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Drug Safety-related Labeling Changes (SrLC)

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VENLAFAXINE BESYLATE (NDA-215429)

(VENLAFAXINE BESYLATE)

Safety-related Labeling Changes Approved by FDA Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER)

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08/18/2023 (SUPPL-1)

Approved Drug Label (PDF)

5 Warnings and Precautions

5.2 Serotonin Syndrome

Additions and/or revisions underlined:

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Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), including Venlafaxine Extended-Release Tablets, can precipitate serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. The risk is increased with concomitant use of other serotonergic drugs (including triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, meperidine, methadone, tryptophan, buspirone, amphetamines, and St. John’s Wort) and with drugs that impair metabolism of serotonin, i.e., MAOIs [see Contraindications (4), Drug Interactions (7.1)]. Serotonin syndrome can also occur when these drugs are used alone.

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5.4 Increased Risk of Bleeding

Additions and/or revisions underlined:

… Based on data from the published observational studies, exposure to SNRIs, particularly in the month before delivery, has been associated with a less than 2-fold increase in the risk of postpartum hemorrhage [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].

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6 Adverse Reactions

6.2 Postmarketing Experience

Additions and/or revisions underlined:

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Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders – Anosmia, dyspnea, hyposmia, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary eosinophilia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)]

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8 Use in Specific Populations

8.1 Pregnancy

Additions and/or revisions underlined:

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Risk Summary

Based on data from published observational studies, exposure to SNRIs, particularly in the month before delivery, has been associated with a less than 2-fold increase in the risk of postpartum hemorrhage [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) and Clinical Considerations].

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Maternal Adverse Reactions

Exposure to Venlafaxine Extended-Release Tablets in mid to late pregnancy may increase the risk for preeclampsia, and exposure to Venlafaxine Extended-Release Tablets in the month before near delivery may be associated with an increased the risk for of postpartum hemorrhage [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

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17 PCI/PI/MG (Patient Counseling Information/Patient Information/Medication Guide)

 

PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

Additions and/or revisions underlined:

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Serotonin Syndrome

Caution patients about the risk of serotonin syndrome, particularly with the concomitant use of Venlafaxine Extended-Release Tablets with other serotonergic drugs including triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, opioids, lithium, amphetamines, tryptophan, buspirone, St. John’s Wort, and with drugs that impair metabolism of serotonin (in particular, MAOIs, both those intended to treat psychiatric disorders and also others, such as linezolid). Instruct patients to contact their health care provider or report to the emergency room if they experience signs or symptoms of serotonin syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Drug Interactions (7.1)].

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MEDICATION GUIDE

Additions and/or revisions underlined:

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Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

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Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take:

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  • tramadol, fentanyl, meperidine, methadone, or other opioids

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