Question:

Hi the dose of effexor xr is taken once daily,is it possible to divide the dose into two doses (twice daily) thank you?

Answer:

Thank you for visiting NetWellness. It is unclear why you would want to do this. Most patients prefer taking their medicines once a day because it is more convenient, easier to remember, and usually causes fewer side effects.

In general, XR or extended release medicines, should not be crushed or broken because this causes the medicine to be released all at once.

Effexor XR is meant to be taken once a day. This medicine is available in both a tablet and capsule dosage forms. The tablet should not be crushed. However, the manufacturer states that  patients who have trouble swallowing the capsule can carefully open the capsule and mix the contents in a teaspoonful of applesauce.
 
If your problem with the XR form is something other than trouble swallowing the medicine, your doctor might consider switching you to the immediate release formulation. You would need to take this medicine 2 to 3 times a day instead of once a day. Your total daily dose would be the same on a milligram for milligram basis.

For an answer that is more specific to your needs, talk to your doctor or a pharmacist who knows you.

This response was prepared in part by Eric Gillespie a PharmD candidate at the University of Cincinnati College of Pharmacy.

For more information:

Go to the Pharmacy and Medications health topic.