Venpa
Generic Name
Venlafaxine Hydrochloride Extended-Release
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| venpa 75 mg capsule | ৳ 18.00 | ৳ 180.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Venpa 75 mg Capsule contains Venlafaxine Hydrochloride, an antidepressant medication belonging to the Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor (SNRI) class. It is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For Major Depressive Disorder: Initially 75 mg once daily. May increase to 150 mg/day after 2 weeks, if needed, up to a maximum of 225 mg/day. For other indications, dosing varies, typically starting at 37.5 mg or 75 mg once daily.
Elderly
Generally, similar to adult dosage, but caution should be exercised and lower initial doses may be considered. Monitor for adverse effects.
Renal_impairment
Reduce total daily dose by 25-50% for mild to moderate renal impairment (GFR 10-70 mL/min). For severe impairment or hemodialysis, reduce by 50% or more.
How to Take
Take orally once daily with food, at approximately the same time each day. Swallow the capsule whole; do not crush, chew, or dissolve.
Mechanism of Action
Venlafaxine potentiates neurotransmitter activity in the central nervous system by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine. It also weakly inhibits dopamine reuptake. This leads to increased concentrations of these neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft, thereby enhancing mood and reducing anxiety.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical effects may begin within 1-2 weeks, but full therapeutic effect may take 4-6 weeks.
Excretion
Primarily excreted in the urine (approximately 87% as venlafaxine, ODV, and other metabolites).
Half life
Venlafaxine: approximately 5 hours; ODV: approximately 11 hours.
Absorption
Well absorbed after oral administration, bioavailability approximately 45%. Peak plasma concentrations of venlafaxine and its active metabolite (O-desmethylvenlafaxine, ODV) are reached in about 5.5 hours for extended-release capsules.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by CYP2D6 to its active metabolite ODV, and by CYP3A4 to other inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to venlafaxine or any component of the formulation.
- Concomitant use with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing MAOIs due to risk of serotonin syndrome.
- Initiation of MAOIs within 7 days of discontinuing venlafaxine.
Drug Interactions
MAOIs
Risk of serious, sometimes fatal, serotonin syndrome.
Alcohol
May enhance CNS depressant effects and impair psychomotor skills.
Warfarin
Altered anticoagulant effects, increased risk of bleeding.
Cimetidine
May inhibit metabolism of venlafaxine, increasing its levels.
SSRIs/SNRIs/Triptans/Fentanyl/Lithium/Tramadol/St. John's Wort
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include somnolence, increased heart rate, blood pressure changes, seizures, and vomiting. Management involves general supportive measures, monitoring of vital signs and cardiac rhythm. Gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be considered.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Neonates exposed to SNRIs late in the third trimester have developed complications requiring prolonged hospitalization. Venlafaxine is excreted into breast milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to venlafaxine or any component of the formulation.
- Concomitant use with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing MAOIs due to risk of serotonin syndrome.
- Initiation of MAOIs within 7 days of discontinuing venlafaxine.
Drug Interactions
MAOIs
Risk of serious, sometimes fatal, serotonin syndrome.
Alcohol
May enhance CNS depressant effects and impair psychomotor skills.
Warfarin
Altered anticoagulant effects, increased risk of bleeding.
Cimetidine
May inhibit metabolism of venlafaxine, increasing its levels.
SSRIs/SNRIs/Triptans/Fentanyl/Lithium/Tramadol/St. John's Wort
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include somnolence, increased heart rate, blood pressure changes, seizures, and vomiting. Management involves general supportive measures, monitoring of vital signs and cardiac rhythm. Gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be considered.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Neonates exposed to SNRIs late in the third trimester have developed complications requiring prolonged hospitalization. Venlafaxine is excreted into breast milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months from manufacturing date, check specific packaging for details.
Availability
Available in pharmacies worldwide
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available, original patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of venlafaxine in the treatment of major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. Trials have shown sustained efficacy and an acceptable tolerability profile.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood pressure (especially during dose escalation)
- Heart rate
- Serum sodium (especially in elderly or dehydrated patients)
- Liver function tests (periodically)
Doctor Notes
- Educate patients on the importance of adherence and gradual tapering.
- Monitor blood pressure regularly, especially during initial treatment and dose adjustments.
- Assess for suicidal ideation, particularly in pediatric and young adult patients.
- Counsel on potential sexual side effects and management strategies.
- Consider renal/hepatic dose adjustments for impaired patients.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed, do not stop abruptly without consulting your doctor.
- Swallow the capsule whole; do not chew or crush.
- Report any new or worsening symptoms of depression, suicidal thoughts, or unusual changes in behavior to your doctor immediately.
- Avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications and supplements you are taking.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
This medicine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or visual disturbances. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Engage in regular physical activity.
- Maintain a balanced diet.
- Practice stress management techniques (e.g., meditation, yoga).
- Ensure adequate sleep (7-9 hours per night).
- Avoid recreational drugs and excessive caffeine.
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