I take Effexor XR, an extended release SSRI that comes in a capsule. Directions say never to open the capsule. Only take it whole.

This is NOT a medication that I can skip until I can take pills the withdrawal effects are horrendous, even dangerous.

My surgeon has not offered Any advice or solutions. I don't know where else to turn.

@@talking mountain - this is a subject that a professional (doctor) needs to answer from what I read here :/

Don't wait until the 17th of December - call now!

Contact the pharmacist too, they may be able to help as well.

I was taken off all my extended release medicines and in fact even my pain medicine had to be switched to a patch. Not all people have issues but my surgeon, my PM and my PCP didn't take any chances; they worked with me through trial and error finding alternatives to ER drugs I was on prior to surgery.

I would do some Googling, talk to your PCP or prescribing physician about ANY and all ER drugs you are currently taking.

It is crazy to me that everyone keeps bringing up the size of the pill when there is a bigger issue at play.

Just thought I'd share what I found out about the extended release Effexor. Turns out the person to ask was my pharmacist!

She said to open the capsule and take the innards (little tiny balls) with a little applesauce or something similar.

She said to be sure to swallow ALL the little balls and drink plenty of water; and to be careful enough not to bite on (and thus bust open) the little balls inside the capsule.