Venlafaxine – SNRI antidepressant for depression and anxiety disorders.
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What is Venlafaxine?
Venlafaxine is a powerful SNRI antidepressant that affects both serotonin and noradrenaline systems. It’s particularly useful for treatment-resistant depression, anxiety disorders, and certain chronic pain conditions, but requires careful monitoring and gradual dose changes.
Book an online consultation if you’re experiencing depression or anxiety that hasn’t responded well to other treatments, or if you have chronic pain conditions that may benefit from SNRI therapy. Our GPs can assess whether Venlafaxine is appropriate and provide proper monitoring for blood pressure and other side effects.
What is Venlafaxine used for?
- Major depressive disorder
- Generalised anxiety disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Chronic pain conditions (neuropathic pain)
- Hot flushes (menopausal symptoms)
- ADHD (off-label use)
How does Venlafaxine work?
A serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that blocks the reuptake of both serotonin and noradrenaline, increasing levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain to improve mood and reduce anxiety.
Dosage and Administration
Adults
Starting dose 75mg daily, may be increased to 150-375mg daily. Extended-release formulations taken once daily.
Children
Not recommended for children and adolescents under 18 years.
Important Notes
- Take with food to reduce stomach upset.
- Extended-release tablets should be swallowed whole, not crushed or chewed.
- Take at the same time each day, preferably morning.
- May take 4-6 weeks to feel full benefits.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Insomnia and sleep disturbances
- Increased sweating
- Constipation
- Sexual side effects
- Increased blood pressure
Serious Side Effects
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide (especially when starting)
- Serotonin syndrome (confusion, rapid heart rate, fever)
- Severe withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly
- Heart rhythm changes
- Severe allergic reactions
- Angle-closure glaucoma
- Severe hypertension
Important Warnings
- May increase thoughts of self-harm, especially in young adults—close monitoring required.
- NEVER stop suddenly—severe withdrawal symptoms can occur.
- Regular blood pressure monitoring needed as it can raise blood pressure.
- Tell your GP if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, or glaucoma.
- Withdrawal symptoms can be severe and prolonged—gradual dose reduction essential.
Drug Interactions
Tell your GP if you're taking any of the following medications:
- MAOIs—dangerous interaction, must avoid completely.
- Other antidepressants—risk of serotonin syndrome.
- Tramadol and some painkillers—risk of serotonin syndrome.
- Warfarin—may increase bleeding risk.
- Blood pressure medications—may affect blood pressure control.
- St John's Wort—avoid this herbal supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Venlafaxine different from SSRIs?
Venlafaxine affects both serotonin and noradrenaline, which may make it more effective for some people, especially those with severe depression or chronic pain.
Why is withdrawal from Venlafaxine particularly difficult?
Venlafaxine has a short half-life and affects multiple neurotransmitters, making withdrawal symptoms more severe. It must be reduced very gradually under medical supervision.
Will Venlafaxine raise my blood pressure?
Yes, Venlafaxine can increase blood pressure, especially at higher doses. Regular monitoring is needed, and blood pressure medication may be required.
Can Venlafaxine help with chronic pain?
Yes, at higher doses Venlafaxine can be effective for neuropathic pain conditions due to its effects on noradrenaline pathways involved in pain processing.
Medically Reviewed by: Mohammed Hassan - Independent Prescriber
Last Updated: 2025-01-14