Does Desvenlafaxine help with anger? (+3 factors)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
In this article, we will discuss whether Desvenlafaxine helps in anger management. We will also discuss what one should do if Desvenlafaxine fails to manage anger issues and non-pharmacological anger management strategies.
Does Desvenlafaxine help with anger?
Yes, Desvenlafaxine does help with anger issues. Desvenlafaxine reduces anger and promotes happiness in individuals suffering from depression and anxiety.
Desvenlafaxine is an antidepressant, primarily prescribed for the management and treatment of various mental disorders such as major depressive disorder and panic disorder.
It inhibits the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine and increases their levels in the brain which in turn helps to improve mood and overall emotional well-being in individuals with depression and anxiety (1).
Anger issues are very common with depression and anxiety, as these mental conditions disrupt emotional regulation and make it difficult for individuals to manage their feelings. As a result, they become more frustrated, irritated and angry (2).
How does Desvenlafaxine help in anger management?
Desvenlafaxine works by blocking the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine (brain neurotransmitters) in the brain cells, leading to increased availability of these neurotransmitters in the brain (1).
This in turn results in a reduction in anger and violent behaviour. Desvenlafaxine starts exerting its antidepressant effects within 4-6 weeks of taking the medication. Studies have shown a reduction in anger and aggression in patients within 8 weeks of continuous treatment with Desvenlafaxine.
However, it is important to note that Desvenlafaxine’s impact on anger management may vary from person to person. Always consult your healthcare provider to determine the most suitable treatment approach for anger management (3).
What factors should be considered while addressing anger issues?
The following factors should be considered while addressing anger issues:
Underlying cause: Understanding the root cause of anger, such as stress, trauma, or mental health conditions, is essential for effective intervention.
Substance use: Substance abuse or addiction can exacerbate anger problems. Addressing any substance use issue is a vital component of treatment.
Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as chronic pain or neurological disorders, can affect the individual’s emotional state and increase anger.
Medications: Certain medications can have side effects that impact mood and anger. Be aware of potential interactions between Desvenlafaxine and other medications or supplements you may be taking.
Mental health patients are commonly associated with anger and agitation. Taking antidepressants such as Celexa, Prozac etc can reduce these symptoms and show improvement in their mood and overall behaviour.
Always remember it is crucial to make an informed decision in consultation with a healthcare provider to determine if Desvenlafaxine is the right approach for the management of your anger.
What to do if Desvenlafaxine does not manage anger symptoms?
If Desvenlafaxine is not helping you with your anger management, it is important to reach out to your healthcare provider.
They may adjust the dose of the medication to see if that helps. If dose adjustment does not work they may recommend an alternative medication.
Sometimes antipsychotics may be required along with antidepressants to manage the symptoms of psychosis and mood swings along with depression.
Always remember not to stop using antidepressants on your own as it can lead to horrible withdrawal symptoms (4).
What are non-pharmacological anger management strategies?
Sometimes non-pharmacological anger management strategies help manage anger symptoms. These include (5):
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)- is a psychotherapy approach that focuses on identifying and changing negative thoughts to improve mental health.
Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR)- is a therapy that combines mindfulness and awareness techniques to decrease stress and increase well-being.
Psychodynamic therapy- is a talk therapy that explores how unconscious thoughts and past experiences influence current behaviours and emotions to reduce stress and improve mental health.
Lifestyle changes- Regular exercise, stress management and adequate sleep can help improve anger management.
What precautions should you take while using Desvenlafaxine?
It is important to follow some precautions when you are taking Desvenlafaxine to ensure a safe and effective therapy.
- Always use Desvenlafaxine under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
- Always take the medication at the same time each day to maintain the uniform concentration of the drug in your body.
- Before taking Desvenlafaxine, inform your healthcare provider of any other medications or supplements you are using to avoid potentially harmful interactions.
- Do not consume alcohol or caffeine when using Desvenlafaxine, as these substances can interact with the medication and may make side effects worse or reduce its effectiveness.
- If you and your doctor decide to stop taking Desvenlafaxine, it is essential to taper it gradually under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
In my opinion and the information available, Desvenlafaxine can help reduce anger symptoms but individual responses to medications vary.
I suggest consulting healthcare provider for individualized guidance and treatment plans.
Was this helpful?
References
2.-
Sahu A, Gupta P, Chatterjee B. Depression is More Than Just Sadness: A Case of Excessive Anger and Its Management in Depression. Indian J Psychol Med. 2014 Jan;36(1):77-9. doi: 10.4103/0253-7176.127259. PMID: 24701016; PMCID: PMC3959025.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3959025/
Find a supportive therapist who can help with Depression.
Discover the convenience of BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connecting you with licensed and accredited therapists specialized in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships, and more. Complete the assessment and find your ideal therapist within just 48 hours.
AskYourPharm is user-supported. We may earn a commission if you sign up for BetterHelp’s services after clicking through from this site
