Does Effexor improve your concentration? (3+recommendations)
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 or not Effexor improves concentration, clinical studies and research on Effexor’s effect on concentration, what to do if Effexor is not improving your concentration, and what other treatment options are used to improve concentration.
Does Effexor improve your concentration?
Effexor can improve your concentration. However, Effexor is not indicated for improving concentration and attention. Effexor (venlafaxine) is an SNRI (Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor) antidepressant that might enhance certain cognitive functions such as attention, which might lead to an increase in focus or concentration. (1)
The inability to concentrate and focus is one of the early signs of depression. People who are experiencing depression or anxiety may find it challenging to focus and pay attention.
These symptoms may have a major influence on your day-to-day activities, making it difficult to stay focused. However, these symptoms normally subside after treating depression, enabling the restoration of attention and concentration.
What does research suggest?
There are several research studies that investigated Effexor’s impact on attention and concentration. These studies suggest that venlafaxine may improve attention and cognitive performance in certain individuals.
A research study was conducted on the efficacy of venlafaxine (Effexor) in improving cognitive function in MDD (Major Depressive Disorder) patients. This study came to the conclusion that venlafaxine enhanced executive control, a type of cognitive function in charge of concentration and focus in certain individuals. (2)
According to another study, venlafaxine (Effexor) has also been shown to potentially enhance verbal memory, which is another component of cognitive function that is vital for focus and concentration. (3)
However, it is crucial to remember that not everyone will experience these benefits from using Effexor and that everyone’s reaction to medication can vary. Discuss with your healthcare provider the possible benefits and risks of taking Effexor.
What to do if your concentration is not improving with Effexor?
If your concentration or attention is not improving while taking Effexor, contact your healthcare provider or physician. Individuals react differently to medications. Your healthcare provider might opt to adjust your dose or prescribe alternative drugs that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Antidepressants generally take a few weeks to start having a therapeutic impact. Avoid abruptly discontinuing Effexor as this could cause withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness, irritability, and sweating. If you want to discontinue Effexor, consult your healthcare provider and follow the recommended tapering dose method.
What are the treatment options to improve your concentration?
Treatment options for inattentiveness or lack of concentration include both pharmacological and non-pharmacological options. Pharmacological treatment includes:
Antidepressants: SSRIs (such as fluoxetine) and SNRIs (such as venlafaxine) antidepressants are only appropriate if you are suffering from depression that is impairing your focus and concentration. In this situation, taking antidepressants can help you pay more attention and concentrate better. (4)
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) medications: These medications are useful in improving attention and concentration in ADHD patients. (5)
Omega 3 supplements: You can improve your focus, attention, and memory with certain cod liver oil supplements like omega 3. (6)
Non-pharmacological treatment
CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy): CBT is a type of talking therapy that helps enhance concentration and attention by teaching techniques to control thoughts and actions that may obstruct attention and concentration.
Exercise: Regular physical exercise can improve your cognitive function by circulating the blood to the brain.
Relaxation techniques: Relaxing techniques such as yoga and meditation can help relax your mind, reduce stress, and improve your concentration and attention.
Nutrition: Eating food that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, fish, egg, and spinach can improve your concentration, focus, and memory. (7)
Conclusion
Based on my knowledge and research, Effexor can improve your concentration. However, if it doesn’t help with your concentration and focus, you should consult your healthcare provider to properly assess your situation and provide appropriate pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment options to improve your attention and concentration.
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References
1.-
Tian Y, Du J, Spagna A, Mackie MA, Gu X, Dong Y, et al. Venlafaxine treatment reduces the deficit of executive control of attention in patients with major depressive disorder. Scientific Reports [Internet]. 2016 Jun 16 [cited 2023 Mar 28];6(1):28028. Available from: https://www.nature.com/articles/srep28028
2.-
Tian Y, Du J, Spagna A, Mackie MA, Gu X, Dong Y, et al. Venlafaxine treatment reduces the deficit of executive control of attention in patients with major depressive disorder. Scientific Reports [Internet]. 2016 Jun 16;6(1):28028. Available from: https://www.nature.com/articles/srep28028
3.-
Nils Eiel Steen, Aas M, Simonsen C, Dieset I, Tesli M, Nerhus M, et al. Serum level of venlafaxine is associated with better memory in psychotic disorders. Schizophrenia Research. 2015 Dec 1;169(1-3):386–92. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26516101/
4.-
Castellano S, Ventimiglia A, Salomone S, Ventimiglia A, Vivo S, Signorelli M, et al. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors and Serotonin and Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitors Improve Cognitive Function in Partial Responders Depressed Patients: Results from a Prospective Observational Cohort Study. CNS & Neurological Disorders – Drug Targets. 2016 Oct 18;15(10):1290–8. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27712575/#:~:text=Results%3A%20Both%20SSRIs%20and%20SNRIs,full%20and%20partial%20responder%20patients.
5.-
Gallen CL, Anguera JA, Gerdes MR, Simon AJ, Cañadas E, Marco EJ. Enhancing neural markers of attention in children with ADHD using a digital therapeutic. Ishii R, editor. PLOS ONE. 2021 Dec 31;16(12):e0261981. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34972140/
6.-
Stonehouse W. Does Consumption of LC Omega-3 PUFA Enhance Cognitive Performance in Healthy School-Aged Children and throughout Adulthood? Evidence from Clinical Trials. Nutrients. 2014 Jul 22;6(7):2730–58. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4113767/
7.-
Sachdeva A. Non Pharmacological Cognitive Enhancers – Current Perspectives. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND DIAGNOSTIC RESEARCH. 2015; Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4573018/
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