Venlafaxine Hydrochloride
Indications
Venlafaxine Hydrochloride is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). Doctors prescribe it for these conditions: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) and Panic Disorder (PD).
⚠️ Always consult a registered physician before taking any medicine.
Pharmacology
Doctors believe venlafaxine works against depression by strengthening the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the CNS. Preclinical studies show that venlafaxine and its active metabolite, O-desmethylvenlafaxine (ODV), are potent inhibitors of neuronal serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake. They are only weak inhibitors of dopamine reuptake.
In vitro, neither venlafaxine nor ODV has any significant affinity for muscarinic, histaminergic or α-1 adrenergic receptors. Activity at these receptors is hypothesized to be linked with the anticholinergic, sedative and cardiovascular effects seen with other psychotropic drugs. Venlafaxine and ODV also have no monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitory activity.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Venlafaxine needs caution in people with a history of myocardial infarction or unstable heart disease. Blood pressure monitoring is advisable if the dose goes above 200 mg daily. Care is also needed with a history of epilepsy, mania, and hepatic or renal impairment. Avoid abrupt withdrawal, and if venlafaxine has been taken for more than 1 week, withdraw it over at least 1 week. Glaucoma is another condition that calls for caution.
⚠️ Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Dosage Reference
⚠️ Reference ranges from official sources only. Consult your doctor for personalized dosing.
Side Effects & Interactions
Side Effects
No side-effect data recorded yet.