Posted by Cam W. on April 11, 2000, at 18:58:42
In reply to Re: Effexor vs. Effexor XR dosage, posted by Noa on April 11, 2000, at 15:06:00
LD - The 'books' do say that 225mg of XR is the maximum dose, but in reality doses much higher are used by some psychiatrists. (I have seen 375mg daily and heard of - in hospital - 600mg daily for very severe depression). Your doctor is following the guidelines set down for him. At the doses above 225mg (regular or XR) Effexor changes from an SSRI (like Paxil or Zoloft) to an SNRI (more like a TCA without the heart problems, excessive drowsiness and dry mouth). At these higher doses Effexor blocks norepinephrine reuptake, as well as serotonin reuptake, essentially making it a different drug like Carolyn has said.The same 'books' say that you can switch from the regular to the XR at the same daily dose (if tolerated). For example, instead of taking 75mg of Effexor three times daily, you could take 225mg of Effexor XR once daily.
Hope this helps - Cam W.
poster:Cam W.
thread:29623
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000411/msgs/29657.html