Venlafaxine
Venlafaxine is a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. It is used to treat major depressive disorder and generalised anxiety disorder. It raises serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which helps regulate mood and ease anxiety symptoms.
Medicine containing Venlafaxine
Key points
- Venlafaxine is an SNRI antidepressant with action on serotonin and norepinephrine.
- Venlafaxine comes as a standard tablet and as a prolonged-release hard capsule.
- It may increase blood pressure, so high blood pressure should be assessed before treatment.
Uses of venlafaxine
Venlafaxine treats major depressive disorder and generalised anxiety disorder. It sits within the wider antidepressant group. It may be chosen when a dual-action SNRI is suitable for depression or anxiety that affects daily functioning.
How venlafaxine works
Venlafaxine blocks the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine. This raises the amount of both chemicals between nerve cells, supporting mood regulation and reducing anxiety symptoms. A response can take 2 to 4 weeks. The medicine’s effect lasts about 24 hours.
Forms and brands
Effexor tablets contain venlafaxine and come in 37.5 mg and 75 mg strengths. Venlafaxine is also made as a prolonged-release capsule. Pharmacy partners in India ship to Malaysia in discreet packaging.
Safety and interactions
Do not take venlafaxine if you are hypersensitive to it or are taking an MAO inhibitor. MAO inhibitors, linezolid and methylene blue must not be combined with venlafaxine. Other serotonergic drugs should be avoided because of the risk of serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome is serious and needs immediate medical attention.
Common side effects include nausea, dizziness and insomnia. Dry mouth and sweating can also occur. Monitor for suicidal ideation. A marked change in mood or physical health needs immediate professional review. People with liver or kidney problems need clinical assessment before starting.
Pregnancy needs clinical caution. Breastfeeding suitability should be confirmed with a qualified clinician or pharmacist before use.
What the sources say
- The US Food and Drug Administration has approved venlafaxine for major depressive disorder (unipolar), social anxiety disorder and panic disorder. (StatPearls)
- Venlafaxine may raise the risk of suicidal thoughts and actions in children, teenagers and young adults under 24, especially in the first months and after a dose increase. (MedlinePlus)
- After stopping venlafaxine, wait at least 7 days before starting an MAO inhibitor. (MedlinePlus)
- Venlafaxine can pass into breast milk and may cause adverse effects in breastfed children; one review states it should not be used in pregnancy and breastfeeding. (StatPearls)
Further reading
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