One anxiety disorder that causes intrusive obsessions and compulsive behavior is obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Specialized therapy and medication are used for treating OCD. Effexor OCD treatment is one medication treatment for OCD that has been effective for some people who suffer this anxiety disorder.

Obsessions caused by OCD are disturbing thoughts that cause anxiety. Compulsions are ritualistic behaviors that temporarily alleviate the anxiety caused by the obsessions. Examples of compulsions are excessive hand washing, checking and rechecking items, or arranging items in a particular order. The person has extreme difficulty controlling these thoughts and behaviors.

Psychiatrists may prescribe different medications for treating OCD. Effexor OCD treatment is often used when other medications have failed to be successful in controlling the symptoms. In addition to treatment for OCD, Effexor can be used to treat depression, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and social anxiety.

Effexor is an antidepressant in the class of antidepressants known as serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI). Effexor and antidepressants like it work by altering the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain.

The generic name of Effexor XR is venlafaxine HCl. Effexor XR is the extended release form of Effexor. The capsules come in dosages of 37.5 mg, 75 mg, and 150 mg. The psychiatrist may prescribe a combination of capsules for the desired total dosage strength.

Effexor XR is taken once a day with food. The person should try to take Effexor XR at the same time every day. Common Effexor side effects are dry mouth, insomnia, dizziness, nausea, sexual side effects, and constipation. Other common side effects of Effexor include loss of appetite, sweating, and nervousness. Effexor has not been approved for the treatment of children.

If side effects of Effexor are bothersome, the person should discuss this with the doctor. People should not stop taking this medication without consulting the doctor. If the symptoms of OCD continue, the person should talk to the doctor about other possible medications or treatment. As with other antidepressants, Effexor can take weeks to be effective. Unfortunately, it can take some time for people to find the best OCD treatment for them.