This page describes pharmacological agents that may have legal restrictions, side effects, and drug interactions in your jurisdiction. Information is for educational research only — consult a clinician before considering any compound.
Venlafaxine
SNRI for MDD, GAD, panic, social anxiety.
Aliases (2)
Overview
What is Venlafaxine?
Venlafaxine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) FDA-approved for major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, and panic disorder. Marketed as Effexor and Effexor XR, it is one of the most widely prescribed SNRIs.
Key Benefits
Treats depression and anxiety effectively, helpful for chronic pain (neuropathic) and hot flashes, dual mechanism may benefit treatment-resistant or melancholic depression, and dose-dependent activation can boost energy and motivation.
Mechanism of Action
At low doses primarily inhibits serotonin reuptake (SERT). At doses above ~150 mg/day, also inhibits norepinephrine reuptake (NET). At very high doses, weak dopamine reuptake inhibition emerges. Dose-dependent transition explains the spectrum of clinical effects from SSRI-like to broad SNRI-like activity.
Pharmacokinetics
What to Expect
- Week 1Tolerability and dose-response.
- Week 2-4Early effect window.
- Week 4-8Peak benefit assessment.
- Week 8+Cycle decision point.
Side Effects & Safety
- Common (>10%): Nausea, sweating, sexual dysfunction, ↑ BP (dose-dependent, monitor at >150mg), insomnia.
- Less common (1-10%): Tremor, anorexia, ↑ HR, dry mouth.
- Rare-serious (<1%): Serotonin syndrome, hyponatremia, hypertensive crisis, severe withdrawal syndrome (functional), suicidal ideation <25 yo.
- Specific watch periods: BP at every visit; first 4 weeks for activation/SI.
References
PMID 30032535
Antidepressant discontinuation symptoms (Davies + Read).
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