Panofen (Venlafaxine)

Venlafaxine is an SNRI that modulates neurotransmitter activity in mood‑related pathways.

• Major depressive disorder: alleviates depressive symptoms and improves functional outcomes.
• Generalized anxiety disorder: reduces anxiety levels and associated physical symptoms.
• Social anxiety disorder: diminishes social fear and avoidance behaviors.
• Panic disorder: lowers frequency and severity of panic attacks.

• Venlafaxine inhibits the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine, increasing their concentrations in the synaptic cleft. At higher doses it also modestly blocks dopamine reuptake, enhancing neurotransmission in brain regions that regulate mood, anxiety, and pain perception.

Venlafaxine may cause a range of adverse reactions.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate stomach upset.
• Dry mouth: reduced salivation.
• Insomnia: difficulty falling or staying asleep.
• Dizziness: sensation of light‑headedness.
• Sweating: increased perspiration, especially at night.
• Constipation: reduced bowel movements.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Hypertensive crisis: sudden, severe increase in blood pressure.
• Serotonin syndrome: potentially life‑threatening condition with agitation, hyperthermia, and neuromuscular abnormalities.
• Suicidal thoughts: emergence or worsening of suicidal ideation.
• Liver injury: abnormal liver function tests or hepatitis.
• Severe allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling, or anaphylaxis.

When prescribing Venlafaxine, clinicians should consider several safety aspects.

• Monitor blood pressure: check regularly, especially at higher doses.
• Assess mental health: watch for worsening depression or emergence of suicidal thoughts.
• Evaluate liver function: periodic testing recommended for patients with hepatic impairment.
• Use caution in pregnancy: weigh benefits against potential risks to the fetus.
• Avoid abrupt discontinuation: taper dose to minimise withdrawal symptoms.
• Store at below 25°C: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Venrafine interacts with several drug classes that may require dose adjustments or monitoring.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): risk of serotonin syndrome.
• Triplet treatments of serotonergic agents including SSRIs, SNRIs and TCAs.
• Linezolid: potential for hypertensive crisis.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• NSAIDs: may increase bleeding risk.
• Warfarin: possible alteration of INR values.
• Carbamazepine: may reduce venous plasma levels.
• Alcohol: can enhance central nervous system depression.