Serotonin Noradrenaline
Re-Uptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
SNRIs are a recent addition to the treatment of
depression and anxiety disorders. They
have a dual action, as they increase levels of both
serotonin and noradrenaline in the brain and like
SSRIs, is an effective treatment for depression
and Efexor XR tends to cause fewer side effects
than older antidepressants.
Efexor XR (venlafaxine)
is the first SNRI to be available in Australia.
It is also used to treat generalised anxiety.
Side-effects
can include nausea, diarrhoea, insomnia and
sexual problems. Although interactions between
Efexor XR and other medications are not common,
it is vital not to use MAOI antidepressants
and SNRIs together, and a gap is needed when
changing from one to another. When the time
comes to stop the medication, the drug should
be withdrawn slowly under a doctor's supervision.
