Effexor XR Approved in Canada for Symptomatic Relief of Panic Disorder

TORONTO, ON -- November 24, 2005 -- Wyeth Canada has announced that its serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), Effexor XR, has been approved for the symptomatic relief of panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia. Previously indicated for the treatment of anxiety and depression, Effexor XR is distinguished from all other antidepressants as the only available "dual-action" treatment that affects the levels of two naturally occurring neurotransmitters in the brain known to affect mood, serotonin and norepinephrine.

"Panic disorder can have long-lasting personal, social and economic consequences," says Dr. Martin Katzman BSc MD FRCPC, Clinic Director of Start Clinic for Mood and Anxiety Disorders. "Evidence supporting the role of Effexor XR in treating Panic Disorder provides hope to those who have been unsuccessfully treated with other treatments."