What it means
A serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor: it raises the levels of these two brain chemicals. It treats major depression, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder and social anxiety. Common effects are nausea, sweating, trouble sleeping and sexual problems; it can also raise blood pressure. Stopping it suddenly often causes dizziness, irritability and "brain zap" feelings.
For the nurse
Check blood pressure regularly. Watch children, teens and young adults closely for new or worse thoughts of suicide, especially in the first weeks and after dose changes. Teach that it may take several weeks to work, not to stop it suddenly, and to report agitation, fever and muscle twitching, which can be signs of serotonin syndrome.
At a glance
| Drug class | antidepressant (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, SNRI) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Effexor XR |
| Spanish | venlafaxina |
| Also written | Effexor, Effexor XR |
Related terms
neurotransmitter
A chemical that a nerve cell releases to pass a signal to another nerve, muscle or gland cell.
sumatriptan
A triptan drug, taken by mouth, nose spray or injection, used to stop a migraine headache once it starts.