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SSRI and SNRI

SNRI* venlafaxine (75mg to 150mg daily)

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Venlafaxine belongs to a group of drugs called SNRIs.

Most people tolerate this medication well. It can cause gastric upset when first started but this usually settles after a few days. It rarely causes sedation. It can raise blood pressure (BP) so if you have hypertension (high blood pressure), your blood pressure should be monitored.  Venlafaxine should never be stopped suddenly.

Possible side effects of venlafaxine

Common

  • Gastrointestinal upset.

  • Raised blood pressure.

  • Dizziness.

  • Anxiety.

  • Palpitations.

  • Sweating.

  • Headache.

Uncommon

  • Itchy skin.

  • Hair loss.

  • Low blood pressure.

(*SNRI: Serotonin noradrenaline re‑uptake inhibitors)

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This page has been adapted from a leaflet produced by the Neurology Department of Aberdeen Royal Infirmary

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