Does Effexor Increase Adrenaline? (+Benefits)

By Ivan Kahwa
Page last updated: 06/02/2024 | Next review date: 06/02/2026
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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 

 

 

 

 


Ivan Kahwa
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This article will discuss the impact of Effexor on adrenaline levels. Furthermore, it will examine the benefits of this impact on noradrenaline levels for treating depression and anxiety.

Additionally, the article will touch upon the potential side effects associated with Effexor’s influence on adrenaline. Finally, it will mention other medications that can affect adrenaline levels or activity.

Does Effexor increase adrenaline?

Effexor can lead to increased availability of adrenaline. Venlafaxine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). While it does not directly increase adrenaline levels, it blocks the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain [1].

Effexor, by inhibiting norepinephrine reuptake, indirectly increases its availability, which is crucial for mood regulation. This may lead to increased sympathetic responses, alertness, and energy levels, potentially aiding in depression treatment.

What are the benefits of Effexor’s impact on adrenaline?

Scientific evidence suggests that increasing adrenaline can help treat depression and anxiety. To illustrate, noradrenaline projections from the locus coeruleus, a part of the brain, are involved in emotional regulation, cognitive functions, motivation, and social relationships. Thus, any deficiency or dysfunction in it can cause depressive symptoms [2].

Postmortem studies reveal differences in the NE system between depressed and healthy individuals. Moreover, studies on mice showed that enhancing the NE system can protect against depression. Conversely, the brain’s depletion of NE after discontinuing certain antidepressants may result in a recurrence of depressive symptoms [3][4].

Antidepressants that increase noradrenaline activity have proven effective in treating depression. SNRIs, such as venlafaxine, have shown better effectiveness in achieving remission compared to SSRIs. This highlights the important role of NE in the pathophysiology and treatment of depression [5].

What are the side effects of Effexor’s impact on adrenaline levels?

It is important to note that an increase in adrenaline and activation of the sympathetic nervous system may lead to certain side effects. It is crucial for individuals taking Effexor, to be aware of and monitor these potential effects under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

These side effects can include [1][6]:

How to manage adrenaline-related side effects of Effexor?

To manage adrenaline-related side effects of Effexor, it is important to work closely with your doctor. However, here are some general management strategies that may be recommended:

  • Regularly monitor your blood pressure and heart rate to instantly detect any abnormalities and ensure early intervention if needed.
  • Adopt a healthy lifestyle, exercise regularly, implement stress management techniques (such as meditation or deep breathing exercises), maintain a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and avoid substances like caffeine, stimulants, or recreational drugs.
  • Dose Adjustment: In some cases, adjusting the dosage of Effexor may help minimize side effects. This should only be done under the supervision of your doctor.
  • Take Effexor in the morning, this may help minimize the impact of noradrenaline’s activity on your sleep patterns.
  • Supportive Medications: in certain instances, your healthcare provider may prescribe additional medications to help alleviate specific side effects. For example, they may recommend antihypertensives or medications that can help you sleep.
  • Report to your doctor and tell them about any concerns or symptoms you may be experiencing. They can provide an appropriate management plan or make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

What other antidepressants increase adrenaline?

There are several antidepressant medications that have the potential to increase adrenaline levels, aside from Effexor. Some common options include:

  • Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) such as amitriptyline, nortriptyline, and imipramine.
  • Selective serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like desvenlafaxine, and duloxetine.
  • Norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs) such as bupropion.
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like phenelzine and tranylcypromine.
  • Atypical antidepressants such as maprotiline and vilazodone.

However, the response to these medications can vary among individuals, and the effects on adrenaline levels may not be the same for everyone. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate medication for your condition.

Conclusion

Overall, Effexor can indirectly increase adrenaline levels by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine in the brain. This can lead to enhanced alertness and energy levels, which can be beneficial in treating depression.

Scientific evidence supports the claim that increasing adrenaline through medications like Effexor is effective for treating depression and anxiety.

However, it is important to be aware of potential side effects such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, restlessness, insomnia, weight loss, excessive sweating, headaches, nausea, dizziness, tremors, and anxiety.

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References

1.-

Singh D, Saadabadi A. Venlafaxine. [Updated 2022 Oct 10]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535363/

2.-

Moret C, Briley M. The importance of norepinephrine in depression. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2011;7(Suppl 1):9-13. doi: 10.2147/NDT.S19619. Epub 2011 May 31. PMID: 21750623; PMCID: PMC3131098. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3131098/

3.-

Stahl SM. Stahl’s Essential Psychopharmacology: Neuroscientific Basis and Practical Applications. 3rd ed. New York, NY: Cambridge University Press; 2008. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3043325/

4.-

Berman RM, Narasimhan M, Miller HL, Anand A, Cappiello A, Oren DA, Heninger GR, Charney DS. Transient depressive relapse induced by catecholamine depletion: potential phenotypic vulnerability marker? Arch Gen Psychiatry. 1999 May;56(5):395-403. doi: 10.1001/archpsyc.56.5.395. PMID: 10232292. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10232292/

5.-

Papakostas GI, Thase ME, Fava M, Nelson JC, Shelton RC. Are antidepressant drugs that combine serotonergic and noradrenergic mechanisms of action more effective than the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in treating major depressive disorder? A meta-analysis of studies of newer agents. Biol Psychiatry. 2007 Dec 1;62(11):1217-27. doi: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2007.03.027. Epub 2007 Jun 22. PMID: 17588546. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17588546/

6.-

Dalal R, Grujic D. Epinephrine. [Updated 2023 May 1]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482160/

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