Venlafaxine is a commonly prescribed medicine in the UK, used for depression & anxiety. If you have just been prescribed venlafaxine, this page explains what it is, the brands and strengths it comes in, how to take it, and how to have it dispensed and delivered free on the NHS with PillSorted.
This content has been medically reviewed and approved by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC-registered online pharmacy 9011258). Last reviewed: 2 July 2026.
What is venlafaxine?
Venlafaxine is an SNRI antidepressant used for depression and anxiety. It usually takes a few weeks to build its full effect.
Brands and strengths
Venlafaxine is the name of the active ingredient. In the UK it is sold as generic venlafaxine and under brand names including Efexor, ViePax and Vencarm — all contain the same active ingredient and work the same way. Common strengths:
- Venlafaxine 37.5 mg tablets
- Venlafaxine 75 mg tablets
- Venlafaxine 150 mg (MR)
- UK brands: Efexor, ViePax and Vencarm
What venlafaxine is used for
- Depression
- Generalised anxiety and panic disorder
How to take venlafaxine
Taken once or twice a day with food (modified-release once daily). Allow several weeks for the full effect and do not stop suddenly without advice. Always follow your prescriber’s instructions (BNF).
Side effects
Common effects include feeling sick, dry mouth, sweating and headache. Seek urgent help if your mood worsens or you have thoughts of self-harm. This is not a full list — see the patient information leaflet (BNF).
Venlafaxine: frequently asked questions
Yes. Efexor (Efexor XL) is the original brand name for venlafaxine; the generic is the same active ingredient.
Some effects appear within 1–2 weeks, but it can take 4–6 weeks for the full benefit.
Yes. If you have an NHS prescription for venlafaxine, you can nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy and we will dispense and deliver it to your door for free.
Get your venlafaxine delivered free on the NHS
If you have an NHS prescription for venlafaxine, PillSorted dispenses and delivers it to your door — completely free. Nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy once, and we take care of your repeat prescriptions from then on.
What you get
- Free delivery, every time — your medicine posted to your door, always free.
- Your whole family, one account — manage everyone’s prescriptions in one place.
- Real pharmacists, every prescription — every order checked by our UK pharmacist team.
How it works
- Choose PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy
- We collect your prescription from your GP
- Your medication is delivered free to your door
Sources: NICE; BNF — Venlafaxine.
This page is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice from your GP or pharmacist. Always take your medicine exactly as prescribed. For advice about your own health, consult a clinician.