DRUG	SUPPLIED	DOSE	COMMENTS
VENLAFAXINE (Paeds) (Effexor XR) Mechanism of action: Serotonin/Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor Ref: 4, 44, 83 Last update: 2021-08-03	Extended-release capsules: 37.5 mg, 75 mg, 150 mg	Initial Dose: 37.5-75 mg PO daily Increment: 37.5-75 mg Q4-7 days Usual Dose Range: 75-225 mg/day Maximum Dose (Adolescents): 225 mg/day	Serotonin/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). Not a first-line recommendation for any pediatric indication. Effective in the treatment of depression, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder. Also used to treat ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, neuropathic pain and hot flashes. May take 4 weeks to see therapeutic effects. Administer with food to decrease GI upset. May open capsule and sprinkle granules on soft food for patients with difficulty swallowing capsules, do not chew granules. Common adverse effects: flushing, sweating, nausea, headache, increased heart rate and blood pressure (more prominent at higher doses), anorexia/weight loss, drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, tremor and impaired sexual function (adolescents/adults). Do not stop treatment suddenly due to risk of discontinuation syndrome (flu-like symptoms, dizziness, "electric-shock"� sensations). It is recommended to taper dose by ~25%/week. See fluoxetine for more information. Prescribers must be aware of warnings issued by Health Canada regarding use of antidepressants in pediatric patients. Refer to the Health Canada website. Standard Prescription: venlafaxine__mg PO__(frequency)