How Should Venlafaxine Make You Feel? (7+ Indications)

This article will focus on how venlafaxine should make you feel. I will discuss its different therapeutic uses, potential side effects, and strategies to manage those side effects.

How should venlafaxine make you feel?

Venlafaxine, an antidepressant drug, should ideally make people feel happier and more enthusiastic. For those with major depressive disorder or generalized anxiety disorder, it may alleviate feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and persistent worrying, allowing for a better mood and improved emotional well-being.

If a person taking venlafaxine also happens to suffer from panic disorder or social anxiety disorder, it may help in managing fear and may enhance the ability to engage in social interactions without overwhelming anxiety.

It is important to note that the specific effects of venlafaxine can vary from person to person, and it may take time to achieve the desired therapeutic benefits. Working closely with a doctor is essential to find the right dosage and assess venlafaxine’s effect on an individual’s mental health. 

What are the therapeutic uses of venlafaxine?

Venlafaxine can be used for a variety of indications and different mental health disorders. Examples of these conditions, including the FDA-approved indications and the off-label uses, are mentioned below:

FDA approved indications

In terms of approved uses, venlafaxine has been found to be effective in treating multiple conditions. These conditions include [1]:

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): at dosages ranging from 75 mg to 225 mg per day, venlafaxine can be taken to reduce symptoms of depression and enhance mood [1].

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): the recommended dosage for treating GAD ranges from 75 mg to 225 mg per day as well [1].

Anxiety symptom relief can bring a sense of calmness, relaxation, and mental clarity, leading to an overall improvement in well-being and daily functioning. It can also bring relief from physical symptoms such as tension and rapid heart rate [1].

Panic disorder: the approved dose for treating panic disorder is 75 mg per day [1].

Social anxiety disorder

Off-label uses

Apart from these approved indications, venlafaxine is also used off-label for several other conditions. Some off-label uses of venlafaxine include:

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Venlafaxine has shown efficacy in reducing symptoms of PTSD, although the optimal dosage can vary. Typically, dosages between 75 mg and 300 mg per day may be used [2].

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): While not officially approved for OCD, venlafaxine may be prescribed off-label in cases where other treatments have been ineffective. Dosages between 75 mg and 300 mg per day may be used [3].

Neuropathic pain: venlafaxine has shown some effectiveness in reducing neuropathic pain in people with conditions like diabetic neuropathy or fibromyalgia. This can have a substantial positive effect on these patients’ quality of life. Dosages can vary but typically range between 75 mg and 225 mg per day [4].

Menopausal symptoms: In some cases, venlafaxine may be prescribed off-label to manage hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. This can significantly make menopausal women feel better. Dosages generally range from 37.5 mg to 150 mg per day [5].

It is important to note that off-label use of any medication should be determined on a case-by-case basis, and it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for guidance. Additionally, dosages may be adjusted depending on individual response and tolerability.

What are the potential side effects of venlafaxine?

Venlafaxine has multiple side effects that can negatively impact how the person taking it is feeling. These side effects include [6]:

• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Excessive sweating, especially at night
• Weight loss or weight gain
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Decreased blood pressure
• Nightmares
• Abdominal pain and gastrointestinal discomfort, especially if the drug is taken on an empty stomach.

How to manage venlafaxine’s side effects?

There are several management strategies and tips that can help minimize or recover from these side effects. Here are some suggestions:

Dosage adjustments

To minimize the side effects of venlafaxine, gradual dose escalation should be applied. Typically, one can start with a dose as low as 37.5 mg per day. The dose can be increased weekly, with increments of 75 mg, until a maintenance dose of 75-225 mg per day is reached.

If side effects occur, it is essential to consult a doctor who can supervise the reduction of the dose and monitor these side effects. If you discontinue venlafaxine, it is crucial to reduce the dosage gradually under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal symptoms associated with sudden discontinuation.

Adjust administration times

Taking venlafaxine with food may help reduce or prevent nausea. Moreover, taking it in the morning can help prevent insomnia. In contrast, if you suffer from fluoxetine-induced dizziness, it is recommended that you take it at night. 

Incorporate healthy habits

Staying active and incorporating regular exercise can help minimize bone and muscle pain associated with venlafaxine use. Moreover, gentle stretching exercises and low-impact activities such as walking may be beneficial.

Along with staying active, following a healthy and balanced diet can help manage weight changes associated with venlafaxine. If significant weight changes occur, it is important to discuss them with a healthcare professional.

Staying hydrated, practicing relaxation techniques, and managing stress levels can help alleviate headaches. In fact, drinking enough water can also help manage venlafaxine-related low blood pressure.

Additionally, practicing good sleep hygiene, such as avoiding caffeine and electronic devices before bedtime, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine, can help improve sleep quality, manage venlafaxine-induced insomnia, and reduce the occurrence of nightmares.

Manage sweating

Dressing in light and breathable clothing, using antiperspirants or talcum powder, and keeping a fan nearby can help manage excessive sweating. In severe cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to help control this side effect.

Take medications

Over-the-counter painkillers may also be used to treat headaches. Moreover, if you encounter any gastrointestinal issues your doctor may prescribe some medications such as antidiarrheals, laxatives, and antispasmodics.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, venlafaxine is an antidepressant medication that can improve emotional well-being and alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, social anxiety, and panic. It can also help manage certain symptoms of PTSD, OCD, and menopause.

It is essential to work closely with a doctor to find the right dosage, monitor side effects, and ensure a safe and effective treatment. By following a gradual dose escalation, adjusting administration times, incorporating healthy habits, and seeking medical guidance, the potential side effects of venlafaxine can be managed effectively, thus optimizing its therapy.

References