessary. ( 2.4 ) 2.1 Initial Treatment Major Depressive Disorder For most patients, the recommended starting dose for venlafaxine extended-release tablets is 75 mg/day, administered in a single dose. In the clinical trials establishing the efficacy of venlafaxine hydrochloride extended-release capsules in moderately depressed outpatients, the initial dose of venlafaxine was 75 mg/day. For some patients, it may be desirable to start at 37.5 mg/day for 4 days to 7 days to allow new patients to adjust to the medication before increasing to 75 mg/day. While the relationship between dose and antidepressant response for venlafaxine hydrochloride extended-release capsules has not been adequately explored, patients not responding to the initial 75 mg/day dose may benefit from dose increases to a maximum of approximately 225 mg/day. Dose increases should be in increments of up to 75 mg/day, as needed and should be made at intervals of not less than 4 days, since steady state plasma levels of venlafaxine and its major metabolites are achieved in most patients by day 4. In the clinical trials establishing efficacy, upward titration was permitted at intervals of 2 weeks or more; the average doses were about 140 mg/day to 180 mg/day [see Clinical Studies ( 14 )]. It should be noted that, while the maximum recommended dose for moderately depressed outpatients is also 225 mg/day for venlafaxine hydrochloride immediate-release tablets, more severely depressed inpatients in one study of the development program for that product responded to a mean dose of 350 mg/day (range of 150 mg/day to 375 mg/day). Whether or not higher doses of venlafaxine extended-release tablets are needed for more severely depressed patients is unknown; however, the experience with venlafaxine hydrochloride extended-release capsule doses higher than 225 mg/day is very limited . Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia) The recommended dose is 75 mg/day, administered in a single dose. There was no evidence that higher doses confer any additional benefit . 2.2 Maintenance Treatment There is no body of evidence available from controlled trials to indicate how long patients with major depressive disorder should be treated with venlafaxine extended-release tablets. It is generally agreed that acute episodes of major depressive disorder require several months or longer of sustained pharmacological therapy beyond response to the acute episode. In one study, in which patients responding during 8 weeks of acute treatment with venlafaxine hydrochloride extended-release capsules were assigned randomly to placebo or to the same dose of venlafaxine hydrochloride extended-release capsules (75 mg per day, 150 mg per day or 225 mg per day, qAM) during 26 weeks of maintenance treatment as they had received during the acute stabilization phase, longer-term efficacy was demonstrated. A second longer-term study has demonstrated the efficacy of venlafaxine hydrochloride immediate-release tablets in maintaining a response in patients with recurrent major depressive disorder who had responded and continued to be improved during an initial 26 weeks of treatment and were then randomly assigned to placebo or venla …
Dosage Forms and Strengths
openFDA Drug Labeling3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Venlafaxine extended-release tablets are available as: 37.5 mg tablets (circular shape, biconvex, white to off-white colored tablets with “V5” imprinted on one side in black ink and orifice on either side) 75 mg tablets (circular shape, biconvex, white to off-white colored tablets with “V6” imprinted on one side in black ink and orifice on either side) 150 mg tablets (circular shape, biconvex, white to off-white colored tablets with “VEN3” imprinted on one side in black ink and orifice on either side) 225 mg tablets (circular shape, biconvex, white to off-white colored tablets with “VEN4” imprinted on one side in black ink and orifice on either side) 37.5 mg, 75 mg, 150 mg, and 225 mg tablets ( 3 )
Contraindications
openFDA Drug Labeling4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Serotonin Syndrome and MAOIs: Do not use MAOI’s intended to treat psychiatric disorders with venlafaxine extended-release tablets or within 7 days of stopping treatment with venlafaxine extended-release tablets. Do not use venlafaxine extended-release tablets within 14 days of stopping an MAOI intended to treat psychiatric disorders. In addition, do not start venlafaxine extended-release tablets in a patient who is being treated with linezolid or intravenous methylene blue ( 4.1 ). 4.1 Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) The use of MAOI’s intended to treat psychiatric disorders with venlafaxine extended-release tablets or within 7 days of stopping treatment with venlafaxine extended-release tablets is contraindicated because of an increased risk of serotonin syndrome. The use of venlafaxine extended-release tablets within 14 days of stopping, an MAOI intended to treat psychiatric disorders is also contraindicated [ see Dosage and Administration ( 2.6 ), and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ) ]. Starting venlafaxine extended-release tablets in a patient who is being treated with MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue is also contraindicated because of an increased risk of serotonin syndrome [ see Dosage and Administrations ( 2.7 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ) ].
Warnings and Cautions
openFDA Drug Labeling5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Serotonin Syndrome: Increased risk when co-administered with other serotonergic agents, but also when taken alone. If it occurs, discontinue Venlafaxine Extended-Release Tablets and serotonergic agents and initiate supportive treatment ( 4 , 5.2 , 7.1 ). Elevated Blood Pressure: Control hypertension before initiating treatment. Monitor blood pressure regularly during treatment ( 5.3 ). Increased Risk of Bleeding: Concomitant use of aspirin, NSAIDs, other antiplatelet drugs, warfarin, and other anticoagulants may increase risk ( 5.4 ). Angle Closure Glaucoma: Angle closure glaucoma has occurred in patients with untreated anatomically narrow angles treated with antidepressants ( 5.5 ). Activation of Mania/Hypomania: Screen patients for bipolar disorder ( 2.4 , 5.6 ). Discontinuation Syndrome: Taper dose and monitor for discontinuation symptoms ( 5.7 ). Seizure: Can occur. Use with caution in patients with seizure disorder ( 5.8 ). Hyponatremia: Can occur in association with SIADH ( 5.9 ). Interstitial Lung Disease and Eosinophilic Pneumonia: Can occur ( 5.12 ). Sexual Dysfunction: Venlafaxine Extended-Release Tablets may cause symptoms of sexual dysfunction ( 5.13 ). 5.1 Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Adolescents and Young Adults In pooled analyses of placebo-controlled trials of antidepressant drugs (SSRIs and other antidepressant classes) that included approximately 77,000 adult patients and 4,500 pediatric patients, the incidence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in antidepressant-treated patients age 24 years and younger was greater than in placebo-treated patients. There was considerable variation in risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors among drugs, but there was an increased risk identified in young patients for most drugs studied. There were differences in absolute risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors across the different indications, with the highest incidence in patients with MDD. The drug-placebo differences in the number of cases of suicidal thoughts and behaviors per 1,000 patients treated are provided in Table 1. Table 1: Risk Differences of the Number of Patients of Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in the Pooled Placebo-Controlled Trials of Antidepressants in Pediatric* and Adult Patients *Venlafaxine Extended-Release Tablets are not approved for use in pediatric patients. Age Range Drug-Placebo Difference in Number of Patients of Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors per 1,000 Patients Treated Increases Compared to Placebo < 18 years old 14 additional patients 18–24 years old 5 additional patients Decreases Compared to Placebo 25–64 years old 1 fewer patient ≥ 65 years old 6 fewer patients It is unknown whether the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults extends to longer-term use, i.e., beyond four months. However, there is substantial evidence from placebo-controlled maintenance trials in adults with MDD that antidepressants delay the recurrence of depression and that depression itself is a risk factor for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Monitor all antidepressant-treated patients for any indication for clinical worsening and emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially during the initial few months of drug therapy, and at times of dosage changes. Counsel family members or caregivers of patients to monitor for changes in behavior and to alert the healthcare provider. Consider changing the therapeutic regimen, including possibly discontinuing Venlafaxine Extended-Release Tablets, in patients whose depression is persistently worse, or who are experiencing emergent suicidal thoughts or behaviors. 5.2 Serotonin Syndrome Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), including Venlafaxine Extended-Release Tablets, can precipitate serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. The risk is increased with concomitant use of other serotonergic drugs (including triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl, lithium …
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug Labeling6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following adverse reactions are discussed in more detail in other sections of the labeling: Hypersensitivity [see Contraindications ( 4 )] Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Adolescents and Young Adults [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] Serotonin Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] Elevated Blood Pressure [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] Increased Risk of Bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] Angle-Closure Glaucoma [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] Activation of Mania/Hypomania [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] Discontinuation Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] Seizures [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] Hyponatremia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 )] Weight and Height Changes in Pediatric Patients [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10 )] Appetite Changes in Pediatric Patients [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.11 )] Interstitial Lung Disease and Eosinophilic Pneumonia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.12 )] Sexual Dysfunction [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.13 )] Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥5% and at least twice the rate of placebo): nausea, somnolence, dry mouth, sweating, abnormal ejaculation, anorexia, constipation, impotence (men), and libido decreased ( 6.1 ). To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Almatica Pharma LLC at 1-877-447-7979 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Studies Experience Because clinical studies are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical studies of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical studies of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The safety of Venlafaxine Extended-Release Tablets for the treatment of MDD and GAD is based on adequate and well controlled studies of venlafaxine extended-release capsules. Below is a display of adverse reactions of venlafaxine extended-release capsules from those adequate and well-controlled studies in MDD, GAD, and other indications. Most Common Adverse Reactions The most commonly observed adverse reactions in the clinical study database in venlafaxine extended-release capsules treated patients in MDD, GAD, and other indications (incidence ≥ 5% and at least twice the rate of placebo) were: nausea (30.0%), somnolence (15.3%), dry mouth (14.8%), sweating (11.4%), abnormal ejaculation (9.9%), anorexia (9.8%), constipation (9.3%), impotence (5.3%) and decreased libido (5.1%). Adverse Reactions Reported as Reasons for Discontinuation of Treatment Combined across short-term, placebo-controlled premarketing studies for MDD, GAD, and other indications, 12% of the 3,558 patients who received venlafaxine extended-release capsules within a dosage range of 37.5 mg to 225 mg discontinued treatment due to an adverse reaction, compared with 4% of the 2,197 placebo-treated patients in those studies [Venlafaxine Extended-Release Tablets are only available as 112.5 mg dosage strength]. The most common adverse reactions leading to discontinuation in ≥ 1% of the venlafaxine extended-release capsules treated patients in the short-term studies (up to 12 weeks) in MDD, GAD, and other indications are shown in Table 7. Table 7: Adverse Reactions Leading to Discontinuation in Venlafaxine Extended-Release Capsule Placebo-controlled Clinical Studies (up to 12 Weeks Duration) Body System Adverse Reaction Venlafaxine Extended-Release Capsules n = 3,558 Placebo n = 2,197 Body as a whole Asthenia 1.7 0.5 Headache 1.5 0.8 Digestive system Nausea 4.3 0.4 Nervous system Dizziness 2.2 0.8 Insomnia 2.1 0.6 Somnolence 1.7 0.3 Skin and appendages 1.5 0.6 Sweating 1.0 0.2 Common Adverse Reactions in Placebo-controlled Studies Common adverse reactions (those that occurred in ≥ 2% of venlafaxine extended-release capsules treated patients [357 MDD patients, 1,381 GAD patients, and 1,820 patients for other indications] and more frequently than placebo) in venlafaxine extended-re …
Drug Interactions
openFDA Drug Labeling7 DRUG INTERACTIONS MAOI's: concomitant use contraindicated ( 4 ). Avoid MAOI's 14 days before starting venlafaxine and 7 days after stopping venlafaxine ( 5.2 ). Cimetidine: Caution in patients with pre-existing hypertension, in elderly patients and patients with hepatic dysfunction. ( 7.2 ) Haloperidol: Increase in Haloperidol AUC and C max . ( 7.4 ) Ketoconazole: Increase in venlafaxine and O-desmethylvenlafaxine AUC and C max . Caution when using venlafaxine with substances that inhibit both CYP2D6 and CYP3A4. ( 7.7 ) Metoprolol: Possibly reduced blood-pressure lowering effect despite increased metoprolol plasma levels. Caution should be exercised with co-administration of venlafaxine and metoprolol. ( 7.8 ) CNS-active drugs: Caution when using venlafaxine with such drugs. ( 7.10 ) Serotonergic drugs (e.g., triptans, SSRIs, other SNRIs, linezolid, lithium, tramadol or St. John's Wort): Potential for serotonin syndrome. Careful patient observation advised. ( 7.10 ) Tryptophan supplements: Concomitant use not recommended. ( 7.10 ) 7.1 Alcohol A single dose of ethanol (0.5 g/kg) had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of venlafaxine or Odesmethylvenlafaxine (ODV) when venlafaxine was administered at 150 mg/day in 15 healthy male subjects. Additionally, administration of venlafaxine in a stable regimen did not exaggerate the psychomotor and psychometric effects induced by ethanol in these same subjects when they were not receiving venlafaxine. 7.2 Cimetidine Concomitant administration of cimetidine and venlafaxine in a steady-state study for both drugs resulted in inhibition of first-pass metabolism of venlafaxine in 18 healthy subjects. The oral clearance of venlafaxine was reduced by about 43% and the exposure (AUC) and maximum concentration (C max ) of the drug were increased by about 60%. However, coadministration of cimetidine had no apparent effect on the pharmacokinetics of ODV, which is present in much greater quantity in the circulation than venlafaxine. The overall pharmacological activity of venlafaxine plus ODV is expected to increase only slightly and no dosage adjustment should be necessary for most normal adults. However, for patients with pre-existing hypertension and for elderly patients or patients with hepatic dysfunction, the interaction associated with the concomitant use of venlafaxine and cimetidine is not known and potentially could be more pronounced. Therefore, caution is advised with such patients. 7.3 Diazepam Under steady-state conditions for venlafaxine administered at 150 mg/day, a single 10 mg dose of diazepam did not appear to affect the pharmacokinetics of either venlafaxine or ODV in 18 healthy male subjects. Venlafaxine also did not have any effect on the pharmacokinetics of diazepam or its active metabolite, desmethyldiazepam or affect the psychomotor and psychometric effects induced by diazepam. 7.4 Haloperidol Venlafaxine administered under steady-state conditions at 150 mg/day in 24 healthy subjects decreased total oral-dose clearance (Cl/F) of a single 2 mg dose of haloperidol by 42%, which resulted in a 70% increase in haloperidol AUC. In addition, the haloperidol C max increased 88% when coadministered with venlafaxine, but the haloperidol elimination half-life (t 1/2 ) was unchanged. The mechanism explaining this finding is unknown. 7.5 Lithium The steady-state pharmacokinetics of venlafaxine administered at 150 mg/day were not affected when a single 600 mg oral dose of lithium was administered to 12 healthy male subjects. ODV also was unaffected. Venlafaxine had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of lithium (see also CNS-Active Drugs, below). 7.6 Drugs Highly Bound to Plasma Proteins Venlafaxine is not highly bound to plasma proteins; therefore, administration of venlafaxine extended-release tablets to a patient taking another drug that is highly protein bound should not cause increased free concentrations of the other drug. 7.7 Drugs that Inhibit Cytochrome P450 Isoenzymes CYP2D6 Inhi …
Use in Specific Populations
openFDA Drug Labeling8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Pregnancy: Third trimester use may increase risk for symptoms of poor neonatal adaptation (respiratory distress, temperature instability, feeding difficulty, hypotonia, tremor, irritability) in the neonate ( 8.1 ). 8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to antidepressants, including Venlafaxine Extended-Release Tablets, during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by calling the National Pregnancy Registry for Antidepressants at 1-844-405-6185 or visiting online at https://womensmentalhealth.org/research/pregnancyregistry/antidepressants. Risk Summary Based on data from published observational studies, exposure to SNRIs, particularly in the month before delivery, has been associated with a less than 2-fold increase in the risk of postpartum hemorrhage [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 ) and Clinical Considerations] . Available data from published epidemiologic studies on venlafaxine use in pregnant women have not identified a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse fetal outcomes (see Data) . Available data from observational studies with venlafaxine have identified a potential increased risk for preeclampsia when used during mid to late pregnancy; exposure to SNRIs near delivery may increase the risk for postpartum hemorrhage (see Clinical Considerations) . There are risks associated with untreated depression in pregnancy and poor neonatal adaptation in newborns exposure to SNRIs, including Venlafaxine Extended-Release Tablets, during pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations) . In animal studies, there was no evidence of malformations or fetotoxicity following administration of venlafaxine during organogenesis at doses up to 2.5 times (rat) or 4 times (rabbit) the maximum recommended human daily dose on a mg/m 2 basis. Postnatal mortality and decreased pup weights were observed following venlafaxine administration to pregnant rats during gestation and lactation at 2.5 times (mg/m 2 ) the maximum human daily dose. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-associated maternal and/or embryo/fetal risk Women who discontinue antidepressants during pregnancy are more likely to experience a relapse of major depression than women who continue antidepressants. This finding is from a prospective, longitudinal study of 201 women with a history of major depression who were euthymic at the beginning of pregnancy. Consider the risk of untreated depression when discontinuing or changing treatment with antidepressant medication during pregnancy and postpartum. Maternal Adverse Reactions Exposure to Venlafaxine Extended-Release Tablets in mid to late pregnancy may increase the risk for preeclampsia, and exposure to Venlafaxine Extended-Release Tablets in the month before near delivery may be associated with an increased the risk for of postpartum hemorrhage [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] . Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions Neonates exposed to SNRIs late in the third trimester have developed complications requiring prolonged hospitalization, respiratory support, and tube feeding. Such complications can arise immediately upon delivery. Reported clinical findings have included respiratory distress, cyanosis, apnea, seizures, temperature instability, feeding difficulty, vomiting, hypoglycemia, hypotonia, hypertonia, hyperreflexia, tremors, jitteriness, irritability, and constant crying. These findings are consistent with either a direct toxic effect of SNRIs or possibly a drug discontinuation syndro …
Mechanism of Action
openFDA Drug Labeling12.1 Mechanism of Action The mechanism of the antidepressant action of venlafaxine in humans is believed to be associated with its potentiation of neurotransmitter activity in the CNS. Preclinical studies have shown that venlafaxine and its active metabolite, O-desmethylvenlafaxine (ODV), are potent inhibitors of neuronal serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake and weak inhibitors of dopamine reuptake.
Description
openFDA Drug Labeling11 DESCRIPTION Venlafaxine extended-release tablets are extended-release tablets for oral administration that contain venlafaxine hydrochloride, a structurally novel antidepressant. Venlafaxine hydrochloride is a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). It is designated (R/S)-1-[2-(dimethylamino)-1-(4-methoxyphenyl)ethyl] cyclohexanol hydrochloride or (±)-1-[α-[(dimethylamino)methyl]-p-methoxybenzyl] cyclohexanol hydrochloride and has the molecular formula of C 17 H 27 NO 2 HCl. Its molecular weight is 313.87. The structural formula is shown below. Venlafaxine Hydrochloride Venlafaxine hydrochloride is a white to off-white crystalline solid with a solubility of 572 mg/mL in water (adjusted to ionic strength of 0.2 M with sodium chloride). Its octanol:water (0.2 M sodium chloride) partition coefficient is 0.43. Venlafaxine extended-release tablets are formulated as extended-release tablet for once-a-day oral administration. Venlafaxine extended-release tablets use osmotic pressure to deliver venlafaxine hydrochloride at a controlled rate over approximately 24 hours. The system, which resembles a conventional tablet in appearance, comprises an osmotically active core surrounded by a semipermeable membrane. The unitary tablet core is composed of the drug and excipients (including the osmotically active components). There is a precision-laser drilled orifice in the semipermeable membrane on the side of the tablet. In an aqueous environment, such as the gastrointestinal tract, water permeates through the membrane into the tablet core, causing the drug to dissolve and the osmotic components to expand. This expansion pushes the drug out through the orifice. The semipermeable membrane controls the rate at which water permeates into the tablet core, which in turn controls the rate of drug delivery. The controlled rate of drug delivery into the gastrointestinal lumen is thus independent of pH or gastrointestinal motility. The function of venlafaxine extended-release tablets depends on the existence of an osmotic gradient between the contents of the core and the fluid in the gastrointestinal tract. Since the osmotic gradient remains constant, drug delivery remains essentially constant. The biologically inert components of the tablet remain intact during gastrointestinal transit and are eliminated in the feces as an insoluble shell. Tablets contain venlafaxine hydrochloride equivalent to 37.5 mg, 75 mg, 150 mg, or 225 mg venlafaxine. Inactive ingredients consist of ammonium hydroxide, black iron oxide, cellulose acetate, colloidal silicon dioxide, hypromellose, lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, mannitol, polyethylene glycol, povidone, propylene glycol, shellac and titanium dioxide. VenlaHCl-str
Overdosage
openFDA Drug Labeling10 OVERDOSAGE 10.1 Human Experience Among the patients included in the premarketing evaluation of venlafaxine hydrochloride extended-release capsules, there were 2 reports of acute overdosage with venlafaxine hydrochloride extended-release capsules in major depressive disorder trials, either alone or in combination with other drugs. One patient took a combination of 6 g of venlafaxine hydrochloride extended-release capsules and 2.5 mg of lorazepam. This patient was hospitalized, treated symptomatically and recovered without any untoward effects. The other patient took 2.85 g of venlafaxine hydrochloride extended-release capsules. This patient reported paresthesia of all four limbs but recovered without sequelae. There were no reports of acute overdose with venlafaxine hydrochloride extended-release capsules in Social Anxiety Disorder trials. Among the patients included in the premarketing evaluation with venlafaxine hydrochloride immediate-release tablets, there were 14 reports of acute overdose with venlafaxine, either alone or in combination with other drugs and/or alcohol. The majority of the reports involved ingestion in which the total dose of venlafaxine taken was estimated to be no more than several-fold higher than the usual therapeutic dose. The 3 patients who took the highest doses were estimated to have ingested approximately 6.75 g, 2.75 g and 2.5 g. The resultant peak plasma levels of venlafaxine for the latter 2 patients were 6.24 mcg/mL and 2.35 mcg/mL, respectively and the peak plasma levels of O-desmethylvenlafaxine were 3.37 mcg/mL and 1.30 mcg/mL, respectively. Plasma venlafaxine levels were not obtained for the patient who ingested 6.75 g of venlafaxine. All 14 patients recovered without sequelae. Most patients reported no symptoms. Among the remaining patients, somnolence was the most commonly reported symptom. The patient who ingested 2.75 g of venlafaxine was observed to have 2 generalized convulsions and a prolongation of QTc to 500 msec, compared with 405 msec at baseline. Mild sinus tachycardia was reported in 2 of the other patients. In postmarketing experience, overdose with venlafaxine has occurred predominantly in combination with alcohol and/or other drugs. The most commonly reported reactions in overdosage include tachycardia, changes in level of consciousness (ranging from somnolence to coma), mydriasis, seizures and vomiting. Electrocardiogram changes (e.g., prolongation of QT interval, bundle branch block, QRS prolongation), ventricular tachycardia, bradycardia, hypotension, rhabdomyolysis, vertigo, liver necrosis, serotonin syndrome and death have been reported. Published retrospective studies report that venlafaxine overdosage may be associated with an increased risk of fatal outcomes compared to that observed with SSRI antidepressant products, but lower than that for tricyclic antidepressants. Epidemiological studies have shown that venlafaxine-treated patients have a higher pre-existing burden of suicide risk factors than SSRI-treated patients. The extent to which the finding of an increased risk of fatal outcomes can be attributed to the toxicity of venlafaxine in overdosage as opposed to some characteristic(s) of venlafaxine-treated patients is not clear. Prescriptions for venlafaxine extended-release tablets should be written for the smallest quantity of tablets consistent with good patient management, in order to reduce the risk of overdose. 10.2 Management of Overdosage Treatment should consist of those general measures employed in the management of overdosage with any antidepressant. Ensure an adequate airway, oxygenation and ventilation. Monitor cardiac rhythm and vital signs. General supportive and symptomatic measures are also recommended. Induction of emesis is not recommended. Gastric lavage with a large bore orogastric tube with appropriate airway protection, if needed, may be indicated if performed soon after ingestion or in symptomatic patients. Activated charcoal should be …
How Supplied / Storage and Handling
openFDA Drug Labeling16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Venlafaxine extended-release tablets 37.5 mg are white to off-white colored, circular shaped, biconvex, beveled edge, film-coated tablet with “V5” imprinted on one side in black ink and orifice on either side. They are supplied as follows: Unit of Use Bottles of 30 Tablets with child resistant closures NDC 27241-221-30 Unit of Use Bottles of 90 Tablets with child resistant closures NDC 27241-221-90 Venlafaxine extended-release tablets 75 mg are white to off-white colored, circular shaped, biconvex, beveled edge, film-coated tablet with “V6” imprinted on one side in black ink and orifice on either side. They are supplied as follows: Unit of Use Bottles of 30 Tablets with child resistant closures NDC 27241-222-30 Unit of Use Bottles of 90 Tablets with child resistant closures NDC 27241-222-90 Venlafaxine extended-release tablets 150 mg are white to off-white colored, circular shaped, biconvex, beveled edge, film-coated tablet with “VEN3” imprinted on one side in black ink and orifice on either side. They are supplied as follows: Unit of Use Bottles of 30 Tablets with child resistant closures NDC 27241-223-30 Unit of Use Bottles of 90 Tablets with child resistant closures NDC 27241-223-90 Venlafaxine extended-release tablets 225 mg are white to off-white colored, circular shaped, biconvex, beveled edge, film-coated tablet with “VEN4” imprinted on one side in black ink and orifice on either side. They are supplied as follows: Unit of Use Bottles of 30 Tablets with child resistant closures NDC 27241-224-30 Unit of Use Bottles of 90 Tablets with child resistant closures NDC 27241-224-90 Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from moisture and humidity.
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: VENLAFAXINE HYDROCHLORIDE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.
Recalls
Source: FDA Enforcement| Classification | Reported | Firm | Reason | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class III | January 29, 2025 | Appco Pharma LLC | Failed Tablet/Capsule Specifications: Missing tab ID on either side of the tablet | Completed |
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 27241-221-30 | 27241-221 | Ajanta Pharma USA Inc. | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (27241-221-30) | April 12, 2023 |
| 27241-221-90 | 27241-221 | Ajanta Pharma USA Inc. | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (27241-221-90) | April 12, 2023 |
| 27241-222-30 | 27241-222 | Ajanta Pharma USA Inc. | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (27241-222-30) | April 12, 2023 |
| 27241-222-90 | 27241-222 | Ajanta Pharma USA Inc. | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (27241-222-90) | April 12, 2023 |
| 27241-223-30 | 27241-223 | Ajanta Pharma USA Inc. | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (27241-223-30) | April 12, 2023 |
| 27241-223-90 | 27241-223 | Ajanta Pharma USA Inc. | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (27241-223-90) | April 12, 2023 |
| 27241-224-30 | 27241-224 | Ajanta Pharma USA Inc. | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (27241-224-30) | April 12, 2023 |
| 27241-224-90 | 27241-224 | Ajanta Pharma USA Inc. | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (27241-224-90) | April 12, 2023 |
| 52427-632-30 | 52427-632 | Almatica Pharma LLC | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (52427-632-30) | August 1, 2022 |
| 67877-726-30 | 67877-726 | Ascend Laboratories, LLC | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (67877-726-30) | June 11, 2021 |
| 67877-726-90 | 67877-726 | Ascend Laboratories, LLC | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (67877-726-90) | June 11, 2021 |
| 67877-727-30 | 67877-727 | Ascend Laboratories, LLC | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (67877-727-30) | June 11, 2021 |
| 67877-727-90 | 67877-727 | Ascend Laboratories, LLC | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (67877-727-90) | June 11, 2021 |
| 67877-728-30 | 67877-728 | Ascend Laboratories, LLC | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (67877-728-30) | June 11, 2021 |
| 67877-728-90 | 67877-728 | Ascend Laboratories, LLC | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (67877-728-90) | June 11, 2021 |
| 67877-729-30 | 67877-729 | Ascend Laboratories, LLC | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (67877-729-30) | June 11, 2021 |
| 67877-729-90 | 67877-729 | Ascend Laboratories, LLC | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (67877-729-90) | June 11, 2021 |
| 43598-943-30 | 43598-943 | Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Inc. | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (43598-943-30) | September 20, 2021 |
| 43598-943-90 | 43598-943 | Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Inc. | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (43598-943-90) | September 20, 2021 |
| 43598-944-30 | 43598-944 | Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Inc. | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (43598-944-30) | September 20, 2021 |
| 43598-944-90 | 43598-944 | Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Inc. | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (43598-944-90) | September 20, 2021 |
| 70518-3820-0 | 70518-3820 | REMEDYREPACK INC. | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (70518-3820-0) | August 3, 2023 |
| 70518-4500-0 | 70518-4500 | REMEDYREPACK INC. | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (70518-4500-0) | October 12, 2025 |
| 70518-4566-0 | 70518-4566 | REMEDYREPACK INC. | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (70518-4566-0) | February 4, 2026 |
| 70771-1649-1 | 70771-1649 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | 100 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70771-1649-1) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70771-1649-3 | 70771-1649 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70771-1649-3) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70771-1649-9 | 70771-1649 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70771-1649-9) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70771-1650-1 | 70771-1650 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | 100 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70771-1650-1) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70771-1650-3 | 70771-1650 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70771-1650-3) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70771-1650-9 | 70771-1650 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70771-1650-9) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70771-1651-1 | 70771-1651 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | 100 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70771-1651-1) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70771-1651-3 | 70771-1651 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70771-1651-3) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70771-1651-9 | 70771-1651 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70771-1651-9) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70771-1652-1 | 70771-1652 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | 100 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70771-1652-1) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70771-1652-3 | 70771-1652 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70771-1652-3) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70771-1652-9 | 70771-1652 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70771-1652-9) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70710-1348-1 | 70710-1348 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 100 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70710-1348-1) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70710-1348-3 | 70710-1348 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70710-1348-3) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70710-1348-9 | 70710-1348 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70710-1348-9) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70710-1349-1 | 70710-1349 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 100 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70710-1349-1) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70710-1349-3 | 70710-1349 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70710-1349-3) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70710-1349-9 | 70710-1349 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70710-1349-9) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70710-1350-1 | 70710-1350 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 100 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70710-1350-1) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70710-1350-3 | 70710-1350 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70710-1350-3) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70710-1350-9 | 70710-1350 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70710-1350-9) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70710-1352-1 | 70710-1352 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 100 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70710-1352-1) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70710-1352-3 | 70710-1352 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70710-1352-3) | September 1, 2022 |
| 70710-1352-9 | 70710-1352 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70710-1352-9) | September 1, 2022 |
| 27241-221 | 27241-221 | Ajanta Pharma USA Inc. | — | April 12, 2023 |
| 27241-222 | 27241-222 | Ajanta Pharma USA Inc. | — | April 12, 2023 |
| 27241-223 | 27241-223 | Ajanta Pharma USA Inc. | — | April 12, 2023 |
| 27241-224 | 27241-224 | Ajanta Pharma USA Inc. | — | April 12, 2023 |
| 52427-632 | 52427-632 | Almatica Pharma LLC | — | June 30, 2022 |
| 67877-726 | 67877-726 | Ascend Laboratories, LLC | — | June 11, 2021 |
| 67877-727 | 67877-727 | Ascend Laboratories, LLC | — | June 11, 2021 |
| 67877-728 | 67877-728 | Ascend Laboratories, LLC | — | June 11, 2021 |
| 67877-729 | 67877-729 | Ascend Laboratories, LLC | — | June 11, 2021 |
| 43598-943 | 43598-943 | Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Inc. | — | September 20, 2021 |
| 43598-944 | 43598-944 | Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Inc. | — | September 20, 2021 |
| 70518-3820 | 70518-3820 | REMEDYREPACK INC. | — | August 3, 2023 |
| 70518-4500 | 70518-4500 | REMEDYREPACK INC. | — | October 12, 2025 |
| 70518-4566 | 70518-4566 | REMEDYREPACK INC. | — | February 4, 2026 |
| 70771-1649 | 70771-1649 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | — | September 1, 2022 |
| 70771-1650 | 70771-1650 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | — | September 1, 2022 |
| 70771-1651 | 70771-1651 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | — | September 1, 2022 |
| 70771-1652 | 70771-1652 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | — | September 1, 2022 |
| 70710-1348 | 70710-1348 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | — | September 1, 2022 |
| 70710-1349 | 70710-1349 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | — | September 1, 2022 |
| 70710-1350 | 70710-1350 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | — | September 1, 2022 |
| 70710-1352 | 70710-1352 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | — | September 1, 2022 |
Sources for this page
| Dataset | Agency | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| NDC Directory | FDA | Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages |
| Drugs@FDA | FDA | Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status |
| Orange Book | FDA | Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity |
| Drug Labeling | FDA / NLM | Prescribing information reproduced above |
| FAERS | FDA | Adverse event report counts |
| Enforcement | FDA | Recall records |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 13 sections on this page.