Dr Matthew Abraham, PhD
Treated 200+ patients
with Adhdadvisor.org
with Adhdadvisor.org
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The medications listed on this website are provided for informational purposes only.
Their inclusion does not guarantee they will be prescribed to any individual, as treatment decisions are ultimately at the discretion of healthcare providers.
Read moreIn addition to therapy treatment plans, we offer a specialized medication management program. Our comprehensive range of treatment options is thoughtfully designed to provide a holistic solution for managing ADHD effectively and empowering individuals to thrive.
Boxed warning:
Effexor
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 Effexor 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. Effexor is not approved for use in pediatric patients. (See WARNINGS: Clinical Worsening and Suicide Risk, PRECAUTIONS: Information for Patients, and PRECAUTIONS: Pediatric Use) - Per FDA Effexor Label
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What is Effexor (Venlafaxine)?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that causes issues with attention and focus abilities and affects children and adults across the United States. However, the good news is that with therapy and medication, symptoms can be effectively managed. You can learn more about ADHD and the many treatment options at NIMH ADHD treatments.
One non-stimulant option for ADHD treatment is Effexor. Effexor ADHD medication is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), classified as an antidepressant. Effexor is the brand name for venlafaxine. It is FDA-approved to treat multiple mental health conditions, including panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and major depressive disorder. (NIMH: venlafaxine for depression and anxiety)
It is not FDA-approved to treat ADHD, but doctors may prescribe it off-label to adults with ADHD. Off-label simply means that it was not originally intended to treat a specific condition, but doctors have observed that it has the potential to help manage certain symptoms.
Unlike stimulant medications, which are typically prescribed for ADHD, Effexor is not a controlled substance. It's important to note that ADHD Advisor only treats adults with ADHD ages 18 and older.
How Effexor Works
Effexor is an ADHD medication that acts as an SNRI, increasing serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain by blocking their reabsorption. This process increases the availability of these neurotransmitters for the brain to utilize.
Effexor, or venlafaxine, can enhance attention, focus, and reduce impulsivity by providing adequate levels of norepinephrine to the brain for individuals with ADHD. It does this indirectly, unlike stimulants, which stimulate the direct production of norepinephrine.
Effexor is often used off-label for ADHD, especially in individuals who have co-existing anxiety or depression, due to the impact that it has on serotonin levels and a boost in mood. It can also be prescribed for adults when other medications are not a good fit, or they aren't responding well to traditional first-line treatments.
Who Can Take Effexor
Effexor is FDA-approved to treat adults with depression, anxiety, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. It is not recommended for individuals under 18 years of age. It is also prescribed off-label to treat various other issues, including ADHD in adults.
Venlafaxine for ADHD is especially beneficial to those with ADHD and a co-occurring mental health issue like anxiety or depression, as it can help to manage symptoms of both conditions.
ADHD Advisor treats adults with ADHD ages 18 and older, so we sometimes prescribe Effexor to treat adults with ADHD.
Contraindications
There are some contraindications to be aware of with Effexor ADHD medication. Adults with diabetes may have difficulty managing blood sugar levels. No one with a known allergy to venlafaxine or its ingredients should take Effexor. Some other individuals who shouldn't take Effexor include those who:
- Have recently taken MAOIs
- Have narrow-angle glaucoma
- Have hypertension
- Have bipolar disorder or a history of manic episodes
- Have seizures
- Have kidney or liver disease
If you are taking any other medications that may affect serotonin levels, you must check with your doctor first before starting Effexor XR. Taking Effexor with these medications can lead to a serious health condition called serotonin syndrome.
Dosages and Administration
According to the FDA Effexor XR prescribing information, the Effexor dosage (extended-release) for adults typically starts at 75 mg once daily. Doctors can increase the dosage up to 150-225 mg a day. Dosing may vary depending on the condition for which it is being prescribed.
The dosing of venlafaxine for ADHD varies and is determined on a case-by-case basis, as it is prescribed off-label and may differ depending on any co-occurring mental health disorders. Only your clinician can determine safe dosing.
It is important to avoid stopping Effexor XR suddenly, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms. If you are going to stop taking this medication, check with your doctor first. They will recommend a taper schedule to prevent these unwanted symptoms.
Side Effects and Risks
Let’s take a look at the Effexor side effects and risks.
Common Side Effects
Some common Effexor side effects include the following: (MedlinePlus: venlafaxine)
- Headache
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Sweating
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Loss of appetite
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Drowsiness
You can read more about potential side effects at DailyMed: venlafaxine.
Serious Side Effects
There are some serious side effects to be concerned about when taking Effexor for ADHD in adults. If you experience any of these adverse effects, please consult your doctor right away. The following serious side effects can occur:
- Seizures
- Serotonin syndrome
- Withdrawal (if suddenly stopped without a proper taper)
- Suicidality risk in young adults
- Abnormal bleeding
- Severe allergic reactions (swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing)
- Eye issues
- Low sodium levels
If you notice any side effects, discuss them with your doctor. If you experience any adverse side effects, you can report them to the FDA MedWatch reporting program.
FDA Boxed Warning
The FDA has a black box warning for antidepressants, including Effexor. The warning states that antidepressants can increase suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially in children, adolescents, and young adults. It also states that patients of any age should be closely monitored after starting antidepressants for changes in mood or unusual thoughts or behaviors.
Effexor vs. Other ADHD Medications
Let's take a look at how Effexor compares to other ADHD medications.
Effexor vs. Stimulants
Effexor and stimulants are both used to treat ADHD symptoms, but stimulants are often more effective for core ADHD symptoms. Effexor is an SNRI and helps to increase the levels of norepinephrine and serotonin. Adderall directly stimulates the production of norepinephrine and dopamine.
Stimulants often manage symptoms more quickly, but Effexor may be beneficial for individuals with co-occurring mood disorders or those who do not tolerate stimulant medications well.
Effexor vs. Atomoxetine (Strattera)
Both Effexor and atomoxetine are SNRIs, but with different tolerability and risk profiles. They are both non-stimulant medication options for ADHD. Effexor is more likely to cause withdrawal symptoms when stopped than atomoxetine. While atomoxetine is less likely to lead to withdrawal symptoms, it may potentially cause more serious cardiovascular side effects.
Effexor vs. Wellbutrin (bupropion)
Both Effexor and Wellbutrin are antidepressants prescribed off-label for adults with ADHD. They work differently, though. Effexor helps to increase the levels of norepinephrine and serotonin, and Wellbutrin helps to increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine.
Wellbutrin and Effexor have different side effect profiles. Wellbutrin may be a better choice for those with a history of seizures. Effexor may be a better choice for individuals with co-occurring anxiety.
Effexor vs. Clonidine/Guanfacine
Effexor, clonidine, and guanfacine are all non-stimulant options for ADHD, but have different mechanisms of action. Clonidine and guanfacine are alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists, and Effexor is an SNRI.
Clonidine and guanfacine work by stimulating the alpha-2 receptors in the prefrontal cortex that then help to regulate norepinephrine, helping manage ADHD symptoms. Both classes of drugs assist with focus and inattention, but Effexor may be more effective at improving mood. Clonidine and guanfacine potentially help more with hyperactivity, as they tend to be sedative.
ADHD Care with ADHD Advisor: Nationwide Non-Stimulant Access
According to the CDC ADHD treatment guidance, ADHD can be successfully treated with therapy and medications, including non-stimulant and stimulant options.
A specific non-stimulant option could be Effexor. With ADHD Advisor, you could receive an Effexor prescription online for ADHD if one of our healthcare professionals determines that it's a good fit for your ADHD treatment. We provide non-stimulant ADHD medication online, like Effexor, nationwide for adults ages 18 and older.
Stimulant options for ADHD are available in select states and prescribed when necessary. With a prescription, you could receive online Adderall in Texas. Similarly, you may qualify for stimulant medications from an online ADHD doctor in Florida. You can check your state's specific page for more information.
ADHD Advisor helps with prescription fulfillment each month, and we will send your prescription directly to the pharmacy of your choice.
ADHD Advisor does not bill any insurance companies. We can provide you with a superbill to document the services you received, which you can potentially submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.
Let's take a look at how to get diagnosed with ADHD online with ADHD Advisor.
Step-by-Step Process
If you are wondering how to get tested for ADHD online? It's simple. Just take the following steps.
- Step one is to fill out our intake form and let us know about your ADHD history.
- The next step is to schedule your telehealth ADHD diagnostic evaluation with one of our licensed clinicians.
- If diagnosed with ADHD, your clinician will then create a personalized treatment plan. This treatment plan can include therapy, non-stimulant, and stimulant medications. Stimulant medications are only available in select states.
- Effexor is available nationwide as an off-label treatment for ADHD in adults aged 18 and older. ADHD Advisor will help you with your prescription fulfillment.
- Finally, you will receive follow-up appointments online, where your clinician can adjust your dosage, review symptom improvement, and note any side effects you may be experiencing.
Access, Cost & Insurance
Brand-name Effexor and Effexor XR, as well as the generic venlafaxine XR, are readily available at most pharmacies. Without insurance, brand-name Effexor XR costs around $800 per month. The generic version costs around $300.
Most insurance companies will cover the cost of the generic. Costs will also depend on your specific dosage. Generic venlafaxine is less expensive than the brand-name version, and you can find pharmacy coupons and discounts online to help if you don't have insurance.
ADHD Advisor does not bill insurance on your behalf. We provide you with a superbill that you can submit to some insurance companies for reimbursement, depending on your plan.
FAQs
Is Effexor FDA-approved for ADHD?
No, Effexor is not FDA-approved for ADHD, but it is prescribed off-label for ADHD by some doctors.
Can ADHD Advisor prescribe Effexor?
Yes, ADHD Advisor can prescribe non-stimulant medications like Effexor nationwide for adults ages 18 and up, at the clinician's discretion.
Is Effexor addictive?
No, Effexor is not considered addictive as it isn't a controlled substance. However, if you are currently taking Effexor, it is not advisable to stop taking it all of a sudden. You could experience withdrawal symptoms if you do so. Tell your doctor if you plan to stop taking Effexor, so they can give you a taper schedule to minimize withdrawal symptoms.
How does Effexor compare to Strattera?
Both Effexor and Strattera are SNRIs, but they have different side effect profiles. Effexor is more likely to cause sweating and nausea, and Strattera is more likely to cause stomach upset and dry mouth. Strattera does not cause withdrawal symptoms after discontinuation, while Effexor requires a gradual tapering to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
What are the main risks?
The main risks associated with taking Effexor are serotonin syndrome, withdrawal symptoms after stopping, and the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, which can occur with most antidepressants.
