| SNRI's or selective serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors are types of antidepressant medications that help increase the levels of both neurotransmitters serotonin and norephinephrine by inhibiting their reuptake or absorption into cells in the brain called neurons.
These medications are also called dual reuptake inhibitors.
The medications approved by the FDA to treat depression include:
duloxetine (Cymbalta)
Venlafaxine (Effexor, Effexor XR)
These medications are usually taken once a day, but can come in forms that may be taken more than one time a day.
Side Effects of these medications can include:
nausea and vomiting
dizziness
insomnia
sleepyness
funny dreams
constipation
sweating
dry mouth
yawning
tremor
anxiety or agitation
blurred vision
sexual dysfunction
Stopping medication suddenly can sometimes cause symptoms of skin tingling, nausea, anxiety, confusion and others. This is sometimes called "discontinuation syndrome". Talking with your healthcare provider and tapering off slowly is very important.
In some patients, Venlafaxine at high doses can cause increased blood pressure. Your healthcare provider may want to check your blood pressure regularly, especially if there is a history of blood pressure problems. You may also be asked to get blood tests. Venlafaxine should be avoided in those patients with narrow angle glaucoma or increased intraocular pressure.
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